The countdown to embarkation day is one of the most exciting parts of planning a cruise. From choosing shore excursions to packing for days at sea, the anticipation begins long before your ship leaves port.
If you are flying into Orlando for your cruise, adding a short stay nearby allows you to ease into vacation mode, explore the area’s famous theme parks and attractions, and begin your trip without feeling rushed. Arriving a day or two early also helps eliminate the stress of flight delays and unexpected travel hiccups before cruise day. Here are three reasons why staying in Orlando before your cruise is worth it.
1. Smooth Sailing Just One Hour from Port Canaveral
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Orlando before your cruise is how much more relaxed departure day becomes. Many cruise lines recommend arriving near your departure port the day before sailing for peace of mind in case of unexpected flight delays. This gives you extra time to explore the area and start your vacation early. Instead of rushing to the port, you can take a day or two to enjoy Orlando and ease into your cruise adventure.
Located about 20 minutes from Orlando International Airport, Wyndham I-Drive Avanti Resort & Conference Center offers convenient access to major roadways connecting Orlando to Port Canaveral. Most travelers reach the port via FL-528, also known as the Beachline Expressway, a direct route from Orlando to the port typically takes about 45–60 minutes by car.
Renting a car for a day or two is a popular option for cruise guests who want the flexibility to explore Orlando before embarkation, with several major rental car companies offering convenient drop-off locations near Port Canaveral. Staying at Wyndham I-Drive Avanti Resort & Conference Center before your cruise gives you time to enjoy the area and start your vacation at a relaxed pace.
During your stay, you can:
• Relax with a tropical drink poolside or unwind in the hot tub
• Enjoy dinner and entertainment along International Drive, a lively district known for its restaurants, attractions, nightlife, and unique experiences
• Visit nearby attractions before cruise day
• Choose to stay in and enjoy dinner at the lobby bar or café
• Start your day with a Starbucks coffee before heading to the port
• Wake up refreshed and ready for the short drive to Port Canaveral
Some travelers also choose to stay one additional night in Orlando after returning to shore. This extra time can be a great way to ease back into land life after your cruise, explore Orlando’s theme parks, and enjoy designer outlet shopping before heading home.
2. International Drive Offers Fun Entertainment Before You Set Sail
Orlando offers plenty of ways to enjoy an evening filled with dining, attractions, and entertainment. Located in the heart of International Drive, Wyndham I-Drive Avanti Resort places guests directly in Orlando’s popular I-Drive entertainment districts.
Along International Drive, visitors can experience:
• ICON Park and The Orlando Eye for panoramic views of the city skyline
• Air Force Fun Helicopter Tours for a unique aerial look at Orlando’s famous attractions
• Fun Spot America Orlando for roller coasters, go-karts, and classic amusement park fun
• Pointe Orlando for walkable dining, shopping, bars, and nightlife
• Immersive dinner shows like Pirate’s Dinner Adventure for a lively evening of entertainment, action, and dining
• Designer outlet shopping for last-minute fashion, swimwear, and accessories
One of the easiest ways to explore the area is aboard the I-Ride Trolley, which travels the entire 11-mile stretch of International Drive and connects many of the district’s most popular attractions, dining spots, and entertainment venues.
When you book direct, two I-Ride Trolley tickets are included with your stay, making it easy to hop on and explore the area before cruise day arrives.
3. World-Famous Theme Parks Are Just Minutes Away
If you are flying into Orlando for your cruise, you are already arriving in the Theme Park Capital of the World. A short Orlando stay before your cruise gives you the chance to experience record-breaking rides, spectacular shows, and immersive attractions before setting sail.
As a Universal Partner Hotel, Wyndham I-Drive Avanti Resort & Conference Center offers convenient access to Universal Orlando Resort, along with complimentary theme park transportation that makes visiting the parks simple and stress free. Link to shuttle page.
From the thrills of Universal Orlando Resort to the iconic parks of Walt Disney World Resort, unforgettable experiences are just minutes from the resort. Explore our Theme Parks Guide to discover nearby parks and start planning your pre-cruise adventure. Link to theme parks page.
Adding even one theme park day before your cruise can turn an already exciting trip into an unforgettable Orlando vacation.
Whether you are arriving a day early or extending your stay after returning from Port Canaveral, Wyndham I-Drive Avanti Resort & Conference Center offers a convenient home base in the heart of International Drive. From nearby attractions and dining to easy access to the port, it’s the perfect place to begin or wrap up your cruise vacation.
1. Arrive Early and Explore Orlando
If you’re planning a pre- or post-cruise stay in Orlando, arriving a day or two early allows you to embark or disembark your ship at a more leisurely pace. Cruise ground transportation can be tightly scheduled, but giving yourself extra time in Orlando adds flexibility and makes the start of your vacation far less stressful.
2. Complete Online Check-In Before You Travel
Most cruise lines allow you to check in online weeks before your sailing. Upload your travel documents, select your arrival window, and complete required forms in advance. This helps speed up the terminal process so you can board the ship faster and start enjoying your vacation sooner.
3. Pack a Carry-On for Embarkation Day
Your checked luggage may take several hours to arrive at your cabin after boarding. Pack essentials like medications, swimwear, sunscreen, travel documents, and a change of clothes in your carry-on so you can explore the ship, grab lunch, or relax by the pool while waiting for your bags to arrive.
FAQ
1. Is Orlando a good place to stay before a Port Canaveral cruise?
Yes, Orlando is a popular place to stay before a cruise from Port Canaveral. The city offers a wide range of hotels, attractions, dining, and entertainment, allowing travelers to start their vacation early while remaining within about an hour of the cruise port.
2. What are the best things to do in Orlando before a cruise?
Before your cruise, you can explore Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, visit attractions along International Drive, enjoy shopping and dining, or relax at your resort. Many travelers use their pre-cruise stay to experience places like Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and ICON Park.
3. How far is Orlando from the Port Canaveral Cruise Port?
Orlando is located about 60 miles from Port Canaveral, which typically takes about one hour by car depending on traffic. This convenient distance makes Orlando a popular home base for travelers sailing from the cruise port.
4. Should you visit Orlando before or after your cruise?
Many travelers choose to visit Orlando either before or after their cruise to extend their vacation. Visiting before your cruise allows you to explore the city and relax before boarding, while visiting after your cruise gives you more time to enjoy Orlando’s attractions before heading home.
5. Where should you stay in Orlando before or after a cruise?
Many cruise travelers choose to stay along International Drive because of its central location and easy access to Orlando’s major attractions, dining, and entertainment. The area also provides convenient routes to Orlando International Airport and Florida’s cruise ports, making it a practical and enjoyable place to begin or extend your vacation.
