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Port Transportation: Getting to the Manhattan Cruise Terminal Without a Car

If you are flying in for your cruise or just don’t want to deal with the headache and expense of dealing with parking your car, we have you covered.

The good news is that in a city with a mature transportation network like New York, you have a number of options in getting to the port. And if you’re overwhelmed with trying to get around the city, don’t worry, we’ll tell you exactly how to get to the terminal without dealing with driving.

As for convenience, it’s hard to beat transportation network companies like Uber and Lyft. By downloading the app, you can call a car on demand, anywhere in the New York/New Jersey area. So even if you are flying into Newark or staying outside the city proper, you can still get a ride.

Unlike most cities across the country, rates for Uber/Lyft are roughly in line with their taxi counterparts, but it does depend on where you are coming from and where you are going. For example, if you are flying (or staying) in New Jersey and sailing from Manhattan, then you’ll be charged extra for your car going from New Jersey to New York. Uber charges $20 for going between the two states. Lyft charges $15 for passing between the two states.

Still, it’s hard to beat the convenience and high service level associated with these services. Below, we’ve listed their estimated prices from the areas around town to the Manhattan port. (Note that the taxi fares include a customary 20% tip. Uber & Lyft prices do not. Uber doesn’t use tipping. Lyft makes it optional.)

If you think you want to take a rideshare service, you can read more details about Uber & Lyft here .

When you think of New York, one of the most iconic images is of a person waiting on the side of a busy street hailing a yellow taxi. With around 15,000 taxis in the city alone, they are a popular (and highly visible) way to get around.

If you are coming from an area airport to the Manhattan Terminal, then picking up a cab at the airport is easy as they all have taxi stations where you can hop in. Elsewhere in the city you can have your hotel call you a cab or simply go out and hail one like a local.

Rates are typically a little higher than rideshare services. We’ve listed estimated rates in the table above. As you can see, you’ll spend a little (but not excessively) more to take a taxi.

One suggestion is to take a cab if you are coming from JFK International. The taxis have a flat rate of $52 from the airpot to anywhere in Manhattan .

Cruise Shuttles

The two most frequent visitors to the Manhattan Terminal are Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Lines. Both offer shuttle service to the port.

Carnival has the most offerings of any cruise line we’ve seen in the area, with shuttles that will transfer you from all three major area airports. Prices are reasonable if traveling solo or as a couple, but you can still find a better deal with a cab or Uber/Lyft. Here’s a look at Carnival’s transfer rates. Note that rates a per person.

Newark Airport One Way: $31.00 Round Trip: $62.00 LaGuardia Airport One Way: $32.00 Round Trip: $64.00 John F. Kennedy Airport One Way: $33.00 Round Trip: $66.00

Norwegian Cruise Lines also offers a shuttle, but only between New York’s LaGuardia Airport. If you are flying into JFK or Newark, you’ll need to use alternate transportation. The fare is $40 one way, per person.

For a couple of reasons, we usually suggest going with another option than a cruise shuttle transfer. First, it is expensive if traveling with more than just one or two people.. The rates shown above are per person. So a family of four is paying $31 each ($124) just to get from Newark Airport to the cruise port, or $248 round-trip. Other options usually price based on the car, not the number of occupants.

Second, cruise transfers are extremely limited. In this case, they run only from area airports to the Manhattan Terminal… and only on the day of sailing. So if you come in early or are staying at a hotel in the area, then the cruise line transfer isn’t a viable option.

Independent Shuttles/Car Services

If you are traveling with a larger group to the Manhattan port, then your best bet is likely to look for an independent shuttle or private car service. These providers can offer private service to the port, usually for less per person than a taxi or other service, assuming you have seven or more passengers.

To be frank, the number of shuttles and car services in the New York area is extremely high. That means we can’t list them all here. Instead, we’ve rounded up a sample list of area companies to give you a good start to go from.

The prices quoted by these companies can vary widely depending on what sort of service you need and exactly where you are coming from. However, as a general rule expect it to be a better value the larger a group you need to transport. Be sure to shop around before selecting a service as it can save you considerable money.

One other thing to keep in mind is that the prices you are quoted won’t include gratuity, which can add on another 15-20% to your fare.

https://www.goairlinkshuttle.com https://www.carmellimo.com http://www.winstontrans.com/service_to_from_manhattan_cruise http://www.hyslimo.com/Content/Piers_and_Cruises.asp

Public Transportation (MTA)

If you want to use public transportation, the M50 bus runs east and west across Manhattan, along 49th and 50th Streets, dropping off right near the terminal. Bus fare is $2.75.

You’ll likely need to transfer to the bus from a subway, unless you are staying near the M50 bus route. Many major subway lines have a station on either 49th and 50th Streets, including the A, C, E, N, Q, R, B, D, F, and M. You’ll simply need to get off and then catch the M50 bus eastbound to the cruise port.

While cheap, riding public transportation can be a little confusing for first timers, and stressful when you are trying to carry your bags for a cruise. You can check out the information about the M50 route and riding the bus here to help you get your bearings.

Photo: Heather Paul

More on cruising from manhattan.

Manhattan Terminal Cruise Parking — Parking at the port? We’ve got you covered with all your parking options, including costs and discounts.

Manhattan Terminal Cruise Hotels — Getting in late? Leaving early? Simply need a place to rest your head? We’ve rounded up the options for places to stay near the port.

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Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 12+ convenient hotels near the manhattan cruise terminal, guide to new york cruise parking (cape liberty, manhattan, brooklyn), dropping off passengers at new york cruise ports (with pictures), 12 cheap hotels (under $200) within 2 miles of the manhattan cruise terminal, sailing from new york city ports, taking uber & lyft to the manhattan cruise terminal.

I just wanted to thank you for the concise and seemingly complete info about travel from a New York airport to the port-of-departure for a cruise. I am a first time cruising person. As a Canadian, I was unsure about booking my cruise departure location. I was worried about arriving in “New York, New York” I am so very grateful that you have dispelled the myths about being unfriendly to visitors.

I’m sorry to have thought that I thought New York was an unfriendly place. Your website is full of very informative stuff that I thought was just for “the ‘insiders’- ‘only for new yorkers’, etc.” . New York city is seemingly, actually welcoming and understanding to visitors.

Thank you so very much. Beverly Miller

just got off NCL Star and the food was fine. It’s not as fancy as some but perfectly good and attractive. The service can be excellent or good but rarely mediocre.

My family has been thinking about going on a cruise this fall. So, I liked that you pointed out that when we get off the boat there are several different transportation options. Personally, I think that a large shuttle or car service would work with our family.

Don’t go Norwegian, you will have more fees than anything. THe food is like slop and service is mediocre.

