Sailing on the Disney Fantasy? The Disney Fantasy has been sailing week-long itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral since 2012. There is a whole lot of Disney charm aboard this ship, from interactive attractions to a thrilling water coaster. Kids and kids at heart can bask in magical moments through themed dining experiences like Animator’s Palate, where every meal brings a world of animation and fun character interactions. Guests can also enjoy top-notch productions at the onboard theater, including the musical Disney show Aladdin. Cruisers can make a splash with Aquaduck, a sky-high transparent water slide that circles around the pool deck, providing panoramic views of the ship and the seas. Now, let’s dive into all the Disney Fantasy tips you should know before setting sail from Port Canaveral.
Tip #1: Fly Into the Orlando Airport (MCO)
Tip #2: Arrive a Day Before Your Disney Fantasy Cruise
Tip #3: Book Pre-Arranged Cruise Transfers
Tip #4: Stay in a Hotel Near the Airport
Tip #5: Choose an Afternoon Return Flight
Tip #6: Disembark From Disney Fantasy Early
Tip #1: Fly Into the Orlando Airport (MCO)
When booking a flight for your Disney Fantasy cruise, it’s highly recommended to fly into the Orlando International Airport (MCO) for numerous reasons. Even though this airport is located about 45 miles from the cruise terminals, it has the shortest travel time compared to other local airports due to its direct highway access. The Orlando Airport also offers cruisers the most variety in flights, as well as better hotel selections nearby, and more economical transportation options.
Pro Tip: When flying in on the same day as your cruise, be sure to pick a flight that lands before 11:30 AM to ensure you have enough time to get to the port.
Tip #2: Arrive a Day Before Your Disney Fantasy Cruise
With unexpected travel delays being so common, a simple flight issue or heavy traffic can put you at risk of missing your cruise when flying in on embarkation day. Arriving the day before setting sail can give you added peace of mind and a more stress-free vacation experience. That’s why Go Port’s Fly Snooze Cruise packages are so popular among Port Canaveral cruisers. You can choose from various brand-name hotel options, such as Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, La Quinta, and Hampton Inn & Suites – with airport transportation and cruise transfers included in the package.
If you opt to fly into the Sanford Airport (SFB) to utilize Allegiant Airlines’ flight savings or prefer the close proximity of the Melbourne Airport (MLB) featuring Delta and American Airlines, you’ll be pleased to know that Go Port also offers select Fly Snooze Cruise packages for cruisers flying into these airports as well.
Tip #3: Book Pre-Arranged Cruise Transfers
Don’t wait until the last minute to figure out transportation for your Disney Fantasy cruise. Counting on ride-share services, taxis, or rental cars can be both pricey and unpredictable. On top of that, luggage space is limited with these options – typically leaving only enough room to accommodate a couple of travelers and their belongings. Instead, use the most reliable and convenient way to travel between the Orlando Airport and Port Canaveral by booking pre-arranged shuttle transfers. With Go Port, you can purchase transportation to Disney Cruise line at Port Canaveral for just $29.99 per person, compared to Disney’s rate of $39.00. Plus, there is plenty of room for your suitcases, bags, strollers, and other mobility devices, with luggage assistance at your service to take care of it all.
Bonus Tip: If you already booked a hotel stay, you can also reserve cruise transfers from select hotels near the Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral.
Tip #4: Stay in a Hotel Near the Airport
Staying at a hotel near the Orlando Airport is the best option when cruising from Port Canaveral on Disney Fantasy. When you land, there’s no better feeling than relaxing in your room just minutes after a long flight. Saving the trip to the port for the morning of your cruise also allows you to avoid paying a premium to be near the terminals – meaning you can book a nicer hotel at a lower cost. Additionally, late flight arrivals have the convenience of Orlando restaurants being open late and plenty of shops close by to pick up any last-minute essentials.
Tip #5: Choose an Afternoon Return Flight
The Disney Fantasy starts disembarking around 7:00 AM and the process typically lasts until 10:00 AM. Once you exit the ship and depart your cruise terminal, the ride back to the airport takes about an hour, depending on traffic. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority recommends arriving three hours before your scheduled departure. This means you’ll want to book your return flight in the afternoon to ensure you have enough time to disembark, get to the airport, and make it to your gate.
Tip #6: Disembark From Disney Fantasy Early
Disembarking early is key for a smooth departure from Port Canaveral. Disney’s Express Walk-Off option allows passengers to disembark quicker by taking their own luggage with them off the ship instead of waiting in long lines. To debark early from the Disney Fantasy, you will keep all your luggage inside your stateroom instead of placing it outside your cabin. Express Walk-Off guests must be ready to debark by 7:00 AM and listen for announcements when the ship has been cleared by local authorities. Guests who opt for Express Walk-Off must be within their customs allowance and not owe any duty.
One last tip – Don’t forget to join our Disney Fantasy Facebook group to connect with fellow cruisers, learn more Disney Fantasy tips, ask questions, and share ship news! Become a member here.
These Disney Fantasy tips for cruising from Port Canaveral are brought to you by Go Port — Port Canaveral’s one stop shop for Port Canaveral cruisers! Go Port helps you save money and stress less by taking care of all the pre- and post-cruise logistics! Check out our Fly Snooze Cruise package combining hotel stays with airport pickups and cruise ship transportation. We are also top providers of transportation to and from your cruise.
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