- Parking Fee Increase: Port Canaveral has increased its parking fee from $17 to $20 per day, effective October 1, 2025, after not adjusting rates since 2017.
- Broad Impact on Cruise Lines: The fee change affects passengers of major cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and MSC, all of which operate ships from Port Canaveral.
- Funding for Port Enhancements: The additional revenue generated by the fee increase is expected to contribute to port expansion and renovation projects, improving conditions at the cruise terminal as cruise capacity grows.
- Competitive Pricing: Despite the increase, Port Canaveral’s new parking fee remains competitive compared to other major Florida ports, such as Port Everglades ($20 maximum) and PortMiami ($35 for long-term overnight).
Port Canaveral has implemented a modest adjustment to its parking fees, moving from $17 to $20 per day, effective October 1, 2025. This change, the first since 2017, impacts guests of Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and MSC. This subtle shift aims to support the port’s ongoing enhancements and future expansion projects, ultimately benefiting the growing number of cruisers visiting this popular hub.
This decision, made after a commission meeting in August and a subsequent vote in September, positions Port Canaveral to potentially boost its revenue by $12.8 million. These additional funds are anticipated to fuel exciting renovation and expansion initiatives, ensuring the port continues to provide a top-tier experience for its increasing cruise capacity. This forward-thinking approach is a positive step towards improving cruise terminal conditions and accommodating the rising demand for sailings from this vibrant location.
Port Canaveral remains a thriving home for many beloved cruise ships. Carnival Cruise Line proudly operates four year-round vessels from the port: the Mardi Gras, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Glory, and Carnival Vista, with the Carnival Venezia sailing seasonally. Royal Caribbean also enjoys a significant presence with the new Star of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, and Utopia of the Seas, complemented by seasonal visits from Explorer of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas. Disney Cruise Line’s popular ships, Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Treasure, homeport at Port Canaveral year-round, adding to the family-friendly appeal. MSC is also enhancing its connectivity, with the MSC Grandiosa joining the year-round Seashore in December 2025.
Comparatively, Port Canaveral’s new $20 daily parking fee remains quite competitive within Florida’s major cruise hubs. Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale has a maximum fee of $20, while PortMiami, a bustling hub for Carnival, charges $35 per day for long-term overnight parking. This favorable pricing helps ensure that Port Canaveral continues to be an attractive and accessible option for cruisers. The anticipated improvements, funded by this fee adjustment, will undoubtedly enhance the overall cruise experience, making journeys from Port Canaveral even more enjoyable for years to come.
