Cruise Passengers

What to Do on Disembarkation Day at Port Canaveral

The ship docks at 7am. Your flight is at 7pm. How to turn the layover into one of the best days of the trip.

The magic is technically over. You have 8 hours in Florida. Here is how to use them.

Don't Rush Off the Ship

Unless you have an early flight, there is no reason to be in the 7am disembarkation line. Walk off at 9-10am when crowds have thinned. You will retrieve luggage faster and arrive calmer.

LOCAL TIP
Self-disembarkation — carrying your own bags — is always faster than waiting for your assigned color call.

Store Luggage, Hit the Beach

Most hotels near the port hold luggage for the day at no charge. Drop everything, Uber to Cocoa Beach, swim for four hours. One last Florida morning.

LOCAL TIP
Cocoa Beach is 10 minutes from the port. A final morning swim is one of the better decisions a returning cruise passenger can make.

Lunch Before the Flight

Outdoor seafood lunch on A1A. Cold beer. Then to the airport. Give yourself 2 full hours before departure from when you leave Cocoa Beach.

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Common Questions

How long does disembarkation take?
1-3 hours from docking depending on your willingness to wait. Self-disembarkation with carry-on luggage is fastest.
Can I visit Kennedy Space Center on disembarkation day?
Yes if your flight is evening. KSC is 20 minutes from the port.
More Space Coast Guides
Best Beaches Near Port Canaveral→Restaurants Near Cruise Terminal→Shore Excursions→Day Trip from Orlando→ Full Business Directory→
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