Orlando Sanford: The Gateway To Port Canaveral, Florida

Port Canaveral, located on the eastern coast of Florida, is one of the world's busiest cruise ports, with over six million cruise passengers visiting in 2023. While there is no airport just down the road, there are several within a reasonable distance. The closest airport to Port Canaveral is Melbourne Orlando Airport (MLB), which is just under 30 miles away. Other nearby airports include Orlando International Airport (MCO), Orlando Sanford Airport (SFB), Daytona Beach Airport (DAB), and West Palm Beach/Palm Beach (PBI). Orlando International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the area, serving as a gateway for tourists visiting nearby attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.

Airports for Port Canaveral, Florida

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest airport to Port Canaveral

MCO is a large airport with numerous dining and retail options across its four gate areas. It services nearly four dozen airlines, offering flights to over 140 destinations in 27 countries. This includes a vast selection of domestic and international carriers, providing plenty of flight options for travellers.

The estimated driving time from Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral is about one hour. There are several transportation options available, including renting a car, using a hotel shuttle, booking a rideshare service, or taking a shuttle service such as PORT CANAVERAL CONNECTION.

For those looking to extend their vacation, Orlando International Airport is conveniently located near popular theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. With its proximity to entertainment options and cruise terminals, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the ideal choice for travellers looking for a smooth and enjoyable journey to Port Canaveral.

Melbourne Airport (MLB) is the closest airport to Port Canaveral in distance

Melbourne Airport (MLB) is the closest airport to Port Canaveral in terms of distance. It is located just under 30 miles from the cruise terminals, about 27.5 miles to be precise, and the estimated travel time is 50 minutes. MLB Airport is considerably smaller than the other airports near Port Canaveral, serving less than one million passengers annually.

MLB Airport is served by four commercial airlines, including major carriers such as Delta and American Airlines, which offer daily, nonstop flights to hubs like Atlanta and Charlotte. TUI Airways also flies into Melbourne Orlando Airport from the UK. Additionally, Baer Air offers flights to a variety of locations, including the Bahamas, Punta Gorda, Florida, and Niagara Falls, New York.

While the Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a larger and busier airport, located about 45 miles from Port Canaveral, Melbourne Airport's proximity to the coast offers a more scenic drive up the coast to the cruise terminals. MLB Airport is also a less crowded and more economical option for travellers.

However, due to frequent traffic, the commute from MLB Airport to Port Canaveral might take longer than from Orlando International Airport. Additionally, as MLB Airport serves fewer passengers, there are fewer shared shuttle options available. A ride can be secured through services like Melbourne Airport Express or by using a ridesharing service, which typically costs around $55 to $70.

When planning your travel to Port Canaveral, it is important to consider the trade-off between distance and travel time when choosing between Melbourne Airport (MLB) and other nearby airports like Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Sanford Airport (SFB) is a good option for cheaper flights

As a smaller, less crowded alternative to Orlando Airport, Sanford Airport offers a quieter, more laid-back and economical experience. It is also a great choice if you are looking for a more relaxed airport experience before your cruise.

You can get to Port Canaveral from Sanford Airport by shuttle, taxi, or Uber. Port Canaveral Quick Shuttle offers a transfer service for $40 per way or $80 round trip, per person. Uber prices tend to range from $65 to $90, but these rates are subject to change.

If you are looking for a hotel before your cruise, you can book a Fly Snooze Cruise package, which includes a hotel stay and shuttle transportation to Port Canaveral. This can make your journey more relaxing and hassle-free, and you can also book a shuttle back to the airport after your cruise.

Daytona Beach Airport (DAB) is the furthest airport on the list

The airport handles around 1,500 passengers daily, with an average of 60 daily flights. The trip from DAB to Port Canaveral takes about an hour with light traffic, but it can take up to two hours during peak hours. DAB is a public airport located about 50 miles northeast of Orlando, serving as a secondary airport for the Orlando area.

Transportation options from DAB to Port Canaveral include rental cars, shuttle services, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. DAB also offers several parking options, including short-term and long-term parking, and a cell phone waiting lot.

While DAB provides convenient travel options for certain destinations, it is important to note that it is the furthest airport from Port Canaveral among the listed options. For those seeking the closest airport to Port Canaveral, Melbourne Orlando Airport (MLB) is the closest, followed by Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Orlando Airport offers a large selection of local and international flights

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest airport to Port Canaveral, Florida, and it offers a large selection of local and international flights. Located about 45 miles west of Port Canaveral, MCO is one of the busiest airports in the area, serving over 24 million passengers annually. The airport offers flights to numerous destinations across the globe, making it a convenient option for travellers looking for a variety of flight options.

MCO is served by nearly four dozen airlines, providing flights to over 140 destinations in 27 countries. The airport is a hub for AirTran Airways and a focus city for JetBlue Airways and Southwest Airlines. With such a wide range of carriers, travellers can choose from a vast selection of airline carriers to suit their needs. Additionally, MCO boasts more than 150 shops and restaurants across its four gate areas, ensuring a pleasant airport experience for passengers.

For travellers heading to Port Canaveral, MCO offers several transportation options. These include renting a car, using shuttle services, or opting for a limousine ride. While the estimated driving time from the airport to Port Canaveral is about an hour, it's recommended to budget at least 90 minutes to account for potential traffic delays.

When it comes to flight choices, MCO accommodates a diverse range of preferences. Those seeking a more relaxed and economical experience can opt for budget-friendly airlines, while travellers prioritising convenience can take advantage of the many direct flights offered by major carriers. With its extensive selection of local and international flights, MCO caters to travellers from around the world, making it a popular gateway to Central Florida.

In addition to its flight options, MCO's proximity to popular tourist destinations enhances its appeal. The airport is conveniently located near famous attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, making it an ideal starting point for those looking to combine their cruise with a theme park vacation. With its combination of extensive flight options and nearby entertainment, Orlando International Airport is a top choice for travellers embarking on a cruise from Port Canaveral.

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