Ahoy there, Allyson!
Welcome to planDisney. I'm glad to help with your question about your upcoming cruise. You are about a month from your sail date, and it will be here before you know it! I'm sure you are ready to get this magical vacation underway.
You are correct that Walt Disney Resort hotel parking is for Guests staying on-site only. For that reason, I'm going to suggest driving to the port if possible. As someone who normally drives to
Port Canaveral and stays at the
Walt Disney Resort pre-cruise, we enjoy having the flexibility to drive to the port the morning of embarkation. And we especially like to have our car once we disembark the ship, either to head home or back to the Orlando area. The parking decks typically open around 10:15 am. You'll be able to drop off your luggage at the curb with the porters before heading to the payment box just before the entry. Most levels are covered, which will keep your car protected from the Florida sun, and no reservations are needed! Current parking rates are $20.00 per day plus tax (always subject to change) and include your arrival and departure day. We plan a little extra time in case of any traffic, but the drive over to Port Canaveral is usually around an hour. It is always a magical feeling when you first spot your Disney Cruise ship in port, as she's always the prettiest! Another benefit to having your car there is that once you disembark, porters will be there to assist you all the way to your car if needed. This is always such a relief to have this help. If you decide to utilize this service, don't forget to have some cash on hand if you'd like to tip the porters.
Allyson, I hope my answer is helpful as you plan for your
transportation for your
Disney Cruise next month. If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out again.
Nancy