If my ship leaves from Port Canaveral, which airport in Florida is closest to that port? Miami airport of Ft. Lauderdale?

Orlando is closest.

You should probably be able to arrange transfer to/from Orlando airport with the cruise lines. My dh and I will be taking the Fantasy Bahamas cruise over the New Years Eve holiday and were asking about transfers. They did tell us that Orlando was the airport their use for their cruise passengers cruising out of Port Canaveral.

Orlando is about an hour from the port. You do NOT want Miami/Ft. Lauderdale.

I flew into Melbourne, but Orlando might have better prices!

Simpsonc510:
I'm curious about your Bahamas cruise on the Fantasy. My sister and I are booked on the 4-day cruise next month. How was the ship? Anything a "must do" or "steer clear of"? Were the spa rates reasonable? Also, which transfer option did you choose? We've booked air separately and now just need some transfer plans. Any information you'd like to share is appreciated. Thanks.

Janeylou,
I'm pleased to say that my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the Fantasy. Some inside info for you... the passengers "rate" all Carnival ships by filling out comment sheets. The Fantasy has been rated #1 by passengers the last 6 weeks in a row. I think that says something, even though the ship is not one of the newer ones. The crew is really great. The cabin stewards, diningroom wait staff, buffet servers... they were so nice! There are plenty of lounges, a large casino, exceptional food!!! (better than Royal Carib) and we enjoyed the Bahamas. Freeport was rather ho-hum unless you take a taxi to one of the shopping places or a nice beach. Nassau is much more exciting.
I did not use the spa at all so you will have to judge that for yourself.
We did not transfer as we had a rental car for our entire 10-day vacation, which we had to pay $10/day to park while we cruised. Carnival should give you information about transfers, if you will contact them.
Oh, be sure to do all your registration ON LINE so you don't have to wait in line at the cruise port and give all kinds of information. Once you get your cruise documents, you will see how to go on line and input your passport number, flight information, rental car info, etc. It'll save you a lot of headaches, I'd think. If you are in a balcony mini-suite cabin (which we were) you can go to a "special" check in area where there is no line.
Have a great time!
Carol