For many families, a cruise is the highlight of the vacation. Flying into Orlando a day or two before your Port Canaveral sailing gives everyone a head start on fun, lets kids burn off travel energy, and sets the stage for an exciting vacation.
Located just minutes from Orlando’s top attractions, Floridays Resort Orlando is the perfect home base for families looking to turn a quick Orlando stop into a pre-cruise adventure. Here are five reasons to consider staying before your cruise.
1. Spacious Family Suites for Everyone
Traveling with kids means juggling luggage, snacks, and strollers. Floridays Resort offers suites designed for families, featuring separate sleeping areas, comfortable living spaces, and private balconies so everyone can spread out.
Suite amenities include:
- Kitchens for simple meals or snacks on the go.
- In-suite washers and dryers for last-minute laundry.
- Comfortable living areas for family time.
- Private bedrooms for easier bedtime routines.
These features make it easy for families to keep things organized and get ready for departure without feeling rushed.
2. Convenient Access to Port Canaveral
Being just under an hour from Port Canaveral, Floridays Resort makes departure day stress-free. The FL-528 Beachline Expressway provides a direct route from Orlando to the port.
Many families rent a car for a day or two to explore Orlando before their cruise, and rental companies offer convenient drop-off locations near the terminals. Staying close by means less travel stress and more time for fun.
3. Pre-Cruise Fun and Ease
Travel days with kids can have unexpected moments, from flight delays to luggage arriving late. Arriving early gives families a chance to settle in and enjoy a smoother, more relaxed start to their cruise vacation.
At Floridays Resort Orlando, families can:
4. Family-Friendly Fun Along International Drive
Just minutes from International Drive, Floridays Resort Orlando places families in the heart of Orlando’s entertainment district. Before boarding the ship, families can explore:
- ICON Park and The Orlando Eye – Panoramic views of the city skyline.
- Fun Spot America Orlando – Family-friendly rides, go-karts, and arcade games.
- Mini golf and interactive attractions – Fun for kids and teens.
- Outlet shopping – Pick up last-minute cruise essentials or vacation gear.
A convenient way to explore is the I-Ride Trolley, which runs the full length of International Drive and stops at popular attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
5. Easy Access to Orlando’s World-Famous Theme Parks
Orlando is the Theme Park Capital of the World. A pre-cruise stay lets families experience iconic attractions without feeling rushed.
Floridays Resort Orlando is a Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel, offering easy access to Disney with complimentary shuttle service. Families are also close to Universal Orlando Resort and other area attractions, making it simple to add even more fun before heading to the cruise port.
Floridays Resort Orlando offers families the perfect place to relax, explore Orlando, and enjoy extra vacation time before or after their Port Canaveral cruise.
Cruise Traveler Pro Tips for Families
1. Arrive a Day Before Embarkation
Flying into Orlando at least one day before your cruise gives families time to relax after travel and avoid the stress of flight delays. It also allows kids to settle in before boarding the ship.
2. Pack an Embarkation Day Carry-On
Your checked luggage may take a few hours to reach your cruise cabin after boarding. Pack essentials like swimsuits, sunscreen, medications, snacks, and entertainment for the kids so the family can start enjoying the ship right away.
3. Let Kids Burn Off Energy Before You Set Sail
A theme park visit, local attraction, or even pool time at the resort can help kids burn off energy before cruise day. After a fun day in Orlando, everyone will be ready to relax once the ship sets sail.
FAQ
Is Orlando a good place to stay before a Port Canaveral cruise?
Yes. Orlando is a popular place for cruise travelers because it offers family-friendly resorts, attractions, dining, and entertainment while being located less than an hour from Port Canaveral.
How far is Floridays Resort Orlando from Port Canaveral?
Floridays Resort Orlando is located approximately 60 miles from Port Canaveral. The drive typically takes about one hour via FL-528, also known as the Beachline Expressway.
What can families do in Orlando before their cruise?
Families can visit Orlando’s theme parks, explore attractions along International Drive, enjoy shopping and dining, or relax at their resort before heading to the cruise terminal.
Why should families arrive early before a cruise?
Arriving early allows families to avoid travel stress, settle into their accommodations, and enjoy some time in Orlando before embarkation day.
Are suites better for families before a cruise?
Many families prefer suite-style accommodations because they offer more space, separate bedrooms, kitchens for meals and snacks, and amenities that make traveling with children easier.