After surpassing Miami as the “World’s Busiest Cruise Port” and being voted the “Best Cruise Homeport” for the third year in a row, it’s no secret the industry’s top ships are sailing from Port Canaveral this year. With thrilling itineraries, one-of-a-kind features, and standout vessels from Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival, Disney, and MSC, choosing among the best Port Canaveral cruises can be a challenge. Lucky for you, we’ve narrowed down the best cruises out of Port Canaveral for 2023 to help you compare the #1 ship from each cruise line so you can plan your ultimate vacation!
Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas
Royal Caribbean debuted Wonder of the Seas as the largest ship in the world after she joined Port Canaveral’s fleet in November 2022. She is part of the award-winning Oasis Class, bringing adventures to new heights. This ship is truly “wonder”-ful, with new features such as a completely redesigned pool deck with more ways to soak up the sun than ever before, and immersive experiences. The AquaTheater adds spectacular entertainment to the line-up with stunning ocean views and a dramatic new backdrop that will keep you at the edge of your seat. Be sure to check out the all-new Wonder Playscape, an underwater world featuring slides, climbing walls, and games where imaginations can soar. Don’t forget returning fan favorites like the FlowRider surf simulator and the 10-story tall Ultimate Abyss slide. The Wonder also introduces the first-ever Suite Neighborhood. This concept, located in the ship’s most prime location, combines five-star dining at the exclusive Coastal Kitchen with ocean views at the crystal-clear plunge pool, as well as private cocktail bars. VIP experiences at the Star Suites, Sky Suites, and the groundbreaking new Ultimate Family Suite are intended to elevate your stay. The biggest ship in the world means even bigger flavor. From contemporary Mexican cuisine at Sabor, Teppanyaki at Izumi, to Italian at Giovanni’s Table, there’s a restaurant for every taste onboard Wonder of the Seas. Good ol’ Southern hospitality meets reinvented country classics, bayou staples, and bold BBQ at the Mason Jar. If you can’t decide between these delicious options, you are always welcome to eat like royalty at the beautifully upscale main dining rooms aboard. Wonder of the Seas sails to the Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and also visits Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay, on select cruises.
The best Port Canaveral cruises are not complete without the best hotel and transportation arrangements. Check out what packages Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas cruisers are booking for their vacation!
Join our Wonder of the Seas Facebook group to connect with fellow cruisers, ask questions, and share ship news! Become a member here.
Norwegian Escape
The Norwegian Escape launched in 2015 with an eye-catching exterior showcasing artwork from the marine wildlife artist Guy Harvey. As part of NCL’s Breakaway Plus Class, she is bold and beautiful with no shortage of exceptional restaurants, entertainment, bar, and club options aboard. The Escape was also voted “Ship of the Year” by Ocean & Cruise News in 2017, known for her diverse accommodations and one-of-a-kid components. Besides offering a wide range of staterooms for couples and families, the Escape also welcomes solo travelers. Studio rooms include access to an exclusive lounge, where complimentary refreshments can be enjoyed with neighbors throughout the day. Dining on the Norwegian Escape is exceptional, with more than 25 spots to grab a bite and 14 bars and lounges onboard. Indulge in fusion cuisine at Food Republic, or let Iron Chef Jose Garces’ menu at Bayamo satisfy your seafood cravings. Many of the Escape’s best restaurants can be found while strolling down The Waterfront — a quarter-mile oceanside promenade lined with open-air seating. More foodie highlights include two Jimmy Buffet venues: the first-ever Margaritaville at Sea and 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar. Looking to sip and socialize? Norwegian’s first wine bar, The Cellars, and the District Brew House are your best bet. There’s no limit to the amount of activities on the Escape. The Aqua Park onboard is among one of the biggest at sea, complete with four water slides. For a drier alternative, zip through the 3-story Ropes Course, also the largest in the industry. Daredevils can even “walk the plank” just for bragging rights. The Norwegian Escape sails to Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Caribbean, as well as the Dominican Republic or Cozumel.
The cruises out of Port Canaveral are not complete without the best hotel and transportation arrangements. Check out what packages Norwegian Escape cruisers are booking for their vacation!
Join our Norwegian Escape Facebook group to connect with fellow cruisers, ask questions, and share ship news! Become a member here.
