The very first question that arises when people plan a cruise from Port Canaveral is what airport for Port Canaveral? It is important to choose the right airport to enjoy a comfortable, smooth and stress-free travel. Whether you are an international traveler or a domestic one, this guide is designed to help you compare the three nearby airports to Port Canaveral and help you choose the best airport option for you according to your needs. 

Airport Near Port Canaveral, Fl 

There are three major port Canaveral Florida airports famous for cruise transportation.  These are Melbourne International Airport, Orlando International Airport, and Sanford International Airport. Each airport has a unique set of features and distance from Port Canaveral. From benefits to transport options, let’s break down the features and feasibility of each airport given below. 

Melbourne International Airport (MLB)

Melbourne International Airport is the closest airport to Port Canaveral.  It is just 27 miles south of the port.  

Benefits 

• It is located near the beach, so it provides a more scenic way to Port Canaveral         

• Less crowded and easy to navigate option for people who want to travel while relaxing 

Limitations 

• Limited flight options and airlines 

• It takes more time to reach the port due to frequent high traffic. 

Transport option 

• Due to fewer passengers, MLB has fewer transport options. The best way to reach Port Carnival is through a rideshare service, which costs 50-70$.   

Orlando International Airport (MCO) 

MCO is 45 miles west of Port Canaveral and usually takes 40-45 minutes travel time.  It is the most preferred airport chosen by travelers. 

Benefits 

• Due to direct access to the highway and ship terminals, Orlando International Airport provides the fastest way to reach Port Canaveral. 

• It offers a lot of transport options and airlines, so you can catch your flight and transport services stress-free. 

• Being the largest airport, it provides a lot of activities such as dining and retail locations. 

Limitations  

• It can be busy and crowded 

• Expensive airfares 

Transport options 

MCO has a lot of transport options, such as cruise lines, rental cars, shared shuttles and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft. 

• The average route price by Uber XL is 70-90$, depending on the time of day 

• Shuttle services charge almost 20-30$ per person. 

• MCO provides more expensive options such as cruise lines which charge 37$ per person. 

Pro Tip: At Orlando International Airport, many companies provide shared shuttle services directly to Port Canaveral hotels and cruise terminals. 

Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) 

It is located about 60 miles away from northwest of Port Canaveral. It is the farthest airport from the other two options given above, with a 60-65 minutes travel time. Sometimes, due to traffic conditions, it may take 1.5 hour, so make your plan accordingly. 

Benefits  

• It is a small and less crowded airport     

• Offers cheaper flight fares 

• Convenient when flying with Allegiant Airlines           

Limitations 

• It is the farthest way to Port Canaveral 

• Despite the economic airfares, it can cost you more in terms of shuttle transportation to the port      

Transport Options  

• SFB provides post-carnival shuttle services which cost about 40$ per person. However, Uber charges almost 70 to 90$ depending upon the time of the day and service. 

You may read about How Many Airports Are In Orlando, Florida?

Tips To Choose The Right Airport To Port Canaveral 

Following tips you should keep in mind while planning a flight to Port Canaveral 

• Check for flight availability-If you are an international traveler consider MCO as a good option. In case of a domestic traveler, then MLB would be better. 

• Consider your cruise schedule- If you are arriving on the same day of your cruise, the MCO is the shortest and best option otherwise, you can choose any nearby airport suitable for you. 

• Decide Transport options – MCO has a lot of travel options from the airport to the port carnivals. MLB provides fewer options while SNF would require longer and private rides. 

• Total travel time- It is wiser to consider both the flight and travel time to the port. Considering a cheaper option with a longer drive would cause stress and delays. 

• Budgeting- SNF can provide you with cheaper airlines. Make sure to calculate the total cost, including flight and drive to the port. 

• Type of travel– If you are traveling with a group or family, then choose MCO airport. It can provide direct shuttle service to Port Carnival and make your trip stress–free. 

Final Thoughts 

Still wondering what airport for Port Canaveral? Orlando International Airport is the best and safest option to choose. If you want to travel with peace and have plenty of time, then you can go to Melbourne International Airport. However, if you want to save money and still enjoy the travel, then book for Sanford International Airport flight. 

Whichever airport you choose, make sure to plan your ground transportation with us. Our Signature Luxury Transportation will make your journey convenient, comfortable, and stress-free. 

FAQs 

Q1. What is the closest airport to Port Canaveral? 

The Melbourne International Airport is the closest airport to Port Canaveral, which is almost 27 miles away from it. 

Q2. What is the best airport to Port Canaveral?     

Orlando International Airport is the best airport to port Canaveral due to its wide range of flights and transportation services. 

Q3. How far is Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral?            

It is about 45 miles away, which takes 45-60 minutes to reach Port Canaveral.