disney cruise transportation new orleans

Disney Cruises from New Orleans

Disney Cruise Line offers several cruises departing from the Port of New Orleans, Louisiana, from short four-night trips to lengthy seven-night voyages in the Western Caribbean. The guide below provides information on upcoming Disney Cruises from New Orleans, including 2024 departure dates, itineraries, pricing, and Disney Magic information. There is also information about parking, transportation, and accommodations at the Port of New Orleans cruise terminal.

Overview   |  Dates & Itineraries   |  Ship   |  Port   |  Airports   |  Hotels

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Disney Cruises From New Orleans in 2024

Image © Disney

In contrast to Disney cruises from Port Canaveral and Miami, Disney cruises from New Orleans have only a few departures and a much shorter season. The Disney New Orleans cruise season has traditionally only lasted from late January to early March.

Disney will offer its first 2024 sailing from Port New Orleans on January 31, 2024, and its final 2024 departure on March 1, 2024 . There will be a total of seven departures from Port New Orleans in 2024, ranging from 4, 5, and 7 nights. See the itineraries below for more information on Disney cruise departures from Port of New Orleans.

So far, no 2025 Disney sailings from New Orleans have been announced, despite the cruise calendar having been published through the end of September 2025 (which would cover the traditional Disney Cruise New Orleans season).

Experience the magic of Disney Cruise Line from New Orleans – book your Disney Cruise Line package today!

Staterooms and Dates Are Limited, so Don’t Wait Until They Are Gone!

Dates & Itineraries: New Orleans Disney Cruises

The following is a list of Disney cruises leaving New Orleans during the upcoming cruise season, which runs from January through March 2024.

4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans

Itinerary Includes

• New Orleans, Louisiana (Cruise Start/End)
• Progreso, Mexico
• Day at Sea (2 days)

2024 Sail Dates

• February 26 – March 1, 2024 on Disney Magic | From $1,708 USD

2025 Sail Dates

• None currently scheduled for this itinerary

• Cozumel, Mexico
• January 31 – February 4, 2024 on Disney Magic | From $1,837 USD
• March 1 – 5, 2024 on Disney Magic | From $1,837 USD

5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans

• February 4 – 9, 2024 on Disney Magic | From $2,177 USD
• February 16 – 21, 2024 on Disney Magic | From $2,337 USD
• February 21 – 26, 2024 on Disney Magic | From $2,247 USD

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans

• Falmouth, Jamaica
• George Town, Grand Cayman
• Day at Sea (3 days)
• February 9 – 16, 2024 on Disney Magic | From $3,826 USD

Do you need help making a decision?

The Vacationeer can help you choose the best Disney cruises from New Orleans for 2024 based on the dates and itineraries above. Similarly, they can also help you compare Disney cruises from Galveston , New York , or the dozens of Disney cruises from Florida .

The Vacationeer has earned a reputation as one of Disney Cruise Line’s top travel agencies thanks to its experience and customer satisfaction . Whether it’s your first or tenth trip, The Vacationeer is the best Disney travel agency to work with!

A dedicated Vacationeer can help you customize every aspect of your cruise from New Orleans to maximize your time on land and at sea. Their job is to find you the best package at the lowest price .

Additionally, The Vacationeer offers onboard credit for Disney cruises , which can be used as free money for purchases such as gratuities , alcoholic beverages , shore excursions organized by Disney, spa treatments, photos, souvenirs, and activities on Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island .

And the best part is that The Vacationeer’s services are free ! There is no catch, so you have nothing to lose. They even have Disney Travel Agents who live in Louisiana !

Get more information about New Orleans Disney cruises by contacting The Vacationeer today!

Disney Cruises From New Orleans: Where Do They Go?

Throughout the 2024 Disney cruise season , Disney Magic sails from New Orleans, LA, on various exciting itineraries in the Western Caribbean. Cruises of four, five, and seven nights depart from New Orleans and visit exotic destinations like Cozumel, Mexico, Progreso, Mexico, and George Town, Grand Cayman .

The Disney Magic takes you to some of the region’s most spectacular beaches and fascinating cultural sights while traversing the majestic Western Caribbean seas. Below are some details on the ports Disney cruises stop at on their New Orleans departures.

About the Cozumel, Mexico Disney Cruise Port

Most Disney Magic cruises from New Orleans include stops in the exotic and enchanting Port of Cozumel and dock at Punta Langosta Pier. This popular Mexican island is known for its coral reefs, museum (Museo de Cozumel), and playa San Francisco Beach, among many other attractions. Here you can experience its unique culture, explore beach clubs and duty-free shops, book an excursion with a knowledgeable tour guide, or hike through ancient ruins on your own.

About the Progreso, Mexico Disney Cruise Port

Progreso, located in the Yucatan region of Mexico, is a port of call that has seen recent renovations to accommodate Disney cruises. The unique destination is home to Mayan ruins, Spanish architecture, art galleries, and museums. Guests can also shop at the craft markets along the vibrant boardwalk and swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. With plenty to see and do, the Port of Progreso offers Disney cruise passengers departing from New Orleans a chance to immerse themselves in authentic Mexican culture.

About the George Town, Grand Cayman Disney Cruise Port

The George Town Grand Cayman cruise port is an unparalleled destination for Disney cruises leaving New Orleans. Many activities are available in the city, including shopping, strolling through Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, visiting the Cayman Islands National Museum, and exploring Pedro Street. Guests can enjoy the beautiful beaches, test their aquatic skills, or visit one of the historic sites. For added excitement, Stingray City offers a popular excursion where guests interact with stingrays. A stopover in George Town Grand Cayman is a perfect way to enjoy a Disney cruise.

About the Falmouth, Jamaica Disney Cruise Port

Located between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, Falmouth, Jamaica , is a port of call for Disney cruises from New Orleans. The city offers tourists a glimpse into the Caribbean with its fascinating history, Georgian architecture, and range of activities for all ages. Families and couples can lounge on stunning beaches or get their hearts pumping with stimulating activities such as horseback riding and zip-lining. Nearby attractions such as Dunn’s River Falls, Appleton Estate, and Dolphin Cove make the destination even more inviting. Disney cruise passengers seeking a warm tropical getaway should definitely add Falmouth to their itinerary!

Do Disney Cruises From New Orleans Go to the Bahamas (Castaway Cay)?

Castaway Cay is one of the most popular destinations for Disney cruises. Unfortunately, no Disney cruises from New Orleans stop in Castaway Cay or elsewhere in the Bahamas . Instead, Disney Magic passengers can sail from New Orleans to Mexico, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman.

If you have your heart set on going to the Bahamas, Disney offers dozens of cruise itineraries that visit Castaway Cay in 2024. These include Disney cruises from Miami , Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, and San Juan. Get in touch with The Vacationeer for more information about Disney Cruise Line and Castaway Cay tips .

How Many Disney Cruises From New Orleans Are There?

In 2024, Disney Cruise Line will offer seven different departure dates for its New Orleans cruise season, which runs from January through March. From New Orleans, you can sail to Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico, Falmouth, Jamaica, or George Town, Grand Cayman, on a 4, 5, or 7-night Western Caribbean cruise.

Note: This video shows Disney Magic ‘s sister ship, Disney Wonder , which previously sailed out of New Orleans.

How Long Are Disney’s New Orleans Cruises?

Going on a Disney cruise from New Orleans is the ideal way to explore the magic of the Western Caribbean. Disney Cruise Line’s New Orleans cruises range from four, five, and seven days , giving guests ample opportunity to visit one or more ports and enjoy several sea days to explore all that Disney Magic offers.

If you’re a cruise ship beginner, you may find that starting out with a four-day trip is the best way to get accustomed to life onboard. Experienced cruisers can embark on longer journeys with extended time in ports of call and more magical experiences at sea.

The Disney brand is renowned for providing unsurpassed entertainment and superior customer service. You won’t regret taking a Disney cruise from New Orleans!

How Much Do Disney Cruises From New Orleans Cost?

Disney cruises from New Orleans are a great choice for a memorable and exciting family vacation, but many people wonder if they are affordable.

Disney cruises from New Orleans start at $1,708 for a 4-night cruise, $2,177 for a 5-night cruise, and $3,826 for a 7-night cruise.

While it may seem expensive on the surface, a Disney cruise provides a lot for your money. Your stateroom, meals, and most of your entertainment, activities, and services are included on a Disney cruise . Also, remember that the cost of a Disney cruise includes two people . That means that the per-person cost is quite affordable.

Passengers cruising on the Disney Magic can expect Broadway-quality shows, movie screenings, fireworks at sea, and meet-and-greets with Disney characters. Kids and teens can participate in complimentary and fun activities, including the Oceaneer Club for kids ages 3-10 and dedicated clubs for tweens and teens. For adults, there are nightclubs, live music lounges, fitness centers, and a pool for adults only. There is no charge for these activities .

The prices of Disney cruises include taxes, fees, and port expenses, making them even more affordable. However, you will need to pay for some things out of pocket since they are not fully inclusive. Your extra expenses will include airfare, specialty restaurants, gratuities, spa treatments, shore excursions, bottled beverages, and alcohol .

Want to Calculate Your Exact Price? Contact The Vacationeer.

About the Disney Magic Cruise Ship From New Orleans

Disney Magic cruises from New Orleans are fantastic anytime. Still, if you’re planning to embark on your very first cruise , New Orleans is an excellent departure point.

Disney Magic is also one of the best Disney cruise ships for first-time guests because it’s easy to navigate. With a length of 954 feet, the Disney Magic is one of the smallest Disney ships in the fleet, carrying 2,700 passengers on 11 decks. Although it’s small, there’s plenty of space and comfort inside.

The Rotational Dining experience aboard Disney Cruise ships allows you to visit each of the three main dining rooms: Animator’s Palate, Lumiere’s, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table. You will also be accompanied on your culinary journey by your friendly serving staff throughout your stay.

There are so many things to do on a Disney cruise from New Orleans. You can cool off in pools, giant slides, and splash zones.

AquaDunk water slide on the Disney Magic | Image © Disney

Families can meet Disney Characters and see theater performances. Kids’ clubs offer fun activities for toddlers, kids, and teens. There’s also a spa, fitness club, bars, lounges, and other adult-only areas.

Each stateroom on Disney Magic falls into one of four categories: Inside, Outside, Verandah, and Concierge . There are subcategories within these categories, so selecting a room can be confusing. Please read our guide to the Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise for more information about choosing a stateroom. Or better yet, contact a Disney travel agent for personalized assistance.

Get Answers Without Waiting on Hold .

About the Disney Cruise Port New Orleans Terminal

Image © Port NOLA

Disney Cruise Line serves several ports throughout the United States. Most of Disney’s business has historically come from passengers embarking on Disney cruises from Florida , especially Miami and Port Canaveral. However, Disney cruises from Fort Lauderdale , Galveston, New York, and San Diego are also available.

Despite lower cruise volumes, New Orleans remains a popular destination for families and couples seeking Western Caribbean vacations.

The Port of New Orleans, or Port NOLA, lies on the Mississippi River, about 100 miles upstream from the Gulf of Mexico. The port was founded in 1946 and is now the sixth-largest in the country. In 2019, PortNOLA welcomed 1.20 million cruise passengers and 251 cruise vessels. The number of cruise passengers has mostly recovered since the pandemic outbreak.

What’s the Disney Cruise Line Address at Port of New Orleans?

When considering a cruise out of the Port of New Orleans, it is important to know that there are two separate cruise terminals: Erato Street and Julia Street. Disney Cruise Line operates out of the Erato Street terminal (Carnival Cruise Line also uses it). Additionally, the port area is bustling with activity, given its close proximity to a convention center, casino, large shopping mall, and numerous hotels. The region is also currently undergoing road construction that may pose additional navigational challenges. You should allow plenty of time to get there if you are driving.

Here is the Disney Cruise Line address at Port Orleans:

Erato Street Terminal 1100 Port of New Orleans Place New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (800) 951-3532

Directions for Driving to Port of New Orleans

• Take I-10 East or West to U.S. 90 W (Exit 234A).
• Continue on U.S. 90 W and take the Tchoupitoulas exit (Exit 11C). It is the last exit prior to crossing the Mississippi River (via the Crescent City Connection Bridge).
• Take the ramp to the ground level and turn right onto Tchoupitoulas Street at the second stoplight.
• At the next stoplight, turn left onto Henderson St. and proceed for two blocks.
• After crossing the railroad tracks, turn left onto Port of New Orleans Place.
• The Erato Street Cruise Terminal is just past the bridge pier. Here is where you’ll find Disney Cruise Line (and Carnival Cruise Line).
• You should not attempt to access cruise terminals through Julia St. or Poydras St.

Parking for the Erato Street Cruise Terminal (Disney Cruises)

Guests can find a parking garage above the Erato Street Cruise Terminal . The parking lot is well-lit, secure, and patrolled.

You must show your boarding information when entering the garage.

Once you’ve parked, you can take the elevator to the first floor, where you can check-in. SeaCaps will collect your luggage and transport it directly to your ship.

During peak cruise season, overflow parking lots are available with free shuttle service to the terminal.

Disney Cruise Line passengers may be required to park at the nearby Convention Center parking lot, accessible by free shuttle buses. You should check with your Disney travel agent or contact Disney directly if you plan to drive to the terminal.

Parking prices will remain the same whether you park at the terminal or in one of the overflow lots.

Reservations are not available (and not needed) for regular-sized vehicles.

Port NOLA no longer allows oversized vehicles, RVs, and buses to park.

Cost of Parking at the Port of New Orleans for Disney Cruises

You should factor parking costs into your Disney cruise planning if you drive a vehicle to the Port of New Orleans. Parking is available in Port NOLA’s official lots and in third-party lots nearby. Costs will vary based on the length of your cruise (or the length of time you plan to park your car).

Official Port New Orleans Cruise Ship Parking Lots and Garage

Cost: ~$22 per day

Distance: At the terminal

Website: https://portnola.com/cruise/parking-directions

4-Day Cruise Parking : $90.00 ($22.50 per day)

5-Day Cruise Parking : $110.00 ($22 per day)

6-Day Cruise Parking : $138.00 ($23 per day)

7-Day Cruise Parking : $150.00 ($21.43 per day)

8-Day Cruise Parking : $170 ($21.25 per day)

9-Day Cruise Parking : $200 ($22.22 per day)

10-Day Cruise Parking : $220 ($22 per day)

14-Day Cruise Parking : $300 ($21.43 per day)

These are the parking rates for 2023 and may change without notice. Consult your Disney travel agent (or the Port of New Orleans) before making your parking plans.

New Orleans cruise terminal parking is free for disabled veterans.