Carnival Mardi Gras
After her recent launch, Carnival Mardi Gras brought a new level of innovation to Carnival Cruise Line. She is known for her many “firsts” — Carnival’s first XL-Class ship, the first roller coaster at sea, and the first cruise with an eco-friendly fuel source. Additionally, she sports an entirely different look and layout compared to previous ships in her fleet. Port Canaveral built a two-story Terminal 3 that is their largest facility to date to house the Carnival Mardi Gras. The ship offers Zones — six distinct themed areas with brand-new experiences for food, drink, and fun. The six Zones include the beautiful three-deck Grand Central atrium, the big and easy French Quarter, the chill Summer Landing, the flavorful La Piazza, the fun-filled Lido, and the Ultimate Playground. Dining highlights include celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse’s New Orleans inspired restaurant, Emeril’s Bistro 1396, as well as Shaq’s chicken joint fittingly named Big Chicken. And if you aren’t feeling too “chicken,” you can take a ride on the BOLT, the Ultimate Sea Coaster, where you control the speed of your vehicle up to 40mph. Another Mardi Gras exclusive is Family Feud Live, where teams of five can participate in the iconic game show on an authentic set or watch from the audience instead for just as much fun. Carnival Mardi Gras sails to the Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean, visiting Carnival’s private island Half Moon Cay, on select cruises.
The best Port Canaveral cruises are not complete without the best hotel, transportation, and parking arrangements. Check out what packages Carnival Mardi Gras cruisers are booking for their vacation!
Join our Carnival Mardi Gras Facebook group to connect with fellow cruisers, ask questions, and share ship news! Become a member here.
Disney Wish
The Disney Wish started sailing from Port Canaveral in June 2022. This is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a summer or fall cruise. She is Disney’s newest and largest ship, known for her interactive activities and dining experiences. At “Avengers: Quantum Encounter” cinematic dining experience, Marvel fans can meet Ant-Man and the Wasp while they participate in Avengers missions and eat Marvel-inspired cuisine ranging from all-American favorites to rich African dishes. Or you can join “Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Experience” to witness Elsa and Olaf’s exciting performances while enjoying hearty Norwegian fare. Disney storytelling also comes to life with the immersive family game, Disney Uncharted Adventure — where cruisers can use their smartphone to find missing clues with the help of Captain Mickey and other Disney characters to solve puzzles and save the day! Cruisers of all ages can make a splash at AquaMouse, Disney’s first-ever attraction at sea, that combines a water coaster and animated short stories for a one-of-a-kind ride. When it comes to adults-only endeavors, prepare to blast off to the lively Star Wars Lounge, raise a toast at the Viking Bar, or delight in innovative international cuisine at Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, inspired by Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast. Disney Wish cruises to the Bahamas and visits Disney Cruise Line’s private island, Castaway Cay, on select cruises.
The best cruises out of Port Canaveral are not complete without the best hotel and transportation arrangements. Check out what packages Disney Wish cruisers are booking for their vacation!
Join our Disney Wish Facebook group to connect with fellow cruisers, ask questions, and share ship news! Become a member here.
MSC Seaside
The MSC Seaside is a South Florida-inspired ship with a European flair. She’s been capturing the glory of the Sunshine State since first setting sail in 2017 as the lead vessel of her Seaside Class. This ship challenges the unspoken rule book of cruise ship design – merging indoor and outdoor areas to connect cruisers with the sea like never before. Don’t miss out on the Waterfront Boardwalk, a unique seafront promenade lined with endless places to eat, drink, shop, and sunbathe! Adding to the outdoor experience are the “South Beach” and “Miami Beach” pools also offering incredible ocean views. Other highlights include the 4-deck atrium lined with glass walls and two glass floor catwalks, a state-of-the-art gym, and top-of-the-line Aurea spa. As for entertainment, MSC Seaside offers endless fun for everyone, with a high-tech theater, bowling alleys, and an interactive, multi-story water park featuring 5 water slides, an adventure trail. Restaurant options are also plentiful – with nine options to choose from, catering to every palette. The MSC Seaside sails to The Bahamas, as well as the Western Caribbean.
The best Port Canaveral cruises are not complete without the best hotel and transportation arrangements. Check out what packages MSC Seaside cruisers are booking for their vacation!
Join our MSC Seaside Facebook group to connect with fellow cruisers, ask questions, and share ship news! Become a member here.
Best Cruises Out of Port Canaveral Travel Tips
If you plan to book one of the best cruises from Port Canaveral, you’re going to want to reserve the best pre and post arrangements to complete your vacation. Whether you’re flying or driving in, Go Port has you covered with a variety of cruise hotel packages, affordable transportation options, as well as Port Canaveral cruise parking with transfers. After booking your cruise, visit goport.com to easily reserve a package that meets your travel needs.
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