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New York (NYC Manhattan-Brooklyn)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region East Coast USA and Canada New England

Local Time 2024-06-27 00:32

Port New York cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from New York, NYC Manhattan-Brooklyn. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port New York has two cruise ports with their own passenger terminal facilities. Port Manhattan (4 berths on 2 piers - numbers 88 and 90) is located on Manhattan Island's western coast, beside the Hudson River. Port Brooklyn (1 berth) is located approx 6 mi (10 km) to the south, on eastern Upper Bay on Brooklyn’s Red Hook waterline.

Cape Liberty Cruise Port is also in New York Harbor but is part of Bayonne City (New Jersey) . Bayonne's Military Ocean Terminal serves Royal Caribbean Group/RCG-owned ships from the fleets of RCG's subsidiaries RCI-Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises , while ships of RCG's subsidiary Silversea dock at NYC's Manhattan Terminal.

Currently, NYC's Manhattan Cruise Terminal serves CCL-Carnival , NCLH ( NCL-Norwegian , Oceania , RSSC-Regent Seven Seas ), TUI ,  Virgin Voyages and other major companies .

Currently, NYC's Brooklyn Terminal serves Cunard Line and MSC .

All these ports/cruise terminals are part of the "Port of New York and New Jersey" - a port district in the New York Metro (total population 20,1+ million).

Around 8,1 million New Yorkers live on Long Island (population density 5860 per mi2/2262 per km2).

NYC cruise port

Port NYC NJ (officially "Port of New York and New Jersey") handles a huge cargo shipping volume and is US East Coast's biggest seaport.

Port's cruise schedule lists voyages the whole year round. During winter are popular southbound itineraries – to the Caribbean and Bahamas. During summer are operated mainly roundtrips to Bermuda as well as Transatlantic crossings (USA-UK/ Southampton ). In autumn are offered "Fall Foliage" cruises to Canada and New England USA.

In May 2013, Port NYC started a project to raise Bayonne Bridge in order to allow access to the world's largest container ships  to the cargo ports of New York City and New Jersey (Elizabeth and Newark). The project also included dredging (deepening) the navigation channel.

On September 7, 2017, the boxship CMA CGM Theodore Roosevelt (2015-built, IMO 9780873) passed under the elevated Bayonne Bridge. The vessel has TEU capacity 14855 containers, LOA length 366 m, volume 152,991 GT-tons. It became the largest ship to pass under the Bayonne Bridge.

On September 28, 2023, NYC's Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC/1991-founded nonprofit) announced new port usage agreements (for Manhattan's and Brooklyn's terminals) signed with Carnival Corporation, NCLH-Norwegian and MSC. The agreements were designed to increase revenues and sustainability/emissions reduction, with term lengths ranging between 3-15 years, each with an optional 5-year renewal.

The 2023-signed agreements included establishing a Community Priority Fund (by adding US$1 per cruise passenger; to be used for projects in the cruise terminals' neighborhoods/Red Hook and Midtown Manhattan), planning ground transportation (improvements to maximize public transportation/reducing road traffic), reducing CO emissions (where feasible, including shore power connections/all cruise ships in NYC must be equipped with the technology by 2028), increasing local provisioning and developing educational partnerships with NYC-based institutions.

Port New York and New Jersey

Port New York and New Jersey is the seaport of NYC metro. It encompasses an area with a radius ~25 mi (40 km) and includes all navigable waterways in NY–NJ Harbor Estuary. The covered coastline is around 650 mi (1050 km) along both states. NYC Harbor is among the world's largest natural harbors. By annual cargo capacity, the seaport is ranked USA's 3rd largest - after South Louisiana (Mississippi River) and Houston (Texas).

Within the seaport there are 2 FTZs (foreign-trade zones) where commercial goods (domestic and foreign) receive same Customs treatment as outside USA. Annually, Port NY-NJ handles around USD 208 billion in shipping cargoes, around 3,4 million TEU's (shipping containers) and nearly 0,4 million cars.

• In July 2017, the port's largest container ship so far (CMA CGM Theodore Roosevelt - 14,400 TEUs ) passed under the raised Bayonne Bridge.
• The channels (as draft) and the bridges (as heights) limit the vessels that can enter the harbor.
• Verrazano-Narrows Bridge's clearance is 228 ft (67 m).
• Brooklyn Bridge's clearance is 135 ft (41 m).
• Bayonne Bridge's clearance (lowered-raised) is  155-215 ft (47-65,5 m).

The company "Port Authority of New York and New Jersey" was established in 1921 to manage all facilities and services within the combined NY-NJ harbor area. The company also controls all vehicular and rapid-transit systems connecting New York and New Jersey, several airports, as well as real estate developments. It also maintains its own police force.

US Army Corps of Engineers are involved in regular harbor maintenance works (bulkhead and channels). USCG (Coast Guard) maintains all floatable debris and marine accidents and incidents (spills, rescues, counter-terrorism operations). Both states (NY and NJ) maintain maritime police units. US Customs and Border Protection and US Immigration and Customs agencies regulate international shipping imports and cruise passenger arrivals.

Port's foreign trade zones - FTZ 1 (New York) and FTZ 49 (New Jersey)  handled in 2010 a combined shipping traffic of 4811 vessels and over 32,2 million tons of cargoes valued USD 175+ billion.

In March 2006, some passenger terminals were transferred (as management) to DP World ( Dubai -based corporation).

The seaport has 4x containership terminals, ranking it (by combined volume) the US East Coast's largest, USA's 3rd busiest and the world's 20th largest cargo port. Terminals are leased to private operators.

• Howland Hook Marine Terminal (northwestern Staten Island)
• Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal (Newark Bay)
• Port Jersey Marine Terminal and Red Hook Marine Terminal (both in Upper New York Bay)
• Maher Terminals LLC operates the port's largest containership facilities, served by a total of 11x Liebherr STS (ship-to-shore) megamax container cranes.

NY-NJ port's main imports are petroleum, appliances, vehicles, plastics, electronics, chemicals, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, optical and photographic materials, precious gems and metals.

ExpressRail network supports intermodal freight transport interconnecting all major terminals. In 2014, the total number of handled intermodal TEUs was 391,596. Most imports are transported in TEUs. Petroleum and scrap metals are handled at bulk cargo terminals, many of which are located along the port's straits and canals.

• New York New Jersey Railroad serves freight cars across Upper Bay, connecting Jersey City with Brooklyn (between Greenville Yard and Bush Terminal Yard). The 4 km crossing takes 45 min.
• Cross-Harbor Rail Tunnel is a proposed project under Upper Bay, with western portal at Greenville Yard and eastern portal still undetermined.