Unofficial (Off-Site) New Orleans Cruise Ship Parking Lots and Garages

Aside from on-site parking, Disney cruise passengers can also park in off-site lots near the terminal. Here are some options:

New Orleans Parking

New Orleans Parking has various lots right near the cruise port, some of which offer slightly cheaper cruise parking rates than the official port parking rates. Guests on Disney cruises should consider parking at their Cummins Parking Lot since it offers 24/7 security, is just a block from the port, and offers a shuttle service from 7 AM to 3 PM daily.

• Cost $15 – $25 per day, more for oversized parking
• Distance: 1 block (a free shuttle service is available)
• Website: https://neworleansparking.com

Machu Picchu Cruise Ship Parking

Machu Picchu’s parking lot is 1.5 miles (5 minutes) from the Port of New Orleans and accessible by a complimentary shuttle service. The parking lot is sheltered from the elements and surrounded by barbed wire fences. Spaces are limited, and reservations are required. Parking is only $14 per day.

• Cost: $14 per day
• Distance: 15 blocks (a free shuttle is available)
• Website: https://www.machupicchutours.com/cruise-ship-parking.html

Parking at Nearby Hotels

For those planning on staying overnight before your cruise, you can save money by staying in New Orleans hotels with park & cruise packages. These hotels offer discounted (or free) parking while you cruise if you stay for a night.

The following hotels offer such packages:

• Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter (Distance to Port: 1.9 miles)
• Holiday Inn-Downtown Superdome (Distance to Port: 2.1 miles)
• Holiday Inn Westbank (Distance to Port: 3.9 miles)
• Homewood Suites Metairie New Orleans (Distance to Port: 9.5 miles)

Here are some New Orleans hotels with complimentary shuttle service to and from Port NOLA:

• Courtyard New Orleans Downtown/Convention Center: (Distance to Port: 0.3 miles)
• Hilton New Orleans Riverside: (Distance to Port: 0.3 miles)
• Hyatt Place New Orleans Convention Center: (Distance to Port: 0.3 miles)
• New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District: (Distance to Port: 0.3 miles)
• Omni New Orleans Riverfront: (Distance to Port: 0.3 miles)
• Hampton Inn & Suites Convention Center: (Distance to Port: 0.5 miles)

Restaurants Near Port of New Orleans

The French Quarter has many bars, restaurants, and shops within 10 minutes of the Port of New Orleans. However, if you’re looking for something quick and nearby, the Riverwalk Outlets are located above the Julia Street Cruise Terminal. Various unique and upscale options are also available to you before or after your Disney cruise from New Orleans. They include:

• At the Auction House , you’ll find a multi-vendor food hall with a sleek design.
• For authentic Cajun cuisine, Mulate’s gets the nod.
• Landry’s Seafood House is well known for its flounder, catfish, and Gulf red snapper.
• Flamingo A Go Go is known for its New American dishes with a Southern and Caribbean influence.
• There are also Taqueria La Lucha , Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, a Japanese restaurant, a steakhouse, and a Subway, all within walking distance of the Disney Cruise Line terminal.

These are just a few examples. There are countless options for eating in New Orleans before or after a Disney cruise!

Airports for New Orleans Cruises

The best way to reach the Port of New Orleans is by flying into the city (unless you’re close enough to drive).

Which Airport Should I Fly Into for a New Orleans Cruise?

The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the best airport in New Orleans for flying to and from a Disney cruise. The airport is 15.7 miles from Port NOLA and is serviced by many airlines, shuttles, taxis, and ridesharing companies.

What is the Best Way to Get from the Airport to the Port of New Orleans?

When you rent a car at the airport, you don’t have to coordinate with anyone else – you have total control over your drive, eliminating any uncertainty about who may pick you up, especially if you are traveling with a family. Your best options are Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, or Budget, as these companies have drop-off locations right near Port NOLA.

Despite the convenience, renting a car is usually more expensive than other options, so most people choose rideshares, taxis, and shuttles instead. In our opinion, the best way to get to Port Nola is via ridesharing (such as Uber) or booking Disney’s official airport shuttle .

Those arriving at Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) should allow at least an hour to get to the cruise terminal to ensure you’ll arrive on time. The cruise terminal is only about 16 miles away, but traffic can be unpredictable, so it’s best to allow plenty of time.

How Much does an Uber Cost from the Airport to Port of New Orleans?

The cost of an Uber varies greatly depending on the vehicle you choose and how far you travel. Here is an estimate of how much an Uber ride will cost from either Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) to the Disney Cruise Line terminal at the Port of New Orleans.

The estimated cost of an Uber from MSY to Port of New Orleans (16 miles):

• Uber X : $30.84
• Uber XL : $$41.36
• Uber Black : $84.14

How Much are Taxis from the Airport to Port of New Orleans?

Due to their convenience, taxis are a viable option for connecting to the Port of New Orleans. The downside is that taxis are slightly more expensive than comparable ridesharing services like Uber.

• Taxis are estimated to cost $57.00 from MSY to the Port of New Orleans.

Tipping your Uber or taxi fare will increase these estimates, of course.

How Much are Shuttles from the Airport to the Port of New Orleans Hotels?

Shuttle service is a popular option to reach the port and its nearby hotels; shared shuttles can be a more cost-effective option than dedicated vehicles such as Uber, Lyft, or taxis. But they’re usually priced per person, so larger groups might find it better to seek another option.

Official Disney Shuttles

You can take a Disney Cruise Line ground shuttle between Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) and the Port of New Orleans Cruise Terminal for $25 per person (one-way) .

The shuttle will pick you up from the airport and bring you directly to the Disney cruise terminal, and the driver will assist you with your luggage.

Reservations must be made with Disney Cruise Line or a Disney Travel Agent well in advance.

Unofficial Airport Shuttles

Several independent companies offer shuttle services from the airport to the cruise terminal. A third-party shuttle service can get you to where you want to go if you plan to arrive early or leave New Orleans late after your cruise (since Disney’s shuttle only runs on cruise days).

Airport Shuttle New Orleans serves as the airport’s official ground transportation and can transport you anywhere in the city – including the port. The shuttle charges $30 for one-way rides and $56 for round trips . No extra fee is charged for carrying up to three bags per passenger.

Other third-party services include SuperShuttle , Go Airport Shuttle , and AirportShuttles , which all offer similar shuttle services between the airport and the Port of New Orleans.

Other Types of Vehicles

Several private companies offer limousines, vans, luxury sedans, and bus services. Here are a few local companies:

• Audubon Coach provides sedans, buses, limos, and SUVs to get you to the New Orleans cruise port in style.
• Big Easy Limos offers everything from vintage Rolls Royce vehicles to shuttle buses and vans.
• A Regal Limousine Service can take you to the port in an SUV, luxury sedan, limo bus, or stretch Hummer.

We recommend taking Disney’s official shuttle or an Uber, but you can make your own decision. Contact a Disney travel agent to discuss your options. Additionally, they can handle your ground transportation reservations for you!

Bundle Your Cruise, Hotel, and Ground Transit Into a Single, Carefree Package.

Hotels Near Port New Orleans and the Airport

Image © Disney / Hilton

Disney Cruise travelers may want to arrive in New Orleans a day or two before their cruise. The advantage of this is that you will have some wiggle room in your travel plans in case of flight delays or traffic congestion upon arrival, as well as time to explore the charming city.

If you plan to stay in New Orleans before or after your Disney cruise, there is an abundance of high-quality hotels available near Port New Orleans and the New Orleans Airport to give you an authentic taste of the region.

Here’s a sampling:

Official Disney Pre/Post Cruise Hotels:

Disney partners with two New Orleans area hotels for pre and post-cruise stays. These hotel stays can be bundled into your Disney New Orleans cruise package.

• InterContinental New Orleans : Before embarking on a Disney cruise from New Orleans, consider booking your stay at InterContinental New Orleans for a one-of-a-kind experience. Situated just steps from the iconic French Quarter, this premium hotel boasts luxuriously appointed rooms, an exquisite rooftop pool offering stunning views, and Cajun-Creole cuisine served in an elegant restaurant. It is conveniently located 13 miles from the Louis Armstrong International Airport and 2 miles from the cruise terminal.
• Hilton New Orleans/St. Charles Avenue : If you want to make the most of your Disney cruise from New Orleans, the Hilton New Orleans/St. Charles Avenue hotel is an excellent choice. Located just blocks from the famous French Quarter and Arts District, it offers pre- and post-cruise accommodation as an official Disney partner hotel. This historic 1920s hotel has been tastefully refurbished, offers stylish dining areas and impressive leisure facilities, and is conveniently located close to top sights in New Orleans. Its ideal location – around 13 miles from the Louis Armstrong International Airport and two miles from the cruise terminal – makes it incredibly easy to reach.

Other Nearby Hotels:

Besides the Disney partner hotels, there are several excellent lodging options in the area, many within walking distance of Erato Street Cruise Terminal. Here are some of the closest options.

• Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans-Convention Center : The Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans-Convention Center is a modern, upscale hotel close to the Mississippi River and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. It offers premium amenities, a 24/7 fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast. The hotel is an excellent choice for those planning to take a Disney cruise from the nearby Erato Street Cruise Terminal (just 0.7 miles away).
• Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center : The Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center offers upscale accommodations for travelers. Located a mere 0.7 miles from the Disney Cruise Line terminal, this distinct hotel is conveniently accessible via a streetcar stop from the French Quarter. Guests can enjoy numerous amenities, such as an on-site restaurant with a wide range of American and local cuisine, cooked-to-order breakfast (for a fee), and an outdoor patio and fitness center with an outdoor rooftop pool.
• Hyatt Place New Orleans/Convention Center : Situated in the vibrant downtown Arts and Warehouse district, Hyatt Place New Orleans/Convention Center offers services to make your stay convenient and comfortable. Best of all, it’s just 0.5 miles from the Disney Cruise Line terminal!

Regardless of which hotel you choose, you can count on comfortable and convenient accommodation before or after New Orleans embarkation.

Are You Ready to Book Your New Orleans Disney Cruise?

Booking a Disney Cruise from New Orleans is easy when you work with The Vacationeer , an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner at the Diamond level. Their extensive experience with Disney Destinations allows them to find the best Disney cruise itineraries for families or couples. They also know how to add a little extra magic to every trip!

The Vacationeer is responsible for answering all your questions and assisting with your requests. Their goal is to find you a cruise that will fulfill your vacation goals and dreams, whether it’s finding the cheapest month to cruise , last-minute Disney cruise , providing information on Disney cruise tipping policies , or offering tips on saving money on your Disney cruise .

You will also work with the same travel planner from start to finish , so you won’t have to speak to different people every time you call. It takes all the hassle and stresses out of planning and booking a Disney cruise vacation yourself.

Contact The Vacationeer today to receive a free quote and to learn more about their generous onboard credit program. Their services are completely free , so you have nothing to lose!

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New Orleans Port Transportation

Last updated on June 30th, 2023 at 01:16 pm

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport offers various transportation options to the cruise port or hotels. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and private shuttles are readily available. Some hotels provide shuttle services, and there are also dedicated shuttles available specifically for cruise passengers.

What is the Closest Airport to New Orleans Cruise Port?

Car rentals in new orleans, new orleans airport & cruiseport shuttles, new orleans taxis, cruise planning at this port.

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If you like jazz or Cajun cuisine you can’t beat sailing out of the Big Easy.

Getting to the Port

The port terminal is located at:

Port of New Orleans 1100 Port of New Orleans Place New Orleans, Louisiana 70130

Parking is available for a fee of $80 for 4-night sailings, $100 for 5-night sailings, $120 for 6-night sailings, and $140 for 7-night sailings.

Disney Cruise Line Transfer

Disney does offer transfers to and from the airport for $25 per person each way.

Things To Do Before or After a Cruise

The iconic and unique French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans. The immediately recognizable architecture and delectable treats (hi beignets!) make just walking through the are unforgettable.

The French Quarter isn’t all of New Orleans, however. The old mansions and vibrant riverboats make all areas of the city worth a visit.

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Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Transportation Options (With Tips and How To’s)

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside is a dreamy resort with a transportation option that reflects its origins–the Sassagoula Steamboat Company River Cruise. Also, Riverside is so enormous that it commands four bus stops with an internal bus system.

Some might find a resort like Port Orleans Riverside challenging to navigate. But you’ll probably feel differently once you get the hang of how things work.

Based on our experience, we’ve compiled a transportation guide with tips for Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside. If you have an upcoming vacation, you’ll want to review this guide beforehand and bookmark it in case you need it for a quick reference while you’re on vacation. 

For those who are already on vacation, here are a few quick links to some of the main destinations at Walt Disney World. 

• How to Get from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Magic Kingdom
• How to Get from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Epcot
• How to Get from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• How to Get from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
• How to Get from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs

When we finish, you’ll have a good overview of how to get to and from Port Orleans Riverside. Additionally, we’ll discuss a few other tips for getting around the resort and to the neighboring French Quarter. So, put on a pot of gumbo for dinner because we’re headed down to the bayou to learn how to slither out of the swamp!

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Transportation Options

The following forms of transportation are available at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort:

• Disney Bus Service
• Disney Water Taxi

You can walk between Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter Resorts. However, there is no walking path from Riverside to a theme park or Disney Springs.

While the resort is so spread out that it requires an internal bus system, its charm and unique landscape make it desirable. Port Orleans Riverside has stunning grounds that you could spend hours roaming about. 

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Magic Kingdom

You’ll take a bus from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Magic Kingdom. Port Orleans Riverside has bus stops at each major section of the resort. You’ll want to use the bus stop nearest your location at the resort. 

Here is a list of the bus stops at Port Orleans Riverside. Theme park buses pick up and drop off in this order:

• North Depot
• South Depot (main lobby)

You’ll return to Port Orleans Riverside from the bus stop at Magic Kingdom. Buses drop off in the same order listed above. If you need to stop at the resort’s lobby on the way back, you’ll exit the bus at the South Depot, the last stop before the bus leaves the resort. 

*During slower times, Port Orleans Riverside may share bus service with Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter. So you’ll always want to pay attention to the announcement over the intercom before the bus stop.

Many years ago, we exited at the French Quarter bus stop because we thought we were at Riverside. It wasn’t until we walked inside the lobby that we realized our mistake, which meant it took even longer to get back to our room.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Epcot

You’ll take a bus from Riverside to Epcot. Buses continue to pick up in the same order for Epcot: 

You’ll return from Epcot the same way. Remember to exit at the South Depot to pick up something from the gift shop or restaurant before returning to the room. 

Wait times for the next bus are posted at each resort bus stop. We have found that wait times are pretty accurate. They are transmitted to the sign via a signal from the bus’s location. So, if you notice a fluctuation, it’s probably because the bus stopped at a light or ran into traffic.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Hollywood Studios 

You’ll take a bus from Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Buses continue to pick up in the same order as the other parks. 

