usa cruises april 2023

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The Best U.S. Cruises in 2023

By Janice Wald Henderson

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Could close-to-home U.S. cruises satisfy that out-to-sea itch? An ever-growing group of voyagers emphatically say yes. The memories of the challenges European cruisers faced last year surely contribute to U.S. cruises’ popularity boost. Besides, it’s so much easier (and far less costly) to find ports to drive to, or only require a short flight. Most American cruises possess the added allure of international flair, visiting the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada . Nearby waters deliver breathtaking natural beauty, adventurous shore excursions, and ship vibes that range from nonstop high-energy to pampering luxury. Here, several upcoming voyages sailing from American ports that rival any cruise in far-flung locales.

Booking tips for U.S. cruises

Where can you cruise in the united states.

American-flagged carriers like UnCruise Adventures offer Alaska, Pacific Northwest, and Hawaii cruises. American Cruise Lines counts the coastal Southeast, Alaska, Puget Sound, and New England among its itineraries. NLC America, a Norwegian Cruise Lines division, features the American-flagged  Pride of America sailing the Hawaiian islands. Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic cruise line possesses four American-flagged ships that cruise Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. 

Are there any cruises that stay in the United States?

Only American-flagged cruise lines can sail solely in the United States. Most popular cruise companies sailing multiple ships are foreign-flagged and must abide by laws requiring at least one foreign port stop. That’s why so many close-to-home cruises include Canada, the Caribbean, or Mexico. American-flagged cruise lines that can sail solely in U.S. waters include American Cruise Lines, UnCruise Adventures, and Lindblad Expeditions. 

What is the most popular cruise line in America?

Families love Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International for an abundance of amenities befitting multi-generations. Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Carnival Cruises are extremely popular for U.S. cruises , too.

How much does a cruise cost in the United States?

Prices vary widely depending upon the ship category. Contemporary lines are the most economical, premium fall in the middle, and luxury cruises are the priciest. You can find weeklong cruises that cost under $100 per person per day—talk about a deal. 

The 7 best U.S. cruises 2023

Celebrity cruises: an inaugural voyage through the eastern caribbean.

The fourth ship in this line’s game-changing Edge series, the 3,260-passenger  Celebrity Ascent  makes its inaugural eight-day sail round trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in December 2023. This sunshine-blanketed itinerary promises four charming Caribbean ports including Philipsburg, St. Maarten, and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, and three blissful sea days. You’ll want those onboard days to never end, with the ship providing so much outdoor space to soak up the balmy Caribbean sun and soft ocean breezes. A buzzy casino and 32 eateries, bars, and lounges are big-time lures, too. Shore excursions—chilling on powdery white sand beaches, snorkeling turquoise waters teeming with colorful coral and tropical fish, and sipping champagne on catamaran sunset sails—are mesmerizing. 

Departs December 3, 2023; fares begin at $1,299 per person.

Cunard: Independence Day celebration on an iconic ship

What better way to cruise in the U.S. than to celebrate July 4 th in Boston, sailing 2,691-passenger Cunard flagship  Queen Mary 2 round trip New York? How fitting to walk the historic Freedom Trail and tour the Boston Tea Party ship on this holiday. The eight-day voyage also includes stops in Newport, Rhode Island (be sure to ogle those Gilded Age mansions), and Halifax, Canada, where passengers can stroll breathtaking public gardens and take an emotional moment to behold the single Titanic deck chair at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.  Queen Mary 2 , widely hailed for its transatlantic crossings, is a wonderful ship to call home. On board, elegance prevails, with a formal evening dress code reflecting Cunard’s sense of occasion. Afternoon tea, a humongous library, ballroom dancing, and a planetarium are among numerous onboard activities keeping passengers engaged. If in the budget, book a Princess Grill Suite; less costly than the Queens Grill, it’s still awash in extra amenities (such as an exclusive private restaurant) and especially attentive service. 

Departs June 30, 2023; fares begin at $799 per person.

Holland America Line: 10-day voyage through the Mexican Riviera and Sea of Cortez

Revel in the Mexican Riviera’s splendor visiting ports like Loreto and Mazatlán when sailing round trip from San Diego on 2,650-passenger  Koningsdam . Dive, snorkel, jet ski, or kayak in pristine warm waters, gaze at UNESCO World Heritage Site cave paintings from pre-colonial indigenous peoples, or wander museums devoted to whales or archeology. Other port activities include ziplining, golfing, and sampling agave-based spirits. Onboard the ship, there are blues and rock-and-roll clubs that come alive at nightfall. Count on varied dining choices: New York-style pizzas, oysters on the half-shell, or juicy prime steaks, anyone? 

Departs November 25, 2023; fares begin at $849 per person.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Explore Belize, Mexico, and Honduras

Some of the most popular ports for American cruises are in Florida. How simple to sail round trip from Miami for seven days on the 3,804-passenger  Norwegian Joy  and kick up the adrenaline in three Central American countries: Mexico, Honduras, and Belize. In Roatán, Honduras, embark on an eco-adventure, interacting with capuchin monkeys and sloths, and bouncing on an all-terrain buggy through an impossibly lush jungle. Costa Maya, Mexico, lures ocean-lovers with snorkeling in the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest reef in the world, teeming with marine life. Or, maybe your passion lies in exploring Tulum’s Mayan ruins. Parasail or zipline in Harvest Caye, Belize—Norwegian’s 75-acre resort-style island in southern Belize. Onboard the recently remodeled ship, indulge in 15 dining venues including specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse and three main dining rooms, party at nightclubs, try driving a race car on a two-level track or seek Lady Luck at the casino, revel in Broadway and Vegas-style shows. Feeling brave? Swirl down a double-loop waterslide over the ship’s side. For an exclusive ultra-chill retreat post-activities, book accommodations in the Haven, with its own restaurant, pool, and butler service.  

Multiple departures from March to April and October to December 2023; fares begin at $829 per person.

Royal Princess ' sailing along the California coast is one of the best U.S. cruises.

Princess Cruises: Seven-day classic California coast

Celebrate spring in California sailing round trip from San Francisco, with ports like Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Ensenada, Mexico. The cruise unfolds on 3,560-passenger  Royal Princess , a most pleasing ship with a tranquil adults-only Sanctuary, and some compelling family lures such as high-caliber Broadway-style entertainment, the piazza-like Atrium, glass-floored SeaWalk, and a light and water show. In Santa Barbara, a notable curated outing promises a delicious meal at a leading local restaurant and a visit to a family-owned farm and “ground to glass” winery. Live it up at Universal Studios in Los Angeles, or admire the stunning art collection and striking modern architecture at Getty Center museum. The San Diego Zoo is a must, as is desert ziplining in Baja—although driving an ATV through Guadalupe Valley’s wine country is pretty darn cool, too. 

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Departs April 16, 2023; fares begin at $349 per person.

Silversea: Nome, Alaska, to Vancouver

Among U.S. cruises , an Alaska itinerary is a must-do. Go far beyond the typical Alaskan ports in this adrenaline-charged expedition onboard 274-passenger  Silver Wind . The ice-class ultra-luxury all-suite vessel spends 18 days exploring authentic Alaska with an impassioned expedition team including biologists and geologists. This cruise is majorly inclusive; all passengers receive complimentary dining and alcohol, tuxedo-clad butler service, shore excursions, and expedition gear. Primo sustainable caviar and its accouterments are complimentary, anytime, anywhere, onboard, too. Venture ashore with seasoned guides to hike the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge on St. Matthew Island, a bird-lover’s paradise of guillemots, auklets, and tufted puffins, and note the Shinto shrine left behind in the Aleutian Islands’ Kiska Harbor by occupying Japanese soldiers during World War II. More Aleutian explorations lead to jaw-droppers like pristine glaciers, fossilized forests, hot springs, and waterfalls, and wildlife sightings such as bald eagles, orcas, and blue foxes. 

