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Departure Ports

From Port Miami to Galveston Cruise Port, uncover the key facts and most important information you need to know about some of the world’s most popular cruise departure ports.

Taino Bay

What You Need to Know About Taino Bay: Lazy River and Free Things to Do

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The Taino Bay cruise port is located in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, and is pronounced (pronounced Ty-ee-no) Bay. If you’re sailing to Puerto Plata, it’s important to note your specific cruise port, as there are two popular ones here — Taino Bay and Amber Cove. If you’re curious about which of the two your ship will visit during your cruise, you can often find this information on your detailed itinerary, provided by the cruise line, but generally speaking, Carnival Cruise Line brands Carnival, Holland America Line, and Princess all berth at Amber Cove, and most of the other cruise lines dock at Taino Bay. So if you’re sailing a non-CCL ship, chances are high that you’ll be visiting Taino Bay. If you’re cruising to Taino Bay, you’ll probably want to decide if you want to just stay in port and enjoy the amenities there, or to get out of port and explore the city of Puerto Plata. Fortunately, Taino Bay is located close to some of Puerto Plata’s top attractions, like Umbrella Alley and Paseo de Doña Blanca, within walking distance. Is Taino Bay Free? Taino Bay cruise port is one of my favorites because it is beautiful, new, clean, and chock full of free activities for cruisers. Check out the Taino Bay port map to get an idea of its expansive size. As Port Taino Bay only accommodates two cruise ships, it also does not generally get overly crowded. It’s a large port with a wide variety of shops, a beachfront spa, aviaries, several beach bars (the legal drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18), and a fantastic pool and lazy river that winds through the western part of the port. The pool and lazy river are free, and the pool has many chairs and in-water loungers, so cruisers should not have an issue finding one, even during peak times. There’s a sand bar area with hammocks and loungers, although, like Amber Cove, there is no direct access to the ocean. There is also a “Monkey Island” experience at port for $25 per person. Beaches Near Taino Bay Many curious wonder whether or not Taino Bay has a beach, but unfortunately it does not. There are beachfront views, but there is no direct beach or ocean access — meaning you cannot enter the water. Near the pool area, Taino Bay features a sand bar with hammocks and loungers to allow cruisers to enjoy a beach-like experience, but it’s not a traditional beach day where you can enter the water. If you are interested in a beach day, cruisers docking at Taino Bay have the benefit of docking at a pier that is within walking distance to a public beach, that being Cosita Rica Beach. Personally, however, I do not recommend this beach. On a recent visit, I found the beach and water polluted, full of seaweed, murky, and unappealing. On another visit, I explored further from the cruise port and spent the day at Playa del Pueblita, and also found it to be quite unappealing. Look, I love a good beach day, but in my experience, Puerto Plata just is not the best cruise port for that, but if you want to still embark on a beach day experience, there are numerous beaches in Puerto Plata with free public access. Can I Visit Amber Cove if I Dock at Taino Bay? Cruisers sometimes find themselves wishing they were docking at Amber Cove instead of Taino Bay, or vice versa, due to a preference for the amenities available at the alternative port. Unfortunately, if you port at one, you are not allowed to access the other. As with all cruise ports, if you exit the port area, you must show your ship card ID to gain entrance back into the port, and they will verify that your ship is actually docked at that particular port before allowing you in. The two ports are far enough apart that they are not within walking distance anyway, so visiting the alternate port would require a taxi. As noted above, Puerto Plata taxis are expensive, so I wouldn’t recommend it anyway. Things to Do in Taino Bay If you choose to get out of the port and explore Puerto Plata, here are my top recommendations. Historic Puerto Plata Cruisers wishing to venture outside of port often visit the historic district, which is a great free option for cruisers. This area of Puerto Plata features the Paseo Dona Blanca, an Instagram-worthy Victorian pink alleyway, as well as the famous Umbrella Street. Fortunately, Umbrella Street, Paseo Dona Blanca, and the historic district in general are all just a short walking distance from Taino Bay. Be forewarned that these popular historic district attractions are chronically crowded, but are great for a quick visit and photo opp, especially as they’re located so close to one another. They’re also just a stone’s throw away from the center of the historic town district, known as Central Park, or Parque Central, where there are beautiful buildings, most notable of which being the eye-catching St. Philip the Apostle Cathedral. Locals often populate the square with buckets of bird seed and accept tips from travelers who wish to feed the flocks of pigeons that populate the area. Of all the things we did on a recent visit to Puerto Plata, feeding the pigeons and having them eat from her hand was the highlight for my 11-year-old kiddo. Ambar Museum Another attraction that’s close to the others in Puerto Plata’s city center is the Ambar Museum. It might be a smidge generous to call this a “museum”, as it’s more like a glorified gift shop that entices would-be shoppers into the stores under the guise of a free activity, but on a recent visit to the historic Central Park, I decided to stop by since it was so close. This specific location to which I’m referring is the “Ambar Mine Museum,” not to be confused with the Amber Museum, which