You’ll return from Hollywood Studios to Riverside the same way. Remember to exit at the South Depot if you need to stop at the lobby upon your return. 

Port Orleans Riverside to Animal Kingdom

You’ll take a bus from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Buses continue to pick up in the same order: 

You’ll return from Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the same manner. Don’t forget the lobby stop is South Depot, if needed. 

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs

You’ll have two options for traveling from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs. You can take a bus or a boat from the resort to Disney Springs. 

#1 Take a Bus from Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs 

You can take a bus from Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs. When you get to the bus stop at Port Orleans Riverside, the sign will often indicate taking a water taxi to Disney Springs. It is confusing. But if you wait, a Disney Springs bus will come. 

This bus service is shared with Port Orleans French Quarter and doubles as the resort’s internal bus service. Here is its route:

• Port Orleans French Quarter Bus Stop (lobby)
• South Depot at Riverside (lobby)
• Disney Springs

Since this bus serves as the internal bus at Port Orleans Riverside, guests can take the Disney Springs bus from the lobby to:

• Port Orleans French Quarter
• Alligator Bayou Sections (West and North Depot)
• Magnolia Bend (North and East Depot)

For example, if you have dinner at Boatwrights, you can take the Disney Springs bus back to your room in Magnolia Bend. You would not want to take a theme park bus back to your room because South Depot (the lobby) is the last stop before theme park buses leave the resort. The Disney Springs bus is the only bus that stops at South Depot first. 

#2 Take a Water Taxi from Riverside to Disney Springs

Most will want to take the water taxi from Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs. It is a pleasant boat ride back and forth between the two destinations. 

A yellow flag identifies Riverside water taxis. They dock immediately behind the lobby of Port Orleans Riverside and at the Marketplace at Disney Springs. You will have one stop at Port Orleans French Quarter on the way to Disney Springs and the return trip. 

Water Taxis run the following routes:

• Port Orleans Riverside
• Disney Springs 

*The water taxis at Disney Springs hold approximately 32 guests. You can take this same water taxi to travel back and forth between the French Quarter and Riverside.

However, if you’re at the French Quarter, the water taxi that docks on the right side of the dock will travel to Riverside. If this sounds confusing, don’t worry. The boat captain will identify where the boat is going before you board. 

*During higher volume crowd times, more boats might service this route. For reference, a yellow flag is Port Orleans Riverside, a purple flag is Port Orleans French Quarter, and a yellow and purple flag services both resorts. You don’t necessarily have to know this, but it might provide an explanation if a boat doesn’t stop.

Accessibility at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort

Most transportation options at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside accommodate guests with accessibility needs. Disney provides an overview of each form of transportation on their website.

All bus stops have a separate spot for guests in wheelchairs and ECVs to wait. Additionally, the water taxis accommodate most wheelchairs and ECVs. 

Disney has an excellent resource on their site if you want to learn more:  Transportation and Mobility Disabilities at Disney World

Walking Between Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter

Guests can walk between Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter. A sidewalk runs from the Port Orleans Riverside lobby to the opposite end of the French Quarter. It takes approximately 15 minutes at a leisurely pace to travel from one resort’s lobby to the other.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Water Parks 

Occasionally, Disney offers direct bus service to and from the resort to Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon. However, that is rare. When you reach the bus stop, the electronic sign will indicate which bus to take to which water park.

Usually, guests must take the bus to Disney Springs when traveling to Typhoon Lagoon. When you reach Disney Springs, you’ll exit that bus and board a transfer bus to Disney Springs. Someone will be in the area to direct you to the correct bus stop. It’s not far.

However, when you leave Typhoon Lagoon, you’ll have to walk further to find the resort bus stop at Disney Springs. So you’ll want to make sure to have a change of clothes for the return trip.

For Blizzard Beach, you’ll take a bus to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and then board a nearby transfer bus to Blizzard Beach. You’ll then return in the same manner.

*Important Note–You do not want to take the boat from Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs to visit Typhoon Lagoon. The water taxi service drops off at The Marketplace.

From there, you would have to walk to the Marketplace entrance at Disney Springs. Then, you would walk across most of the venue to reach the transfer bus to Typhoon Lagoon. I haven’t timed it precisely, but I estimate that route would take close to an hour and involve a good deal of walking.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to the Monorail Resorts 

Additionally, most guests will want to visit the  monorail resorts  for dining or touring. To do this, you can take a bus from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Magic Kingdom.

From there, you will have to walk through security at Magic Kingdom. Then you can walk, boat, or monorail to the following resorts:

• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (walk, boat, monorail )
• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (boat, monorail, technically can  walk via the Grand Floridian walkway to Magic Kingdom)
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort (walk or monorail)

Alternatively, you could take a bus from Riverside to Hollywood Studios. Then, take a bus from Hollywood Studios to any of the monorail resorts. 

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Boardwalk 

If you want to travel to Disney’s Boardwalk Inn or other Epcot Resorts, take a bus from Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Epcot Resorts include Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, and Disney’s Swan and Dolphin. 

From  Hollywood Studios, you can walk to the Boardwalk  or take a  Friendship Boat . You’ll want to return to Riverside in the same manner. However, if you’re staying out past theme park hours, you might have to order a car service (i.e., Lyft, Uber, Taxi, or Minnie Van) if the buses are no longer running.

Those would be pretty late hours to keep. But the Boardwalk does have a few places geared toward adults that are open relatively late.

Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge or Fort Wilderness

Additionally, you can take a bus to Magic Kingdom for Wilderness Lodge or Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Once you arrive at Magic Kingdom, take a bus or the red flag boat to either resort.

*During inclement weather, you must take a bus from Magic Kingdom to Wilderness Lodge or Fort Wilderness. Hopefully, you’ll get to take the boat, though. It’s a pleasant ride and part of the fun.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to the Skyliner Resorts

If you want to take a ride (for leisure) on the Disney Skyliner, take a bus from Port Orleans Riverside to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and board the Skyliner. We have a  separate guide that details Disney’s Skyliner’s route . Stops include Caribbean Beach Resort, Art of Animation, Pop Century, Riviera Resort, and Epcot’s International Gateway.

* Remember these tips are subject to Disney’s transportation hours of operation.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Animal Kingdom Lodge

To visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, we usually take a bus to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Then, we’ll take a bus from the Animal Kingdom to the Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Note that the bus makes two stops at the Lodge. The first is Kidani Village, and the second is Jambo House. You’ll want to know which location is your intended destination.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside to Other Disney Springs Resorts

If you want to visit one of the resorts near Disney Springs, you can boat from Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs. You’ll have the following options:

• Walk or take a water taxi from the Disney Springs Marketplace to Disney’s Saratoga Springs.
• Take a water taxi from the Disney Springs Marketplace to Disney’s Old Key West. 

Airport to Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside

Lastly, when traveling from the Orlando International Airport (MCO), you’ll need to arrange transportation to the resort. Disney no longer offers transportation between the airport and the Walt Disney World Resort. 

Tip: If you find yourself in need of travel outside of complimentary transportation hours, you can order a car service (i.e., Lyft, Uber, Taxi, or Minnie Van). We try to avoid the extra expense as much as possible. But if we had late dining reservations or comparable, we would take a car service back to our hotel.

Final Thoughts on Transportation at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside

Hopefully, this article gave you some essential tips for getting to and from Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside. Remember to take the time to identify the bus stop closest to your room (and the quickest walking path to it) upon your arrival. It will be smooth sailing from there!

For more articles related to Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort , you might enjoy the following:

• Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Review
• Disney’s Port Orleans Magnolia Bend Mansion Room Tour
• Every Pool at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside
• Port Orleans Riverside Restaurants Guide
• Photo Tour of Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside

What Do You Think?

Did you find these tips for transportation at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside helpful? Will they factor into your planning a stay here? Please share your thoughts, experiences, and questions in the comments below. We value your opinion and can assure you other readers do as well.

Hi, I'm Amber the owner of Resorts Gal . We have stayed at every single Disney Resort Hotel. Our philosophy? We believe you can have an incredible time at the resorts without ever setting foot in a theme park. We live near the parks and visit weekly and would love for you to follow along.

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Should You Take Disney Cruise Line Transportation? What You Need to Know.

by Jenn Marrazzo | Nov 9, 2023 | Disney Cruise Line

Heading on a Disney Cruise soon? Here’s why you should consider taking Disney Cruise transportation to the port.

Guests headed onboard a Disney Cruise from Port Canaveral in Florida are probably facing some exciting decisions as they get ready to sail. From what excursions they should book to any onboard extras, there are so many ways to personalize your Disney Cruise Line vacation. 

One thing that most people don’t consider is transportation to the port. How are you getting from Orlando International Airport or Walt Disney World to Port Canaveral and back? Well, one option to consider is to utilize official Disney transportation services.  We’re going to break down whether you should take Disney Cruise Transportation on your next sailing and what the alternatives are. 

Distance to Port Canaveral from Orlando

Port Canaveral is located on the East Coast of Florida and is parallel with Orlando. With that said, it is a little bit of a hike from the port to the Greater Orlando Area, so keep that in mind when visiting. 

Photo by Bill Ryan

Orlando International to Port Canaveral 

Orlando International and Port Canaveral are about 47 miles apart. Therefore, you can expect a ride of about 45 minutes back and forth. That is assuming there is no traffic, so always add on some extra time to account for Orlando traffic. 

Walt Disney World to Port Canaveral 

The Walt Disney World Resort and Port Canaveral are about 59 miles apart. The ride between the two is approximately one hour back and forth. Again, the closer you get to Disney, you could face some extensive traffic, so always prepare ahead of time if you are leaving for your cruise. 

Transportation Options to Port Canaveral 

There are a few ways to travel from Port Canaveral to Orlando. We’ll break down these different ways for you. 

Whether you are headed to Port Canaveral from Orlando International or decided to stay at Disney World for a few days before, one option is taking an Uber or Lyft to the Port. As we previously mentioned, Port Canaveral is a hike from both the airport and the parks, so the cost will reflect that. You can expect an Uber or Lyft to cost you around $100 or more given the distance. 

Official Disney Cruise Line Transportation 

The other option that guests can consider when embarking on a Disney Cruise is official Disney Cruise Line Transportation. This transportation will have you picked up at either the airport or at your Disney Resort and brought to the terminal in Port Canaveral. The transportation cost is $39/per person. To discuss specific options for your cruise and travel itinerary, call Disney Cruise Line at (800) 951-3532. 

Benefits of Disney Cruise Line Transportation

Earlier boarding group/port arrival.

One of the best parts about using Disney Cruise Line Transportation is that you arrive at the port early and therefore, are given an earlier boarding group to get onto your ship. That means your vacation starts early! These boarding groups are usually highly coveted and people will start their check-in exactly on the date it opens. But if you use a Disney Transfer, they will take care of that for you so you aren’t waiting around. 

Photo by Danny Shuster

Easy to Book and Guaranteed Pick Up

Booking a Disney Transfer is quite easy. Once you make your final payment for your cruise, you are able to book on the Disney Cruise Line app or website. You’ll be prompted to add transportation at either the beginning of your cruise, the end of your cruise, or both. 

Luggage Transfer

You are on vacation so don’t stress about carrying your luggage around. By simply adding your Disney Cruise Line luggage tag onto your luggage prior to pickup, you won’t have to worry about luggage at all. If you are staying at a Disney World resort hotel or at the Hyatt at Orlando International, a representative from Disney Cruise Line will come early in the morning to pick up your bags. It’s as simple as that… you’ll find them onboard in your room. 

If you are flying on the day of your cruise, Disney Cruise Line will pick up your luggage from baggage claim and bring it to the Port so that once again, you’ll find your luggage onboard. We love this perk and think this is totally worth the process.  

Entertainment on Board

When being picked up by Disney Cruise Line Transportation, you’ll have access to Disney entertainment onboard your bus. If you remember Disney’s Magical Express Service , you’ll receive similar entertainment to that. From Disney cartoons to information about the port, it’s a great way to keep the magic flowing right into your Disney Cruise. 

Downsides of Disney Cruise Line Transportation

As we mentioned, the Disney Transfer costs $39/per person. If you are a family of 4, you are looking at a cost of over $150 to use the service. While that might not be intriguing for some, it’s something to think about before you click that book button. 

Multiple Stops 

If you are being picked up at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, keep in mind that you will most likely be stopping at multiple resorts around WDW. Since there’s probably many guests who are being picked up, they will try to get as many people as possible onto the transfer. That means you’ll spend more time onboard the bus. 

You Have No Say in Pick-Up Time

If you are someone who doesn’t like the idea of being told when it’s time to leave, this service might not be for you. That’s because you have no say in the pick-up time for the bus. Disney will schedule this for you according to where you are being picked up and when they have the most demand. 

Should You Take It? 

While we broke down both the pros and cons of Disney Transportation, we highly recommend that you take the Disney Transportation. From not worrying about luggage to receiving an earlier boarding group, the pros outweigh the few cons we can find. 

FAQs of Disney Cruise Line Transportation

What’s the cost of disney cruise line transportation .

Disney Cruise Line Transportation costs $39 per person per way. 

Can you book Disney Cruise Line Transportation if you are flying into Orlando Airport the day of?

Absolutely! That’s one of the best parts! You’ll find a Disney Curise Line representative in the terminal ready to take you over to the port. But, remember, you must book this ahead of time. 

Will they pick you up at a Disney World Resort or at the Hyatt at Orlando Airport? 

Guests love the fact that Disney Cruise Line Transportation can whisk you from the parks to the ship. Sometimes people even stay at the Hyatt at Orlando Airport and you can also receive the service if you are staying there too. 

What happens if you get to the port before your port arrival time? 

By booking a Disney Cruise Line transfer, you’ll receive an earlier port time and boarding group to accommodate you if you arrive early. You won’t have to wait around outside if you get there earlier than expected. 

Is it easy to book? 

It sure is! Just visit the Disney Cruise Line app or use the Disney Cruise Line website after your final payment is submitted to purchase this add-on. 

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• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
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• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
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• Cruises Under $300
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• Spring Break Cruise Deals
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• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
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• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
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• News & Articles

New Orleans Hotels With Cruise Port & Airport Shuttles (Or Walking Distance to the Ship)

If you plan to sail from the Port of New Orleans for your next cruise, then there is a good chance you’ll be spending some time in town before your trip.

Not only is it a good idea to arrive to your port city at least a day early in case there are any delays in your travel, but New Orleans is a world-class city to visit for fun. From food to entertainment to culture to history, the city offers something for everyone. It would be a mistake to take a cruise from New Orleans and miss out.

