On a cruise from Florida, you can visit an array of exotic and exciting islands. It doesn’t matter if you want a quick weekend getaway or you’re taking a much needed, week-long vacation to the Bahamas.
Better yet, you can zipline over rainforest canopies in St. Maarten. You can also hike to Jamaica’s waterfalls, have a taste of tapas in Puerto Rico, and stroll down white sand beaches in the Virgin Islands. You can also snorkel in some of the crystal clear water in the world to see stingrays, reef sharks, eels, and a variety of tropical fish.
Cruises also visit Key West as a port of call. This is the gateway to the gorgeous Florida Keys archipelago and its endless beaches and mangrove forests.
From white sandy beaches and exotic wildlife to Latin touch and historic architecture, you’re in for a host of experiences and adventure when you book a cruise from Florida for a warm-weather vacation.
The largest cruise ports in Florida, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale are also your embarkation ports where you’ll board your cruise. These cities offer a wide range of things to see and do, so be sure to book an excursion after you disembark at the end of your sailing.
We’ve ranked the Best Cruises from Florida based on the analysis of reviews and health ratings. Disney Fantasy is the top-ranked ship sailing from Port Canaveral. Here, you can also find the best ship brand and itinerary for you.
Disney Fantasy – Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, Disney Fantasy, was launched in 2012. It went on a dry dock in 2017 to add new features like the Marvel Super Heroes Academy, a “Star Wars”-themed command post, and a Tiffany & Co. retail store.
Staterooms are designed to be more family-friendly, which can accommodate up to four guests.
Over 85% of the ship’s cabins have an ocean view or a veranda. All cabins are equipped with flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and iPod docking stations.
Onboard entertainment is just as family-oriented. Thanks to Goofy’s Sports Deck activity center, a virtual sports simulator, live performances, and 3-D movies. While younger guests play in age-appropriate youth clubs, they can relax and have a quiet time at the Quiet Cove Pool.
You can also enjoy an evening at one of the six adults-only bars and lounges.
When it comes to dining, the ship offers ten themed dining selections. This includes two adults-only specialty venues, three main dining rooms, and a new ice cream shop.
Disney Fantasy’s main itinerary starts from Port Canaveral in Orlando, Florida to the Bahamas and various ports in the Caribbean and Mexico.
Disney Dream – Disney Cruise Line
Last renovated in 2015, the 4,000-passenger Disney Dream is one of Disney’s most massive, newest ships.
The highlights include a 765-foot AquaDuck water coaster. They also have a virtual sports simulator and theatrical performances that bring Disney animated favorites to life.
While the ship gives family-focused entertainment with five specialized kids clubs, parents can still enjoy the adults-only Quiet Cove pool and the Senses Spa & Salon.
At night, a section of the ship called The District transforms into an adult haven with a host of bars and lounges.
When it comes to dining, the ship offers nine themed selections. This includes two specialty adults-only restaurants.
Staterooms also cater to cruising families, offering perks like sofa beds. Over 85% of cabins have ocean views or verandas. If you’re looking for extra space, you can upgrade for Concierge Suites, ranging from 622 to 1,781 square feet.
While some recent cruisers said that the ship is more expensive than other mainstream competitors, most commented that it was well worth the price. This can be due to the personalized attention they received from the staff.
Disney Dream sailed from Port Canaveral in Orlando, Florida to the Bahamas, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the British Virgin Islands.
Norwegian Escape – Norwegian Cruise Line
The Norwegian Escape debuted in 2015 and carried 4,266 passengers and 1,733 crew members.
The highlights include the District Brew House and Norwegian’s first-ever wine bar, The Cellars. Guests can choose from a total of 18 dining options, including 11 specialty restaurants.
When it comes to activities, the ship appeals to all generations. Children can go in their age-appropriate clubs or play at the kids’ aqua park, while adults can sip cocktails or get treatments at the Mandara Spa. Nighttime entertainment includes acts at the Headliners Comedy Club, live musicals, and table games at the casino.
Accommodations are just as optional. It ranges from Studio staterooms designed for solo travelers to Inside, Oceanview and Balcony cabins.
There are also larger mini-suites and The Haven, an exclusive cabin that offer elite perks like 24-hour butler service and access to a private sundeck.
Norwegian Escape sails from Miami, Orlando, New York City, London, Rome, and Copenhagen. It then sails to Bermuda, the Caribbean, and Europe.
Allure of the Seas – Royal Caribbean International
The 6,780-passenger Allure of the Seas was unveiled in 2010 and among the world’s largest cruise ships. There are 2,100 crew members on board that caters to passengers’ needs.
Along with signature amenities, like wall climbing and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with choices of activities, shows, and dining options.
A recent renovation presents new slides and rides on board and reimagined spaces for kids and teens.
Other standout features include the following:
- Zipline that goes nine decks down
- Two surf simulators
- A floating version of Central Park
The floating Central Park features seasonal flower gardens and umbrella trees. It also comes with 16 dining options and Starbucks at sea, making every family member satisfied.
As far as lodging is concerned, about 65 percent of cabins feature balconies and all have TVs and minifridges. The interior staterooms are the most economical option. But those who pay for Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service.
Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the capacity of the ship. But some recent cruisers cheer the ongoing activity and entertainment.
The Allure of the Seas sails from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Barcelona to the Caribbean and Europe.
Harmony of the Seas – Royal Caribbean International
With a staggering capacity of 6,687 passengers and 2,193 crew members, Harmony of the Seas is one of the world’s largest cruise ships.
Launched in 2016, the ship features Royal Caribbean amenities like surf simulators and rock climbing walls. They also have innovative staples like the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story slide plus three multistory waterslides.
Younger passengers can play in the arcade or at any age-appropriate clubs. Meanwhile, adults can be intimate at the spa or sip cocktails at different bars and lounges.
Guests can choose from 17 dining options. That said, past cruisers complement a multitude of specialty restaurants. This can range from Mexican to Japanese fare. Yet, these specialty restaurants need reservations and extra fees.
When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of stateroom categories. More than 70 percent of cabins featuring balconies.
While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury consider upgrading to a Suite. This can range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Family Suites.
All cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars. Suites provide access to a private restaurant, lounge, and sun deck.
Harmony of the Seas’ itinerary includes sailing from Orlando to destinations throughout the Caribbean.
Cruises from Port Canaveral in Florida can give you the luxury of the port. This includes cruising to beautiful tropical destinations.
Nonetheless, cruises from ports of Florida don’t need to be challenging to find. Vacations to the Bahamas and the Caribbean have never been easier to plan than they are now with Port Canaveral cruises.
These locations are available to visit year-round. Meanwhile, other seasonal cruise lines can allow you to visit Bermuda, the Panama Canal, and even Barcelona on a TransAtlantic Cruise.