Western Caribbean & Perfect Day 7 Nights • Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida • Star of the Seas

Most people know Orlando as America’s theme park capital. While a day (or several) dedicated to all your favorite rides and shows is a must for any vacation from Orlando, this shining city on Florida’s Space Coast offers so much more than that. If you’re cruising from Port Canaveral, get to know the area’s other wonders — like its locally loved surf spots, sprawling citrus groves, off-road motor trails and emerald golf courses. Start your day by watching the sunrise from the sands of the Canaveral National Seashore. Then grab breakfast at a cozy café in Historic Cocoa Village. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators as you zip through the St. John River marshlands on an exhilarating airboat ride. Or climb to the top of Exploration Tower for panoramic views of Port Canaveral, the cruise port near Orlando. And don’t forget to drop by the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Port Canaveral, where you can learn all about space travel and see both the Space Shuttle Atlantis and the Saturn V moon rocket.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:30 p. m., 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.

This isn’t vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. Conquer the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean and snap a shot from up to 450 feet up in a helium balloon. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar and soak up the scene in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas. Or get a taste of Bora Bora with your own Overwater Cabana.

Perfect Day at CocoCay is split into 10 unique neighborhoods, each with its own activities. There are plenty of free things to do around the island, as well as premium experiences available for purchase. Seven of the neighborhoods are free admission, and three require a paid admission: Thrill Waterpark, Coco Beach Club, and Hideaway Beach (adults-only beach).

Past meets present in Costa Maya. Venture into the jungle for a glimpse of Maya history at the Chacchoben and Kohunlich ruins. Or kick back in the village of Mahahual, where you can hit the beach and sip micheladas— a spicy beer cocktail. The best of both worlds awaits.

Roatán is a swath of volcanic coastline, dense rainforest, and sandy shores. You could snorkel for days through the second largest barrier reef in the world. Or wander endlessly over pine-forested hills and jungle trails. Its secluded beaches and lively West End villages offer the perfect mix of peace and pizazz.

Cozumel blends Mexican culture with Caribbean vibes. You can explore its Maya roots in Tulum, or discover a secret world of sea life as you snorkel beneath the waves in Chankanaab. And there’s no better way to close out a day of adventure than with an ice cold michelada and a beachside massage at Playa Mia.

As the home of Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral is the launching point for all-out adventure in Central Florida. Its beaches offer a mix of family-friendly shores and secluded swaths of sand. And with Orlando’s theme park sprawl only an hour away, you can easily mingle with your favorite characters. Beyond the parks lie equally amusing gems packed with Old Florida character. Kayak past manatees in the Banana River Lagoon and zip line above alligators at Brevard Zoo. Discover notable art museums and Park Avenue’s ritzy charm. Cruises from Port Canaveral give you access to trace the region’s roots at the Orange County Regional History Museum.

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.