That said, if you are flying in for your cruise, then there is the headache of trying to figure out transportation while you are in the city. Yes, you can rent a car to get around, but what do you do with it while you are on the ship? And you can also take taxis or Uber/Lyft your way around the city, but that can quickly get expensive.

That’s why some hotels in New Orleans offer shuttle service for their guests to the cruise port and/or airport. This can drastically cut down on the expense of getting to the port, so some hotels in the area offer transportation to entice cruise passengers to stay the night.

Other hotels are close enough to the cruise port that you can walk to the terminal come cruise day .

Put simply, if you stay at one of these hotels, you can save some decent cash on transportation costs.

To help you out, we’ve searched out New Orleans hotels with shuttles or within a short walk to the ship. We’ll be honest — while there are tons of hotels around the port, the number offering shuttle service to the port is relatively small. This is especially the case after the health crisis, when a number of hotels stopped shuttle service.

That’s why we’ve covered a number of options below, including hotels within walking distance of the cruise port. This way you have more choice in finding the perfect hotel for your cruise.

More Hotel Ideas: You can also click here to see hotels near the New Orleans cruise port or see “Park and Cruise” hotels in the port area .

Note: This article contains affiliate links to Kayak. We earn a commission for clicks made on their website, at no charge to you. Review ratings come from Google and are rounded to the nearest half point.

New Orleans Hotels With Cruise Shuttles

Before the health crisis, several hotels in the city offered shuttle rides over to the cruise port. Now the numbers are far fewer. For most spots, a quick Uber/Lyft is your best option to get to the ship. We also have included hotels within a short walk of the port in another section below.

Hampton Inn & Suites Convention Center As for location, it really doesn’t get much better than this. While the Hampton Inn at the Convention Center is within walking distance of the port, it also offers a shuttle to the cruise terminal. While we didn’t see the offer online, a call to the hotel (504-566-9990) told us it was available.

There is not a shuttle from the airport, so you’ll need to find your own method of transportation if flying in. If driving, the Hampton Inn offers a cruise package with parking for $17 a night — a little cheaper than the parking rate at the official port parking lots — and a ride over to the ship.

• Price: $$-$$$
• Distance to Port: 0.5 miles
• Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Hampton Inn & Suites Harvey/New Orleans West Bank When it comes to hotel brands, Hampton Inn seems to be one that everyone can agree on. As well, we find they usually offer some of the best amenities to guests. This Hampton Inn sits about 15 minutes from cruise ships in New Orleans. We called and they allow you to park your car for free while you cruise if you stay the night before. In addition, they have a third-party shuttle to the cruise port for just $10 per person. You simply let the staff know at check-in that you’d like to leave your car.

• Distance to Port: 7 miles
• Review Rating: 4 out of 5

Best Western Plus West Bank That old New Orleans style is great, but let’s be honest. It can also be a hassle to be in the busy French Quarter. If you want a taste of New Orleans without the price or hassle, this might be it. The relatively modest hotel is built with an inner courtyard holding a pool and even wrought-iron balcony railings. The hotel offers a “Cruise Park and Stay” deal with parking included for 7 nights (extra nights are $10 each) and a one-way shuttle to the port. You will need to find a ride back to your car. If you don’t need to park, give the hotel a call (504-366-5369) regarding just a shuttle ride.

• Distance to Port: 8 miles

New Orleans Hotels Within Walking Distance of the Cruise Terminal

Given the location of the cruise terminals in the heart of New Orleans, there are a number of hotels that are within walking distance — meaning you don’t even need a shuttle to get to your ship. Expect to pay a bit more to be in this location, but it’s worth it to be right next to the ships.

Note that prices can and will change depending on what is happening at the Convention Center.

Hilton New Orleans Riverside One of the closest hotels to the cruise terminals, the Hilton overlooks the Mississippi River and is within walking distance of not just the port but also the French Quarter, Harrah’s Casino, and more. How close is it? The cruise parking lot for the Julia Street Terminal is just a couple of hundred feet away.

• Distance to Port: 0.3 miles

New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District This Marriott is literally across the street from the Convention Center, with the cruise terminal on the other side. A quick walk around the end of the building puts you at the cruise terminals on embarkation day. In addition, the stylish hotel also earns rave reviews from travelers and puts your right in an area with tons to do nearby.

Hyatt Place New Orleans Convention Center Next door to the Marriott Warehouse Arts District, Hyatt Place is another solid option that’s just a few minutes walk to the cruise ships. Guest reviews on Google provide a 4 out of 5 stars, and you have a number of amenities like free breakfast, Internet, and fitness center.

Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center As with most hotels located near the Convention Center, the Hilton Garden Inn is within walking distance of the cruise ships. You’re also near the National WWII Museum and tons of restaurants. With nearly 300 rooms, this hotel is also a good choice if looking for a place on a busy weekend.

Omni New Orleans Riverfront It’s hard to get closer to the cruise port than the Omni. It’s across the street from the Julia Street Terminal parking and only about a 10-minute walk to the Erato Street Terminal. Of course with this location there are also a ton of restaurants and shops around as well for before your cruise.

SpringHill Suites Downtown/Convention Center SpringHill Suites sits just a couple of blocks from the Convention Center, and then the cruise terminals. The walk should only take about 15 minutes, meaning you don’t need a shuttle or other transportation to the port. Meanwhile, it’s a highly rated and relatively affordable hotel given the popularity of the area.

• Distance to Port: 0.4 miles

Courtyard New Orleans Downtown/Convention Center Stay here when you cruise, and when you’re ready to head to your ship, just walk out to Julia Street, head toward the Mississippi and you’ll be at the port in about five minutes.  That’s convenient given that we found some nights with rooms around $100 a night in a location right across from a ton of restaurants and near the port. The pool in the courtyard also a neat feature.

Embassy Suites New Orleans Convention Center Right across from the Courtyard listed above, the Embassy Suites is another option that’s just down Julia Street from the ships. You can be at the Royal Caribbean or Norwegian terminal in about five minutes and to the Carnival ship in about 10 minutes.

New Orleans Hotels With Airport Shuttles

In addition to the hotels we found offering a shuttle to the Port of New Orleans, there are many that offer shuttle transportation between the hotel and the airport. If flying in, this saves you some money getting between the airport and where you’re staying. A quick Uber/Lyft can then get you to the cruise port .

La Quinta Inn New Orleans Airport A name that’s long known for offering comfortable — yet affordable — accommodations, the La Quinta near the airport offers a free shuttle that runs between your flight and the hotel. You would still need to find transportation to the cruise port. Other amenities include a bar, pool, and fitness center. Suites are also available. 

• Price: $-$$
• Distance to Port: 13.5 miles
• Review Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Hilton New Orleans Airport Literally right across from the airport, the Hilton New Orleans has a 24-hour shuttle. It’s also higher-end than other hotels right around the airport, so it might be up your alley if you’re looking for somewhere a little nicer to stay. It simply doesn’t get more convenient than this location if you have a late flight into New Orleans for your cruise.

• Distance to Port: 13 miles

Comfort Inn & Suites New Orleans Airport North With a location just north of the airport, if you are flying in it’s hard to get closer than this hotel. It features all the classic amenities you’d expect in a hotel, including pool and breakfast. In addition, it has a 24-hour airport shuttle. A ride to the cruise port with Uber or Lyft would run about $30-$35 each way.

• Distance to Port: 14 miles

DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans Airport Minutes from the airport, the DoubleTree is a great idea if you’re flying in for your cruise. It features a 24-hour shuttle back and forth from your flights. In addition, it’s a higher-end hotel with solid reviews. With fitness center, pool, and even an on-site restaurant, it has everything you need for a nice stay. You’re about 20-25 minutes from the port at this location.

• Distance to Port: 12 miles

Best Western Plus New Orleans Airport A newer hotel, this spot sits on the south side of the New Orleans airport. To be sure if you’re coming to the city for the New Orleans experience, this might not be your first choice. But if you want something close to the airport that’s new, comfortable, and offers shuttle service, this is a good option. The shuttle runs from 4 a.m. to midnight, meaning you should be able to catch a ride no matter the time of day.

• Distance to Port: 14.5 miles

Comfort Inn New Orleans Airport South Sometimes you just need something easy and basic for a place to stay. If you’re wanting that, then you might be interested in this Comfort Inn. It features a free airport shuttle, along with things like free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Get a good night’s sleep and then on cruise day it will be a 30-minute ride over to the port. 

• Distance to Port: 15 miles

Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Orleans Airport South This hotel located southwest of the airport offers a free shuttle around the clock. In addition, if driving in they also offer parking during your trip for $12 per day. As a bonus this hotel might be a good idea if traveling with a larger group as the suites offer more space.

More on Cruising from New Orleans:

• 15 Best New Orleans Park and Cruise Hotels (Free/Discounted Parking)
• 18+ Top-Rated Cruise Hotels Near the Port of New Orleans
• Uber & Lyft to the New Orleans Cruise Port (Service Area, Prices, and More)

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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The Country Inn in Metairie no longer has any shuttle service to the airport or cruise port. Just spoke with the front desk.

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Disney Cruise Line – Pre/Post Cruise Hotels and Ground Transportation

LAST UPDATE: 2/22/24

On this page we’ve collected some useful hints about Disney Cruise hotels and where to stay before or after your cruise, ground transportation (limo or rental car) and other pre/post cruise information.

• Where to Stay the Night Before Your Cruise

What to Do If Your Return Flight Leaves Late in the Day

Transportation and parking at the cruise ports, disney cruise hotels: where to stay the night before your cruise, port canaveral hotel options, fort lauderdale hotel options, galveston hotel options, miami hotel options, san diego hotel options, vancouver hotel options.

For those who want to spend the night at Cape Canaveral before their Disney Cruise, there are four hotels very close (5 miles or less) to the port:  Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral ,  Residence Inn Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach , Country Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral  and the  Radisson Resort at the Port .

These hotels are also good places to stay if you also want to visit the Kennedy Space Center .

If you will be arriving at the Orlando airport the day before your cruise (and we highly recommend this, so you don’t have to worry about missing your sailing), you might want to consider spending the night before your cruise at Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport . It is located inside the Orlando International Airport (MCO), so this can be a nice option if you are arriving later in the day. 

Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral

Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral is an all-suite hotel about 2 miles from the Disney cruise terminal.  It’s the newest hotel in the group nearest the port, and has a pleasant modern feel with a few Florida-inspired touches here and there. Your stay includes a FREE hot breakfast buffet every morning. On Monday – Thursday evenings from 5:00-7:00 pm, the hotel offers a FREE evening social with snacks, beer and wine. Rooms feature FREE high-speed internet access .

There are two room types: studios (bedroom with one king or two queen beds, living room area with full-size sofabed but not separated by a wall) and  1-bedroom suites (one bedroom with one king or two queen beds, separate living room with full-size sofabed). All sleep at least 4, but the two-queen 1-bedroom suites can sleep 6.

All room types include a full kitchen with two-burner cooktop (no oven), microwave, dishwasher and full-size refrigerator. Bathrooms have granite countertops.

This hotel does not have a restaurant (just a breakfast room where the complimentary breakfast and evening social is served), but there are several restaurants within a mile of the hotel.

The Homewood Suites offers “Park and Go” cruise packages that allow you to park your car in their lot during your cruise. The packages include two vouchers for the shuttle to Port Canaveral. If you are not on such a package, the hotel offers a shuttle to Port Canaveral for $5 per person each way. If you don’t want to use the shuttle, you can take a taxi to the port from this hotel for around $10. 

Residence Inn Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach

Residence Inn Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach is an all-suite hotel with a nice Florida-style ambiance and a heated pool and whirlpool. Your stay includes a FREE hot breakfast buffet . Rooms feature FREE high-speed Internet access .

There are three room types: studios (bedroom with king bed, living room area with sofa bed but not separated by a wall), 1-bedroom suites (one bedroom with two queen beds, one bath, separate living room with sofa bed) and 2-bedroom suites (two bedrooms, each with a king bed, two baths, separate living room with sofa bed).

All room types include a full kitchen with stove/oven, microwave, dishwasher and refrigerator. Beds at the Residence Inn are equipped with high-quality mattresses and bedding. Bathrooms have granite countertops.

This hotel does not have a restaurant (just a breakfast room where the complimentary breakfast is served), but there are several restaurants within a mile of the hotel.

The Residence Inn offers “Park and Cruise” packages that allow you to park your car in their lot during your cruise. The packages include a certain number of vouchers for the shuttle to Port Canaveral. If you are not on such a package, you can pay separately for parking ($6/day) and the hotel offers a shuttle to Port Canaveral for $6 per person round trip. If you don’t want to use the shuttle, you can take a taxi to the port from this hotel for around $10. Thanks to Jamie D for additional info.

Country Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral

Country Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral is located virtually next door to the Residence Inn, so they are about the same distance from the port. Your stay includes a FREE hot breakfast buffet every morning. The hotel has a fitness center, FREE high-speed Internet access , outdoor heated pool, a waterfall hot tub, and a gas grill and fire pit. Shuttle service is offered to the port (for a fee).

There are five room types: standard rooms with one King bed or two Queen beds; family  suites with one Queen bed and a separate kid’s room area with two twin beds; one-bedroom suites with one King or two Queen beds and a separate living room area with a queen sleeper sofa; whirlpool suites featuring one King bed with a whirlpool tub; and Captain’s Quarter suites with King bed, queen sleeper sofa, separate living and dining areas and a larger kitchenette with a toaster oven. All room types include a microwave, small refrigerator (except Captain’s Quarter suites, which have full-size refrigerators) and coffee maker.

The Country Inn & Suites does not have a restaurant (just a breakfast room where the complimentary breakfast is served), but there are several restaurants within a mile of the hotel.

This hotel offers Park & Cruise packages that allow you to leave your car at the hotel while you are on your cruise and take a shuttle to and from the port. If you don’t book a Park & Cruise package, you can still take the shuttle for a fee (currently $5/person). If you don’t want to use the shuttle, you can take a taxi to the port from this hotel for around $10. 

Radisson Resort at the Port

Radisson Resort at the Port in Cape Canaveral is also close to the port. It gets mixed reviews. It’s an older property than the Residence Inn or Country Inn & Suites. Most rooms include Sleep Number beds and FREE high-speed Internet access .

There are three room types: standard rooms with one King bed or two double beds; King Jacuzzi suites , which include one room with a King bed, a whirlpool Jacuzzi, a separate full bathroom and one room with a comfortable living room area and a pull-out sofa sleeper; and Two King Jacuzzi suites , which are the same as the regular Jacuzzi suites except that they have two King beds in the bedroom. Suites include a microwave and mini refrigerator; regular rooms do not.