Cruise ships and ferries in Port New York and New Jersey dock at the berths of Cape Liberty Cruise Port (Upper Bay, Bayonne NJ) , Brooklyn Cruise Terminal (Upper Bay, NYC) and New York Passenger Ship Terminal (Hudson River, NYC).

• Regularly scheduled ferry service across Upper Bay connects South Ferry with St George Ferry Terminal, serving daily around 75,000 passengers.
• Major ferry terminals are Hoboken, Battery Park City, Paulus Hook, Weehawken Port Imperial, Pier 11, West Midtown and the East 34th Street Landing. Most smaller-sized ferries serve only 1 route.
• Small boats operate leisure tours, excursions and NYC harbor cruises. They circumnavigate Manhattan or navigate into Upper New York Bay.

In July 2017, through bidding, Ports America won a contract for operating Manhattan and Brooklyn cruise terminals until 2029. The deal required investments of USD 38,5 million in infrastructure improvements, including Pier 90 berth rehabilitation, extended aprons, new fenders. Brooklyn Pier was extended by 45-60 m (150-200 ft) to allow berthing for larger boats. Construction works started in 2018.

Season 2018 featured two large newbuild liners - Carnival Horizon (133500 GT-tons, 4700 passengers) and Norwegian Bliss (168000 GT-tons, 4900 passengers).

New York ferries

In 2018 was inaugurated the ferry line connecting Bayonne NJ with Manhattan (across Hudson River).

A US$650,000 federal grant was given to the city for the building of a new ferry terminal. The facility is on the southern part of the Military Ocean Terminal, on an artificial peninsula east of NJ Route 440.

The 1,5-acre land site (former US Navy base) was purchased in 2010 and leased for ferry docking at US$200,000 per year.

In the previous year (2017) NYC Ferry inaugurated the commute ferry service linking Manhattan with Long Island (Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Bronx). In 2016, NYC Ferry's fleet consisted of 19 newbuild boats.

• On May 1st were launched the East River route (North Brooklyn to Midtown and NYC's Financial District) and the Rockaway route (Lower Manhattan to Sunset Park and The Rockaways).
• On June 1st was launched the South Brooklyn route (8 terminals/between Corlears Hook and Bay Ridge) linking Bay Ridge, Sunset Park, Red Hook, Brooklyn Bridge Park.
• On August 29th was launched the Astoria route (between Western Queens and Roosevelt Island) linking Wall Street/Pier 11, East 34th Street, LIC/Long Island City Queens, Roosevelt Island Manhattan, and Astoria Queens.

In August 2018, NYC Ferry launched a link between Soundview (South Bronx) and Manhattan. The landing site in Bronx is at Clason Point Park (Sound View Ave's end). The nearest subway station (Morrison Ave-Sound View) is 2 mi (3 km) away. Ferry travel time Bronx-Manhattan is 45-min. In Manhattan, ferries stop at 90th St (Upper East Side), East 34th Str (Midtown), Pier 11 (Wall Str). Currently, NYC Ferry operates 6 routes.

New York cruise terminal

The following NY & NJ cruise port map shows the locations of all three cruise terminals (NYC's Manhattan and Brooklyn, and Bayonne NJ's Cape Liberty).

NYC Manhattan Cruise Terminal

The Manhattan passenger terminal is on Hudson River (on Manhattan Island's shoreline), located is between West 44 and West 52 streets. Both Newark International Airport and LaGuardia Airport are located approx 15 mi (24 km) away, while JFK International Airport is approx 20 mi (32 km) away.

This NYC cruise terminal has 3 wharves – Pier 88 (2 berths), Pier 90 (2 berths), and Pier 92 (1 overflow berth). They can accommodate up to 5 cruise liners simultaneously and each has a fully-functioning passenger terminal building. Manhattan terminal serves NCL Norwegian , Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America . At Pier 92's south side dock large liners.

In early 2017, NYC Economic Development Corporation selected Ports America as long-term cruise ship terminal operator for both Brooklyn (1 berth) and Manhattan (Pier 88 and Pier 90), Ports America also supplies cruise ship provisions for vessels docked at Pier 92.

At the top of all the piers, there is a building with dedicated parking lots, snack bars, restrooms, check-in, VIP areas, customs, newsstands.

• Address: "Manhattan Terminal, 711 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10019"
• Manhattan Terminal parking: daily parking rate ($18, for 10 hours), overnight rate ($23, for 24 hours). Theparking rate for multiple days is $20 daily.

NYC Brooklyn Cruise Terminal

Located across Governors Island, Brooklyn NYC cruise port terminal is in Red Hook. LaGuardia Airport is 12 miles away, Newark International Airport – 16 miles away and JFK International Airport is 20 miles away.

Brooklyn New York cruise ship terminal used to be a cargo port. You will get very ”industrial feel”. The terminal building on Pier 12 is a new one. The facilities are vending machines, check-in, restrooms and customs. There is a parking area with 500 spots. Brooklyn New York cruise port terminal can accommodate only one ship. It serves Princess Cruises and Cunard ships.

• Address: "Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, Pier 12, Brooklyn, NY 11231"
• Brooklyn Terminal parking rates (subject to change): $35 daily.

Brooklyn cruise terminal's shorepower

Since 2016, Brooklyn Cruise Terminal provides shore-power .

The shore-to-ship electric power supply project was first announced in 2011.

Cunard's liner RMS Queen Mary 2 was the first-ever vessel (officially plugged-in on November 12th, 2016).

The US$21 million system was signed off by the New York and New Jersey Port Authority and turned over to the NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), which currently oversees the cruise shipping program for Brooklyn and Manhattan. As of September 2016, NYCEDC has responsibility for the system's operations and maintenance.

The plug-in shorepower was installed by Cochran Marine. This is a dual-voltage system targeted for use by Cunard Line and  Princess Cruises , which are the terminal’s primary customers. The Terminal's cable positioning device is removable, so it can be stored during winter.

Connecting to Con Edison power grid, the shorepower system allows ships to run their onboard systems without using diesel generators. This eliminates ~1500 tons of CO2, ~95 tons of NOx, and ~6,5 tons of soot/particulate matter annually.

In 2010, the NY-NJ Port Authority estimated that improvement to air quality could yield public health benefits of USD 99 million over 15 years. That was a key element for community groups around the terminal’s Red Hook neighborhood to start pushing for shore power. Beyond the infrastructure cost, the project was delayed by haggling over the price of electrical power – in an era where cheap fuel prices made shipboard generation more economical. The power costs are subsidized in part by the EDC and the New York Power Authority, with terminal user Carnival Corp picking up the rest. As part of an agreement,  Carnival Corporation pays USD 12 cents per kilowatt-hour for shorepower.

