Transportation opinions

[lhandthesquid]

I realize I will get varying thoughts on this, but I'm just looking for opinions. Initially, we had planned to drive to Port Canaveral and just park in the terminal parking deck for the week. But, I'm seeing more people suggesting staying by the Orlando Airport and taking DCL transportation. Port arrival priority aside, what are the pros of utilizing DCL transportation? We won't be in a huge rush after debarkation, so having our car right there doesn't sway us. And, my husband has some limited mobility/ability to handle luggage. Between my son and I, we will be fine. But, if using DCL transportation, is there luggage assistance too? Thanks for thoughts either way.

 

[happycamper47]

Airport cost is higher and you have to get your luggage from the garage to the bus. At the terminal you unload the luggage right as you pull in, actually the porters will even get it out of your car for you. Same after the cruise, the porters take the luggage directly to your car in the garage, of course they do like a tip.

 

[lhandthesquid]

Airport cost is higher and you have to get your luggage from the garage to the bus. At the terminal you unload the luggage right as you pull in, actually the porters will even get it out of your car for you. Same after the cruise, the porters take the luggage directly to your car in the garage, of course they do like a tip.

Thank you! That info alone is enough to make up our minds. I sincerely appreciate it and will certainly tip well.

 

[NAB]

Yes if you drive yourself to the port you just drive up to the curb drop your bags off before you go into the garage. We did this in Sept.

Most people doing the airport bus are flying in . There you have to get your luggage to the bus pick up spot.

 

[Cheburashka]

after the cruise, the porters take the luggage directly to your car in the garage, of course they do like a tip.

Interesting, I had no idea they would do this, as it would have really helped me during my last cruise when I was parked in the garage at Port Canaveral and had some heavy luggage. Where exactly do you find the porters who will do this for you? It seemed to me, once you go through customs, you're pretty much on your own. I don't remember anyone offering help.

 

[Flying Fish]

They are usually around where you find your bags and will grab them there and follow you through customs. Last time we were there, we saw fewer than usual. We had fewer bags (Wish cruise), so we just carried them to the garage ourselves. We have used them in the past and might later this month after the Fantasy. I can confirm them if it's the same, but I'm sure someone will have an answer before then.

 

[happycamper47]

They are usually around where you find your bags and will grab them there and follow you through customs. Last time we were there, we saw fewer than usual. We had fewer bags (Wish cruise), so we just carried them to the garage ourselves. We have used them in the past and might later this month after the Fantasy. I can confirm them if it's the same, but I'm sure someone will have an answer before then.

Exactly the same. They will even help you hunt for your bags, They all stand shoulder to shoulder on your right as you come down the ramp. They are fewer in numbers, I think more and more are doing walk-off especially for the 3 and 4 day cruises. IIRC they all have red vests/jackets.

 

[loislane]

The bigger perks with DCL transportation come if you stay at the Hyatt at MCO. Then they will take your luggage (minus whatever day bags you carry with you) right from your hotel room that morning and leave them outside your stateroom at some point that afternoon/evening.
Otherwise, I feel like the main benefit of the DCL transportation is that DCL knows if something goes wrong (bus breaks down, traffic/accident, etc.) and waits for you.

 

[auntlynne]

Another pro for using your car: no steps into the bus.