The Radisson has an elaborate waterfall pool, a koi pond and beautifully landscaped grounds. There are tennis courts and a fitness room. There is a buffet-style restaurant (extra charge) that has a nice atmosphere, with lots of windows, white-washed walls and high ceilings. The hotel lobby/restaurant entrance has a small lounge for evening drinks.

The Radisson offers some packages that including parking for your car at the hotel while you are on your cruise and a shuttle to and from the port. Alternatively, the hotel will charge you a fee to park your car in its lot while you are on your cruise, and provides a shuttle to the port for $5 per person, or you can take a cab for $10-12.

Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport

The Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport  is an upscale hotel that is actually located in the Orlando International (MCO) airport terminal , so you don’t have to worry about traveling any further. Just collect your bags, take them up on the elevator, check in and you’re ready to start enjoying your vacation! Or, if you prefer, take advantage of their luggage retrieval service; for a small flat fee ($10, last we checked, plus tips for the bell staff at your discretion), Hyatt staff will retrieve your luggage from baggage claim and deliver it to your room. (The rooms are well insulated from the airport noise, by the way — we have stayed there several times and did not hear the planes.)

If you stay at the airport Hyatt instead of going all the way out to Walt Disney World, you are much closer to Port Canaveral. That means you can sleep in a little longer before heading off to the ship in the morning. You can choose from multiple dining options within the airport, or take a swim at the hotel. It’s great way to start relaxing right away.

The Hyatt has a relationship with Disney, so you can arrange Disney bus transportation to the ship from the hotel (or you can book a private car transfer or rental car if you prefer). If you arrange your transportation through Disney, your luggage is transported directly to your stateroom on the ship. Talk about convenient!

The Fort Lauderdale hotel below can be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation. If you have booked through a travel agent , contact your agent to add a pre-cruise and/or post-cruise stay. If you have booked directly with Disney Cruise Line, call them.

Pre/post-cruise stays can be added up until 31 days prior to check-in date (after that time, you can be waitlisted). If you stay both before and after the cruise, both portions must be booked at the same hotel. Pre/post-cruise stays that are added to a cruise reservation must be purchased for ALL guests in the same stateroom.

Alternatively, you can book directly with this hotel  through the links below, which may be less expensive and offer more flexibility:

• Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina is about 5 miles from the Fort Lauderdale Airport and about a 1/2 mile from the cruise terminal. They offer a shuttle to the beach. There is also a Water Taxi stop just a short walk away, which will take you to shops, restaurants and the beach, or just use it to take a tour of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways.
• Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa is about 5 miles from the Fort Lauderdale Airport and about 5 miles from the cruise terminal. The high-end hotel is on a private beach and has multiple restaurants at the hotel, a full-service spa, an activity center for kids age 5-12 and more. 

We would strongly recommend staying in Galveston rather than Houston pre-cruise unless you book Disney’s Houston hotel (the Marriott listed below) and Disney’s hotel-cruise transportation. It’s an hour or more drive to the cruise terminal from Houston, and traffic can double that, especially on holiday weekends. It’s best to fly in the day before the cruise, take a cab or shuttle to Galveston, and stay overnight at a hotel there. You don’t want to be sitting in traffic at 2 pm on the day of your cruise wondering if you’ll make it on time.

The Galveston hotels below can be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation. If you have booked through a travel agent , contact your agent to add a pre-cruise and/or post-cruise stay. If you have booked directly with Disney Cruise Line, call them.

Alternatively, you can book directly with these hotels  through the links below, which may be less expensive:

• The Houston Airport Marriott at the George Bush Intercontinental Airport is right in the Houston airport complex, and is connected by tram to the terminal. If you arrange your own transportation, be aware that G. W. Bush International is a good 75-90 minute drive from the Galveston cruise terminal.
• San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center is a lovely resort right on the beach in central Galveston. It’s about a 10-15 minute drive to the cruise terminal.
• Hilton Galveston Island Resort is a beautiful hotel with extensive amenities, located a very short walk away from the beach. It’s about a 12-16 minute drive to the cruise terminal.

The best deal going in Miami seems to be Comfort Suites Miami Airport North . While it’s not fancy, this well-reviewed hotel offers reasonable rates along with some great benefits:

• FREE transfers between Miami airport and the hotel and FREE transfers between the hotel and the Port of Miami! As far as we know, this is the only hotel in Miami offering both transfers for free, which can save you a substantial amount in taxi or shuttle fares.
• FREE hot breakfast.
• FREE Wi-Fi.

Comfort Suites Miami Airport North  is a non-smoking hotel and rooms include high-definition flat-screen television with cable, microwave, refrigerator, pillow-top mattress, safe, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board.

Official Disney Cruise Hotels

If you prefer something more upscale, the Miami-area hotels below can be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation. If you have booked through a  travel agent , contact your agent to add a pre-cruise and/or post-cruise stay. If you have booked directly with Disney Cruise Line, call them.

Alternatively, you can  book directly with these hotels  through the links below, which may be less expensive and offer more flexibility:

• EB Hotel Miami is a 4-diamond boutique hotel near the airport. It’s literally across the street from the airport property, but is about 2.5 miles by road from the entrance (7 minutes or so). It’s about 8.5 miles from the cruise terminal (about 15 minutes).
• Hyatt Centric Brickell Miami is a tower hotel located in the heart of downtown Miami, roughly 2 miles from the cruise terminals. Downtown Miami has a wealth of shopping, restaurants and things to do and see, and the hotel has great views of Biscayne Bay from the rooftop pool deck and many rooms.

The San Diego hotels below can be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation. If you have booked through a travel agent , contact your agent to add a pre-cruise and/or post-cruise stay. If you have booked directly with Disney Cruise Line, call them.

Alternatively, you can book directly with these hotels  through the link below, which may be less expensive:

• The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is on San Diego Bay between the San Diego Convention Center and the Seaport Village. It is approximately 3 miles from San Diego International Airport and just a few blocks from the San Diego Cruise Terminal.
• The Intercontinental San Diego is a modern 4-diamond tower hotel just across the street from the cruise terminal, with sweeping views of San Diego Bay. It’s about 3 miles from San Diego International Airport.

The Vancouver hotels below can be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation. If you have booked through a travel agent , contact your agent to add a pre-cruise and/or post-cruise stay. If you have booked directly with Disney Cruise Line, call them.

Alternatively, you can book directly with these hotels through the links below, which may be less expensive:

• Fairmont Waterfront boasts a spectacular location across from the Convention Centre and Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, within walking distance of the city’s many restaurants, shops and galleries. All rooms are elegantly appointed with contemporary, airy deco and feature floor to ceiling windows to highlight the beautiful scenery. If you decide to stay here, be sure to sign up for the Accor Live Limitless loyalty program (free) in advance, which will give you FREE internet during your stay.
• Fairmont Vancouver Airport is the only luxury hotel and spa within Vancouver’s International Airport, located in the suburb of Richmond (20 minutes south of Vancouver). The beautifully appointed guest rooms are spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows offering soundproof views, revealing the serenity of mountain views and plane spotting opportunities. If you decide to stay here, be sure to sign up for the Accor Live Limitless loyalty program (free) in advance, which will give you FREE internet during your stay.
• Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown is an upscale tower hotel in the heart of Downtown Vancouver. High floor rooms have a great view of the harbor and/or downtown. It’s about a half-mile from the cruise terminal, which would be an easy 5 minute cab or Lyft ride.

A hotel that isn’t part of the Disney cruise add-on program, but is well worth considering, is the Pan-Pacific Vancouver , since it is literally in the same building as the Cruise Ship Terminal, and they offer free transfer of your checked bags to the ship, which is a huge convenience. You should tip the bell staff a dollar or two per bag (they’ll take US dollars happily if you don’t have Canadian).

You’ll be getting off the cruise ship early in the morning on the last day. If your flight doesn’t leave for hours, and you don’t know what to do with your day, here are some suggestions.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Los angeles international airport (lax).

• Get a “day room” at Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport . For a modest charge (typically less than an overnight rate) you can use a hotel room from 10:00 am until as late as 6:00 pm and watch TV, use the hotel pool, etc. When flight time rolls around, you’re already in the terminal! Call the hotel directly at (407) 825-1234 to book a day room. The Hyatt has a relationship with Disney, so you can arrange Disney transportation to the hotel from the ship, or you can book a private car transfer or rental car if you prefer.
• If you have loads of time, you can rent a car for the day and visit the nearby Kennedy Space Center to explore the NASA exhibits, or play in the sand at Cocoa Beach . Allow at least an hour to drive back to the airport.
• Los Angeles Airport Marriott – Day room rates vary by date. They are available from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Call the hotel directly at (310) 641-5700 and ask for the front desk to book a day room.
• Embassy Suites Los Angeles – International Airport South – Day rooms can be booked an “as-available” basis on the day of check-in (no advance bookings). Rooms can be used from morning through 6:00 pm. Call the hotel directly at (310) 640-3600 and press 0 for the front desk. (Do not select “reservations,” as that will send you to a call center that knows nothing about the day rooms.)
• If you have loads of time, you can rent a car for the day and either drive to Hollywood (check out Disney’s El Capitan Theatre  or play in the sand at one of the many beautiful local beaches ( Manhattan Beach and Venice Beach are two great, close-by options, each with its own unique vibe). Allow at least an hour to drive back to the airport.

Disney’s bus transfers to and from the port are convenient, but also pretty expensive, especially for a family:

• In Florida, Disney offers bus transfers between any of the Walt Disney World resort hotels and Port Canaveral, or between the Orlando (MCO) airport or the Hyatt MCO and Port Canaveral. You can also do a multi-part transfer (for example airport-resort-port-airport). The cost is $78 per person round trip or $39 per person one-way for Disney’s bus transfers.
• Only hotels that are offered as pre- or post-cruise options by Disney Cruise Line have transportation available from Disney Cruise Line. If you stay in a different hotel, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.
• The cost depends on the prevailing transportation rates in that city and the distances between the airport, hotel and cruise port. Remember taxis and car services charge per car , whereas Disney charges per person .
• With a party of two, the total cost for a private car or taxi will usually be similar to the total cost of Disney’s transportation. Lyft will almost always be cheaper, if it is offered in the city in question. A party of three or more people will almost always save money using independent transportation.
• The primary appeal of using Disney’s transportation is that it’s easy; you follow the signs to the bus and it takes you where you need to be. That said, it’s not faster, it usually involves more waiting, not less, and it’s not flexible. If you want to get where you are going as fast as possible, either a taxi, car service (Lyft) or pre-booked private car is always going to beat the buses.

Disney’s transfers must be booked a minimum of 3 days before the start of the trip through your travel agent (or Disney if you booked direct). At the airports, a Disney rep will be at the baggage claim area to help direct guests to the bus. Your luggage will go directly to your stateroom; you just need take your day bag with you to the cruise terminal.

One down side of using the Disney bus system is that you will arrive at the port with a big group of people and at a time dictated by Disney. The result is often a long wait in the check-in lines. You may also miss lunch on the ship, since the buses tend to arrive in the afternoon.

Below are alternate options that may be cheaper and/or more convenient.

• Port Canaveral – Shuttle by Happy Limo

Port Canaveral – Rental Car

Port canaveral – luxury sedan, limo or private van/suv service, port canaveral – cruise port parking.

• Port of San Diego – Rental Car
• Port of San Diego – Luxury Sedan, Limo or Private Van/SUV Service

Port of San Diego – Shuttle

• Port of San Diego – Parking
• Port of Vancouver – Transportation

Port of Vancouver – Parking

Port canaveral – shuttle by happy limo.

Happy Limo , a private car and limo service we have recommended for years, offers a great shared-shuttle option for trips between Orlando International Airport and the Disney Cruise Line terminal at Port Canaveral. The base price per person is $30/person each way ($60 round trip), plus a $20 port fee (each way, per booking, not per person). The minimum booking is 4 people. Tips are at customer’s discretion (conventional tips these days for shuttle drivers seem to be about 15%-20%, or about $4.50-$6/person each way). For shared service for a family of 4+ to Port Canaveral, this is a better deal than Disney, and gives you more control over when you want to travel.

Airport to Port Canaveral

Shuttles leave Orlando International from Terminal B, level 1 (ground transportation), shuttle spaces B-5 through B-9. You must reserve a spot in advance for one of the available times: 9:00 am, 10:00 am or 11:00 am. Your party must have a minimum of 4 passengers to book a shuttle. When you arrive at the shuttle spaces, you will need to check in via phone at (407) 856-1280 . Expect arrival at the cruise terminal roughly 45-60 minutes from the shuttle departure time, depending on traffic.

Port Canaveral to Airport

Shuttles leave Port Canaveral from shuttle space #4, right in front of the terminal. You must reserve a spot in advance for one of the available times: 8:00 am, 9:00 am or 10:00 am. When you arrive at the shuttle space, you will need to check in via phone at (407) 856-1280 . Expect arrival at the airport roughly 45-60 minutes from the shuttle departure time, depending on traffic.

• To reserve your shuttle time , you can book online here: Happy Limo Rates & Reservations , or call Happy Limo at (877) 642-7791 or (407) 856-1280 .
• MouseSavers readers get $10 off per booking each way! That’s $20 off a round-trip booking. Just mention MouseSavers when booking over the phone, or put “referred by MouseSavers” in the comments section when booking online.
• Note: To book a shuttle, your party must have a minimum of 4 passengers. If there are less than 4 passengers, a towncar, limo or van  must be booked.
• Note : when booking online, for one-way trips from the airport or round-trips, use one of the three pickup times listed above as your pickup time, select “Airport Pickup” as your trip type, “Orlando International Airport” as your pickup location, “Port Canaveral” as your dropoff location and select “Shuttle” as your vehicle type (it’s the last one in the vehicle list). For one-way trips from Port Canaveral, reverse the pickup and dropoff locations and pick one of the Port Canaveral pickup times listed above.

Your most economical option may be to rent a car one-way between the airport and Port Canaveral. None of the rental car companies listed below have a one-way or drop-off charge except as noted. Depending on the rental car company, you can either take a shuttle or a cab to the port.

Renting a car gives you the flexibility to stop and grab some groceries or last-minute items, and you can arrive at the ship earlier than the bus passengers, which allows you to board ahead of the crowd and get yourself settled, make Palo and spa reservations, etc.

• See our Rental Car Discounts page for many discount codes, coupons and tricks to help you save on your rental car!

All the  major rental car companies have offices near Port Canaveral. When searching for a location, use “Cape Canaveral, FL” as the location. Alamo, National, Enterprise and Budget are very close to the Port Canaveral cruise terminal (but not close enough to walk). The others aren’t too far away. Keep in mind that between about 11 am and 3 pm on days when a cruise is leaving, all of these locations will be busy, and check-in may be slow. The shuttles to the cruise terminal will fill up fast, so it might take several shuttles before you can get one. Taxis and Lyft will also be super busy, so it may take some time to get one to the rental location. Allow plenty of time to get back to the ship, or get there before 11 am.

