cruises in yorktown va

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Yorktown, Va., to be Featured on Princess’ 2024 Schedule, First Major Oceangoing Cruise Line to Visit Virginia’s Historic Triangle

America’s earliest settlements, revolutionary war sites and charming small towns provide guests with unique experiences ashore.

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For the first time ever, Princess Cruises will call at Yorktown, Va. and Virginia’s Historic Triangle, as part of a series of custom-curated itineraries in summer 2024 that will highlight opportunities to experience Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown in addition to visiting the historic seaside town.

Princess Cruises is planning five day-long calls – three via Island Princess (2,200 guests/900 crew) and two via Emerald Princess (3,080 guests/1,200 crew) – that will result in a significant economic impact to the region, which has played an important role in American history.

Additional details, including specific sailing dates, itineraries and shore excursions, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

“Princess is already well known for our unique itineraries that appeal to our guests who gravitate toward interesting historical and cultural opportunities and Yorktown is perfectly in tune with that philosophy, offering not only a glimpse at the Revolutionary War but also dining, shopping and activity options with wide-ranging appeal. It’s a win-win for everyone,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.

Padgett added that the new itineraries are even more significant as interest builds ahead of events and festivities across Virginia to commemorate the 250 th anniversaries of the Revolutionary War and the Declaration of Independence.

“Our community is rooted in history and it is an important part of our visitor mix. We are honored that Princess Cruises sees the value in bringing their customers to Yorktown,” said Kristi Olsen-Hayes, Director, York County Economic & Tourism Development. “Additional visitors coming to our area via the cruise line would contribute to the region’s economy, benefiting retail, restaurants, and regional attractions, as well as generating revenue for both the Commonwealth and multiple local governments.”

As the first major cruise line to call on the region, Princess understands and appreciates the significant role it plays in boosting area tourism and, as it does with other homeport and port of call communities, the company will work with local tour operators to showcase the attributes of this fascinating historical region while benefiting local residents.

“We couldn’t be more excited about this incredible opportunity to add this truly unforgettable destination experience to our already impressive array of itineraries,” said Padgett. “As a native Virginian myself, I can attest that an itinerary that offers the chance to visit Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown promises to be a most welcome addition for our guests, providing them memorable vacation experiences that they can’t find anywhere else.”

Yorktown offers 300 years of history from revolutionary battlefields to 18th Century homes. Picturesque streets provide the backdrop for art galleries, antique and specialty shops, while attractions like the Watermen’s Museum offer hands-on programs and exhibits for all ages. Entertainment, including Fifes and Drums performances, abounds, and visitors can stroll along the scenic riverwalk lined with charming restaurants and shops that offer a view of the York River.

Sure to be a popular shore excursion, a visit to Colonial Williamsburg will allow guests to discover why this was the capital of Virginia and the largest, most prosperous American colony. Men and women from all walks of life strolled these streets, and Princess guests will follow in their footsteps as they re-trace history They’ll also explore dozens of original buildings, homes, and shops reconstructed on 301 acres – most on their original foundations. Rare animal breeds, historic trades, and lovingly restored gardens add layers of authenticity to the Colonial Williamsburg experience. Guests will feel as if they’ve traveled back in time.

Guests opting to visit Jamestown, just a short, 30-minute motorcoach ride from the port, will be captivated by the history behind the original site of the first permanent English settlement in North America and the story of the role of the three cultures - European, North American and African - that came together to lay the foundation for a uniquely American form of democratic government, language, free enterprise and society.

Princess Cruises sails to more than 330 incredible destinations around the world. More information is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company’s website at www.princess.com .

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Yorktown (Williamsburg), USA

A cruise to Yorktown delivers guests to Virginia’s Historic Triangle — Yorktown, Jamestown and Williamsburg. These living history museums bring America’s beginning to life. The Colonial Parkway, a scenic roadway, connects the three sites.

Disembark the ship in Yorktown, minutes from the Yorktown Battlefield, where the Allied soldiers and British troops fought the Revolutionary War’s last major battle. Yorktown has more to explore, but Colonial Williamsburg awaits. More than 300 acres of gardens, exhibition sites, tucked-away taverns and more immerse you in the 18th century. Meander the mile-long Duke of Gloucester Street, popping into the shops of shoemakers, silversmiths, and wigmakers, who use historically accurate techniques. Go inside the Governor’s Palace and the Capitol. Shuttle to Jamestown, where you can explore a recreation of the Jamestown Fort and Powhatan Village. Just down the road is the real thing—Historic Jamestowne, the first permanent English settlement.

Top 3: Yorktown (Williamsburg), VA

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Yorktown-Williamsburg VA cruise port

East coast usa and canada new england.

• Coordinates 37.239, -76.508
• LOCODE USYKW
• Local Time 2024-07-03 10:57

Yorktown-Williamsburg VA cruise ship schedule

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Yorktown no longer a stop for Princess Cruises this summer; Norfolk new destination

YORKTOWN, Va. — Princess Cruises has made a big change of plans for its cruise ships that are coming to our area this summer.

York County officials say they got an email from Princess Cruises stating that the cruise line has decided to move its planned stops from Yorktown to Norfolk.

County officials shared the following portion of the email they received from Princess Cruises:

“To ensure our guests experience legendary Virginian hospitality as they explore the region’s significant historical contributions to American history, Princess is confirming Norfolk on the published itinerary for Island Princess and its three new calls to the Commonwealth this summer.”