Departs September 14, 2023; fares begin at $12,450 per person.

Viking: Canada and the Atlantic coastline

Spring and autumn are primetime for 16-day U.S. cruises between Fort Lauderdale and Toronto, Canada on 378-passenger expedition ship  Viking Octantis. This voyage features many inclusions, such as an enthusiastic expedition team, one complimentary landing or shore excursion in each port, and outings by kayak, rubberized small boats, and Special Operation Boats (12-seaters that leave the ship via a protected marina and can convert from open seating to enclosed cabin). As on other Viking ocean liners, 24-hour room service, king beds, spacious baths with heated bathroom floors, complimentary wine and beer with meals, and specialty restaurant dining also rank high among included amenities. Ashore, you’ll find a mix of fascinating cities (like Quebec City and New York City) and spectacular scenery. Bike about Toronto, hike Canada’s La Mauricie National Park, kayak or bird-watch in Charleston. And who knew there were more than 300 resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in the inlets, creeks and marsh flats around Charleston? Chances are, sightings will enchant on a guided tour. 

Departs April 13, September 15, and September 26, 2023; fares begin at $10,395 per person.  

This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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New York Cruise Guide > Cruises > April 2023

Cruises from NYC April 2023

The calendar of cruises from New York ports (Manhattan, Brooklyn and Cape Liberty cruise terminals) in April of 2023. Take a spring cruise out of NYC.

18 cruises are on the April schedule. 5 go to the Bahamas, 5 to Bermuda, 1 to the Caribbean, 3 to England, 2 to Italy, 1 to the Netherlands and 1 to Spain.

April 2: 7-night cruise to Bermuda & Virginia on Norwegian Cruise Line April 2: 7-night cruise to the Bahamas & Florida on Royal Caribbean April 5: 10-night cruise to the Caribbean on Norwegian Cruise Line April 6: 13-night cruise to the Netherlands on Holland America Line April 8: 8-night cruise to the Bahamas & Florida on Norwegian Cruise Line April 9: 7-night cruise to Bermuda & Virginia on Norwegian Cruise Line April 9: 7-night cruise to the Bahamas & Florida on Royal Caribbean April 15: 15-night cruise to Rome on Norwegian Cruise Line April 16: 7-night cruise to Bermuda & Virginia on Norwegian Cruise Line April 16: 13-night cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line April 16: 7-night cruise to the Bahamas & Florida on Royal Caribbean April 20: 14-night cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line April 20: 16-night cruise to Rome on Norwegian Cruise Line April 22: 15-night cruise to Barcelona on Norwegian Cruise Line April 23: 7-night cruise to Bermuda & Virginia on Norwegian Cruise Line April 29: 8-night cruise to the Bahamas & Florida on MSC April 30: 7-night cruise to Bermuda & Virginia on Norwegian Cruise Line April 30: 7-night cruise to England on Queen Mary 2

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CATCH THE WIND IN YOUR SAILS

West coast cruises.

Pack your shades and get ready to explore with a cruise to the West Coast.

Discover your adventurous side with a cruise to West Coast of the U.S. and Canada. Take in the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles with a drive down Sunset Boulevard. Peruse through bustling Pike Place Market in Seattle, or head to Vancouver, Canada, and hike the exhilarating Grouse Grind to a panoramic chalet at the summit. Marvel at Alaska's glacial mountains and at the dramatic cliffsides and lush, green valleys of the Napali Coast. Discover the magic with a West Coast cruise.

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Culture and Quirk

Get to know the distinctively laidback and unmistakably unique culture with the best West Coast cruises.  

The Weird West

Check out the island prison of Alcatraz in San Francisco. Eat a classic California burrito in San Diego , with French fries actually wrapped into the tortilla. Or try spam musubi — essentially spam sushi — in Hawaii.

Get Starstruck

A trip to the West Coast wouldn't be complete without a celeb spotting in Los Angeles . Take a tour of the Warner Brothers Studio, then head to Griffith Observatory for sprawling views of the city. End your day with a live performance at the Dolby Theater.

Cafe culture is huge on the west coast, so a visit wouldn't be complete without stopping by a local coffee shop and enjoying a warm cup of joe. Get a scientifically precise pour over at Blue Bottle in San Francisco or a stoutly pulled espresso shot at Dubsea Coffee in Seattle.

Get Lost in the Right Direction

From snorkeling in the Pacific to exploring the Canadian Rockies, you'll find endless adventures everywhere on a cruise to West Coast.  

Coast on Four Wheels

The rugged west coast is the perfect place to roll. Kauai , often called the Garden Island of Hawaii, is filled with lush forests, hiking trails and waterfalls. Perhaps the best way to see it all is on a 4x4 tour. Explore the unexplored parts of the island, and see why people from all over the world flock to its shores.

Find Your Wild Side

The national parks of the West Coast are full of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Check out the exotic desert landscapes of Joshua Tree just outside Los Angeles. Hike through the rugged mountains of Olympic National Park near Seattle. Or go kayaking at Gulf Islands National Park Reserve near Victoria, British Columbia .

Explore Like a Local

West Coast life is all about being active and outdoors. Get a bird's-eye view from the Skywalk suspension bridge in Vancouver, or walk the city's Seawall Trail along the coastline.

Best West Coast Cruises

A cruise to West Coast is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover the West Coast onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

LINGER IN THE LAST FRONTIER

Alaska beckons with boundless natural beauty and wild discoveries. Hit the trails in Kenai Fjords National Park . Watch for breeching whales and playful Steller sea lions during a boat ride across Resurrection Bay in Seward . And wander among colorful totems in culture-rich Ketchikan.

EXPLORE ALASKA CRUISES

ROCK THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

With its laid-back resort towns, renowned beaches and rich Mexican heritage, the Baja peninsula is one of the world’s most iconic vacation destinations. Venture deep into wine country near Ensenada , unwind shoreside in lively Cabo and dive into history and culture in quaint Mazatlán.

EXPLORE MEXICAN RIVIERA CRUISES

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO West Coast Cruises Insider

Depending on the time of year you visit the Pacific Northwest, rain is common here, so be sure to pack appropriate clothes. Compact umbrellas, light rain jackets and waterproof shoes are just a few of the items you should pack.

Whether you're ATVing or waterfall trekking, you're sure to find yourself outside no matter what you do in Hawaii. Always have your bathing suit, sunscreen and sunglasses in your day pack.

9 Cool Things To Do On Short Cruises From Los Angeles

The Best Destinations You Can Visit On A Mexican Riviera Cruise

Although the West Coast is known for its sunshine, it tends to cool off at night no matter the season, so pack light layers.

Hiking in Vancouver is a must! Be sure to pack insect repellent and bear spray to be cautious.

There's some etiquette to know when visiting Stanley Park in Vancouver. The majority of the path is a very strict one-way. If you get confused, refer to the signs providing direction all along the path, or ask a local to help you out.

A HIGHER STANDARD

From artisanal baked goods to ultra-fresh seafood, the creators of West Coast cuisine are committed to excellence.

The Old Way to Doughnut

When visiting Seattle, you need to try Top Pot Doughnuts. This doughnut shop is not only known for its hand-made circles of love but also its vintage aesthetic and commitment to doing things the old-fashioned (and delicious) way.

Take a Bite of Vancouver

Being that this city is located on the Pacific coast, you can enjoy some of the freshest fish in the world. On top of that, organic vegetables and locally sourced meats are plentiful at restaurants across the city. Head to Bluewater Cafe for cold briny oysters on the half shell.