• Budget is usually the best bet for transfers to and from the port. For one thing, Budget often has the best prices on one-day rentals. It also has on-site facilities at the Orlando International (MCO) and its office in Cape Canaveral (location code ZC5) is fairly close to the cruise terminal. Budget offers free shuttle service between its office and the port, though several people have reported that they find it easier and faster to take a taxi or Lyft to and from the terminal instead, which costs about $6-$8 each way.
• Avis has a location on-site at MCO and an office in Cape Canaveral (location code P3F), a bit further away than Budget. Avis has free shuttle service between its office and the cruise terminal, or you can take a cab for around $7-$10 each way.
• Alamo , National and Enterprise (all owned by the same company) share the Enterprise office in Cape Canaveral very near the port. They offer a free shuttle from their office to the port, or you can take a cab for $5-$6 each way.

If you want to gas up your rental car on the way back to the airport , exit Florida 528 at Narcoosee Road, which is two exits before the airport exit, and turn right. There is a BP station about a block up on the right, with normal gas prices. Note that this exit is tolled, so you’ll want to bring your own windshield toll pass to avoid exhorbitant rental car toll fees.

The nearest gas station to the airport (“Landing Strip” aka “Suncoast Energy” on Semoran Boulevard, just north of the airport) is a complete rip-off . This station habitually charges nearly TWICE the normal price for gas and does not have signs to let people know the prices before they pull in. You won’t realize you’re paying a ridiculous price unless you look closely at the pump!

A fun, relaxing (and surprisingly economical) way to get from Walt Disney World or the Orlando Airport to the cruise terminal at Port Canaveral is to use luxury sedan, limo or private van/SUV service.

The great thing is, you can schedule the vehicle to get you to the ship earlier than the bus passengers, which allows you to board ahead of the crowd and get yourself settled, make Palo and spa reservations, etc.

A luxury sedan is generally cheaper than Disney’s bus transfers if you are transporting a family. For larger groups, a private van, SUV or limo is definitely the way to go. You’ll save money and time.

• Learn more about towncar, limo or private van service to/from Port Canaveral and a discount code that will help you save money!

Parking at the port is $17 per day (not per night). You are charged for your arrival and departure days, even though they are partial days. The upshot is, this is what you’ll pay:

• 3-night cruise – $68 ($17 x 4 days)
• 4-night cruise – $85 ($17 x 5 days)
• 5-night cruise – $102 ($17 x 6 days)
• 7-night cruise – $136 ($17 x 8 days)

Check the Port Canaveral website for more information about parking and directions.

Be sure to check on deals at the hotels near the port . You can usually pay for one night and get a week of free parking in the hotel lot and often a complimentary shuttle ride to/from the cruise terminal. Usually there’s a special cruise hotel package you need to book to get the “free” parking, which will cost somewhat more than booking their lowest rate, but it’s nearly always going to be cheaper than parking at the port. Some hotels include the parking in the package cost, but charge extra for the shuttle. Even if the shuttle fee is included, the shuttle drivers are not shy about asking for tips, and the wait for the shuttle can be long, so we usually take a taxi or Lyft even if there’s an ostensibly “free” shuttle. From most of the Canaveral hotels to the cruise terminal is about a $5-7 taxi fare.

Port of San Diego – Rental Car

If you will be taking a West Coast Disney cruise and you are also planning to make a “grand tour” of Southern California, with a visit to Disneyland as well as other Southern California tourist destinations , a rental car is definitely your best bet. Taking taxis, limos or shuttles between the major attractions would cost a fortune because the distances are significant. For instance, it’s a 1.5 hour drive between SeaWorld San Diego and Disneyland. Southern California is a very car-oriented culture, with relatively poor public transportation. Trying to get between a number of different attractions without a car can be an exercise in frustration.

If you are flying in or out of San Diego International Airport (SAN) , all of the major rental car companies have locations there. See the Rental Cars page and check the company that interests you for more information.

It is never cost-effective to rent a car at SAN and leave it at the port during your cruise. Parking near the port is expensive. The airport is very close to the cruise port, so it’s better to rent the car at the airport either pre- or post-cruise and return it to the airport so you’re not accruing both rental fees and parking charges during the cruise.

Port of San Diego – Lyft, Taxi, Luxury Sedan, Limo or Private Van/SUV Service

The cruise terminal is very close to the airport as the crow flies, but because of the road layout and potential traffic, it’s about a 5 mile trip and takes about 15-20 minutes. Disney offers bus service, but the quickest and sometimes the least expensive way to accomplish your transfer will be Lyft , a taxi or a private limo service.

• Learn more about towncar, limo or private van service to/from the Port of San Diego .

If you need to transfer between the San Diego Airport (SAN) and the Port of San Diego, your least expensive option is usually  a shared van service . The shuttle will make multiple stops, so allow plenty of time.

However, for the ultimate in convenience and luxury, consider using a private towncar or limo transfer . It may cost a bit more than a shuttle, but it is much more comfortable and efficient.

Port of San Diego – Parking

Parking for a San Diego cruise, is, in a word, messy. There is no official parking lot, just a lot of independent lots nearby that also handle other parking business and can fill up. If you can get a reservation, the parking at the Wyndham across the street  from the cruise terminal is convenient. If not, most of the long-term parking in the area (including many of the airport long-term lots) offer a shuttle to the cruise terminal, or you can get a cab from the parking lot.

Port of Vancouver – Transportation

The simplest way to get to Vancouver, BC is to fly to Vancouver International Airport (YVR). However, there are more flight options available to Seattle-Tacoma Airport (SEA), which is just 3-4 hours away from Vancouver by train or bus. Airfares to Seattle are often much cheaper, even when you factor in the cost of the extra train or bus ticket and other costs, and the trip from Seattle to Vancouver is quite scenic. Traveling via Seattle can add 5-6 hours to your trip, however. To make the Seattle option work well, it’s really best to stay in Seattle at least overnight, then take the train or bus up on another date. It is possible to fly into Seattle and get onto a ship in Vancouver the same day, but the connections are super tight — there’s not a lot of room for error and we wouldn’t recommend it.

Flying To Vancouver Directly

The closest airport is Vancouver International (YVR). You can get a taxi to the Canada Place cruise terminal for about $45-$60 CAD (plus tip), which takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Vancouver now has Lyft service, and that’s going to run $30-40 CAD.

You can also book a limo or town car. The official town car company for the airport is Aerocar , which charges a flat $64 CAD (plus tip) for a sedan from YVR to the cruise terminal.

The cheapest and usually easiest way to go is the SkyTrain Canada Line , a light rail train that goes directly from the airport to Waterfront Station. The SkyTrain station is right across from the airport entrance – ask someone to direct you if needed; the signs are not as clear as one would like. Get on any train; the track begins at the airport and all trains head to Waterfront, so you can’t get on the wrong train or the wrong direction. When you reach Waterfront station, take the Cordova Street exit from the station, turn right and walk down about a block and a half to Howe. Turn right and the cruise terminal and Pan Pacific hotel is right there. The cash fare is only $7-9 CAD per person (depending on whether you’re going peak or off-peak). You do not need cash; the ticket kiosks take credit cards. It takes about 25-35 minutes. Keep in mind that the trains don’t have any luggage racks, so if you have a lot of luggage, SkyTrain may be a bit of a hassle.

Flying to Seattle Then Train To Vancouver

You’ll want to fly to Seattle-Tacoma airport (SEA). If you want to make it on your cruise ship that same day, you’ll need to arrive very early, probably before 6:15 am, as the morning train leaves at 7:45 am and there isn’t another until 7:00 pm. If you plan to arrive a day or more early, obviously you can take the later train or the early one the next day.

There are two Amtrak trains per day from Seattle to Vancouver, which you can book in advance on the Amtrak website . Prices start at $34 per person, each way, and the trip takes 4 hours (though allow extra time, as it often takes longer). As seats sell out, only the higher fares remain available, and they go as high as $86, so book early. Be sure you book the Amtrak Cascades  train trip ; Amtrak also books their own “Thruway” bus service which is not usually the best bus option.

You will also need to get from the SeaTac airport to the King Street train station in downtown Seattle, and from the Vancouver Pacific Central train station to the Canada Place cruise terminal.

In Seattle, the taxi ride is $40 (flat rate, plus tip) from the airport to anywhere in downtown Seattle, including the train station. Allow 30 minutes for the trip, longer on weekdays at rush hour. You can also take the Link light rail for $3/person from the airport to the International District station, which is 3 blocks from the King Street Station, but there are no luggage racks, so it can be a hassle if you have multiple bags. Seattle also has Lyft service available.

In Vancouver, a taxi from the train station to the cruise terminal is about $12-$15 CAD (plus tip) and takes about 15 minutes, or you can walk a couple blocks from the train station and take the Expo Line from SkyTrain Main Street station to the Waterfront station for around $2.75 CAD. When you reach Waterfront Station, use the Howe Street exit and you come out right in front of the cruise terminal. Again, there are no luggage racks on SkyTrain, so not a great option for those with many big or unwieldy bags. Vancouver also has Lyft service available.

Flying to Seattle Then Bus To Vancouver

The closest airport is Seattle-Tacoma airport (SEA). To make it onto your cruise that same day, you’ll want to get in before 9:00 am in order to make it on a 10:00 am bus. If you plan to arrive a day or more early, obviously you can take a later bus.

The Quick Coach bus service is the most convenient, since it drops off directly at the Canada Place cruise terminal in Vancouver. If you book at least 24 hours in advance, you can have them drop you directly at any downtown Vancouver hotel. Fares start at $50 one way or $95 round trip for adults, with discounts available for children and seniors. There are significant charges for baggage over and above one purse-sized personal item. The trip takes about 4.5 hours.

The Seattle-Vancouver FlixBus (owned by Greyhound) goes from several Seattle locations (including SeaTac Airport) to the Vancouver Pacific Central train station, with advance fares as low as $30 each way, including one large bag and one personal item (purse-sized). The trip takes about 4.5 hours from SeaTac or 4 hours from downtown Seattle. You still need to get from the Vancouver train station to the cruise terminal or your hotel. See the section above on train travel to see the various options on each end.

Flying to Bellingham Then Bus or Train to Vancouver

An often-overlooked option that can work for some people is to fly to Bellingham, WA which is the closest major city in Washington to Vancouver, BC. Sometimes it’s only a little more expensive to fly to Bellingham than to Seattle, and a bus or train from Bellingham takes less than half the time (just under two hours) and has a much lower fare than the same bus or train from Seattle. The connections aren’t as tight, and it’s more reasonable to try to fly into Bellingham and get on your cruise ship the same day, though given the vagaries of modern air travel, we still suggest getting in a day early if you can. All of the options from Seattle, including Quick Coach , FlixBus and Amtrak can also be taken from Bellingham. For Amtrak you have to get to the Bellingham train station, and FlixBus picks up at Western Washington University or near the ferry terminal, but Bellingham is so small that the cab to any location is unlikely to be more than 5 minutes and about $10.

If you end up staying in Bellingham, or driving through at lunch time, our favorite fish & chips joint there is the Web Locker ( map link ). Whether it’s a good idea to have a lot of fried fish before getting on a cruise is a judgment call you’ll have to make for yourself. We can never seem to skip it. We also are very fond of the Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro  ( map link ), which is closer to the freeway. It has a bit of a brewpub feeling, but is family-friendly and serves a lot of comfort food like burgers and sandwiches.

Not all cities have good, reasonably-priced flights to Bellingham, but it can be worth checking out. The primary airlines that service Bellingham are Allegiant, Alaska and Horizon.

Parking is available for roughly $27 CAD per day (tax included) at the Port of Vancouver Cruise Terminal (Canada Place). Indigo Neo operates the parking garage, and requires guests parking at Canada Place Parking Garage for anything longer than one day to make a reservation online via their website , or by calling them at (800) 469-4169 . The garage is right there in the cruise terminal; to get to the ship you just take an elevator to the embarkation level and walk a few hundred feet.

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Disney Cruise Line to Sail from Port of New Orleans For First Time in Early 2020

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Last Updated: Tuesday, November 1, 2022 2:04 PM

Disney Wonder to Homeport in the Big Easy for Caribbean and Bahamian Cruises

NEW ORLEANS – Disney Cruise Line announced it will sail from the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) in early 2020. The 2,700-passenger Disney Wonder will embark on a variety of Caribbean and Bahamian cruises from New Orleans – marking the first time Disney Cruise Line will have a homeport in Louisiana.

The Disney Wonder, which will homeport at the Erato Street Cruise Terminal, is scheduled for six cruises during this limited-time season from New Orleans, including: four-, six- and seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries; a seven-night Bahamian cruise; and a special 14-night Panama Canal voyage, Feb. 7 through March 6.

“We are thrilled Disney Cruise Line has chosen the Port of New Orleans as a homeport for their distinctive cruise experience,” said Brandy D. Christian, Port NOLA President and CEO. “With Port NOLA’s commitment to high-level service and the Crescent City’s many attractions, we are confident that Disney travelers will enjoy the excitement and convenience of launching their vacation from our unique city. We are also proud to bring the iconic cruise home to Louisiana Disney fans.”

Disney made the announcement during a live video direct from Walt Disney World Resort with the reveal of their 2020 cruise lineup. Princess Tiana herself, from Disney’s New Orleans-inspired animated film, “The Princess and the Frog,” was on hand to help break the news.

“Disney has long celebrated the rich stories of New Orleans – from themed experiences in our parks and resorts to films capturing the city’s vibrant music, flavors and culture,” said Jeff Vahle, president of Disney Signature Experiences. “Now we’ll extend that tradition by casting off from the Crescent City aboard the Disney Wonder, fusing the unmistakable character of one of America’s most beloved locales with the magic of Disney Cruise Line.”

Disney Wonder guests will experience “The Princess and the Frog” story while on board at Tiana’s Place restaurant, a celebration of New Orleans dining and entertainment that is exclusive to this ship.

There is something for everyone aboard the Disney Wonder, with dedicated spaces for kids, adults and families. The vessel features age-specific areas and customized, interactive programs for children up to age 17. Adults can enjoy areas designed just for them, including an elegant adults-only specialty restaurant, the adults-only Quiet Cove pool area, the upscale spa and salon, and an entire district of bars and lounges. For families, the Disney Wonder offers signature Disney entertainment and storytelling, including original theatrical productions, spectacular deck parties, and fireworks.