Departure Ports

Getting to Port

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If you live close to your departure port, you may drive there, in which case you’ll need to determine where to park. Most cruise ports offer on-site options, although some may require an advance reservation, so be sure to consider this prior to departure day. If you fly into port, you have to book your flight and determine when to get to port (check out my post about this here), and if you follow conventional wisdom and arrive a day early, you’ll need to decide where to stay. I have a series of hotel recommendations by departure port location, which can help in this decision. If you fly to your departure port city, you’ll also need to decide how to get from the airport to the cruise port. As noted above, most cruise lines offer for sale a “transfer service” where the cruise line arranges shuttle service for you to and from the cruise port. Always compare this price to Uber, however, as ride share is significantly more convenient and often the same cost, or even less.   Pre-Cruise Flight Options If you live close to your departure port, you may drive there, in which case you’ll need to determine where to park. Most cruise ports offer on-site options, although some may require an advance reservation, so be sure to consider this prior to departure day. If you fly into port, you have to book your flight and determine when to get to port, and if you follow conventional wisdom and arrive a day early, you’ll need to decide where to stay. I have a series of hotel recommendations by departure port location and with properties that are ideal specifically for cruisers, which can help in this decision. One of the considerations about getting to port is when to plan to arrive. And this includes the debatable question of whether you can fly into your departure port the day of your cruise or if it’s best to fly in a day, or even more, prior. If you follow conventional wisdom and arrive a day early, you’ll also need to decide where to stay. I have a series of hotel recommendations by departure port location and those that are ideal specifically for cruisers, that can help in this decision.   Pre-Cruise Flight Options If you’re a cruiser flying into your departure port, you must decide when you plan to arrive as part of your planning process, whether it’s same-day, the night before, or even more than one night before. Here are some things to consider as you make this decision.  Flying in on the Day of Departure Flying into your cruise departure port the same day your cruise embarks is a risky venture, but it is doable. In fact, I personally do it often, although I am fully aware of the risks of doing so. The obvious benefit is that you don’t have to spend an extra day or more traveling, which is an important consideration for cruisers with limited PTO at work, childcare needs, or other factors. You also don’t incur the expense of an additional hotel stay. The risk is that a canceled flight or even a lengthy delay can result in missing your cruise. Here are the factors that must be in place for me to risk flying on the day of my cruise: I can find a direct flight from my home city to the cruise port. Layovers significantly increase my risk of missing the cruise. And remember, the cruise ship will not wait for you! Flights are available early in the morning. I only fly on the same day if I can get an early morning flight, preferably the first one that a particular airline offers, as this minimizes the risk of delays. If I can’t find a flight that gets me there by noon, I won’t risk it. It’s a domestic cruise. I would never take this risk for an international cruise.   Another important factor is travel insurance, which I strongly recommend for all travelers, but note that some policies won’t cover a missed cruise if the policyholder booked a same-day flight. Some cruise lines offer flight bookings along with your cruise booking, such as Carnival’s Fly2Fun, which includes some protections against flight delays and cancelations, so this may be a good option as well, although you’ll likely pay more for your flight compared to booking it on your own. While I admittedly fly in on the same day myself, under the above conditions, it can create additional stress and is definitely not advisable for first-timers.   Flying in Early To reduce your risk of missing a cruise and minimize the stress of the fear of doing so, most cruisers choose to fly in at least one day early before their cruise. This, of course, then requires that travelers find a hotel option close to the cruise port. Selecting the right pre-cruise hotel is such an important topic that I have an entire section of my blog dedicated to the topic here. When looking for a pre-cruise hotel, here’s my advice: Decide what you want. Do you just want a place to sleep before your cruise, or are you considering this an extension of your cruise vacation? If you’re seeking an extension of your vacation, you might – for instance – search for beachfront hotels at Cocoa Beach rather than hotels in Cape Canaveral when porting out of Port Canaveral. Don’t get hung up on cruise shuttle service! Every single day, I see cruisers posting on various cruise message boards asking about “hotels with shuttles to the cruise port,” but the sad reality is that free shuttle-to-port options are few and far between. Many hotels near cruise ports offer shuttle service, but it almost always becomes significantly more expensive (and inconvenient) than using a rideshare service like Uber. You can also comparison shop independent transfer service pricing through an aggregator like this one. To save money, I generally try to use points earned from my hotel credit cards, as hotels near cruise ports are generally more expensive than those that are not, or I use a discounted third-party vendor such as Expedia.  Getting to Port