Costs were ~USD 10 million (to service one slip) and involve substantial infrastructure improvements. Ship operators must spend ~USD 1 million to make a vessel shorepower-ready. Demand on the energy grid is substantial too. A typical container ship in port uses about as much energy as a single terminal at Boston ’s Logan Airport, while RMS Queen Mary 2 requires 13 megawatts (equal to the entire airport).

New Jersey Cape Liberty cruise terminal (Royal Caribbean)

In October 2014, RCCL-Royal Caribbean and NYC Port Authority dedicated a Cape Liberty cruise terminal for the RCI's ship Quantum OTS. The new terminal started operations on November 10, 2014.

The new facility is located at Port Terminal Blvd (Bayonne waterfront), adjacent to the Tear Drop Memorial (Russia-built 10–story sculpture). The US$55 million building project included port expansion with a new passenger terminal, featuring a total covered area of 125000 ft2 (11600 m2) that hosts check-in, customs and immigration, luggage storage and processing area, parking area (capacity 950 cars/costs US$25 per day including taxes) and also improvements of the existing docking pier. The new terminal building is adjacent to the 2004-inaugurated terminal.

Port Cape Liberty is in close proximity to EWR-Newark Liberty Airport (10 mi / 16 km to the west, ~20-min travel time by car) and easy to access, skipping NYC's heavy traffic and bridges.

• Empire State Building: don’t miss that famed building. It is 1050 ft tall. You can take a look from the airy promenade after a great lift to the Observatory.
• Central Park: the iconic park dates from 1857. It is a large landscaped area where you can enjoy the Zoo, the Botanical Gardens, the Bethesda fountain, the Great Lawn and Belvedere Castle.
• Metropolitan Museum of Art: located between East 81 and East 82, dates from 1870. Discover artworks of famous artists – Aristotle with a Bust of Homer by Rembrandt, Wheat Field with Cypresses by Van Gogh, Young Woman with a Water Pitcher by Vermeer and The Unicorn in Captivity, medieval tapestry.
• Brooklyn Bridge: the bridge dates from the late 19th century. It spans across the East River. The Brooklyn Bridge and the views across Brooklyn, Upper Bay and Manhattan are breathtaking.
• Brooklyn Botanic Garden: 39 acres with beautiful gardens. Walk through the Bonsai Museum, the Tropical Pavilion, the Aquatic House and the Desert Pavilion. You can also have a coffee, buy a gift or something from the garden store.

New York tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Brooklyn Cruise Terminal Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Taking a cruise out of New York from the Brooklyn cruise terminal?  We have you covered with everything you need to know before you set sail.

The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, also commonly known as the Red Hook Terminal, first opened in 2006 and has maintained consistent operations since this day. Operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, this cruise terminal has become a popular departure point for those traveling to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada/New England, and even Europe.

Although smaller than its New York City counterparts (the Manhattan and Cape Liberty cruise ports), the Brooklyn cruise terminal handles nearly 50 ships across 3 cruise lines, and 250,000 traveling passengers annually with only a single pier.

In this article, we will discuss some important topics pertaining to New York’s lesser-known cruise terminal, such as general information, transportation to and from the pier, local hotel accommodations, parking options, and accessibility that passengers should be aware of to help them ensure a seamless vacation.

• Related:  Cape Liberty (Bayonne, NJ) cruise port guide
• Manhattan cruise terminal parking guide

Brooklyn Cruise Terminal General Information

If you’re sailing with Cunard, MSC Cruises, or Princess Cruises out of New York, your cruise will be departing from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Each of these cruise lines offer exciting itineraries across the globe, ranging from Caribbean destinations in the Bahamas, to uniquely curated fall foliage experiences on Canada/New England sailings.

The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is conveniently located at 72 Bowne Street Brooklyn, New York 11231 – it is important to make note of this exact address should you be driving in, or using a ride share option from a local airport. There is only one cruise berth here, Pier 12 , which makes navigation easy for first-time visitors.

Transportation Options to and From the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal

The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is situated in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. This port’s location makes it an ideal hub in the cruising industry, as it serves as a convenient departure port for passengers from not only surrounding areas, but those coming from afar to visit New York.

New York is a very accessible state, and therefore, has a wide range of options available to travelers when planning to reach their cruise destination. Some of these options include driving, the use of a car service, flying into a local airport, taking the train, a bus, or even a ferry!

Driving to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal

If you plan on taking your own car to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, you will enter from the Bowne and Imlay Street intersection. Due to the terminal’s smaller size, and single pier, it is easily accessible with parking close by.

Passengers cruising from within New York, or greater New Jersey make up most of the population who prefer this route. Although you will save money on transportation expenses without purchasing plane, or train tickets, you are required to pay a nightly fee to park your car for the length of your stay.

Using a Car Service (Taxi, Uber)

Another useful method of transportation when traveling is car service programs, such a taxi, and Uber, especially when traveling within the same state. This offsets the need to leave your car in a parking lot for an extended period, and the costs that are associated with this luxury.

Car service programs are abundant, and constantly operating in the Brooklyn New York area, and there are several options that can be planned for in advance to allow for a seamless vacation experience. The rates associated with your rideshare option will vary greatly depending on the day of the week, time of the year, and day, as well as which company you decide to use.

Flying into the New York/New Jersey Area

For cruisers traveling to New York for their vacation, flying is often a promising option for convenience, time, and even to create a more fun experience.

Some cruise lines have even been known to offer appealing flight discounts to encourage those out-of-state guests to visit new areas and try out different itineraries they may not have considered otherwise.

The closest airports to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal are LaGuardia Airport and JFK Airport in New York, as well as Newark Airport in New Jersey. Both LaGuardia and JFK are in Queens and are roughly 25-45 minutes respectively from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, depending on which airport you fly into.

Newark is roughly 45 minutes away. It is important to always factor in additional time for traffic, and unforeseen events to ensure that you reach your destination promptly.

When cruising, if flying to your destination is part of your vacation plans, you should always consider arriving the day before your trip commences. This is important to note because if your flight is delayed, or you miss your flight, and plans change, your ship will still be sailing that afternoon without you aboard, and your plans, and money will be forfeited.

Adding an additional day onto your vacation can also be a fabulous idea, especially when visiting a city as popular as New York, where there is always plenty to do!

Arriving by Train/Bus/Ferry

Some of the lesser popular options when it comes to transportation is arriving by train, bus, or even a ferry boat, but New York has them all.

If you would prefer not to fly, but don’t live close enough to drive, arriving by train can be a very viable option. New York City has two train stations – Penn Station, and Grand Central Station – with taxis, and other rideshare options readily available to transport you to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.

If you’re a seasoned New Yorker, and already have a bus pass, using the bus system may work in your favor here. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has routes posted on their website daily that can help you navigate how to reach the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.

While this can offset costs drastically, especially for those who already have bus passes, this option may not be ideal for large families, or those with physical limitations, as there is some walking involved.