The Disney Cruise Line announcement is the latest milestone achieved by Port NOLA’s thriving cruise sector. The sixth-largest cruise port in the United States, Port NOLA surpassed the one-million-passenger mark for the fourth straight year in 2017 with 1.15 million passenger movements, and is on pace to set a new cruise passenger record in 2018.

In 2017, 17.74 million people visited New Orleans and Port NOLA’s cruise sector is key contributor to the tourism and hospitality industries — 90 percent of passengers travel from out-of-state, and 73 percent of passengers spend one or two nights in the region either before or after their cruise.

“The future is bright for New Orleans tourism and the arrival of Disney Cruise Line endorses the draw of our city as an in-demand destination for the entire family,” said Stephen Perry, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company, the city’s destination marketing group. “The Disney Wonder will provide discerning cruise enthusiasts with a wonderful opportunity to experience a magical vacation on the seas as well as in our beloved American city. We are so proud of Brandy Christian and her team for their extraordinary work on this project and we cannot wait to partner with travel agents and fill these wonderful cruises.”

Bookings open to the public on Oct. 4, 2018. More details on 2020 itineraries can be found on the  Ports and Itineraries for 2020  page of disneycruise.com. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at (888) 325-2500 or contact a travel agent.

About Disney Cruise Line

Since its launch in 1998, Disney Cruise Line has established itself as a leader in the cruise industry, providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and children can experience all Disney has to offer. Today, Disney Cruise Line continues to expand its blueprint for family cruising with a fleet of four ships – the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Guests can sail out of ports around the world on exciting itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Hawaii, Alaska and Europe, among others. The homeport for Disney Cruise Line remains Port Canaveral, Florida, where it has its own specially designed cruise terminal.

About Port of New Orleans

Port of New Orleans is a modern multimodal gateway for global commerce and an in-demand cruise port — delivering seamless, integrated logistics solutions between river, rail and road. Port NOLA is a diverse deepwater port uniquely located on the Mississippi River near the Gulf of Mexico -- with access to 30-plus major inland hubs such as Memphis, Chicago and Canada via 14,500 miles of waterways, 6 Class I railroads and interstate roadways. The 2018 acquisition of New Orleans Public Belt Railroad, a Class III connecting railroad, strengthens Port NOLA’s position as an integrated hub and supports the Port’s mission of driving regional economic prosperity.

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Port of New Orleans Hotels

Best Hotels near New Orleans Cruise Port

With delicious food, historic museums, family friendly attractions, world famous festivals, and of course Mardi Gras, the Crescent City delivers a vibrant setting to spend a day or more.

With plenty to see and do , spending a night or two is a great way to experience the culture and history of New Orleans and Louisiana.

Staying at a local hotel before your cruise also gives you a buffer in case of delays, especially when traveling to the port of departure from your home – whether you are flying, traveling by train or bus, or driving.

Cruise terminals are within a 5 to 15-minute walk of hotels near the Convention Center (Arts – Warehouse district) and properties in downtown New Orleans, or the Central Business District (CBD).

Free Shuttle to Port?

Some properties offer a free transfer to and from the cruise port. However Taxis from the French Quarter , Central Business District and Warehouse District hotels are not very expensive. Rates should be around $10 to $15. Uber and Lyft are also available to/from the port. A few hotels are also located within walking distance of the cruise terminal (no shuttle needed).

Port of New Orleans

New Orleans is home to 2 different cruise terminals.

• Erato Street Cruise Terminal – Carnival & Disney cruises
• Julia Street Cruise Terminal – Norwegian & Royal Caribbean cruises

Both terminals are located next to each other.

Who Sails from New Orleans?

New Orleans is a home port to numerous ships from lines including Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruises, Norwegian NCL and Disney Cruise Line.

Read also : New Orleans hotel deals

Best Hotels near Port of New Orleans Closest Hotels (within walking distance) Top Rated Hotels near Port Hotels in French Quarter Hotels in Garden District Unique Hotels (when looking for something else) Airport Area Hotels

What are the Closest Hotels near Port of New Orleans? (FREE Shuttle)

Several hotels are located really close to New Orleans cruise terminal so you don’t need a shuttle or other transportation to the port. However the Hampton Inn & Suites Convention Center provide a free transfer service to and from the terminals. Read on below.

1. Hilton New Orleans Riverside ★★★★ (Walking Distance to Port)

The towering Hilton provides guests with wonderful views of the Mississippi River and the nearby cruise terminal. Inside, the lounges and dining areas are full of characteristic features such as curved ceilings with exposed wooden beams. Elegant lamps, colorful rugs and traditional upholstered armchairs create a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.

The comfortable guest rooms are particularly spacious and welcoming. The polished mahogany furniture and the deep colors of the decor add to the hotel’s warm, friendly tone. It’s one of the best places to stay for exploring the stores in the Riverwalk Marketplace.

You can walk from the hotel to Erato Cruise Terminal in about 15 minutes and Julia Street Cruise Terminal in 12 minutes.

Why Stay Here

• Walking distance from cruise port (2-3 blocks)
• Rooms with river view

2. Hampton Inn and Suites New Orleans Convention Center ★★★ (Free Shuttle)

This luxurious, multi-storey hotel is located directly opposite the New Orleans cruise terminal on the Mississippi River. The exterior of the hotel with rows of uniform windows highlights the building’s former role as a warehouse. The lounges are spacious and sumptuously decorated in warm colors such as burgundy and antique gold.

A free shuttle service is offered to and from the New Orleans cruise port .

Elaborate chandeliers, comfortable upholstered armchairs and paintings depicting local landmarks create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The large, cozy rooms are tastefully furnished with elegant drapes, carpets and lamps. Within easy reach is the World War II Museum.

• Free continental breakfast
• Free shuttle to/from Cruise terminal

3. The Mercantile Hotel ★★★ (Great Value)

This popular boutique hotel is perfect for a pre-cruise vacation. Its interior has a contemporary design of exposed brickwork and ornate, cast iron pillars and archways. Colorful rugs, armchairs and artwork provide a warm, friendly atmosphere.

The rooms are particularly spacious and arranged with separate living accommodation for superior comfort and relaxation. The industrial theme continues in the bar and restaurant where rugged timber pillars and ceiling beams create a surprisingly sophisticated image.

Close by is the famous Harrah’s Casino and it takes around 15 minutes to walk to the cruise terminal.

• Nice, small quaint hotel
• Good value for money

4. SpringHill Suites by Marriott New Orleans Warehouse Arts District ★★★ (Close to Terminals)

Located a mile from the Mississippi River, but just a few minutes walk from the historic French Quarter , this sophisticated hotel has a contemporary, jazz inspired interior. The bell desk has layers of colorful illumination and there’s a bar with fringed tassels that evoke the fashions of the Roaring Twenties.

A modern art sculpture of intertwined trumpets pays tribute to New Orleans most famous son, Louis Armstrong . The rooms are comfortable, bright and spacious with separate seating areas. The rooftop bar provides unforgettable views of New Orleans.

You can reach both terminals on foot in approx. 15 to 25 minutes walk. A cab will cost you around $10.00.

• Walking distance to restaurants and River walk

5. Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center ★★★ (Opposite Cruise Parking)

Although a budget-friendly hotel , the Garden Inn has a captivating style that’s unique. The views from many of the rooms are striking, particularly when New Orleans and the cruise terminal are illuminated at night. The well-appointed rooms are individually presented with colorful artwork, bold drapes and comfortable beds. Dining areas and lounges throughout the hotel have many relaxing corners with armchairs and cozy fireplaces.

Outside there is a beautiful courtyard garden containing plants and a decorative fountain. Nearby is the elegant Spanish Plaza with stores, cafes and riverside views.

Fulton Parking across the street from the hotel offers cruise parking and free shuttle service to the port. Cost for parking from $15.50 per night.

• Budget friendly and not far from Port of New Orleans
• Little rooftop pool

6. Hyatt Place New Orleans Convention Center ★★★ (Walking Distance)

As one of the hotels located just a few minutes from the cruise port terminal, it is amongst the best places to stay for exploring the city prior to embarkation. The rooms have a minimalist decor, but the extensive use of wood panelling and furniture adds a warm, welcoming touch.

Each large, brightly lit room includes comfortable sofas and chairs for relaxation. The spacious, communal lounge has a high ceiling and features a distinctive upper balcony and balustrade. Spotlights, elegant drapes and modern art complete the hotel’s quietly sophisticated image.

Located only 12 minutes walk or a 3 mins car ride from the cruise port.

• Virtually right across the street from the cruise port
• Walking distance to CBD, French Quarter and St. Charles streetcar

Top Rated Hotels near New Orleans Cruise Port (when looking for the best)

1. Windsor Court Hotel ★★★★★ (Luxury)

This exclusive five-star hotel is luxurious throughout. The lounges are magnificent, with traditional furniture, ornate marble fireplaces, antique vases, clocks and beautiful works of art. With patterned carpets, potted palms and dark mahogany panelling, the hotel perfectly captures the romance of nineteenth century New Orleans.

The guest rooms are bright, spacious and tastefully presented with touches of French colonial splendor with Louis XVI style chairs and drapes. Many have views of the port . Outside there is a beautiful walled courtyard garden with seating and an elegant fountain. Nearby is the historic Lafayette Square. You can walk to both cruise terminals in about 20 minutes. A cab ride takes only 5 or 6 minutes.

• One of the best hotels near cruise terminals
• 5 star luxury hotel with outdoor pool

2. Higgins Hotel, Official Hotel of The National WWII Museum, Curio Collection by Hilton ★★★★ (Top)

Located a short distance from the port, this luxurious hotel is inspired by the Art Deco style of the 1930s. The entrance hall is truly spectacular with a decorative mural and a high vaulted ceiling fitted with an extraordinary pendant lamp.

In lounges and guest rooms, the floors, mirrors and walls have typical Art Deco gilt patterning and there are beautifully elegant drapes at the high windows. There is comfortable seating throughout. It is one of the best hotels for being within easy reach of many attractions and the cruise port ( only 5 minutes by taxi or rideshare ).

• One of the best hotels
• Rooftop restaurant with amazing views

3. Cambria Hotel New Orleans Downtown Warehouse District ★★★★

The Cambria is one of the best places to stay for being within a few minutes walk of the cruise port terminal and major attractions such as Bourbon Street, bars, casinos and the National World War II Museum .

The luxurious interior of the hotel is just as diverse with a startling blend of styles from industrial to French colonial. Lounges have exposed brickwork, red carpets and traditional armchairs printed with humorous skulls wearing crowns. Rooms are individually styled with a minimalist elegance combined with nineteenth century French salon furniture.

Either the Canal and St Charles Street car is 5 minutes walk away, while both cruise terminals are approx. 15 to 20 minutes walk from the hotel (5 to 6 mins by taxi).

• Boutique-style hotel with beautiful rooms
• Quiet but central neighborhood

4. Omni Riverfront New Orleans ★★★★

As one of the best hotels with a prime riverfront location , the Omni has a luxurious, elegant image. Its entrance is spectacular with an ornate fountain, pillars and palms. The refined cream dining area has purple tables and chairs, and wall lights to create a cozy atmosphere.

The bar and lounge are simply styled with comfortable sofas. Rooms are spacious and individually furnished in a minimalist, but luxurious style. The color scheme is predominantly cream with accents of gold and brown. The cruise terminal and the Aquarium of the Americas are nearby.

• Walking distance to Erato & Julia Street cruise terminal (10-15 mins)
• Riverwalk outlet mall just across the street

What are the Best Hotels in New Orleans French Quarter?

Why Stay in French Quarter?

The French Quarter is the oldest and most popular part of the city. Most tourists focus their attention on the neighborhood, which has top restaurants and music venues. Lines with beautiful architecture, the French Quarter offers Old World charm and character.

You will be in the heart of New Orleans, including steps from popular Bourbon Street and family-friendly attractions.

1. Hotel Monteleone ★★★★ (Top)

This luxury four-star hotel is located just one block from Bourbon Street while the cruise port is approximately ten minutes away. The Louis XVI facade is immensely ornate and the spacious entrance hall, complete with sparkling chandeliers and a huge grandfather clock, is overlooked by an upper floor balcony.

The pet-friendly hotel has lounge areas with traditional furniture, luxurious carpets and elaborate drapes. The charming gray and cream dining area contains Louis XVI chairs . The spacious guest rooms are particularly elegant with beautifully patterned bed linen, drapes and canopies in colors of russet and blue.

• Located right in the heart of everything
• Very nice historic hotel with outdoor pool, great interior and bar

2. Hotel Le Marais ★★★

Le Marais is located in the Vieux Carré or French Quarter, the oldest district of New Orleans Louisiana. The hotel features traditional shuttered windows and a series of arched French doors. The interior has a sophisticated, contemporary styling, including a spacious lounge with comfortable, bright purple armchairs.

In the evening, the bar area is illuminated by dark blue, purple and pink lights. The rooms are tastefully presented with minimalist gray and white decor with a touch of wood panelling. Just a short walk away is historic Bourbon Street with its raucous collection of bars. The Port of New Orleans is easy to reach by car, taxi or Uber . Cruise terminal is approx. 7 minutes away.

• One of the best hotels in French Quarter
• Small hotel in a great location, only half a block off of Bourbon Street

3. Hotel Mazarin ★★★★

The Mazarin is one of the best hotels for capturing the Louisiana charm of the French Quarter. The beige exterior has blue shutters at the windows and a wrought iron balcony. The lounge has deep red walls, traditional brown leather sofas and chairs. The dining room has white mirrored pillars, Louis XVI chairs, beautiful glass chandeliers and highly decorative doors.

The guest rooms are well-appointed with pastel decor and soft furnishings in gold and russet colors. Outside is a charming terrace. Nearby attractions include Royal Street, Bourbon Street and the St. Louis Cathedral .

• Excellent location for exploring the French Quarter
• Spacious and comfortable rooms

What are the Best Hotels in New Orleans Garden District near Cruise Ship Terminal?

Why Stay in Garden District?

The Garden district is famous for its historic mansions and the St. Charles Avenue streetcar. It is also renowned for being the home of some of New Orleans’ best restaurants .

You are also close to the antique shops, art galleries, studios and other amazing shopping along Magazine Street . Audobon Park and Zoo are also in the area, as are Tulane and Loyala universities.

Both Erato Street and Julia Street cruise terminals are about 7 minutes away.

1. Pontchartrain Hotel St. Charles Avenue ★★★★ (Top)

This luxurious hotel is in the historic Garden District, a leafy suburb two miles to the south of the cruise port terminal. The beautifully appointed interior captures the elegance of a bygone era. The imposing entrance hall has a marble floor, arched ceiling and glittering chandeliers.

