History of Port Canaveral

A cruise ship in the Port Canaveral harbor.
Last Updated: September 4, 2025

Port Canaveral history revolves around being a predominantly growing up-scale cruise and cargo port located in Florida’s Brevard County. The port was conceived in 1880’s as a naval port. For a long time, the port was seen as a naval port, until 1964 when the first cruise traffic touched by its shores. SS-Yarmouth Castle is the pioneering cruise ship that set records by sailing to Port Canaveral. The port has since then grown to become one of the biggest attractions with six active port terminals that receive millions of cruise passengers annually. Some of the notable cruise lines that dock in the port include Carnival Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Lines, and MSC.

Things to do in Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral has become a key destination for both tourists and locals and there are a gargantuan number of attractions that one can enjoy while spending their time in the area. Cruising is the most common activity in the port where one can enjoy a ride on four cruise ship lines. The adjacent location of the port to scenic Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, and Orlando gives one a chance to enjoy structural and unlimited sail-away fun.

There are plenty of other things to do near Port Canaveral including live entertainment, fishing at the Cocoa Beach Pier, visiting and camping at Port Canaveral’s Jetty Park, and local scenic beach spots, including Canaveral National Seashore are among the many other things that you can find in a modern sail-away cruise trip. Want attractions and roller coasters? Visit the Orlando theme parks located only 45 minutes away.

Port Canaveral Hotels

The area port hotels offer unmatched convenience where one can have fun while getting to eat a different variety of delicacies. Whether you are a fan of finger foods or want to enjoy a full course dinner, Port Canaveral hotels and restaurants have got you covered. In Port Canaveral, you have fun your way; whether you want to dine on board or enjoy your dinner as you watch the cruise ships sail by, there are plenty of hotel selections close to festive restaurants and night life that will get you what you want. Or, choose an Orlando hotel close to the airport, only 35 minutes from your cruise ship terminal at the Port, and be next to all the famous Orlando theme parks including Disney World, Universal, Sea World, and more.

Looking for a Port Canaveral hotel package before your ship departure? Check out these packages that include everything a Port Canaveral cruiser will need: Hotel night before your cruise ship sails with breakfast at select hotels and transfers to and from your cruise ship terminal at Port Canaveral. Hotel packages also include your choice of airport shuttles for the Orlando, Sanford, and Melbourne Airports or cruise parking for your vehicle for the duration of your cruise. It’s all included in one low package price.

 

Need help putting your Port Canaveral hotel package together? Knowledgeable customer care representatives are at your service ready to help 877-755-4637 or direct 321-735-8833.

No Image

Author

Get the Inside Scoop from Go Port

Stay up-to-date with the latest cruise news and travel deals sent to your inbox.

Subscribe to our email list.

Recommend

Recommended For You

two royal caribbean cruise ships docked at port canaveral

How to Get to a Royal Caribbean Cruise at Port Canaveral

Planning a Royal Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral? Whether you’re setting ...
A Disney Cruise Line ship at Port Canaveral.

How to Get to a Disney Cruise at Port Canaveral

Planning a Disney cruise from Port Canaveral? Whether you’re sailing on ...
Exterior view of the Residence Inn by Marriott at sunset, featuring a multi-story building with illuminated windows and signage, under a pink and purple sky.

Booked Your Cruise and Flight? Here’s Why You Still Need a Hotel Near Port Canaveral

You’ve booked your cruise and flight. Fantastic! But there’s still one ...

Cookies Consent

We use cookies and other technology to enhance and personalize your website experience as described in our Privacy Policy.