Should you be visiting Brooklyn from a local New York borough, such as New York City, Queens, or Staten Island, the ferry is a very convenient option to help you reach the terminal. The New York City Ferry has a daily South Brooklyn route with frequent stops, one of which is the Red Hook stop, which will bring you closest to the pier.

Local Hotel Accommodations

There are several hotels centrally located to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, which provides convenient accommodation options for passengers sailing out of this port. Here are a handful of options that are in close proximity to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal:

The Lodge Red Hook

The Lodge Red Hook is one of the best options as far as accommodations go if you want to be closest to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. It is just under a mile from the pier and is about a 3-minute drive away, or, a 14-minute walk. Although there are no direct shuttles from any hotel in the Brooklyn area, this option is arguably the most convenient.

 New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge

The New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge is located within walking distance of the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal at just over 15 minutes, which also makes this accommodation an ideal choice as well. A nice advantage of this particular hotel is the on-site restaurant, which can be helpful for those traveling from far.

  Hampton Inn Brooklyn (Downtown)

This accommodation is in downtown Brooklyn and is just a short 15–20-minute drive, or ride to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Some significant perks of this option are the free breakfast option for all guests, comfortability, and cleanliness.

Related:  15 things you should do right after you book your cruise

Parking Options at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal

Parking at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is convenient, safe, and seamless for cruise passengers sailing out of this port.

Parking Rates

The cost of parking will vary depending on the duration your vehicle is parked in the lot, as the price is calculated daily. For example, having your vehicle parked for a 3-night sailing would be a smaller price tag than a 7-night sailing.

The current parking rates for standard-sized vehicles (which includes cars, vans, and trucks) is $25 per day. Oversized vehicles (RVs, busses, and limousines) will cost $40 per day. It is important to note that these rates are always subject to change, and it is always recommended that you check the NYCruise.com website prior to your sailing.

Parking Process and Procedures

The parking process at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is quite easy, and smooth for both first time visitors, and seasoned cruisers alike.

Upon entering the parking lot, you will receive a parking ticket with a bar code, which you will need to keep in effort to complete your payment and exit the parking lot after your cruise. Passengers can easily make a payment at one of the kiosks located inside of the terminal building before exiting the lot.

Essentially, the parking at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is much like a revolving door system. The cruise ships will arrive between 7am-9am, and passengers will disembark by 10:30am. This frees up parking spaces until the next series of passengers arrive, and park for their cruise.

Parking Accessibility

Accessibility and assistance regarding parking for those who may need this as an option is available at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.

There are several designated handicap parking spaces reserved for those who need this option. Additionally, Porters are on-site by approximately 9am to assist passengers with luggage and other belongings during embarkation and disembarkation. It is important to remember to that it is customary to tip these individuals in accordance with their services.

If you require additional service, it is recommended that you communicate these needs to either your travel agent prior to your arrival, or to the Brooklyn Cruise Line terminal staff to ensure that your needs are best met.

Additional Information

The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal currently does not provide free Wi-Fi for passengers, or visitors.

If you have purchased a Wi-Fi package directly with the cruise line you are sailing with, this will take effect after the embarkation process. Should you need Wi-Fi connection prior to sailing, it is recommended that you temporarily use your cellular data, or search for hotspots in the local Brooklyn area.

Bathroom Facilities:

There are plenty of bathrooms available for passenger use throughout the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.

All bathrooms are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure a standard of cleanliness and hygiene for all guests.

Additionally, there are accessible bathrooms for passengers with mobility impairments, as well as amenities for infants and young children.

In Conclusion

The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal serves as a significant port for the cruise industry, and offers exciting itineraries on several different cruise lines.

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• Liberty Landing Marina Jersey City, New Jersey
• Warren Street Jersey City, New Jersey
• Brookfield Place Terminal New York, New York

Ferry Adventure

Take the Liberty Landing Ferry to Liberty State Park and enjoy:

Directions to Warren Street, NJ: From Exchange Place and Hudson Street, walk South on Hudson Street towards Montgomery Street, turn right onto Morris Street, turn left on to Warren Street and the ferry leaves from the foot of Warren Street.

Directions to Brookfield Place Terminal, NYC :

• Take the 1, A, C to Chambers Street
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• Norwegian Cruise Line

taking the ferry from new jersey to manhattan cruise terminal

By manny1125 , July 7, 2014 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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Looking for some help on staying in New Jersey and taking the ferry to the manhattan cruise terminal?

We are a group of 21 people so we will have 5 vehicles and trying to find the best option for parking as parking 5 vehicles is pretty expensive.

Or would anyone recommend taking the amtrak from Syracuse, Ny to New Yok City. Our cruise is from Feb 1-13, 2015?

Thanks in advance for any help

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I highly recommend Amtrak. It is a short cab ride from the Penn Station to the cruise terminal. I am not sure about schedules, but if it works it would save you a ton of money.

Albany would give you several morning options.

Hi,   Looking for some help on staying in New Jersey and taking the ferry to the manhattan cruise terminal? We are a group of 21 people so we will have 5 vehicles and trying to find the best option for parking as parking 5 vehicles is pretty expensive. Or would anyone recommend taking the amtrak from Syracuse, Ny to New Yok City. Our cruise is from Feb 1-13, 2015? Thanks in advance for any help Manny

No matter where you park in the area they are going to charge you to leave your car for a week.

You might save a bit and stay at a hotel by one of the airports and use the cheaper offsite parking but the cheapest you will find is probably 10 a day and then factor in train, taxi from train to port etc and I am not sure how big the savings will be.

Amtrak is probably your best bet but I would be careful traveling say of cruise at that time of year, especially from Syracuse.

The Hilton Penn Station in Newark is more reasonably priced than Manhattan hotels. We came in a day early, and then the next day crossed the street to Penn Station. We found that PATH, the light rail was easier to get our luggage onto than the train that would take us into Manhattan Penn Station.

Does Amtrak go from Syracuse to Newark Penn Station?

http://parkright.com/670-w-43-st-new-york.shtml

Try them, cheaper than pier parking

Safe sailing

I spoke to a very kind customer service rep from the ferry company. We may do this for our October cruise. The ferry parking garage is, I believe, $13/day. I forget the ferry fare. After you get off of the ferry there is a free shuttle bus that takes you to a block or two away from the cruise terminal or you can get a cab where you disembark from the ferry. We are not yet sure of what we will do but this seems to be a reasonably priced option. The rep said that people going on cruises use the ferry a lot.

Welcome to Cruise Critic,

You can have a look and/or post a new thread here : http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=415

It's the board for the East coast departure.