Historic buildings in Amsterdam, Netherlands within a canal.
Cruise Ports, Departure Ports, Europe, Netherlands

Amsterdam Cruise: What You Need to Know When Sailing from Ijmuiden

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TW: Sexual Assault I was cruising on the Carnival Mardi Gras recently when my phone started blowing up with messages from my worried circle—friends and family who knew I was heading to Nassau, Bahamas. They were spooked because of a Level 2 Travel Advisory issued by the US Department of State for the Bahamas and news of 18 murders already in Nassau in 2024. The online cruise message boards were also buzzing with concerned cruisers, asking if it was even safe to step off the ship in Nassau, worried that the Bahamas were just too dangerous. I was a bit taken aback by the swift and immediate uproar, noting that the travel advisory mentioned that while the majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands, the advisory was due to gang-on-gang violence in the “Over the Hill” area near Shirley Street. I spent a lovely and uneventful day in Nassau, my eighth visit, and had some great conversations with locals who confirmed that the uptick in murders was a matter of “community policing” and should not be of concern to tourists.   I was hearing so much about the fears of safety in Nassau, and the safety of the Bahamas in general, that I made a video on TikTok to address it. In the video, I noted that at any given time, the US Department of State has active travel advisories for over 200 locations, including popular cruise destinations like Antigua, Belize, Bermuda, Jamaica, and others. If I avoided getting off the ship at every location with an advisory, I’d likely never enjoy a port day in the Caribbean at all. A few days later, the TikTok video was still going strong, but now with some commentors accusing me of downplaying the safety concerns amid a new report that had just come out with a heartbreaking story of two Kentucky women who were cruising on Carnival and were raped in the Bahamas during a port stop in Freeport in broad daylight in the middle of the day at a local resort. Because of this and the travel advisory happening back-to-back, Bahamas news was not good and concerns from tourists amplified. Even searching for “things to do in the Bahamas” will generate results of these recent incidents at the very top. The question I was then asked was – are you still not afraid of traveling to the Bahamas? My answer? No. What happened to these women is devastating, but the sad reality is that sexual violence against women isn’t exactly a rare occurrence, and it’s something that happens every day everywhere. This is not a problem exclusive to the Bahamas. According to RAINN, every 68 seconds an American is sexually assaulted, with the majority of these instances happening in the United States. It’s a sad a concern just whnd sobering statistic, and I use it only to highlight that the risk of sexual assault isn’t aen cruising or traveling, but something that can happen even “at home” – and most often it does happen in the U.S. I do not in any way intend to downplay what happened to these women, and all other victims of sexual assault, but I do not think that this should result in cruisers avoiding the Bahamas. I do caution fellow travelers to exercise caution when traveling, whether it is a cruise or any other form of travel. While crime can happen anywhere, tourists can be specifically targeted. Cruisers can help minimize their risk by observing these cruise ship safety strategies, which are also detailed in the infographic: Stay close to port and in touristic areas. Verify and vet transportation. Consume alcohol with caution. Engage in only verified excursions from trusted, proven operators. You can get referrals of private drivers and excursions is through various cruise groups on Facebook, and on Viator, where you can read user reviews before booking. Here are options for private drivers in Nassau, for instance, or general excursions. Upon arrival, always ask the driver to show you their credentials, and don’t be afraid to even ask to take a photo of them. Yes, many of these cruise excursion safety travel tips and strategies are “no brainers”, but when we cruise and are in the confines of a port area, surrounded by thousands of other cruisers – or at a resort on an excursion as is the case of the Kentucky women who were victimized – it’s easy to get complacent and ignore these common safeguards. Being cautious, aware, and vigilant are always good defenses. TW: Sexual Assault I was cruising on the Carnival Mardi Gras recently when my phone started blowing up with messages from my worried circle—friends and family who knew I was heading to Nassau, Bahamas. They were spooked because of a Level 2 Travel Advisory issued by the US Department of State for the Bahamas and news of 18 murders already in Nassau in 2024. The online cruise message boards were also buzzing with concerned cruisers, asking if it was even safe to step off the ship in Nassau, worried that the Bahamas were just too dangerous. I was a bit taken aback by the swift and immediate uproar, noting that the travel advisory mentioned that while the majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands, the advisory was due to gang-on-gang violence in the “Over the Hill” area near Shirley Street. I spent a lovely and uneventful day in Nassau, my eighth visit, and had some great conversations with locals who confirmed that the uptick in murders was a matter of “community policing” and should not be of concern to tourists. I was hearing so much about the fears of safety in Nassau, and the safety of the Bahamas in general, that I made a video on TikTok to address it. In the video, I noted that at any given time, the US Department of State has active travel advisories for over 200 locations, including popular cruise

