PORT CANAVERAL

Port Canaveral, in the center of Florida's east coast, is not only the surfing capital of the Atlantic. It's also home to rocket and shuttle launches, the largest sea turtle nesting area in the country, the largest scallop fishery on the planet, and a national refuge with more endangered species than any other. Even with all these superlatives, most cruise passengers associate Port Canaveral with Orlando, just 45 miles to the west - and with Walt Disney World, Universal theme parks, and SeaWorld so close, you'd be hard-pressed to find a cruise port anywhere that offers access to more theme parks and family-friendly tourist attractions. But, for those who have already had (or care to let go of) the Orlando experience, Port Canaveral is definitely worth a pre-or post-cruise visit.

The port looks like Orlando's closest beach with dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and miles of pristine sand, minus the typical South Florida crowds. A mile and a half of bike paths run through Port Canaveral, as well as three parks, including Jetty Park, where camping and fishing opportunities abound. The bustling Cove at Port Canaveral offers a variety of restaurants and stores. But, with Port Canaveral in the middle of what is known as Florida's 72-mile space coast, the main attraction is the Kennedy Space Center, where guests can meet and talk with actual astronauts. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, six miles from the visitor center, houses the world's largest collection of astronaut memorabilia, as well as exhibits, displays, and tributes to the heroes of Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo.

Port Canaveral is primarily a return port, so for the most part, travelers pass through the area on their way to embark on their cruises. Ships based in Port Canaveral sail on itineraries ranging from three to seven days. Considering its proximity to Orlando, it's no surprise that Disney Cruise Line fleet ports there, but Carnival and Royal Caribbean ships also call Port Canaveral. It is primarily a turnaround port, but some lines (such as the Norwegian Cruise Line and Seabourn) make regular port calls throughout the year.