Bon Voyage, and welcome back aboard planDisney, Rebecca! Thanks for bringing your question to us about parking and transportation for your upcoming cruise. I'm happy to help!
Isn't
Disney Cruise Line Ground Transportation just the best thing since Ariel got her legs? I'm not sure if you've experienced this luxury before, but if not, I'm here to tell you that it is the most relaxing way to get to
Port Canaveral from Walt Disney World. For years, my family always drove to the port since we had our vehicle with us, but once we started flying in and taking Disney Cruise Line's buses, we never looked back. Even better, they'll pick up your luggage from your Disney Resort hotel room, and whisk it away to your
Disney Cruise Line stateroom, worry-free. You will need to have it tagged and ready to pick up rather early, though, usually around 7 AM.
As much as I love taking their transportation compared to driving to the port, there are pros and cons to each. I do have to let you know that
parking at any Disney Resort hotel is reserved for Guests with a current hotel, experience or dining reservation. This means you won't be able to leave your vehicle parked at
Disney's Pop Century Resort while you're on your cruise, even when taking a Disney Cruise Line bus to the port. From many years of experience, I can confirm that driving to the port is easy, and parking is quite convenient. Depending on the length of your cruise, it might actually cost less to drive and park than it will to take the busses. Plus, you'll probably be able to sleep in a bit more since you won't need to have your luggage ready so early, unless you're too excited to sleep.
If your Port Arrival Time (PAT) allows, you may even have time for a nice, leisurely breakfast before heading out. Since you'll be staying on the
Disney Skyliner route, might I suggest a reservation at
Topolino's Terrace - Flavors of the Riviera at
Disney's Riviera Resort? It's a quick Skyliner ride away, and in my opinion, it's the best character breakfast you can get at Walt Disney World. The characters are in unique outfits you won't see anywhere else, the food is delicious and the views are unbeatable. I always take a few minutes to go out onto the terrace to admire the scenery.
Rebecca, I hope you have a fantastic trip to Walt Disney World and a wonderful cruise. Flip your fins back over to us here at planDisney if you have any other questions we can help with.
Grab hold of your dreams!
Melanie