Western Caribbean Cruise 5 Nights • Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida • Explorer of the Seas

When you sail to the Caribbean from Cape Canaveral, it’s worth arriving a day or two earlier to experience everything there is to see and do. Check out the charming lifestyle of nearby Cocoa Beach. Work on your tan before your cruise at one of the oceanfront resorts. Enjoy local seafood at the numerous rustic restaurants located on the water. Climb the four-story Exploration Tower at the Port for one of the best views of the ocean. Plus, no stay in Cape Canaveral is complete without visiting the area’s main attraction, the Kennedy Space Center, where you can meet an astronaut or even watch a rocket launch. Or since you’re less than an hour away from Orlando, you can visit the nearby theme parks to add even more wonder to your unforgettable Caribbean vacation.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:00 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Costa Maya boasts beautiful beaches on the Caribbean Sea, which is ideal for divers and snorkelers alike who enjoy exploring the beautiful Banco Chinchorro coral reef that lies just off the coast. History buffs will surely love exploring the lesser-known Mayan ruins, Cacchoben and Kohunlich; meanwhile there's something for everyone at the new shopping mall, which, while great for shopping, also features a central plaza with saltwater pools and 'swim-up' bars.

Amid the largest coral reef in the West, this Caribbean island lures anglers, divers, snorkelers, and beachgoers. Fish the flats or head out to blue water to hunt for big game—mahi-mahi, marlin, sailfish, and more. Bring your dive card with you on your cruise to Cozumel and witness all the natural wonders waiting below the surface, like neon tropical fish, swaying sea fans, and vibrant coral colonies. Or, go snorkeling to see the show without a dive card. Curl up on the beach in a hammock with a cold one. At Playa Mia, you can even fly down Twin Twister waterslides.

Go cruise shopping for beautiful Mexican silver, amber, and other artisanal gifts in San Miguel. Or, hop a ferry to charming Playa del Carmen, on the mainland, and stroll along la Quinta Avenida for more inviting restaurants, bars, and shops. Down the coast from Playa, you can explore the ancient Maya city of Tulum, perched impressively on a cliff, overlooking the brilliant sea and powdery beach below. Cozumel cuisine means fresh seafood. Savor the catch of the day served on a banana leaf, or enjoy it marinated in lime juice, cilantro, onion, and tomato. Of course, this is the place for Mexican classics like tacos, guacamole—and margaritas.

When you sail to the Caribbean from Cape Canaveral, it’s worth arriving a day or two earlier to experience everything there is to see and do. Check out the charming lifestyle of nearby Cocoa Beach. Work on your tan before your cruise at one of the oceanfront resorts. Enjoy local seafood at the numerous rustic restaurants located on the water. Climb the four-story Exploration Tower at the Port for one of the best views of the ocean. Plus, no stay in Cape Canaveral is complete without visiting the area’s main attraction, the Kennedy Space Center, where you can meet an astronaut or even watch a rocket launch. Or since you’re less than an hour away from Orlando, you can visit the nearby theme parks to add even more wonder to your unforgettable Caribbean vacation.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.