The cozy, welcoming lounge and dining areas are highly decorative with luxurious, traditional furniture and large collections of artwork. The spacious, comfortable guest rooms have elegant drapes in beautiful chintz and velvet. Nearby is Coliseum Square , where there is open parkland with distinctive architectural buildings.

You can reach both cruise terminals in less than 10 minutes by taxi.

• Located right on streetcar line
• Rooftop bar with views of city skyline
• Beautiful hotel with character & history

2. Henry Howard Hotel ★★★

As one of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans, this two storey mansion has a luxurious facade of stone pillars and a wrought iron balcony. To the rear there is a small courtyard garden to relax in. The cozy rooms are bright and comfortable and have a highly original decor that blends traditional splendor with contemporary style.

There are exposed brick fireplaces, wooden flooring, elegant Louisiana furniture and musical instruments adorning the walls. Accessories include chandeliers, potted palms and quirky works of art. The cruise port terminal of New Orleans is a short drive away .

• Historic 18-room townhouse with great charm

Unique Properties (when you look for something special Pre- or Post Cruise)

1. maison de la luz ★★★★★ (luxury).

This charming guest house is a special place to stay before a cruise vacation. It has a glamorous originality throughout. The entrance hall has an impressive double wrought iron staircase. There are striking blue and white murals on the walls of the breakfast room and the bar has an exotic, contemporary atmosphere with stools covered in animal print fabric.

The architecture of this nineteenth century mansion has characteristic features including alcoves and archways. Each cozy room is individually styled for comfort and relaxation. Within easy reach are the restaurants of Bourbon Street. The port is only 8 minutes away by taxi, Uber of Lyft.

• Luxury 5 star hotel located on the St. Charles historic street car line
• Large, airy and comfortable rooms

2. Maison Perrier ★★★★ (Bed & Breakfast)

There is a warm welcome waiting at this beautifully refurbished nineteenth century mansion located in the Garden District. The exterior has a verandah and upper floor balcony and there is a quaint courtyard garden. The lounge and dining areas are bright, cheerful and comfortably furnished with sofas and chairs in Louisiana and contemporary style.

Ornaments and well-stocked bookshelves add to the friendly atmosphere. The unique guest rooms are incredibly charming with individual color schemes and pretty quilts and drapes. Nearby Magazine Street has many restaurants and stores selling antiques and gifts. It’s about 15 minutes to get to the port.

• Beautiful Bed and Breakfast in Garden District
• Located in a peaceful residential area of NOLA

What are the Best Hotels near New Orleans Airport ?

Why stay near New Orleans Airport?

New Orleans International Airport is in Kenner, Jefferson Parish. Interstate 10 conveniently links the area with the cruise terminals and central New Orleans.

Staying at a hotel at or close here gives you the added convenience of being close to the airport, especially if you are arriving on a late flight.

The cruise port of New Orleans can be reached in 20 minutes .

1. Hilton New Orleans Airport ★★★ (Great Value)

This good value hotel offers a free shuttle service to the nearby airport. The multi-storey complex has lounge and dining areas with large windows providing panoramic views of the grounds and garden terrace. Throughout the hotel there is a relaxing color scheme of gray and cream. Wood panelling in the bar makes it particularly cozy and welcoming.

The comfortable, spacious guest rooms are tastefully furnished in a minimalist style. The hotel is located 11.5 miles to the west of the French Quarter, but it is close to several shopping centers and golf courses.

• Free airport shuttle
• Comfortable rooms

2. Comfort Suites Kenner ★★ (Free Parking)

The five storey mansion is attractively styled with a row of dormer windows in the roof. The interior decor combines pastel walls with sofas, rugs and elaborate drapes in bright turquoise and antique gold. The cafeteria style dining area has an informal, friendly atmosphere.

The spacious, but cozy rooms have separate lounge and sleeping areas. Traditional furniture and sofas make each room a comfortable haven. The hotel is located close the international airport, making it one of the best places to stay near the airport. Free car parking is available on site (also extended parking).

• Free parking

Port of New Orleans Erato & Julia Street Cruise Terminals

New Orleans is the sixth largest cruise port in the United States. With the port situated on the Mississippi River and close to the Gulf of Mexico, many Caribbean and river cruise itineraries include the city. Cruise terminals are in the heart of the city and minutes from the Crescent City’s cultural attractions and world class amenities.

According to the Port of New Orleans, over a million cruise passengers visit the city each year. Carnival and Disney cruises are served by the Erato Street Cruise Terminal, while the Julia Street Cruise Terminal is for Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean cruises . Both terminals are within a five- to ten-minute drive of the French Quarter and are served by the Riverfront streetcar . Parking is available at both facilities.

Best Time to Visit and Cruise from New Orleans

New Orleans is cool and comfortable during the winter and spring, making February to May ideal for a visit. This period is also when the city is alive with its world-famous celebrations, including Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Check upcoming events before booking your cruise or flights. Reservations during Mardi Gras and other popular events usually generally need to be made a year in advance.

If you are not interested hustle and bustle of that New Orleans’ famous events attract, December and January are calmer times to visit. You also avoid the blistering heat and humidity of summer months. October and November also offer milder temperatures and are great times to enjoy local seafood. If you plan to spend time in a local hotel, these months offer better rates and more availability.

Useful Information About New Orleans for Cruise Passengers

If you do plan to stay a night or more in New Orleans, the city has hundreds of options for any budget from landmark hotels in the heart of downtown to quiet inns in beautiful residential neighborhoods.

Many of the city’s hotels are a short drive or walk from the cruise terminals and are easily accessible by public transit. Several hotels also offer packages with parking if you are driving and shuttle buses.

New Orleans’ cruise terminals are close to major attractions , including the French Quarter and Central Business District.

You can travel to and from the terminal by taxi or with an Uber or Lyft. Public transit is also an option, including the Riverfront streetcar line.

Our hotel lists are organized based on distance and amenities, from options within walking distance of the cruise terminals to those with free shuttle service to and from the airport.

You can also look at luxury and unique hotels or search based on location, including the French Quarter and Garden District.

We’re confident you will find the perfect place to stay during your visit to New Orleans.

Downtown New Orleans, or the Central Business District (CBD) area includes soaring office towers as well as the historic Warehouse District with top galleries and museums. Many of the city’s landmark hotels are based in the CBD, steps from the French Quarter.

With beautiful architecture and Bourbon Street, the French Quarter is the best-known neighborhood to stay. The vibrant area north of the cruise terminals is filled with street performers and is perfect for carriage rides. It is also home to the Cabildo Museum and the Aquarium of the Americas.

Upriver from the cruise terminals is Uptown and the Garden District, offering picturesque neighborhoods. Easily accessible by public transport, the area offers a quieter stay. You will also find quaint bed and breakfasts and small inns in the Marigny and Bywater neighbourhoods downriver from the French Quarter.

Buses and streetcars quickly link hotels and major attractions, including cruise terminals. Walking or renting a bike are also great ways to explore, especially if you are staying in the CBD, French Quarter, Uptown or Garden District. If you are driving , parking at the terminals is convenient but expensive. Nearby parking lots provide cheaper options , including the Fulton garage a block away.

(Latest update December 29th 2023)

Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click through and make a reservation.

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An unofficial disney cruise line news, information, weather, and photo blog..

Disney Cruise Line Ground Transfers Will Remain Available in 2022 and Beyond

Disney recently announced the popular Disney’s Magical Express bus service between Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World will be ending beginning in January 2022. This news left some Disney cruisers to wonder the fate of the ground transfers between Port Canaveral and the various Walt Disney World Resorts and/or Orlando International Airport.

The good news is the ground transfers available through Disney Cruise Line will continue to be available to add on for your transportation needs between a Walt Disney World Resort hotel and Port Canaveral (Resort to Port, Port to Resort) and/or between Orlando International Airport and Port Canaveral (Airport to Port, Port to Airport).

Since, Disney’s Magical Express service will continue end operations at the end of 2021, private transfers will be the only option available to purchase through Disney Cruise Line   for those who are spending time at Walt Disney World Resort before or after a cruise. Orlando International Airport has a list of alternative transportation options between Walt Disney World and the Orlando International Airport .

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4 Replies to “Disney Cruise Line Ground Transfers Will Remain Available in 2022 and Beyond”

too bad. they have such a great look and for people and Kids provided some Disney excitement , right out of the airport.

my wife and I are glad that Disney cruise line busses will be running it is too bad the magical express wont be. it is so nice to fly in a day early then take the buses to Port Canaveral . we don’t mind paying for ot we know our vacation is starting when we board the bus

It does seem a shame, as that ride is part of the fun. I cannot fathom what happened or why Disney would cut that out. It is a very convenient service to get from the airport to the resort, something decent will need to replace it and cost effective too. While we only use the shuttle busses to go from the airport to the port and then from port back to airport, it does cause a lot of excitement to travel to the port from airport to start our Disney cruises. Watching the cartoons makes me feel like a kid again, even if I am 62 years old.

I’m sure its due to cost. The UK and other countries are stopping International travel for a Year or longer. Disney announced the parks will be reservation only they next few years. Some hotels at WDW won’t be opening tbey said til traffic back to normal. It makes sense not to have it. I’m sure they did studies and I would bet a majority of those that took the bus were International guests or guest that spent less than those who rented cars.

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Resort Transportation

Get directions with the mobile app, special travel options for resort guests.

Save time and money—and the hassle of driving and parking—with these fun transportation options.

Guests at select Disney Resort hotels can travel to and from all 4 theme parks and more—by bus, boat or monorail—wherever your imagination leads you!

How It Works Stop by one of the convenient, well-marked pick-up points at your hotel and throughout Walt Disney World Resort, and your ride will arrive ready to transport you throughout the Resort—often within minutes. Keep in mind that certain destinations are not direct, and that you may be required to take a connecting mode of transport to reach your required stop.

Complimentary Resort transportation begins 45 minutes prior to Disney theme park opening time and up to 1 hour after Disney theme park closing time. Additionally, buses operate until 11:00 PM from the Disney Springs area. Certain areas of Walt Disney World Resort are also connected by well-lit, paved, low-grade walking paths.

Learn about the many other benefits of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel .

Bus Transportation

Take in the sights as you travel to and from all Disney theme parks via air-conditioned bus!

Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can take advantage of complimentary bus service to and from all 4 theme parks, Disney Resort hotels and the Disney Springs Area.

Learn more about bus transportation at Walt Disney World Resort.

Water Transportation

Feel the wind in your hair as you embark on a relaxing boat ride to your Resort destination—by ferryboat or water taxi!

Guests of select Disney Resort hotels can enjoy complimentary boat service to and from Magic Kingdom park, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT and throughout Walt Disney World Resort.

Learn more about water transportation at Walt Disney World Resort.

Monorail Transportation

Soar high in the sky aboard our world-famous monorail—originally conceived as a public transport for the future!

The Walt Disney World Monorail System has 3 separate beams that travel throughout Walt Disney World Resort and make the following stops:

• Magic Kingdom park
• Disney's Contemporary Resort
• Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
• Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Transportation and Ticket Center

Additionally, there are express round-trip services from the Transportation and Ticket Center to 2 theme parks: EPCOT and Magic Kingdom park .

Learn more about monorail transportation at Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney Skyliner Transportation

Cruise around Walt Disney World Resort in style—riding incredible, new aerial gondolas!

Glide across the sky on this grand, state-of-the-art gondola system, conveniently connecting Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at EPCOT  to the following Disney Resort hotels:

• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
• Disney’s Pop Century Resort
• Disney’s Riviera Resort

The Disney Skyliner station at International Gateway at EPCOT is located just a short stroll away from Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment district, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort , Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.

Learn more about Disney Skyliner transportation at Walt Disney World Resort.

Minnie Van Service

Have one of our Cast Members whisk you around Walt Disney World Resort in these stylish vehicles decorated with Minnie Mouse’s signature polka dots!

Accessible Minnie Van Service is also available through the Lyft app. Any Guest can order an Accessible Minnie Van. Guests do not need to use the vehicle’s accessibility functions in order to book a ride in an Accessible Minnie Van.

Accessible Minnie Vans include the following:

• Seating for 5 people
• One complimentary car seat (which can be used by one of the 5 passengers)
• 2 spaces for mobility devices (Guests may remain in their mobility devices for the duration of the ride)

There is a maximum capacity of 7 Guests per Accessible Minnie Van.

Please note that Minnie Van Service is not a complimentary transportation option and requires payment through the Lyft app on your mobile device.

Learn more about Minnie Van Service transportation at Walt Disney World Resort.

Find Resort Transportation

Disney's animal kingdom resort area, disney springs resort area, epcot resort area, wide world of sports resort area, magic kingdom resort area.

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Pre- and Post-Cruise Hotel Stays

Extend your vacation before or after your cruise, benefits of a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay, more to explore.

Take the time to unwind and truly immerse yourself in and around your port of departure or arrival—experiencing its history and culture in a whole new way.

First-Rate Accommodations

All participating hotels have been specially selected by Disney and offer the same signature quality and unparalleled service you’ve come to expect.

Peace of Mind

Arriving at your departure port early means you’ll have time to spare should travel delays occur—plus your family can enjoy a leisurely day before making your way to the ship.

Hassle-Free Transportation

Avoid the guesswork of driving, getting lost or finding a ride: we can easily arrange transportation to chauffeur your entire travel party between the airport, hotel and port.

FEATURED PORTS OF DEPARTURE

Whether it’s the starting or end-point of your cruise, every departure port offers its own unique sights and sounds. And with multiple hotel options available to you at each port, you can lengthen your stay and experience another destination in depth.

View All Departure Ports

Port Canaveral

Add more magic to your Disney cruise vacation when you choose to stay and enjoy all the excitement and enchantment of nearby Walt Disney World Resort before or after setting sail.

Fort Lauderdale

A cosmopolitan gem, this sunny port beckons with sweeping beaches, a vibrant arts scene, family-friendly activities and world-class dining and shopping.

British Columbia’s largest city blends the best of urban living with the great outdoors and is renowned for its natural beauty, food and wine, arts and culture, shopping and more.

ADVENTURES BY DISNEY

Enrich your cruise vacation before or after you sail with an Adventures by Disney guided group excursion—and enjoy special access to historic landmarks and cultural treasures, in addition to outstanding accommodations.

Adventures abound from majestic fjords to sun-kissed islands. Explore royal castles, hillside villages, medieval cities, scenic shorelines and a diversity of cultures in renowned places like Rome, Barcelona, London and Copenhagen.

North America

In Southern California, enjoy a behind-the-magic visit to The Walt Disney Studios and Disney Archives, plus take a private tour of Walt Disney Imagineering. And find yourself in the happiest place on Earth—the Disneyland Resort.