A sign from he highway welcomes travelers to the Tampa International Airport in Florda
Departure Ports, Hotels, Tampa Bay, United States

Tampa Hotels for Cruisers with Shuttle to the Cruise Port

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Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port If you’re staying in Tampa the night before a cruise out of Port Tampa Bay, you’ll find many great hotel options, many close to the port and some with shuttle service, although the choice can sometimes feel overwhelming. Florida is home to several cruise ports, including two of the biggest in the world — Port Miami and Port Canaveral — and Port Tampa Bay is very small in comparison. I like this port because it isn’t as bustling as the giant ones, but it’s still well-run with efficient boarding, and the terminal is clean and modern. When it comes to my recommendations for affordable Tampa hotels, which are below, I will include a caveat. During peak times in the area, such as when Tampa’s annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival or other big events are happening, hotel pricing can spike due to high demand. In this case, budget-conscious cruisers might consider properties located in nearby Clearwater, Brandon, or Dundein. Ybor City is Tampa Bay’s historic Latin quarter. Downtown Tampa is a great place to stay, and less than two miles from the port, but it’s a pricier location, so cruisers seeking a hotel that’s affordable will find more budget-friendly options by the Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is only about seven miles from Port Tampa Bay. Hotels adjacent to Port Tampa Bay generally cost more than airport area hotels, but many cruisers still go that route for the convenience of location. book a cruise from Tampa Affordable Tampa Hotels Near Cruise Port Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District Address: 1155 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FloridaOf all the hotel options in the Port Tampa Bay area, this is one of the closest at a little more than half a mile and is walkable in under 10 minutes. It’s also the rare hotel that provides free shuttle to the cruise port, and the times the shuttle runs varies daily depending on the cruise port schedule. Another benefit to this property for budget savvy cruisers it that it offers free hot breakfast — none of that continental business. Parking is high, though, at $32.25 per day, but cruisers parking for a longer period of time can get $11.99 daily parking through Rightway Parking, a third-party parking provider. BOOK Home2Suites by Hilton Channel District Address: 1155 East Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FloridaAnother hotel that’s less than a mile from the Tampa cruise port is Home2Suites, where cruisers can reach their terminal in just about a 12-minute walk, depending on the terminal. Guests staying here enjoy free hot breakfast, buffet-style, from 6-10 am and free shuttle to the port, which is available on a first come, first served basis. Like with Hampton Inn, nightly parking here is high at $30 per day, but the property recommends that cruisers parking there during their cruise book through third-party parking provider Rightway Parking for better pricing at around $11.99 per day. BOOK Tampa Airport Hotel Option Quality Inn Tampa Airport1020 South Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, Florida Cruisers who prefer a more affordable option, and don’t mind being a bit further from port often choose this property. This is also a great choice for cruisers who fly in on a late flight. Benefits of staying here are that it’s obviously close to the airport for cruisers flying in, and they also offer a free shuttle to the property from the Tampa Airport. In addition, shuttle service is available to the cruise port for $10 per person, set up at check in; although unless you’re a solo cruiser, Uber is likely a more affordable choice at around $13-20 per ride. Parking here is $12 per day, but the cheaper option for those parking during their cruise is the property’s “park and cruise” package, which includes a one-night stay, up to 14 days of parking, and cruise port shuttle service for two. Free hot breakfast is available from 6-9 am. BOOK Getting to Port Tampa Bay from the Airport These are all great hotels in Tampa, which are consistently highly ranked by cruisers sailing from Port Tampa Bay, but I advise folks not to book them (or any property) because of the fact that these hotels offer a shuttle to the cruise port. Instead, consider convenience, hotel ratings, location, and other amenities when deciding. If you opt to stay at a hotel near the Tampa Airport, complimentary shuttle service is generally provided, but this is not typically an amenity offered by hotel properties by Port Tampa Bay. My post here highlights various transfer options to get you from the airport to the cruise port. Get Tampa transfer prices Things to Do in Tampa Before Your Cruise If you have time to kill in Tampa before embarking on a cruise, consider a morning in Ybor City. There are locations in this charming and historic district, which is located less than three miles from port, where you can pay a small fee to securely store your bags and then explore the many nearby stores and restaurants before your cruise. Other popular Tampa attractions include the Busch Gardens theme park, Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, and Tampa Riverwalk. Book Your Tampa Hotel Now Things to Know About the Tampa Cruise Port