Keep Your Cool

Beat the heat with the Hawaiian classic shaved ice. You'll find both locals and travelers enjoying this icy cool treat. What is shaved ice? It's a dessert made with ice finely shaved from a block, topped with fruit and fruit puree syrups. Head to Island Vintage Shaved Ice in Honolulu and order the lilikoi over soft serve ice cream.

RELATED PORTS

Discover the West Coast's varied hubs of adventure. Experience the rugged coastlines of Washington and Oregon, the mountains of British Columbia, the turquoise waters of Hawaii and the wilderness of Alaska. Whichever west coast cruise port you choose, you're sure to discover why so many call it the "best coast."

Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska

Ketchikan, Alaska

Sitka, Alaska

Seattle, Washington

Vancouver, British Columbia

Alaska Inside Passage, Alaska

Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

Inside Passage, Canada

Tracy Arm Fjord, Alaska

Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, Alaska

Victoria, British Columbia

Bar Harbor, Maine

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Corner Brook, Newfoundland

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Quebec City, Quebec

Saint John (Bay of Fundy), New Brunswick

St. John's, Newfoundland

Sydney, Nova Scotia

Nanaimo, British Columbia

Los Angeles, California

Skagway, Alaska

Hilo, Hawaii

Astoria, Oregon

Hawaii (Kailua Kona), Hawaii

Kauai (Nawiliwili), Hawaii

Maui (Lahaina), Hawaii

San Francisco, California

Montreal, Quebec

Saguenay, Quebec

San Diego, California

Mount Kilauea (Cruising), Hawaii

Napali Coast (Cruising), Hawaii

Santa Barbara, California

Glacier Bay (Cruising), Alaska

Haines, Alaska

Catalina Island, California

Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Alaska

Seward, Alaska

Monterey, California

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April Cruises

An elevated springtime experience

Celebrate spring on a luxurious April cruise to sought-after destinations around the world. Island hop through the Caribbean, soaking up the sunshine. Explore the volcanic landscapes and extraordinary wildlife of the remote Galapagos Islands. Cross the Atlantic Ocean on an epic two-week journey that will take you to Europe, where glamorous islands and historic cities await. The whole world is at your fingertips on a luxury cruise in April with Celebrity. Where will you go?

Itineraries

Top april cruise destinations, the caribbean.

The Caribbean is always in season. Sail away on cruises in April to popular ports like Cozumel, Key West, and San Juan, or venture further south to Cartagena, Aruba, and Curaçao. Snorkel impressive dive sites, swim over coral reefs, and bask on some of the whitest sands in the world. A variety of itineraries are available, from weekend getaways to the Bahamas to 10-night itineraries to see the best of the islands.

The Galapagos Islands

In the Galapagos Islands, you’ll find some of nature’s most incredible creatures. From giant tortoises to iguanas and sea lions, you’ll be able to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats on an April cruise with Celebrity. Hike through volcanic landscapes and snorkel alongside sea turtles and Galapagos penguins. Retrace the footsteps of Charles Darwin on Floreana Island, where you’ll find white-cheeked pintail ducks and native flamingos as you explore Cormorant Point.

Transatlantic Cruises

On a transatlantic cruise, you’ll spend 13 to 15 nights on board one of our luxurious cruise ships, with time to relax and enjoy fine dining, spa treatments, and dazzling entertainment. You’ll stop at subtropical Madeira or the Canary Islands before continuing to the heart of Europe. Depending on your itinerary, you might visit ancient Cadiz and dynamic Barcelona, or Cobh, the gateway to Ireland’s castles and rolling hills. Or Paris, which is at its most seductive in springtime.

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Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

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For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024

Mon-Fri 9am - 7pm EST Sat-Sun 9am - 6pm EST

MSC WORLD CRUISE 2023:  MSC magnifica

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey around the world aboard  MSC Magnifica and explore over 40 destinations spanning across three unforgettable months.

MSC Poesia will be simultaneously performing her World Cruise 2023. Please note MSC Poesia’s World Cruise 2023 is currently sold out and has a waiting list.

And while discovering the world’s most amazing secrets, add further spice to your journey savoring delicious dishes, enjoying a world-class entertainment and relax watching the world go by from the comfort of your stateroom. You’ll return home with a world of spectacular memories to cherish forever.

This transatlantic cruise will take you around the world to discover 43 unique treasures . Below are just some of the hot spots you will discover: Puerto Madryn  (Argentina), Ushuaia  (Argentina), Punta Arenas  (Chile), Puerto Montt  (Chile), Valparaiso  (Chile), Callao/Lima  (Peru), Hanga Roa /Rapa Nui  (Chile), Rarotonga (Cook Islands), Auckland  (New Zealand), Tauranga  (New Zealand), Sydney  (Australia), Mare (New Caledonia), Lifou Island (New Caledonia), Port Vila (Vanuatu), Alotau  (Papua New Guinea), Cairns  (Australia), Lombok (Indonesia), Port Kelang  (Kuala Lumpur/Malaysia), Colombo  (Sri Lanka), Mumbai/Bombai (India), Aqaba/Petra  (Jordan). Between ports of call, on board beautiful MSC Magnifica , you’ll enjoy a world of comfort and elegance, relish the gourmet cuisine inspired by your destinations, relax in the 3 swimming pools and 9 whirlpool baths , among many other superb facilities, and enjoy our first class onboard entertainment . The fare includes 15 shore excursions , and naturally you can book others either in advance or during the cruise. Your booking features a Dine & Drink Package so house wines, draught beer and a selection of other drinks are on us during lunch and dinner. You can also enjoy 30% off laundry services throughout the cruise.

Civitavecchia, Italy - Genoa, Italy - Marseille, France - Barcelona, Spain

DAY 1 GENOA

DAY 2 MARSEILLE

DAY 3 BARCELONA

DAY 4 AT SEA

DAY 5 LISBON

DAY 6 AT SEA

DAY 7 FUNCHAL

DAY 8 & 9 AT SEA

DAY 10 MINDELO

DAY 11, 12, 13 & 14 AT SEA

DAY 15 SALVADOR

DAY 16 AT SEA

DAY 17, 18 RIO DE JANEIRO

DAY 19, 20 AT SEA

DAY 21, 22 BUENOS AIRES

DAY 23 MONTEVIDEO

DAY 24 AT SEA

DAY 25 PUERTO MADRYN

DAY 26, 27 AT SEA

DAY 28, 29 USHUAIA

DAY 30 AT SEA

DAY 31 PUNTA ARENAS

DAY 32, 33 AT SEA

DAY 34 PUERTO MONTT

DAY 35 AT SEA

DAY 36, 37 VALPARAISO

DAY 38, 39 AT SEA

DAY 40 ARICA

DAY 41 AT SEA

DAY 42, 43 CALLAO

DAY 44, 45, 46, 47 AT SEA

DAY 48 HANGA ROA

DAY 49, 50 AT SEA

DAY 51 BOUNTY BAY PASSAGE

DAY 52, 53 AT SEA

DAY 54, 55 PAPEETE

DAY 56 AT SEA

DAY 57 RAROTONGA

DAY 58 AIUTAKI

DAY 59, 60, 61, 62 AT SEA

DAY 63 AUCKLAND

DAY 64 TAURANGA

DAY 65 NAPIER

DAY 66 WELLINGTON

DAY 67 MILFORD SOUND / FIORDLAND PARK

DAY 68, 69 AT SEA

DAY 70 HOBART

11 & 12

DAY 71 AT SEA

DAY 72, 73 SYDNEY

DAY 74, 75 AT SEA

DAY 76 MARE

DAY 77 LIFOU ISLAND

DAY 78 PORT VILA

DAY 79, 80 AT SEA

DAY 81 ALOTAU

DAY 82 AT SEA

DAY 83 CAIRNS

DAY 84, 85 AT SEA

13 & 14

DAY 86 DARWIN

DAY 87, 88 AT SEA

DAY 89 LOMBOK

DAY 90, 91 BENOA/BALI

DAY 92, 93 AT SEA

DAY 94 SINGAPORE

DAY 95 PORT KLANG

DAY 96, 97, 98 AT SEA

15 & 16

DAY 99 COLOMBO

DAY 100, 101 AT SEA

DAY 102, 103 MUMBAI

DAY 104, 105 AT SEA

DAY 106 SALALAH

DAY 107, 108, 109, 110 AT SEA

DAY 111 AQABA

DAY 112, 113 SUEZ CANAL TRANSIT

DAY 114, 115 AT SEA

DAY 116 CIVITAVECCHIA

DAY 117 GENOA

Cruise Itinerary

Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Cape Verde, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Peru, French Polynesia, Cook Islands, New Zealand, Australia, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, India, Oman, Jordan