The bus from Albany will cost you 90$ per person round trip and includes FREE parking in Albany.

http://www.yankeetrails.com/

I highly recommend Amtrak. We took the train from Niagara Falls, NY in December 2006 and it was fantastic. We did have 3 kids 8 and under with my DH and I and it was well worth it. The last time we sailed out of the NY area was in Brooklyn so we drove and the parking rate wasn't too bad but in August we are sailing from Manhattan so decided to take the Amtrak again. We can park for free at the train station and the train cost less than what parking for the week would be in Manhattan so it is definitely worth it IMHO. We are coming in the night before and booked the Hilton Garment District for $169 which is 10 min walk from Penn station and we will take a cab to the port in the morning.

Thank you for the tip about Hilton garment district.

familycruzer

I posted this a while ago.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2004158&referrerid=117463

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This N.J. town just got millions for its new ferry terminal to N.Y.C.

• Updated: Jun. 26, 2024, 2:16 p.m. |
• Published: Jun. 26, 2024, 12:35 p.m.
• Larry Higgs | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

The effort to start commuter ferry service between Carteret and New York City got another fiscal boost from a $5.6 million federal infrastructure grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

A new ferry terminal was one of 148 projects around the nation that received federal Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity grants that were announced Wednesday, U.S. Department of Transportation officials said.

That grant will help with the construction of the three story 47,000-square-foot hub of the borough’s forthcoming ferry service, Mayor Dan Reitman said in a statement. The most recent grant adds to a $5 million state Department of Community Affairs grant awarded in April. Ferries would run between the borough and New York ferry terminals at World Financial Center and Midtown Manhattan at West 39th Street.

Stories by Larry Higgs

• Port Authority needs $1B loan to replace NYC bus terminal, N.J. congressman says
• Feds end mediation between NJ Transit and engineers’ union. What happens now?
• Amtrak train delays have N.J. Congressional leaders demanding answers

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Want to see Macy's July 4 fireworks up close? NY Waterway offers harbor cruise

N Y Waterway is set to host its annual 4th of July Cruise, promising unparalleled views of Macy’s 47th Annual Fireworks Spectacular over New York Harbor.

Departing from the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal in Weehawken, the cruise offers guests a scenic tour of iconic New York City landmarks before anchoring in the Hudson River for prime viewing of the nation's largest fireworks display.

The Independence Day celebration includes a buffet of food, beverages, and cocktails, alongside a DJ spinning tunes synchronized to the fireworks show. Each guest will also receive a complimentary glass of champagne to toast the occasion.

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For convenience, ticketholders coming from Manhattan can enjoy complimentary round-trip ferry service from Midtown to Port Imperial by presenting their July 4th Cruise voucher to deckhands.

Departure time for the July 4th Cruise is set for 7:00 pm. Ticket prices are as follows:

• Adults $170
• Seniors $160
• Children aged 4-12 $130 and toddlers under 4 free.

Secure indoor parking is available at the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal, ensuring a hassle-free experience for attendees.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit NY Waterway's official website .

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Want to see Macy's July 4 fireworks up close? NY Waterway offers harbor cruise

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B61 Bus between Van Brunt Street and King Street

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Citibike: Commerce St between Imlay St. and Van Burn Between Pioneer St and Van Brunt St Van Brunt St & Wolcott St. Coffey St. and Conover St Richards St & Delavan St Coffey Park, Richard St and Pioneer St. Loraine St. & Dwight St. Columbia St. and W 9th St. Columbia St. and Loraine St. W 9th St. and Henry St. Henry St. and Bay St.

• Red Hook has been part of the city of Brooklyn since the 1600s and was named for the red clay soil and the Dutch word for point (Hoek) by Dutch colonists of New Amsterdam in 1636
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• In the 1840s entrepreneurs built innovative ports along the canals and basins in Red Hook, and by the 1920s Red Hook was the busiest freight port in the world!

9 best cruise ports for repeat visits

One of the most appealing things about taking a cruise is getting to visit several new islands or cities during a single vacation. Cruise often enough, however, and you'll likely double back on ports you've already seen. But is that always a bad thing?

Not if the port is a place with lots of sights and activities that can't all be enjoyed during a single visit. That means certain places are definitely worth going back to on another cruise. Here's a helpful guide to the nine best cruise ports for repeat visits — and yes, I've been to all of them multiple times.

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If you've cruised the Mediterranean , chances are good you've already been to Barcelona since many ships use it as a home port for the season. I've visited six times — including several precruise overnight stays — and I've yet to experience everything in this sprawling city filled with architectural landmarks, lush parks, world-class museums, inviting tapas bars and even a beachfront boardwalk.

Perhaps the biggest attraction in Barcelona is architect Antoni Gaudí's soaring La Sagrada Familia, still a work in progress almost 100 years after his death. (It's scheduled for completion in 2026.) I've visited this landmark each time I've been in Barcelona, first in 2005 and most recently in 2022, and I always find something new to appreciate in its towering, whimsical interior.

If you like Gaudí's style, take advantage of a repeat visit to Barcelona to explore his other creations. You can admire the art nouveau flourishes and alien-looking rooftop chimneys of La Pedrera (aka Casa Mila), an apartment building on the Passeig de Gracia, and the colorful mosaics and sculptures of the whimsical Park Guell.

Many folks walk up and down Las Ramblas on their first visit, but take time on a return trip to further explore The Gothic Quarter, home to Barcelona's 15th-century cathedral (La Seu), edgy art galleries and bustling tapas bars. Also within walking distance of the port are the Barcelona Aquarium and Barceloneta Beach.

If you've seen the city and prefer green spaces, check out Montjuic. This mountaintop park with sweeping city views is home to the Joan Maragall Gardens and the Barcelona Botanical Garden, plus a half-dozen museums, including the Fundacio Joan Miró and the National Art Museum of Catalonia.

I've visited Boston just once on a cruise, in September 2023 during a Canada and New England sailing , but it was my sixth or seventh time in the city. I approached the day without any been-there, done-that frustration because Boston — a city that buzzes with both historic charm and modern-day energy — always has something new to discover.

Boston's top sights — including Fenway Park, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the 18th-century USS Constitution, the kid-approved Museum of Science and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum — are scattered around the city, so you might not get to all of them in one port stop. If you've managed to see them all, a DIY walking tour is a great way to spend a return visit if the weather is nice.

Most cruise lines offer free shuttles from the Flynn Cruiseport to a central location, typically near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. That's perfect if you're looking to explore a few neighborhoods or take a walk back in time along the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail.

I suggest you start at the Boston Common, America's oldest park, created in 1634. Look for its newest artistic landmark, The Embrace, a massive 65,000-pound abstract bronze sculpture modeled after a 1964 photo of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King.

