If you’re sailing out of Port Canaveral, one of the biggest planning questions is: How do I actually get there? Whether you’re coming from Disney World or Orlando International Airport (MCO), there are a few solid options.
Option 1: Disney Cruise Line Charter Bus (Yes, Even If You’re Not Staying at Disney!)
This is the option I personally used, and honestly—it was way easier than I expected.
Even though I was not staying on Disney property, I was still able to book the Disney Cruise Line (DCL) charter bus. All I did was call Disney Cruise Line and add ground transportation to my cruise reservation. They simply asked which Disney resort I wanted to be picked up from and dropped off at.
Key details:
- Cost: $45 per person each way
- Who can use it: Anyone sailing Disney Cruise Line (you do not need to stay at a Disney resort)
- How to book: Call DCL directly and add it to your reservation
- Pickup/drop-off: A Disney resort of your choice
Even though I live in Central Florida, this was still super convenient. I just made my way to the selected Disney resort on embarkation day, hopped on the bus, and Disney handled the rest. No stress, no coordinating timing, no worrying about traffic. They even send you clear instructions the day before with exactly where to be at the resort and what time to arrive.
Another perk? Disney times the transportation perfectly with embarkation and debarkation, so it’s very low-stress.
Option 2: Disney Cruise Line Transfer from Orlando Airport (MCO)
If you’re flying into Orlando, Disney also offers charter buses directly from MCO to Port Canaveral.
This option is great if:
- You’re flying in the same day as your cruise
- You want everything handled by Disney from airport to ship
Pricing is typically similar (around $45 per person each way), and just like the resort transfer, you can add this by calling Disney Cruise Line.
Option 3: Private Transfers
Private transfers are another popular choice, especially for families or groups.
Pros:
- Door-to-door service
- Flexible pickup times
- Can be cost-effective for larger groups
Cons:
- More expensive for couples or solo travelers
- You’re responsible for timing and logistics
There are lots of private car services and shuttle companies in the Orlando area that offer transfers to Port Canaveral, with prices varying depending on vehicle size and demand.
Option 4: Rideshare or Rental Car
Some travelers also choose:
- Uber/Lyft
- Rental cars (with drop-off near the port)
These can work, but they usually involve more planning—especially on cruise day—and parking or one-way rental fees can add up.
If you’re sailing Disney Cruise Line and want the simplest, least stressful option, the DCL charter bus is absolutely worth considering—even if you’re not staying at a Disney resort. I loved how easy it was to add, how clear the pricing was, and how smoothly everything ran.
If you’re looking at booking a DCL Cruise, check out our friends at Academy Travel for a free quote.