Free Excursions

• Funchal / Madeira Is ., Portugal : Cabo Girao & Ribeira Brava (FUN18)
• Salvador , Brazil : Historical Salvador (SAL04)
• Rio De Janeiro , Brazil : Sugar Loaf (RIO02T)
• Buenos Aires , Argentina : City Tour “Buenos Aires & Its Enchantments” (BUE02T)
• Valparaiso , Chile : City Tour Valparaiso & Viña Del Mar (VAP01)
• Arica , Chile : City Tour & Archeology (ARI01) Callao/Lima, Perù: Lima Highlights (LMA01)
• Auckland , New Zealand : Auckland Museum & City Sights (AKL02)
• Hobart / Tasmania , Australia : Hobart And Richmond (HBA01)
• Sydney , Australia : Discovering Sydney (SDY07)
• Darwin , Australia : Best Of Darwin City Tour (DRW03)
• Benoa , Bali : Highlights Of Ubud (BOA04)
• Port Klang/Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia : Highlights Of Kuala Lumpur (PKG11)
• Colombo , Sri Lanka : Colours Of Colombo (CMB21)
• Mumbai / Bombay , India : Icons Of Mumbai (BOM18)

Other Services included

Laundry : 30% off All Laundry Services

Activities : A comprehensive activity schedule with theme evenings, language classes, cultural guest speakers and much more

MSC Parking Genoa 

Terms & conditions.

The product will not be combinable with the Promo Target Discounts (Brochure) 

The product will not be combinable with Claims Discount Vouchers

The laundry discount will be not combined with other similar discounts and with onboard packages Regular or Express

Ad hoc Cancellation policy and Deposit rules will apply

Read what our World Cruisers have to say!

The bahamas & caribbean, mediterranean, northern europe, dubai, abu dhabi & qatar, and more, discover our destinations, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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MSC Cruises

Love Exploring

Beautiful River Cruises To Explore North America

Posted: May 29, 2023 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

Rolling on the river

Viking Mississippi Holiday Season cruise, USA

It’s never too early to start planning a Christmas markets cruise, and as much as we love the ones in Germany and Austria, nothing beats a festive float down the Mississippi. Highlights on  this cruise , which snakes from Memphis to New Orleans, include stop-offs at Natchez, whose many historic buildings are festooned with Christmas lights, and Vicksburg, whose independent boutiques are great places to pick up presents. This is also a great cruise for twitchers – a huge number of bird species flock to this stretch of the Mississippi for winter. 

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M.S. Dixie II Lake Tahoe cruise, California, USA

Say hello to one of America’s most spectacular lake cruises. Your mode of transport for this sail across Lake Tahoe will be the M.S Dixie II – the lake’s biggest boat. The sunset dinner cruises are popular with couples, although we recommend the scenic daytime tours, which are a great way to explore North America’s largest alpine lake. This high-altitude body of water spreads into two states (California and Nevada), contains enough water to cover California with 14 inches of water and is deeper than the Empire State Building is tall.  

Le Petit Navire Lachine Canal tour, Québec, Canada

If crowded cruise liners and transatlantic crossings don’t appeal, consider this leisurely sail along Canada’s 14-kilometre (8.7-mile) Lachine Canal, which slices through the southern section of Montréal, a city famous for its historic architecture. Don’t know your dingle from your dewater? You’ll gain a wonderful insight into the construction of this historic waterway as you pass through its locks, and you’ll also enjoy fantastic views of Montréal’s skyline. Your mode of transport is rather special too – a carbon-neutral, zero-pollution electric propulsion boat. 

American Cruise Lines Alaska Inside Passage cruise, Alaska, USA

Alaska’s Inside Passage is an inland route weaving between islands on the Pacific Northwest coast and along glacier-lined fjords. Inside Passage cruises offer a different perspective on Alaska to coastal cruises, relying on smaller ships to reach more remote ports of call. Highlights of this cruise include the Strait of Georgia, where you’ll sail between Vancouver Island and British Columbia, and the glacier-fed waters of Frederick Sound – a brilliant whale watching spot.

Now check out the fabulous cruising facts you won't believe

Northwest Pioneers Cruise, Oregon and Washington, USA

As much as we love the mighty Mississippi, this brilliant river cruise , which wiggles through Oregon and Washington, is a fantastic reminder that there are plenty of other breathtakingly beautiful waterways to explore. On this adventure, you’ll sail along the Columbia River – the largest in America’s Pacific Northwest – and Snake River, which is the Columbia River’s biggest tributary. It’s a great way to see some of America’s most underrated destinations, including the town of Astoria, which is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.

American Cruise Lines Puget Sound and San Juan Islands Cruise, Washington, USA

This seven-day cruise provides a brilliant insight into one of America’s most wildlife-rich regions: Washington state’s Puget Sound, America’s second largest estuary; and the San Juan Islands, a cluster of 172 islands and reefs where you’re likely to spot wildlife including whales and eagles. Don’t miss the chance to explore Port Townsend, sandwiched between Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and famous for its Victorian-era architecture. 

Viking America’s Heartland cruise, Upper Mississippi, USA

This is one of the best Mississippi cruises for anyone keen to learn about the people who shaped this part of the US, whether it’s the Norwegians who migrated here during the 1800s or the farmers who made this region one of America’s top culinary destinations. Stops include the Missouri city of St Louis, once known as the Gateway to the West; Hannibal, which was the setting for Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn;  and the Iowan city of Dubuque, home to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Viking Heart of the Delta cruise, USA

An eight-day cruise between Memphis and New Orleans, Viking’s Heart of the Delta cruise takes in the Mississippi’s best bits, including many listed monuments and buildings. For history buffs, highlights will include St Francisville, where there’s a whopping 140 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Natchez, which has more listed buildings than any other American city. If you’re short on time, put Stanton Hall, which was built in the 1850s, at the top of your list – this Greek revival-style property is famous for its ornate mirrored parlors.  

James River Batteau Company Batteau River tour, Virginia, USA

Short on time? Opt for this scenic river tour . Your mode of transport for this float along Virginia’s James River will be one of the beautiful wooden boats which have sailed this waterway for years. The two-hour tour along the river, which is Virginia’s longest, is a great way to see its wildlife – bald eagles, river otters and ospreys are regularly spotted. It’s a rather relaxed affair, and passengers are encouraged to cool off with a swim in the river. 

Discover the beloved cruise ships that will never sail again

American Queen Voyages Clarkston to Portland cruise, USA

A brilliant cruise for history fans, this 10-day river Snake River and Columbia River cruise starts in Clarkston and finishes in Vancouver, Washington – the route undertaken by explorers Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark in the early 1800s. It’s also a route lined with natural wonders, including Columbia Gorge, which slices through the Cascade Mountains, and Idaho’s Hell’s Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon and can be explored on a high-speed boat ride. The Columbia River stretch is where you’re most likely to see bison, elk and deer too. 