At the nearby Granary Burying Ground, you can pay your respects to Paul Revere and several signers of the Declaration of Independence, including John Hancock and Samuel Adams. Across the footbridge, you can wander through the neighboring Public Garden and ride the whimsical pedal-powered Swan Boats that have been in operation since 1877.

Don't miss the charming Beacon Hill and Back Bay neighborhoods, especially the lavish late-19th-century townhouses along Commonwealth Avenue. Trudge to the Old North Church for a refresher on Paul Revere's 1775 midnight ride.

Reward yourself for getting your steps in with a bowl of creamy New England clam chowder at the Union Oyster House, established in 1826. Across the street in Union Street Park, you'll discover the New England Holocaust Memorial. This free outdoor installation features six glass towers etched with numbers representing the tattoos of millions of Holocaust victims, as well as quotes from survivors.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Quite a few sun-and-fun cruise ports offer the same-old options — the beach, a snorkel tour or duty-free shopping — but Cabo San Lucas on Mexico's Baja Peninsula features so many activities it's possible to visit multiple times and not do the same thing twice. Since Cabo is a premier port on both Mexican Riviera cruises and Panama Canal transits , it's a safe bet frequent cruisers might find themselves here more than once.

What can you do in Cabo? On my first visit, I enjoyed a catamaran sail to see the destination's best-known landmark: the photogenic El Arco natural stone arch and adjacent Lovers Beach. Both are located where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez — a spot where barking sea lions also love to gather. If you visit from December to March, you also might see the humpback and gray whales that winter here; alternately, you can book a whale watching tour to get a closer look.

Other popular water-based activities include glass-bottom boat tours and sport fishing. While the Pacific isn't as snorkel-friendly as the Caribbean, it is possible to snorkel in the calm waters of Chileno Bay.

If you've crossed sightseeing from the water off your must-do list, you can dive into Mexico's food and beverage culture on a repeat visit to Cabo. A tequila tasting is a must for anyone who craves authentic local flavors and can be enjoyed on its own or in combination with a cooking class or a salsa-making (and salsa dancing) class. Or, skip the tour and visit one of the many bars and eateries near the Cabo San Lucas Marina, where you can pair a salt-rimmed margarita with fresh Baja-style fish tacos.

For something more active, spike your adrenaline during an off-roading adventure, or go old-school with a horseback or camel ride along the beach. Have an artsy side? Options include excursions to San Jose del Cabo, known for its historic Mission (one of Baja's oldest) and Arts District with eclectic galleries, or to Todo Santos, a quaint Baja village filled with shops and galleries.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

It's hardly a secret that Eastern Caribbean cruises can get repetitive, especially the itineraries on the newest megaships, which due to their size can call on only a limited number of ports. One of them is Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, which welcomes 1.5 million cruise passengers a year and can accommodate up to six cruise ships in port daily.

I've been to St. Thomas five times, most recently on a cruise in 2019, and have yet to try all the activities on offer. The island offers both thrills (including zip lining, snorkeling and helmet diving) and chills (such as beach time, daiquiri-sipping and duty-free shopping). Plus, you can tick another island off of your bucket list by visiting neighboring St. John for an island tour or snorkel excursion to stunning Trunk Bay.

If spotting sea creatures is your thing, you can snorkel off of Sapphire Beach or in Christmas Cove or sail on a catamaran to a reef teeming with fish and coral. You can also bump up the adventure with a Sea Trek helmet dive at Coral World Ocean Park (the full-head apparatus allows you to walk along the ocean floor on a guided tour) or book a scuba dive to offshore reefs.

Prefer to stay atop the water? St. Thomas offers sea kayaking tours or, for a bigger adrenaline kick, flyboarding (where you strap your feet onto a water-powered hoverboard and blast out of the water to seemingly fly above it).

Crescent-shaped Magens Bay Beach on the island's north coast is St. Thomas' premier sunbathing spot; the panoramic view from Drake's Seat on the ride there is awesome, too. For a repeat visit, consider taking a 15-minute ferry ride from the Crown Bay cruise port to Water Island, where you can walk to Honeymoon Beach with its shaded palapas and beach bar or head to the island's east side to enjoy a swim from white sand Sapphire Beach.

If you're not afraid of heights, you can board a gondola for a ride to Paradise Point for panoramic harbor views from an elevation of 700 feet. Another thrilling option is a zoom above the treetops in a harness during a zip line adventure.

The major ports of Northern Europe are all ideal for fans of art, culture and architecture, but Copenhagen tops my list for a repeat visit because it also adds culinary creativity and contemporary design to the mix. I've visited the canal-laced capital of Denmark three times on cruises, spending a total of seven days — and I've yet to see everything.

Perhaps that's because I'm always drawn to three places. The world's longest pedestrian street, Stroget, is lined with shops and casual eateries and cuts through the city's historic center. The much-photographed Nyhavn harbor, where buildings date to the 17th century, offers outdoor cafes that are a magnet for both locals and visitors. The delightful Tivoli Gardens, a nearly 200-year-old amusement park, entices with its extraordinary landscaping, twinkling lights and wonderful dining options (from traditional Danish specialties to international favorites).

I've also enjoyed a canal cruise on each visit because it's both inexpensive (about $15) and offers a terrific overview of the city's architecture. Sights include the colorful facades of Nyhavn, the unique spire of the Church of Our Savior, the strikingly modern Royal Danish Opera House and the tiny Little Mermaid statue honoring native son Hans Christian Andersen.

Copenhagen also has a regal side, since Denmark is home to one of the world's oldest monarchies. Experience the pomp firsthand at Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the royal family; visit at noon for the ceremonial changing of the guard. Rosenborg Castle, meanwhile, is home to 400 years of Danish treasures, including the crown jewels.

Museums are another way to absorb Denmark's rich artistic and cultural heritage. Statens Museum for Kunst — National Gallery of Denmark houses a collection of Danish and international art, while Copenhagen Contemporary showcases installations from well-known artists and emerging talent. The Designmuseum Danmark features centuries of fascinating objects and special exhibits dedicated to Danish Modern furniture and home design.

Foodies, meanwhile, can follow their noses to an eclectic array of eateries, including street carts selling polser (the Danish version of the hot dog), cafes serving smorrebrod open-faced sandwiches and fresh herring, and 17 Michelin-starred restaurants.

Kahului, Maui

Of all the Hawaiian Islands , Maui offers visitors the most versatility. Not only does its coastline change from golden sand to black lava, but its interior varies from lush valleys to volcanic craters. I've been to Maui five times — twice on a cruise — and have spent 16 days enjoying its beaches and top tourist sights. Maybe I'm beginning to sound like a broken record, but, again, I still haven't done everything.