The Carnival Sushine cruise ship docked at a cruise port
Departure Ports, Galveston, United States

Exploring the Galveston Cruise Port: Parking, Shuttles, and More

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The Galveston Cruise Port, located in Galveston, Texas, is officially named “Port of Galveston,” and it serves as a major cruise departure point along the Gulf Coast, often servicing cruises headed to the Western Caribbean, including ports of call such as Cozumel, Costa Maya, Progreso, and Roatan. The port located on Galveston Island, situated off the coast of Texas in the Gulf of Mexico. Many of the major cruise lines sail from the Port of Galveston, including Carnival, Princess, Disney, MSC, and Norwegian, and these ships dock at one of two terminals: Cruise Terminal 25 or 28. Royal Caribbean has its own pier, which is the newest, Cruise Terminal 10. Port of Galveston Address The address of Port of Galveston varies depending on your departure terminal. Cruise Terminal 25 is 2502 Harborside Drive, Cruise Terminal 28 is 2702 Harborside Drive. and Cruise Terminal 10 is 1152 Royal Caribbean Way. It’s important to note that the newer Cruise Terminal 10 isn’t in the immediate vicinity of the other two terminals, but rather is about a mile away.Cruisers can consult their cruise documents to determine the specific terminal from which their sailing departs, or they can consult signage at the port. Explore cruises from galveston Alcohol Rules in Galveston If you’re sailing from Galveston, note that the rules around drink packages and duty-free alcohol purchases differ here from most other cruise ports. Due to state law, specifically the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code (TABC) 28.07, cruisers are bound to some unique parameters. When Drink Packages Take Effect When Sailing from Galveston First, depending on the cruise line you’re sailing with, cruisers may be unable to take advantage of a drink package, such as Carnival’s CHEERS! package immediately upon their sailing, and it may not take effect until the ship is in international waters. Royal Caribbean, in contrast, does make alcohol through drink packages available immediately, but within a limited menu. The differences here depend on the various licenses purchased and held by the various cruise lines, as well as the distributor from which they purchase the alcohol. Taxes on Alcohol in Galveston Another difference in alcohol when sailing from Galveston is related to taxation. Also due to TABC requirements, cruisers who buy duty-free alcohol or tobacco must pay state tax upon their return. State tax is also applied to any beverage purchases (alcohol or otherwise) while the ship is in US waters. Getting to the Galveston Cruise Port Most cruisers who come in by air to sail out of Port Galveston fly into George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), neither of which are close to the cruise port. Hobby is, closest, at 41 miles, and IAH is around 70 miles. The direct route to the cruise port from both airports is via Interstate 45. Unfortunately, traffic and construction are common, so the average time from IAH airport to the cruise port can exceed an hour and a half. Pro tip: If flying in to Houston and making the drive to Galveston, note that there is a Buc-ee’s en route. It’s right off I45 in Texas City. I highly recommend checking it out if you’ve never been to one. It’s a famous gas station/convenience store chain with massive store locations, holding several world records and –of all things– being known for having “America’s cleanest bathrooms.” Given that Galveston is quite a distance from Houston and its airports, hotels in the Houston area do not generally offer shuttle service, even for a fee, although some of the Galveston hotels do. Here are the best ways to get from the Houston area airports to the Galveston Cruise Port: Cruise Line Transfer: Most cruise lines offer transfer service, and Carnival’s service from IAH to port, as one example, is $59 per person. This is booked directly through your cruise line. Rideshare: When it comes to getting to port, I typically recommend using Uber, but in this case, the long distance means that the ride can cost $65-110, depending on the time of day and other factors, but that is for up to four passengers. Private Transfer: Cruisers can book their own private transfer service, which is much more convenient than cruise line transfer service or hotel transfer services, which is typically on a bus or shuttle with other cruisers. Get Transfer offers transfer service for up to three people from IAH to Port of Galveston starting at $97, or cruisers traveling in a larger group can book a private van for up to eight people starting at $149. Public Transportation: There aren’t any easily accessible public transportation options to get to Port of Galveston. Explore cruises from galveston Best Galveston Hotels for Cruisers This is a lengthy topic, and cruisers who fly in are faced with the choice of staying in Houston versus Galveston, so check out this post to learn more about the best hotels near the Galveston cruise port, including some with shuttle service. compare galveston hotel prices Galveston Cruise Port Parking The Port of Galveston offers official parking in several locations, and all of the port’s parking facilities are secure and patrolled around the clock, with ADA handicap-accessible spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking starts at $18 per day, with valet services available at an additional cost and a higher daily fee for oversized vehicles. Advance parking reservations are not required here, but the port offers discounted pricing through its advanced reservations parking program. Disabled veterans are eligible for a parking discount. Parking at Cruise Terminals 25 and 28 in Galveston Port of Galveston provides three multi-level “park and walk” garages for cruisers departing from Cruise Terminals 25 or 28. Travelers cruising from Terminal 25 generally park at either the SMP Garage located at 150 25th Street or the Pier 25 Lot at 2502 Harborside, and those departing from Terminal 28 will find parking closest to the terminal what is called the Express Lot at 2702 Harborside. All three of these “park and walk” locations are a short walk across the street

A Carnival cruise ship is seen from a cruise terminal.
Departure Ports, Jacksonville, United States

Exploring the Jacksonville Cruise Port: All You Need to Know

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The Jacksonville cruise port, also known as “JAXPORT,” is one of the smaller ports in Florida. It is basically a hub just for Carnival cruises, but it still sees a steady flow of over 1 million cruise passengers yearly. JAXPORT is tiny compared to the other Florida ports, including two of the biggest in the world — Port Canaveral and Port Miami. Unlike the other cruise ports in Florida, which generally service many of the major cruise lines, the Jacksonville Cruise Port offers cruise service solely from Carnival, where cruises depart from the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal in North Jacksonville year-round, including four-day and five-day cruises to The Bahamas. Carnival ships sailing out of Jacksonville Cruise Port are Ecstasy and Elation. While JAXPORT is presently utilized only by Carnival, Norwegian has announced plans to sail from the Jacksonville cruise port starting in November 2025.  explore cruises from jaxport Until November 2025, Carnival is the only cruise line to offer sailings from JAXPORT. Getting to the Jacksonville Cruise Port The Jacksonville cruise port is about 10 miles from the Jacksonville airport, which is about a 15-25 minute drive, depending on traffic. Since JAXPORT is such a small cruise port, transportation options from the airport to port are more limited than other departure ports. There are no rental car companies located at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal. Cruise Line Transfer: Most cruise lines offer transfer service from airport to port, but Jaxport is the exception, as Carnival does not provide this service here. Taxi Service: JAXPORT’s franchised taxi service provides taxi and shuttle service between the cruise terminal and Jacksonville Airport. Cruisers can contact the taxi service at 904- 222-2222 and call 904-338-9595, Option 2, for shuttle and special needs transportation. Rideshare: When it comes to getting to port, I typically recommend using Uber, which for this distance runs $20-30, depending on the time of day and other factors. Private Transfer: Cruisers can book their own private transfer service, which is much more convenient than cruise line transfer service or hotel transfer services, which is typically on a bus or shuttle with other cruisers. Get Transfer offers transfer service for up to three people from the airport to Jaxport starting at $37, or cruisers traveling in a larger group can book a van for up to 8 people starting at $56 or a minibus for up to 16 people starting at $110. Public Transportation: There aren’t any easily accessible public transportation options to get to JAXPORT. get private transfer pricing Best Jacksonville Hotels for Cruisers This is a lengthy topic, so I created a separate post detailing the best Jacksonville hotels near the cruise port with shuttle service. compare jacksonville hotel prices Jacksonville Cruise Port Parking The address for the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal parking facility is 9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226, and directions are available on the facility’s website. Situated on JAXPORT property, the parking area is well-lighted and securely fenced, and is conveniently located just steps away from the cruise terminal building. Parking is monitored round-the-clock by JAXPORT security personnel, and there are designated disabled parking spaces are provided for those in need. The Jacksonville Cruise Port does not require advance reservations, although advance bookings are available for added convenience on the Jaxport Cruise Terminal Parking website. The cost of parking at the Jacksonville Cruise Port is $17 per day, or $34 per day for oversized vehicles.   Jacksonville Cruise Schedule Cruisemapper provides a real-time ship schedule for JAXPORT.   Things to Do in New Jacksonville Before a Cruise If you’re staying at a Jacksonville hotel the night before your cruise from JAXPORT, or have a morning to kill before your cruise, there are plenty of things to do in the area. The city’s vibrant cultural scene offers attractions such as the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Zoo and Anheuser Busch Brewery are also big attractions in the area, along with the scenic downtown Riverwalk,

Port NOLA as seen from a cruise ship departing New Orleans, Louisiana
Departure Ports, New Orleans, United States

New Orleans Cruise Port: What You Need to Know

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The New Orleans cruise port is officially named “Port NOLA,” and the port accommodates hundreds of cruise ship calls annually, welcoming over 1.2 million passengers to the vibrant city of New Orleans. Many cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and some other small specialty lines depart from this port. What makes Port NOLA distinctive, and is my personal favorite part about it, is that it takes cruisers along the Mississippi River. Sailings from this port call to many destinations, and the Western Caribbean is popular for cruises departing from Port NOLA. I sought out a sailing here because 1) I wanted the experience of “rolling on the river” and 2) I aspired to visit some Western Caribbean ports I hadn’t yet visited, including Roatan and Belize. Given that I have to fly to cruise ports, it was nice to also enjoy the day before in the fun and unique city of New Orleans. Port NOLA boasts two bustling cruise terminals. The Erato Street Cruise Terminal is used by Carnival, and its address is 1100 Port of New Orleans Place. The Julia Street Cruise Terminal at 920 Port of New Orleans Place is the one you’ll use if sailing Norwegian or Royal Caribbean. While I enjoyed my experience sailing out of Port NOLA, I found this port to be more chaotic, crowded, and less organized than some of the other bigger ports like Port Canaveral and Port Miami, or even smaller ones like Port Everglades. Port NOLA is conveniently located in downtown New Orleans, making it easy to find a nearby hotel for cruisers who fly in, and allowing them to enjoy the sites and amenities of the city before their cruise vacation. Getting to the New Orleans Cruise Port Port NOLA is less than 20 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), which is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Here are the best options to get from MSY airport to Port NOLA: Best New Orleans Hotels for Cruisers This is an involved topic, so I created a separate post detailing the best New Orleans hotels near the cruise port with a shuttle. Port NOLA Parking Port NOLA offers convenient parking options for cruise passengers, with secure parking facilities at the Erato Street Cruise Terminal and the Julia Street Cruise Terminal. The Erato Terminal offers more than 1,000 parking spots within the terminal, while the Julia Street Terminal, right next door to Erato, offers secured parking adjacent to the terminal. Passengers can choose between covered and uncovered parking spaces, with rates typically varying based on the duration of the cruise, starting at $25 per day. Eligible disabled veterans may qualify for free parking, for up to 7 days. Parking is available at both terminals on a first-come, first-served basis; however, according to the Port NOLA website, reservations are unnecessary since cruise passengers are guaranteed parking in one of the Port’s facilities. Cruisers are advised to not access cruise terminals from the entrances to Port of New Orleans Place at Julia St. or Poydras St. Specific driving directions are available on the Port NOLA website. Port NOLA Schedule The cruise ship schedule can be found directly on the PORT NOLA website. Things to Do in New Orleans Before a Cruise If you have time to kill in New Orleans before embarking on a cruise, there are plenty