Tips

5 Reasons to Arrive to Your Cruise a Day Early

January 3, 2023

Updated March 2025

Any seasoned cruiser will tell you that the secret to a stress-free vacation is simple: arrive in the area the day before your Port Canaveral cruise, not just an hour before boarding. Flight delays, unexpected mishaps, and the overall chaos of embarkation day can turn your dream getaway into a stressful race against time.

That’s where Go Port’s Fly Snooze Cruise hotel and transportation packages come in. Instead of worrying about last-minute travel issues, let us take care of your hotel stay and Port Canaveral transfers so you can relax and focus on enjoying your cruise.

Here are five reasons why arriving a day early is the best way to kick off your Port Canaveral cruise vacation stress-free.

#1: Avoid the Stress of Flight Delays

Air travel is unpredictable. A delayed flight, unexpected weather, or a missed connection can throw your entire cruise schedule into chaos. If you’re flying in on the same day as your departure, you’re risking a nerve-wracking rush to the port—and cruise ships won’t wait for you.

By arriving the day before, you eliminate this risk entirely. With Go Port’s Fly Snooze Cruise package, your hotel stay and shuttle to the cruise terminal are pre-arranged, giving you peace of mind knowing you’ll make it to your ship on time.

#2: Get a Good Night’s Sleep Before Boarding

Cruises are exciting, but they also require an early start to your day. From getting to the cruise terminal on time to navigating the check-in process, embarkation day can be exhausting—especially if you’re dealing with jet lag or an early-morning flight.

By arriving a day early and staying in a comfortable hotel near Port Canaveral, you’ll wake up well-rested and ready for smooth sailing. Enjoy a leisurely morning, have breakfast, and take Go Port’s reliable pre-arranged shuttle to the port stress-free instead of scrambling to get to the cruise terminal in time.

With a Go Port Snooze and Cruise package, you’ll have the choice of an Orlando, Sanford, Melbourne, Titusville or Port Canaveral area hotel that meets your budget and unique needs.

#3: Take Care of Last-Minute Shopping with Ease

Ever get to your vacation spot and realize you forgot a daily essential? Sunscreen, flip-flops, or even a phone charger—these little things can cost a fortune if you have to buy them on the ship.

When you arrive a day early, you have plenty of time to hit a nearby store and grab anything you forgot. Whether it’s picking up a last-minute outfit, grabbing an emergency bottle of aspirin, or stocking up on snacks, having extra time before boarding your cruise can save you money and headaches.

#4: Enhance Your Embarkation Day Experience

Most first-time cruisers spend embarkation day getting settled—finding their room, wandering the ship, and grabbing a meal. But did you know that many of the ship’s top attractions are available right away?

By arriving early and getting a full night’s rest, you can be among the first to:

Enjoy amenities like pools and waterslides before they get crowded.
Book onboard activities and specialty dining before slots fill up.
Secure prime lounge chairs for a stress-free sail-away experience.

With Go Port handling your cruise day transportation needs, you’ll arrive at your terminal refreshed and ready to enjoy every moment of your first day onboard.

#5: Start Your Vacation in Full Relaxation Mode

Cruises are all about relaxation. However, if you’re stressing over flight delays, rushing to the terminal, or just battling travel day exhaustion, you’ll spend the first day at sea trying to recover instead of enjoying yourself.

By arriving a day early, you can ease into vacation mode so you fully enjoy the pampered lifestyle from the moment you board. Imagine starting your trip with a poolside cocktail in hand instead of dealing with travel-related headaches.

Let Go Port Handle Everything for a Worry-Free Start to Your Cruise

Don’t leave your dream vacation to chance when you can let Go Port’s packages take care of your pre-cruise hotel stay and Port Canaveral transportation. Plan ahead now then relax and enjoy a stress-free trip!

With one package, you’ll enjoy: