What Is the Closest Airport to Port Canaveral?
Author Mary Babel
Planning a cruise out of Port Canaveral? One of the most searched questions is: What is the closest airport to Port Canaveral cruise terminal? With several Florida airports nearby—each offering different perks—choosing the right one can make or break your pre-cruise travel day.
This guide gives you everything you need to know—from airport distances to hotel tips and ground transportation options—so you can cruise stress-free. Let’s break it down, plain and simple.
Closest Airports to Port Canaveral:
Here’s a quick overview of the airports near Port Canaveral, Florida:
| Airport | Distance to Port Canaveral Approx. | Drive Time | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) | 28 miles | 43 minutes | |
| Orlando International Airport (MCO) | 45 miles | 45 – 60 minutes | |
| Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) | 66 miles | 1 hr 4 minutes | |
So, what’s the closest airport to Port Canaveral Florida? That would be Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)—just 26 miles away.
Want to understand how far Port Canaveral is from Orlando itself—including MCO, Sanford, and popular Orlando attractions? Check out our complete guide on the distance from Orlando to Port Canaveral.
Is Melbourne Orlando International Airport the Best Option?
Port Canaveral is close to Melbourne Orlando International Airport, but “closest” doesn’t always mean “best.” Melbourne Orlando International Airport is a smaller airport with fewer direct flight options, especially if you’re flying in from the Midwest, West Coast, or internationally.
While it may save you a few miles, most cruisers find Orlando International Airport (MCO) a smarter option thanks to:
- Tons of direct flights from major U.S. cities
- More airline and schedule flexibility
- Better hotel choices and amenities
That’s why most seasoned cruisers flying into Florida for a Port Canaveral cruise choose MCO as their entry point—even if it’s not the absolute closest.
Where Should You Stay the Night Before?
Many cruise passengers fly in a day early—smart move! Florida weather and flight delays can be unpredictable. You’ve got two main options:
1. Stay in Orlando (Near MCO)
Ideal if you land late or want to enjoy some Orlando attractions before your cruise. Options include:
- Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport (convenient, inside MCO)
- Fairfield Inn, Homewood Suites, or Rosen Inn International (budget-friendly)
2. Stay in Cocoa Beach or Cape Canaveral
These towns are closer to the cruise terminal—great if you want a relaxing beach morning before boarding.
- Beachside Hotel & Suites
- Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront
- Radisson Resort at the Port
Whether you stay near Orlando or the beach, the key is finding stress-free transportation to the port—which brings us to your next big question.
Rental Car, Shuttle, or Private Car: What’s the Best Ride to Port Canaveral?
You’ve got options when it comes to getting from the airport to Port Canaveral:
| Ride Options | Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | Flexibility | Return hassle, parking fees, hidden charges | |
| Shared Shuttle | Budget option | Long waits, crowded, limited departure times | |
| Private Car Service | Convenient, personalized | Slightly more upfront, but totally worth it | |
Let’s be real: you’re going on a cruise to relax—not to stress over parking lots, shuttle delays, or dragging luggage across terminals. So, it’s worth considering how you’ll get to the port from the airport. Discover the best transportation options from Orlando to Port Canaveral, make the best choice for your travel needs.
Why Travelers Rely on Orlando Superior Transportation for Port Canaveral Transfers:
When you’re juggling flights, hotels, and cruise check-ins, every moment counts. That’s why so many cruisers trust Orlando Superior Transportation for their ride to Port Canaveral.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Lowest Market Rates – All-inclusive pricing. No hidden fees for tolls, parking, or taxes.
- Always On Time – Our professional chauffeurs ensure a smooth, punctual trip.
- 24/7 Availability – Late night flight? Early disembarkation? We’ve got you covered.
- Family-Friendly Perks – Free car seats, boosters, and spacious vehicles for groups or luggage.
- Meet & Greet Service – We’ll greet you at baggage claim and help with luggage.
- Free 15–20 Minute Grocery Stop – Need to get last minute essentials? We’ll help you with that.
Whether you fly into Melbourne Orlando International Airport, Orlando International Airport, or Orlando Sanford International Airport, our black car service will pick you up and get you to Port Canaveral with ease.
Customer Feedback on Our Private Car Service from Orlando to Port Canaveral
Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what real cruisers had to say after choosing our private car service to Port Canaveral:
“Experience was so great I had to write a review before my flight 😆. Our driver Asad was amazing!! He was very prompt and detailed regarding drop off and pick up from Port Canaveral. He even gave great tips for our cruise!! A very memorable ride for sure! The car was very spacious, clean and comfortable. My two little ones felt right at home in the carseat and booster that was provided, the cozy blanket was the cherry on top! Can’t wait to return to Orlando to utilize the service again! Thank you so much Asad may God bless you!!”
~The Raisin Family
“Not only were they on-time, they were early! Excellent tips for our first ever cruise and made traveling so relaxed. Will use again!”
~Lauren Ritz
“When planning our trip from the airport to Port Canaveral, finding a dependable transportation service was a top priority—especially with an infant in tow. After researching several options, Orlando Superior Transportation Services stood out because of their commitment to safety, offering well-maintained SUVs and secure car seats.
Our driver, Sid, was fantastic—reliable, attentive, and professional. From the moment we landed, being able to text directly with him made coordinating our pickup seamless and stress-free. The same was true when disembarking the ship, which was especially helpful as we navigated unfamiliar locations with luggage and a baby.
If you’re looking for a stress-free, family-friendly transportation service in Orlando, I highly recommend Orlando Superior Transportation Services. Their attention to detail and customer care made all the difference for our trip!”
~Kristy Phillips
What Airport Should You Fly Into for a Port Canaveral Cruise?
Let’s wrap it up:
- What airport is closest to Port Canaveral? Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB), at 26 miles.
- What airport do most cruisers choose? Orlando International (MCO), for flight availability and convenience.
- What’s the best way to get to the port? A private, stress-free chauffeured transportation.
Now that you know what is the closest airport to Port Canaveral cruise terminal, which airport most travelers prefer, and how to get there stress-free—you’re ready to plan with confidence.
Book your private transportation to Port Canaveral today with Orlando Superior Transportation, and make your cruise adventure smooth from the very start.
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