15th December 2025

Cruising from Orlando- the perfect ‘cruise & stay’ candidate

From Magic Kingdom’s Main Street to wand-wielding at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, Orlando has well and truly earnt its reputation as the ‘Theme Park Capital of the World’. That non-stop whirlwind of attractions (as amazing as they are), can also leave holidaymakers in need of a little R&R… and that’s where a cruise comes in. Whether it’s a few nights in the Bahamas, or 7+ days of island hopping across the Caribbean and beyond, a healthy dose of vitamin sea could be just what the doctor ordered. For proximity, choose a sailing from Port Canaveral, which comes with a transfer time of around 60 minutes from Orlando. Here are 7 reasons why we love this Florida hotspot...

1. Orlando is home to 13 major theme parks

Let’s face it, Orlando’s pulling power has a lot to do with magic kingdoms and wizarding worlds. Prestigious theme parks have more than 50 years of experience under their belt, not to mention a staggering 50 square miles of real estate to bring the bucket list creations to life. Walt Disney World Resort leads the way with endless lands of enchantment, fantastical fireworks, extravagant entertainment and all-star attractions. While Universal Orlando Resort™, takes you to new heights and heart rates with pop culture favourites like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park.

2. Spend a day at the Kennedy Space Centre  

Come face to face with the marvel of space travel at this 140,000 acre complex; home to real life rockets, mind-blowing NASA technology and a huge hangar full of memorabilia from missions past and present. In-depth bus tours bring you up close and personal with official launch sites, as well as the gargantuan Vehicle Assembly Building (the largest single-storey building in the world), which was originally constructed as a platform for the vertical assembly of the Apollo–Saturn V space vehicles. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to travel to space, you can also try your hand at an astronaut training simulator and learn to pilot your very own shuttle.

3. Go ‘gator spotting in the Everglades National Park

Trade in rockets for the iconic watery wilderness of the Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Hop on an airboat tour and traverse the wetlands on the lookout for wildlife. Alligators, American crocodiles, turtles, snakes and even manatees can be found in the Sunshine State’s swamps. If you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, amble the Anhinga Trail through a sawgrass marsh and see how many different species you can spot. There’s a huge amount of activities available to visitors throughout the park, from observation towers to cycling routes and kayaking. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of the elusive Florida panther!

4. Family fun at Central Florida Zoo

Animal lovers can continue their wildlife wonderment at the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Over 350 animals and 100 different species – including some of the rarest and most endangered on the planet – call the zoo their home. Guests are invited to keeper chats, feeding experiences and other encounters throughout the park. Whether it’s slithering snakes, graceful giraffes or mischievous monkeys, find your favourite residents amidst the feathers, scales and fur! The beautiful botanical gardens showcase some breathtaking flora teeming with butterflies and hummingbirds. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and look at nature’s best bits.

5. Day trip to Daytona

About an hour outside of Orlando, along Florida’s Atlantic coast, you’ll find iconic Daytona Beach, with its golden shoreline, lively Esplanade, historic neighbourhoods and rich racing heritage. Famous for its miles of hard-packed sands, you can still drive a car out on designated sections of the beach (if you buy a driving day pass) in a nod to the days where people raced across the sand. Besides the beach, there’s plenty of must-sees in this energetic town; the International Speedway hosts major NASCAR events, Daytona Lagoon boasts adrenaline pumping waterslides, and the Seabreeze Historic District is brimming with independent shops and restaurants.

6. Tee off on one of 50 golf courses in Orlando

Walk the fairways of world-famous golf courses and enjoy a day on the green. Part of Florida’s culture long before the magical mouse moved in, some of the courses date back to the 1920s. Many of Orlando’s five star resorts offer premier facilities with stunning views and golfing academies. So bag yourself a hole-in-one and be sure to swing a club or two during your holiday.

7. Shop ‘til you drop

If bargain-buys are a holiday must, then you’re in luck! Orlando’s outlet stores stock some of the biggest names in fashion and electronics, rolling out huge discounts on premium brands including Adidas, Ralph Lauren and Levi’s. The biggest of the bunch is found on International Drive, where the savings are so substantial it’s not unusual for Americans to drive over from nearby states.

Fancy combining the magic of Walt Disney World resort with a Caribbean cruise?

Well, you're in luck - this fantastic holiday offers both! Start your holiday with 7-nights in Orlando, where you’ll enjoy a week of unforgettable attractions across Walt Disney World’s multiple theme parks – the perfect playground for both little ones and the young at heart. Then trade ‘coasters for the Caribbean coastline and settle in for a relaxing week of island-hopping, the ultimate way to unwind after the excitement of rubbing shoulders with Mickey Mouse.

Itinerary available throughout 2026 & 2027.