The initial plan, announced in Feb. 2023, was to have Princess Cruises cruise ships make three stops in Yorktown this June. Two ships, the Island Princess and the Emerald Princess, were scheduled to visit.

The county says beyond the email, Princess Cruises didn't share any additional information regarding the move.

The York County Board of Supervisors shared the following statement on the cancelled cruise stops:

“While we no longer anticipate passengers from Princess Cruise Lines to be among the guests we host, we are sure that they will find other excellent examples of Virginia hospitality at their port in Norfolk. Yorktown will continue to be the destination of choice for river cruise lines, dining cruises and historical tall ships throughout the coming years for local residents and our visitors to enjoy.”

Nauticus' Executive Director, Stephen E. Kirkland, provided the following statement about the cruise stops moving to Norfolk:

“Nauticus is thrilled to welcome Princess back to Norfolk for ten port visits throughout 2024 and 2025 but make no mistake, this is a win for Hampton Roads. Thousands of guests will enjoy all Norfolk has to offer but also have chance to take amazing shore excursions to Yorktown, Williamsburg, Jamestown, and other nearby locations. Our region is keeping these passengers in Hampton Roads and that’s what’s important.”

The change comes after many Yorktown residents voiced concerns about the impact the heavy foot traffic would have on the historic town. The Island Princess can hold 2,200 passengers - a steep number compared to Yorktown's population of 258.

Williamsburg, James City County, Yorktown

A town divided: Princess cruises to stop in Yorktown in 2024

Last August, a group protested the cruise ships coming to Yorktown.

“We don’t feel that the scale of the ship is appropriate for Yorktown, we aren’t anti tourist, we aren’t anti cruise ships,” concerned citizen Alyssa Adams told News 3. “I don’t know how much money will be made, but we don’t feel like it’s worth the investment in infrastructure and the wear and tear on the roads and the community.”

However, some residents were enthusiastic about the impact cruise line passengers would have on the local economy.

“Overall, it’ll definitely bring a lot more business, a lot more revenue to the shops around here,” said Tyler Price, the assistant manager of dog bakery "Gangsta Dog."

Princess Cruises did not elaborate on their decision to move the stops to Norfolk. However, Holland America Cruise Line - which previously canceled its plans to make stops in Yorktown - cited concerns from residents.

"We weren't aware of the sensitivity to cruise ships in Yorktown..." a Holland America Cruise Line spokesperson said to a York County spokesperson.

Currently, there are no Princess cruise ship stops to Yorktown scheduled in 2024 or beyond, the county says.

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Yorktown Pirate Ship Adventure Sail

Quick Details

• User Ages: All ages
• Hour Glass Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Embark on a thrilling Pirate Adventure Sail with Yorktown Sailing Charters

Set Sail for a Pirate Adventure aboard the Yorktown Schooners!

Tickets can be purchased up to 1 month in advance!

• 1.5 hour cruise departing at 10:30am (11:00am in April)
• Young Pirates will help raise the sails and learn sailor skills
• Recommended for Children 10 and under
• Chevron down More Information

Please note that Pirate Cruises run from late May through the beginning of September, in addition, to select days over spring break. If the date you desire to attend is not yet on the calendar, please check back soon. You can only purchase up to one month in advance.

Bring the kids to Captain Mayhem’s School of Piracy and watch them set the sails, steer the schooner, and learn sailor skills! This sail is our kid-friendly cruise, recommended for kids 10 and under. Older kids may prefer Sightseeing Daysail.

On this trip:

• Children will help with raising the sails, have the chance to steer the boat, learn how to tie knots and other sailing skills!
• Children will get Alliance tattoos!
• We will be firing the cannon!

The Schooner will set sail for a 1.5 hour cruise departing at 10:30am and returning by 12:00pm.

• Chevron down What to Wear
• Please wear flat-soled shoes – avoid heels or platforms.
• Bring a jacket in the cooler months as the temperature gets cooler on the water than on land.
• Chevron down What to Bring
• A camera to capture all the sights!
• Extra cash with you to buy snacks or drinks on board, and for a crew gratuity.
• A valid ID if you want to buy alcohol on board.(ABC permit is pending, alcohol is currently not served aboard. Sorry for the inconvenience) Tips for your hardworking crew are greatly appreciated.
• Chevron down What not to Bring
• Please do not bring any personal foods or beverages.
• No coolers/ice chests!
• Do not bring large items (e.g. strollers) since there is limited storage space on board. Strollers can be left on the dock.

Related Activities

• our most popular!
• Sailboat Schooner Alliance II
• Hour Glass 1 hour and 30 minutes
• User All ages

Schooner Alliance II: Yorktown Sightseeing Day Sail

Enjoy a daytime cruise aboard the Tall Ship Alliance II on the York River from the Riverwalk Landing Pier. Immerse yourself in 300 years of history and enjoy the village streets and paths overlooking the York River before you board the ship. Book online!

• Hour Glass 2 hours

Schooner Alliance II: Yorktown Scenic Sunset Sail

Take a scenic sunset cruise aboard the Tall Ship Alliance II on the York River from the Riverwalk Landing Pier. Come aboard and enjoy the evening views of the York River while enjoying a beverage from our ships’ galley.