American Queen Voyages Memphis to Nashville cruise, USA

This nine-day Memphis to Nashville   cruise is a fantastic way to check out some of the southern state’s prettiest towns, whether it’s Paducah in Kentucky, famed for its arts and craft museum or Clarksville, Tennessee. The latter is famous for its breweries, distilleries and wineries, while historic sites include the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, where you can learn about the town’s famous former residents, including Wilma Rudolph – the first American woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. 

American Queen Voyages Mighty Mississippi Red Wing to New Orleans, USA

Can’t get enough of the Mighty Mississippi? Take a deep dive on  this 16-day cruise between Red Wing and New Orleans. It’s a fantastic way to discover the landscapes which surround America’s second longest river. The Minnesotan city of Winona, for example, is built on a sandbar and dates back to 9,500BC. The excursions on this cruise are fantastic too. Our favorite? In the town of Hannibal, Missouri, you’ll get the chance to make your very own clay pot out of Mississippi mud. 

Adventure Life Rivers of Adventure and Wine cruise, Oregon, USA

Your transport for this food and wine-themed cruise along the Columbia River is the Wilderness Legacy, a beautiful vessel designed to resemble a Victorian steamer. During the cruise, which starts and finishes in Portland, you’ll visit some of Oregon’s most important historical sites, but it’s the food and wine-themed stops that really set it apart. In the Hood River Valley, you can sign up for cycle rides between local vineyards, and in the Washington city of Walla Walla, you’ll visit a local chocolatier, olive oil producer and brewery.  

American Queen Voyages St Louis to Cincinnati cruise, USA

Get more bang for your buck from your river cruise by signing up for American Queen Voyages’ exploration of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Stop-offs on this spectacular paddle steamer cruise include the Illinois city of Alton, which has a rich history and became a base for abolitionists in the 1800s, and Henderson in Kentucky. It’s another cruise with fantastic excursions, our favorite of which is a jet boat ride along a stunning section of the Ohio River near Carrollton, Kentucky. 

American Queen Voyages Montréal to Detroit cruise, Canada and US

An 11-day cruise between two very different cities, this Montréal to Detroit sailing provides plenty of opportunities for urban explorations – you’ll visit Montréal, Québec City , Toronto and Cleveland, as well as quaint riverside towns such as Gananoque, in the heart of the Thousand Islands archipelago in Eastern Ontario. This particular cruise offers fantastic value for money – the cost of your sailing covers a wide range of excursions, including visits to Toronto’s CN Tower and catamaran tours of Niagara Falls.

St Lawrence Cruise Lines, Canada’s Capital North cruise, Canada

This Ottawa River cruise is a great way to explore two very different regions of Canada – more specifically Ontario and Québec. The six-day sailing is packed with fascinating stop-offs, included the wildlife-filled Thousand Islands, which straddle the border between America and Canada, and Fort Wellington, built in 1812. Love a lock? For many passengers, the highlight of this river cruise is the famous Carillion Lock, an enormous 182-tonne structure which has a flow rate of 2,000 cubic meters of water per second. 

Pearl Seas Cruises Great Lakes and Georgian Bay cruise, US and Canada

Sign up for this 11-night cruise from Toronto to Milwaukee and you’ll get the chance to see four of the most beautiful Great Lakes, with time to visit attractions lining the route. For many, the highlight is Georgian Bay, where 30,000 islands form the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, and where you’ll be able to check out destinations such as traffic-free Mackinac Island by horse-drawn buggy. There are plenty of big hitters too – you’ll take a guided tour of Niagara Falls and visit the legendary Henry Ford Museum in Windsor, Ontario. 

Le Boat Rideau Canal Cruise, Ontario, Canada

For something completely different, consider hiring your own river boat for a bespoke exploration of Canada’s Rideau Canal. The waterway, which is the oldest continuously-operated canal system in North America, is regarded as one of the world’s greatest engineering feats, and the UNESCO-listed canal is lined with historic sites. Your mode of transport? A luxury river boat kitted out with a kitchen, spacious bathrooms and sun deck. They’re surprisingly easy to drive too, thanks to powerful thrusters which make navigating locks a breeze. 

American Cruise Lines Hudson River cruise, New York, USA

This New York round trip  takes in the Hudson River’s best bits, busting the myth that its most spectacular section weaves through the Big Apple. You’ll explore it on the American Star, which has room for just 100 passengers and offers several stop-offs in the beautiful Catskill Mountains area. The cruise is especially popular with fans of architecture, who come to admire historic buildings such as the Vanderbilt Mansion (the former home of Franklin D. Roosevelt). 

Viking Great River cruise, Mississippi, USA

This is another fantastic option for history buffs – a Mississippi River cruise filled with visits to some of America’s most important historic sites. In Red Wing, Minnesota, you’ll learn how New Englanders joined forces with German and Irish migrants to farm the fertile landscape, and in Burlington, Iowa, you’ll discover how the arrival of both steamboats and the railroad transformed this once sleepy town, filled with listed buildings. Don’t miss the chance to stand under the famous Gateway Arch in St Louis, Missouri – a crossroads for nineteenth-century explorers. 

US Mailboat Cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee on the M/V Sophie C, New Hampshire, USA

Another fantastic option for anyone short on time, this cruise takes place on America’s oldest floating post office – a beautiful vessel which launched on Lake Winnipesaukee in 1945. During the two-hour cruise, you’ll visit several of Lake Winnipesaukee’s 253 islands, many of which were once home to indigenous people such as the Pennacooks. Don’t forget to send a postcard home – you’ll be able to post it on the boat, complete with an M/V Sophie C stamp.  

Craving a cruise? Check out our guide to the world’s most beautiful cruise ships

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2025-2026 New Cruise Itineraries

Book our newest cruise vacations to our best destinations now.

Best Cruise Line Itineraries

Recommend Magazine 15-Time Winner

Check out our newest cruise itineraries and prepare for an array of unforgettable experiences on board with Princess. From sailings close to home to the distant shores of exotic lands. New Princess cruise itineraries not only take you to our best cruise destinations, but bring the colors, cultures and flavors on board to give you a truly immersive vacation. Start planning today to get the cruise – and the stateroom – you want!

2025 Alaska cruise itineraries

Our Alaska 2025 season promises to be our most exciting season yet. From our top-rated 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise and Inside Passage sailings – including roundtrip Los Angeles – to new “Ultimate Alaska” sailings that visit less-frequented ports and include at least three days of glacier viewing, we have Alaska covered by sea. Venture further with 27 cruisetour options, each combining a 7-day cruise with multiple nights in the heart of Alaska, stays at Princess-owned wilderness lodges and scenic rail travel. It’s no wonder we’ve been named Best Cruise Line in Alaska by Travel Weekly NINETEEN TIMES!

2025-2026 Asia cruise itineraries

Let Princess whisk you to stunning cities and timeless villages in Asia. Each destination tells its own story through celebrated landmarks, popular markets, culinary secrets and traditions. Explore places like Bangkok, Hong Kong, Ho chi Minh City, as well as join our return to breath-taking Halong Bay, Vietnam. Sail on Diamond Princess®, and discover why Princess was awarded “Best Cruise Line in Asia” by Porthole Magazine.

2025-2026 Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific cruise itineraries

Experience the natural wonders of Australia, the unique culture of New Zealand and the island paradises of Tahiti, Fiji and beyond with Princess in 2025–2026. You can also visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Great Barrier Reef and awe-inspiring Uluru National Park, on cruisetour options that combine a multi-night land tour with a traditional cruise. Choose from three ships, including Discovery Princess®, for her maiden season in the region, as well as Crown Princess® and Grand Princess®, sailing 75 itineraries to 78 destinations.