If you haven't yet been to the top of Haleakala, the 10,023-foot dormant volcano that dominates Maui's landscape, book a tour that offers panoramic views from its summit or lets you bike down its slopes. A whale watching excursion to spot humpbacks is an ideal choice from December through April; if the whales are off to their summer home, you can book a dolphin-watching tour instead. You can also enjoy a snorkel excursion to Molokini Crater or the nearby island of Lanai, where spinner dolphins and sea turtles are common sights.

Another Maui highlight is the Road to Hana, the infamously narrow and curved route that leads to the bucolic east Maui town of Hana with its dramatic black-lava beaches. If you're prone to motion sickness, you'll want to skip the road's 59 one-lane bridges and 620 hairpin turns.

If you're an independent type, you can rent a car near the port in Kahului and see a lot in one day. Visit scenic Iao Valley before heading to Upcountry on the lower volcanic slopes of Haleakala. There, you'll find the historic cowboy town of Makawao, home to craft shops and the T Komodo Store and Bakery (get there early before the cream puffs sell out), as well as Ali'i Kula Lavender and Surfing Goat Dairy.

Back at sea level, especially if cruising with younger kids, a fun alternative is the Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii. It features an array of native and endemic marine species. And did I mention Maui's incredible beaches? You can visit them over and over again and never tire of their white sand beauty.

Naples, Italy

Discovering the complex beauty of Naples during a 2023 Mediterranean cruise was a revelation. I'd been "through" Naples three or four times before — on my way to Capri and the Amalfi Coast — but I'd never actually explored the city. What I learned is that Napoli, Italy's third-largest city, is more than just the birthplace of pizza and the gateway to Pompeii. Its superb architecture, fascinating history and cache of archaeological treasures have all helped to inspire a recent tourism renaissance.

Naples has something for everyone. History buffs, shoppers and foodies will all enjoy a stroll along the narrow pedestrian street called Spaccanapoli in the city's historical center. Walking here, you'll feast your eyes on everything from intricate architectural details and bakery windows lined with cream-filled pastries to two landmark churches: the 15th-century Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo, with its fortresslike facade, and the Cappella Sansevero, a Baroque church known for its sculptures.

More monumental architecture from the 16th to 19th centuries awaits across town, including the ornate Teatro di San Carlo opera house and the elaborately domed Galleria Umberto I shopping arcade. The lavish Royal Palace of Naples was once home to the kings and queens who ruled the kingdom of Naples until the 19th century.

Naples has terrific museums and castles, too. Topping your list should be the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, which counts among its treasures the Roman artifacts from Pompeii. In the medieval Renaissance fortress of Castel Nuovo, you can find a collection of Italian frescos and paintings.

Beyond navigating Naples' fascinating urban mosaic, you can hop a fast ferry from the cruise port to the isle of Capri. There, take the funicular to chic shop-lined Capri Town, where scenic walkways fan out to stellar viewpoints. You can also take ferries to Amalfi Coast towns, including Sorrento and Positano, or book a tour to see the ruins of Pompeii.

Just remember: Before leaving Naples, enjoy one of the city's crispy thin-crust pizzas — or make that the reason for your return visit.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

My second Caribbean cruise in 1998 embarked in San Juan , and I've been back eight times since — with Old San Juan being my default setting for a day in port. Why? This colorful 500-year-old neighborhood is the perfect spot to explore on foot, has a lively vibe and offers something for history buffs, foodies and souvenir-hunters alike.

On the history front, there's no missing El Morro (officially Castillo San Felipe del Morro), the hulking fortress set on a promontory overlooking Old San Juan. Other centuries-old sights include the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, constructed in 1540, and Casa Blanca, San Juan's oldest residence. The latter was built in 1521 for then-governor Juan Ponce de León and is now a museum.

Whenever I'm in Old San Juan, I always stroll the shaded Paseo de la Princesa to the walkway between the sea and the city's old stone walls that passes beneath the Tiffany-blue La Fortaleza. Completed in 1540, it was originally a fort and prison but was converted to a palace that serves as the governor's official residence. I reenter through the Puerta de San Juan, a massive red gate, and make my way to vibrant Calle de la Fortaleza (famous for its overhead art installations) to snap a few photos.

If you've already seen Old San Juan, try a foodie walking tour to sample local specialties, such as garlicky mofongo (mashed plantains) and a creamy pina colada (which was invented here), or a bike tour from Old San Juan to Condado. This lively beachfront neighborhood is lined with resorts, bars and restaurants.

Beyond San Juan itself, a port call in Puerto Rico offers snorkeling at Escambron Marine Park, a surf lesson at Isla Verde beach and exhilarating all-terrain-vehicle or zip line adventures. Nature lovers can also book a tour of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. forest system.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Just because you've visited Vancouver before on an Inside Passage sailing to Alaska doesn't mean you shouldn't return on a Pacific coast cruise or even another Alaska itinerary . My three visits to this sophisticated city that's surrounded by the beauty of British Columbia's mountains-meet-sea wilderness have each been filled with remarkably different experiences — from totem poles and Chinese gardens to whale watching and sky-high gondola rides.

One option for a return visit is a stroll through Vancouver's downtown neighborhoods. Gastown, the city's historic core, offers heritage architecture, avant-garde galleries, fashion boutiques and trendy bars, restaurants and music venues. Don't miss the Gastown Steam Clock, which looks like an antique and sounds and steams every 15 minutes. In Chinatown, you can visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, which replicates Ming Dynasty-era traditions and is the first of its kind outside of China.

For a more nature-based wander, follow the shoreline all the way to Stanley Park on the Seawall Water Walk. (It's a bit of a hike — bike rentals are an option.) Once in the 1,000-acre park, check out its First Nations totem poles, pretty gardens and city skyline views. Families especially might wish to visit the park's Vancouver Aquarium to spy on sea creatures large and small or head to Second Beach to take a dip or splash in the fountains.

Take your sightseeing to greater heights with a seaplane tour — or stay grounded and simply watch the planes take off and land in the harbor. Flyover Canada (in Canada Place) only requires you to strap into a flight motion seat to virtually soar above the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.

Whether you're hungry for a taste of Vancouver or a souvenir, head to the Granville Island Public Market, which features local food outlets, farmers market stalls and artisans selling handcrafted items. Vancouver is also known for its inventive food trucks, serving everything from hot dogs infused with Japanese flavors to tasty tacos.

And then there's the great outdoors. On my last visit in April 2019, I finally got around to doing two Vancouver activities I hadn't done before. I took the Skyride to the summit of 4,039-foot Grouse Mountain to enjoy lunch with a panoramic view (if you're lucky, you'll glimpse one of two resident grizzly bears), and I explored the trails and dizzying elevated walkways at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The fresh mountain air sealed the deal. I'll definitely head back to Vancouver for more.

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