Ahoy there, Christina, and welcome aboard!
Your
Disney Cruise Line voyage is just weeks away, so let's see if we can get you ship shape for your trip. Getting to
Port Canaveral from Orlando International Airport is a fairly easy task, but I'm going to give you a multiple-choice answer.
The first way to answer is yes, you should have
ground transportation in place prior to your arrival at Orlando International for your trip to Port Canaveral. You can call 800-951-3532 to line up transportation.
The other way to answer is no, you do not technically NEED ground transportation lined up prior to your arrival, however, this way is a bit risky. You can just turn up, and
if there is space available, you can purchase your transfer right there at the airport. There are typically only a very limited number of spaces available for last-minute ground transfers, so if you are definitely set on using Disney transportation, I would err on the side of caution and book now.
If you're okay with the possibility that there may not be space on the shuttles, you do have backup options available. There are always rideshare services and taxis located in the vicinity of the airport. It's rare that you would have to wait too long for an Uber or Lyft. You may also find you can arrange a last-minute private car service, although these can be tougher to get on short notice. The trip to the port from the airport is about an hour, and if you have a long wait for a car, you may find yourself rushing.
Good luck, Christina, and enjoy your fantastic voyage!
Anna