2024-2025 California Coast cruise itineraries

Explore the landscape of the California Coast and visit world-famous cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Santa Barbara. Shop and dine along eclectic boulevards. See iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Coronado Bay and Griffith Observatory. Or escape to renowned vineyards for an award-winning wine. See even more with late-night stays in San Francisco, San Diego, Victoria, Vancouver, B.C. or Los Angeles.

2025 Canada & New England cruise itineraries

Experience colonial history, charming Eastern seaboard villages and famed New England seafood when you sail Canada & New England with Princess®. Princess will sail 7-day roundtrip voyages from Boston and New York. There are also 10-day voyages between Boston and Québec and roundtrip 10-day American Heritage voyages where you’ll have the opportunity to visit Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown, as well as legendary Revolutionary War sites. You can also extend your journey on land with a crusietour that visits more of American history at places like Gettysburg and Philadelphia, or spends time in Canadian cities like Toronto (for Niagara Falls) Montréal and more.

2024-2025 Caribbean cruise itineraries

Relax on top-rated beaches, explore ancient ruins and get immersed in colorful cultures — the laidback Caribbean has lots to love for everyone. Discover the Eastern, Western or Southern Caribbean with a variety of unique itineraries and departure ports. For the first time, Princess is offering a season of 6- and 8-day Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages roundtrip from Port Canaveral on Caribbean Princess®. (Can't choose? Combine them for a 14-day sailing!) Or sail aboard the new Sun Princess® from Fort Lauderdale on 5- to 14-day voyages to see both the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

2024 Summer Caribbean cruise itineraries

Whether you're seeking top-rated beaches or ancient Mayan ruins, the Caribbean is your playground in Summer 2024. From seven-day, 10-day and 14-day summer sailings to all corners of the Caribbean to our award-winning private island resort, Princess Cays,® and onboard programs that immerse you in local life, you’ll connect with the islands in ways you never imagined.

2025 Europe cruise itineraries

Princess is celebrating its 40th anniversary of Mediterranean sailing by featuring two of its newest and largest ships – Star Princess® and Sun Princess®. Explore the best of Europe in 2025, from the British Isles to Scandinavia, the Mediterranean and beyond with itineraries from five to 33 days as you visit famous landmarks, including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Let local experts guide the way with foodie- and art-centric tours. Love local nightlife? Look for More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays.

2024-2025 Hawaii cruise itineraries

Princess is the only cruise line that sails a full season roundtrip from the mainland, with a choice of roundtrip departures from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver, B.C. Immerse yourself in Polynesian culture the moment you step on board with our Aloha Spirit program. Visit the most popular islands – Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island – while only unpacking once. Plus, enjoy a More Ashore late-night stay in Honolulu on most sailings.

2024 Japan cruise itineraries

In Summer 2024, Diamond Princess® sails out of Tokyo (Yokohama) with a variety of ways to enjoy the traditions and beauty of the region. There are five opportunities to see storied local festivals, including the popular Nebuta Festival. We also have sailings that arrive when Japan’s famed spring flowers are in bloom. Sail where ancient traditions and modernity co-exist in harmony on the #1 North American Cruise Line in Japan.

2024-2025 Mexico cruise itineraries

From mariachis to margaritas, the Mexican Riviera is where it all began with our first cruise in 1965. More than 50 years later, we still visit the best ports like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and less-traveled jewels like Loreto and Manzanillo. Sail from Los Angeles or San Francisco on five- to 11-day roundtrip cruises, and stay overnight in Cabo San Lucas on select voyages for a taste of vibrant nightlife.

2024-2025 Panama Canal cruise itineraries

Princess offers two ways to see the epic Panama Canal, including new 12-day roundtrip sailings from Fort Lauderdale aboard Emerald Princess®, which include destinations like Costa Rica & the Caribbean, as well as Ocean-to-Ocean 15- to 23-day voyages between Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and Vancouver, B.C.

2025-2026 South America & Antarctica cruise itineraries

Delight in South America’s vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes and get swept away by the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica. Experience the thrill of sailing through the Strait of Magellan, the 19th-century treasures of Buenos Aires or cruise through the icy waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula.

2026 World cruise itineraries

Set sail across the globe on a truly epic adventure – a Princess World Cruise. On a voyage spanning more than 100 days, and travelling over 35,000 nautical miles, you’ll visit more than 52 destinations in over two dozen countries. In 2026, Coral Princess will sail an 114-day World Cruise. Whether you sail from Los Angeles or Ft. Lauderdale, or choose options from Sydney, Australia, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of Asia, the South Pacific, Middle East, Europe, North, Central and South America and beyond.

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Cruises from Southampton in April 2023

Are you looking for cruises departing from Southampton in April 2023?

Happy days, you’ve come to the right place! Here at Southampton Cruise Centre we have all the April 2023 cruise deals from all major cruise lines! Use our search facility below to find your next cruise holiday. You can enquire online using our easy enquiry forms. However, we love the personal touch, so why not call for a chat with our cruise specialists! We’re part of the Travel Village Group – a 4th generation family business. And, we’ve been established for over 60 years so you can imagine the knowledge and experience our team have! We can give you independent, impartial advice and we can offer you amazing deals & discounts! The number to call is 02380 658 386 .

If you don’t find a suitable getaway in the search facility below then don’t worry, speak to our team as we also offer cruises from other ports around the UK . We can also arrange fly-cruise holidays, beach escapes, city breaks, tours and even UK staycations! We have access to hundreds of suppliers, so the only limit is your imagination!

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The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

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• Cruise Packing List
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• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Moscow 'hit gas facilities crucial to supply in Europe'; Russian murder rate 'up 900%'

Russia hit energy infrastructure in Ukraine this morning - and Volodymyr Zelenskyy now says this could affect supply to the EU. Elsewhere, the British Ministry of Defence has said war-related mental health issues are likely causing murder rates to rocket in Russia.

Saturday 27 April 2024 22:10, UK

• Zelenskyy says Russian attack targeted energy facility 'crucial' to EU supply
• Russia murder rate 'up 900%'
• 'Putin did not order Navalny death,' - US report
• Twelfth person arrested over Moscow terror attack
• Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live reporting by  Emily Mee  and, earlier, Lauren Russell

That's it for our live coverage for tonight, but you can scroll back for all of today's updates.

British Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has shared this footage of the UK's Storm Shadow missiles being produced.

The long-range cruise missiles have been among the aid sent to Ukraine by the UK, and have been used to strike deep into Russian-controlled territory.

Earlier this week, the UK said it would commit even more Storm Shadows to Ukraine. 

The missiles have an official range in excess of 155 miles - although some experts have suggested they may be able to go further. 

Mr Shapps said the missiles were also being created to add to British stockpiles to "fight any future wars". 

By Sean Bell , military analyst

When the UK provided long-range Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine, it was done on the understanding that these would only be used to target Russian forces in occupied territory, and not against Russia itself. 

Despite the limitations, Ukraine has complied, and that appears to have improved US confidence to the point they are prepared to supply the ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) missile. 

Indeed, we now understand that the US first supplied the ATACMS last month - in secret - and it appears to have proven its worth with attacks on a Russian-occupied airfield in Crime on 17 April, and earlier this week in an attack on Russian troop concentrations.

But will this new weapon risk an escalation of the war?

Russia knows that it faces strategic failure if the West were to commit fully to the defence of Ukraine, so it will continue to use threatening rhetoric and sabre-rattling to undermine Western political resolve. 

The interesting question is whether the introduction of ATACMS will change the course of the war. Long-range missiles are very effective at targeting and influencing the "deep battle" - the logistics that feed the front-line fight. However, they have limited impact on the frontline.  

The shortage of Ukrainian weapons is being exploited by Russia, which is making significant battlefield gains.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has identified that his immediate priority is to "stabilise" the frontlines. 

Instead, ATACMS and the new package of Western military support provides Ukraine with a lifeline. 

In the city of Kharkiv, municipal workers are helping to clear up an area near a psychiatric hospital that targeted by Russia. 

Workers are draining a crater left behind by the attack and also inspecting damaged communication lines. 

A 53-year-old patient was injured in the strike.

Ben Wallace has hit out at German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for suggesting British and French troops are on the ground in Ukraine to programme cruise missiles. 

The chancellor had previously justified his refusal to send Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine by saying it would require German troops on the ground to programme them. 

He had suggested British and French soldiers were in Ukraine to help with their Storm Shadow and Scalp missiles.

But Mr Wallace said in an interview with German news agency dpa: "[Scholz] was wrong... I can't tell you how Storm Shadows and Scalps are programmed. 

"But it doesn't involve people standing around in an airport in Ukraine, it doesn't need to do that." 

The former defence secretary also criticised Mr Scholz's hesitation to send Taurus missiles, saying: "You can't incrementally help Ukraine, you know, a bit of this and a bit of that. 

"Do we want Ukraine to win? Or do we want them to lose?... 

"Ukraine will abide by any restrictions you put on them. So you could give them Taurus. And you could add all sorts of restrictions about where you want it used or not used." 

Mr Wallace added that Mr Scholz is "not a leader for conflict at the moment" and that "looking either indecisive, or flip-flopping on certain decisions, or seeming to be out of step with your allies, only aids Putin". 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said this morning's Russian attack on Ukraine's energy sector had targeted gas facilities important for supply to the European Union.

The main target was the energy sector, various facilities in the industry, both electricity and gas transit facilities," he said in his nightly video address. 

"In particular, those gas facilities that are crucial to ensuring safe delivery to the European Union." 

Moscow earlier claimed its strikes were "in response to attempts by the Kyiv regime to damage Russian energy and industrial facilities". 

Australia has announced a military aid package for Ukraine worth 100m Australian dollars (£52m). 

Defence minister Richard Marles said the money will be used to fund short-range air defence systems, drones for the Ukrainian military and equipment including helmets, inflatable boats, fire masks and electricity generators, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation said. 

Mr Marles made the announcement during a trip to Ukraine where he met the country's prime minister Denys Shmyal and deputy defence minister Ivan Havryliuk. 

He said the latest package took Australian military assistance for Ukraine to 880m Australian dollars (£459m) since Russia began its invasion in 2022.

The Russian defence ministry has responded to this morning's attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. 

It said it had carried out 35 strikes in the last week against energy facilities, defence factories, railway infrastructure, air defences, and ammunition stocks in Ukraine. 

The strikes were "in response to attempts by the Kyiv regime to damage Russian energy and industrial facilities", it said. 

Ukraine has been targeting Russian oil refineries and other facilities in drone attacks in recent weeks, despite US requests not to do so. 

Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials said Russian missiles had pounded power facilities in central and western Ukraine today. 

Russia's defence ministry said it had used sea and air-launched long-range precision weapons, including Kinzhal hypersonic missiles and drones.

It also said it had targeted Ukrainian troop formations and what it called foreign mercenaries. 

Anti-tank fortifications, known as "dragon's teeth", have been set up in the eastern region of Donetsk. 

As we've mentioned, Russia has been pushing in the Avdiivka direction and is aiming to reach the strategic town of Chasiv Yar. 

A 52-year-old Ukrainian has been injured after a Russian drone strike hit a truck he was driving, a local governor has said. 

Oleh Syniehubov, the governor of Kharkiv, said the man was taken to hospital in a serious condition. 

He said Russian forces used an FPV drone to hit the truck at around 1pm local time near Vovchansk, a city located less than 10km from the Russian border.

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• International

April 12, 2024 - Israel-Hamas war

By Chris Lau, Sana Noor Haq, Adrienne Vogt , Matt Meyer and Tori B. Powell , CNN

Our live coverage of Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza has moved  here .

USAID worker killed in Israel, agency says

From CNN's Jennifer Hansler

A staff member with United States Agency for International Development (USAID) died Friday in the Israeli port city of Jaffa, the agency announced.

The male staffer was with USAID’s West Bank and Gaza mission, the agency said in a brief statement.

USAID did not provide details on the circumstances around his death or his identity or citizenship.

“He was a dedicated member of our team for more than two decades, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues,” USAID said.

USAID is working with the US Embassy to work out details about the fatal incident and its follow-up investigation, it said.

US expects Iran to carry out direct strikes against targets inside Israel, sources say

From CNN's MJ Lee and Natasha Bertrand

The United States currently expects Iran will carry out strikes against multiple targets inside Israel and that Iranian proxies could also be involved in carrying out the attacks, according to a senior administration official and a source familiar with the intelligence.  

The targets would likely be both inside Israel and around the region.

The beginning of a state-on-state conflict between Iran and Israel would mark a serious escalation in the region that the US has hoped to avoid.

US sees Iran moving military assets including drones and cruise missiles, sources say

From Natasha Bertrand and Oren Liebermann

The US observed Iran moving military assets around internally, including drones and cruise missiles, signaling that it is possibly preparing to attack Israeli targets from inside its own territory, according to two people familiar with US intelligence. 

It is not clear whether Iran is preparing to strike from its soil as part of an initial attack, or if it is posturing to try to deter Israel or the US from conducting a possible counter strike on its territory. 

One of the people said the US had observed Iran readying as many as 100 cruise missiles.

Some context: The Iranians want their retaliatory strike on Israel — a response to the Israeli strike on an Iranian consulate last week in Damascus — to be "significant," one of the people familiar with the intelligence said. But they also want to avoid getting embroiled in a direct war with Israel and the US, CNN has reported, which is why US intelligence has assessed that Iran may use its proxy forces to launch the first attack.

Israeli settlers storm village in West Bank and kill at least 1 Palestinian. Here's what you should know

From CNN staff

Hundreds of armed Israeli settlers stormed a village in the occupied West Bank on Friday, setting fire to several homes and cars — and leaving at least one Palestinian dead — in one of the largest attacks by settlers this year, according to Palestinian officials. 

The settlers attacked Al-Mughayyir village, east of Ramallah, raided homes and fired gunshots at residents, according to Amin Abu-Alia, the head of the village council. Videos obtained by CNN show parts of the village burning, with smoke billowing over several buildings and settlers lobbing rocks. Houses and cars are seen completely burnt up, with sounds of gunfire and clashes heard in the background.

Here are other headlines you should know:

• More Israeli attacks: An Israeli airstrike early Friday killed at least 29 people and injured dozens more after troops targeted a house belonging to the well-known Al-Tabatibi family in eastern Gaza City, according to a local health official. Israeli forces also surrounded and attacked the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, wounding several journalists and at least one other person. And in the occupied West Bank, troops killed two Hamas members in a raid on the city of Tubas, according to Israeli and Palestinian officials.
• Hezbollah-Israel clashes: Around 40 rockets were fired from Lebanon on Friday evening, according to the Israeli military. Some were intercepted and the rest fell in open areas, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement. Israeli warplanes also carried out several airstrikes on Friday, targeting "military buildings" used by Hezbollah fighters in parts of southern Lebanon, the IDF said.
• Iranian threats: US President Joe Biden told reporters Friday he expects an attack from Iran will happen “sooner than later," with the White House adding that there is a "very credible" threat of Iranian retaliatory strikes against Israel. Additionally, the US Defense Department is moving additional assets to the Middle East region, a defense official told CNN, as the US and Israel brace for the potential attack . Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and US Central Command Commander Gen. Erik Kurilla on Friday discussed preparations for the  potential attack .
• Warnings amid Iranian threats: France , Germany, Canada and the United States are among countries that are warning their citizens not to travel to the region due to the threat of an Iranian attack against Israel.
• Humanitarian aid: The Israeli military does not understand how humanitarian operations work, a top United Nations official said Friday, maintaining there is a "degree of mistrust" that needs to be resolved between the IDF and nongovernmental organizations on the ground in Gaza.
• Sanctions: The European Council has  adopted sanctions  against three Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad entities , in light of "their responsibilities in the brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks" that occurred across Israel on October 7. The US is also sanctioning four leaders of Hamas’ cyber and drone operations based in Gaza and Lebanon, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller announced on Friday. 

US will attempt to intercept launches at Israel if feasible, US officials say

From CNN's Oren Liebermann and Natasha Bertrand

The US will attempt to intercept any weapons launched at Israel if it’s feasible to do so, two US officials told CNN, in an indication of the level of ongoing cooperation between the two militaries before an anticipated Iranian attack .

US Navy forces in the Red Sea have previously intercepted long-range missiles launched from the Houthis in Yemen toward Israel. US forces in Iraq and Syria could also potentially intercept drones and rockets targeting northern Israel, depending on the location from which they’re launched.

Gen. Erik Kurilla, the commander of US Central Command, has been in Israel meeting with the country’s security leadership. On Friday, the Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, met with Kurilla.

There have been a number of conversations where US officials have urged Israel not to escalate the situation in retaliating against Iran, according to one of the US officials. 

Remember: An Iranian attack is expected in response to Israel’s deadly strike of Tehran's consulate in Damascus, Syria, last week.

The Damascus attack was the latest incident to stoke fears of a wider regional conflict breaking out in the Middle East during Israel's campaign in Gaza.

Diplomatic efforts: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has held a slew of calls to foreign counterparts aimed at pressuring Iran not to attack Israel.

The top US diplomat spoke with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Friday, according to a readout from State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

Blinken also spoke with the Turkish, Chinese and Saudi foreign ministers in recent days, Miller said.

Israeli settlers kill at least 1 Palestinian while storming West Bank village

From CNN’s Kareem Khadder and Zeena Saifi in Jerusalem and CNN’s Benjamin Brown in London

Hundreds of armed Israeli settlers stormed a village in the occupied West Bank on Friday, setting fire to several homes and cars in one of the largest attacks by settlers this year, according to Palestinian officials. 

At least one Palestinian man was killed when shots were fired by Israeli settlers in the village of Al-Mughayyir, east of Ramallah, according to the head of the village council Amin Abu-Alia. He said he identified the killed Palestinian as his 26-year-old relative named Jihad Abu-Alia, who was meant to get married this summer.

At least 25 others were injured in the rampage, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah, the scale of which has not been seen since hundreds of settlers stormed through the villages of  Turmusayya  and  Huwara  in two separate incidents last year. 

Between 1,000 and 1,200 settlers surrounded the village, and around 500 stormed it just after midday local time on Friday, blocking all the roads in the area, Abu-Alia told CNN.

He added that Israeli security forces informed Palestinian officials that the settlers were looking for a 14-year-old Israeli boy who had gone missing earlier in the day.

They attacked the village, raided homes and fired gunshots at residents, Abu-Alia said. Videos obtained by CNN show parts of the village burning, with smoke billowing over several buildings and settlers lobbing rocks. Houses and cars are seen completely burnt up, with sounds of gunfire and clashes heard in the background.

According to Abu-Alia, the Israeli military arrived at the scene at around 3 p.m. and didn’t stop the settlers from attacking the village. Israeli soldiers allowed them to raid homes, prevented Palestinian residents from moving around and blocked ambulances from reaching the injured, he added.  

Abu-Alia told CNN settlers stole approximately 70 sheep from the Palestinian village.

In response to a question by CNN, the IDF said “violent riots were instigated in multiple locations in the area” following the search for the boy.

Israel says airstrikes targeted Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon

Israeli warplanes carried out several airstrikes on Friday, targeting "military buildings" used by Hezbollah fighters in parts of southern Lebanon, according to the Israel Defense Forces.

The areas include the Aita al-Shaab and the Taybeh in southern Lebanon, said Avichay Adraee, I DF spokesperson for Arab media,  in a post on X.

"During the day, several shells were fired from Lebanon towards the Upper Galilee region, without causing any casualties. IDF forces attacked the sources of fire," Adraee added. 

The Israeli airstrikes were before the 40 rockets that were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel Friday evening and claimed by Hezbollah.

Biden expects an attack from Iran will happen "sooner than later"

From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg

US President Joe Biden expects an attack from Iran will happen “sooner than later," he told reporters at the White House Friday.

“I don’t want to get into secure information but my expectation is sooner than later,” Biden said when asked how imminent an attack on Israel was.

Asked what his message to Tehran is right now, the president said “Don’t.”

In response to more shouted questions from reporters asking if American troops were at risk, Biden returned to the podium and said that the United States is "devoted” to the defense of Israel. 

“We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed,” Biden said.

Remember: The United States says it is on high alert for a significant Iranian retaliatory attack following Israel's deadly strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus last week, raising fears of a wider regional war. There remains a “real,” “credible” and “viable” threat of Iran launching strikes, the White House said earlier Friday, following Israel’s attack on  a diplomatic compound in Syria that killed three Iranian generals.

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City Politics | Norfolk cruise center getting multiple upgrades…

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City politics | norfolk cruise center getting multiple upgrades ahead of year-round traffic.

NORFOLK — City Council voted Tuesday to approve enhancements to the Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center in anticipation of becoming a year-round cruise destination in 2025.

The changes are huge, said Stephen Kirkland, who runs the cruise terminal as the executive director of Nauticus.

“A cruise ship will be here every single week, embarking and debarking passengers, and we need to be prepared for that heightened activity,” Kirkland said.

Starting Feb. 15, Carnival Sunshine will begin its weekly cruises leaving from Norfolk. The 12-deck ship is 893 feet long and can carry over 3,000 passengers — leading to a turnover of more than 6,000 people when the ship is at full capacity, setting sail and returning in a single day.

Modifications to the terminal include expanding the walkway from Waterside Drive , adding a circular drop-off lane, a revised bus lane and canopies for passengers — changes that will enhance pedestrian and vehicle circulation downtown. The city earmarked $12 million for the project.

The most advantageous change, according to Kirkland, is a sloped walkway from the first to second floor that will allow guests exiting the ship to move quickly downstairs to go through customs, collect their luggage and make their way to the ground transportation loop.

“The quicker and more efficient we can be with that process, the better the whole day is,” Kirkland said. “That allows us to embark sooner which allows that ship to set sail on time.”

Currently, there’s one elevator, one escalator and a set of stairs connecting the first and second floor.

Construction on the enhancements is due to begin in June, but additional cruise traffic from ships diverted by the Francis Scott Key bridge collapse in Baltimore has added complications: the terminal was supposed to be closed for 14 months at the conclusion of the 2023 season.

Those ships originally bound for Baltimore will not delay the construction schedule, Kirkland said. Half Moone cruise terminal had a “window” during which it was able to support Royal Caribbean and Carnival with diverted ships, but those ships will not continue to arrive after construction begins in June.

With Norfolk set to become a year-round home port for the world’s largest cruise line, passengers are anticipated to travel from across the country to catch their ship. That brings economic impact in the form of more flights to Norfolk, hotel stays the night before and after the voyage, restaurants, transportation and more.

“That’s a big deal for us as a community. It’s a game changer,” Kirkland said.

Cianna Morales, 757-957-1304, [email protected]

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