of things to do that are free and low cost, and fairly easy to access by foot, assuming you’re staying at hotel near the cruise port. My top recommendations include exploring the French Quarter and enjoying the famous beignets at Cafe Du Monde. If you don’t mind loud music and crowds, the vibe at Bourbon Street is something to check out. Families might want to check out the Audubon Aquarium, which is very close to the cruise port, and gamblers may enjoy another destination close to Port NOLA, which is Harrah’s Casino. Another option is to book an excursion, like one of those listed below.

Tampa buildings as seen from the Port Tampa cruise port
Departure Ports, Tampa Bay, United States

Everything You Need to Know About Tampa Cruise Port: Parking and Terminal

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The Tampa cruise port is officially named “Port Tampa Bay.” Of the many ports in Florida, it’s one of the smallest, serving just over 1 million cruise passengers annually. With Margaritaville at Sea announcing that they will start sailing from Tampa in summer 2024, that number will continue to rise. Presently, Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line depart from this port. Despite its smaller size, I’ve found it to run just as smoothly and efficiently as two of its comparatively giant sister ports, Port Miami and Port Canaveral. Port Tampa Bay accommodates a variety of watercraft but only has three terminals for cruise ships: Terminals #2, #3, and #6, making it quite easy to navigate. Cruisers can determine their departure terminal by consulting the cruise documents provided by the cruise line. Still, upon arrival at the port, signage will indicate where each cruise ship is docked. Port Tampa Bay is small but well-run.   The address of the Tampa cruise port is, in general, located on Channelside Drive, but the specific addresses per terminal are as follows: Terminal #2 is 651 Channelside Drive and its corresponding parking garage address is 810 Channelside Drive and Terminal #3 is 815 Channelside Drive and its parking garage is shared with Terminal #2 with the same address (810 Channelside Drive). The Terminal #6 address is the same as the address for its corresponding parking lot, which is 1331 McKay Street. Book a cruise from port Tampa Bay Getting to Port Port Tampa Bay is about 15 miles from TPA (Tampa International Airport), which is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending upon traffic. Cruisers flying to Tampa may also consider searching for flights to St. Petersburg (PIE) (14.6 miles), Sarasota/Bradenton (SRQ) (39.4 miles), Orlando (MCO) (78.1 miles), given their relatively close proximity to Port Tampa Bay and the fact that there sometimes can be a substantial difference in airfare pricing between airports. Best Options to Get from Tampa Airport to Port Tampa Bay Cruise Line Transfer: Most cruise lines offer transfer service, and Carnival’s service from TPA to Port Tampa Bay, as one example, is $24.99 per person. This is booked directly through your cruise line. Hotel Shuttle: Some Tampa hotels offer an optional (shared) shuttle service for guests, but this usually is not provided as a free amenity, and the cost can end up being more than the other transfer options. Rideshare: When it comes to getting to port, I typically recommend using Uber, which for this distance runs $38-55, depending on the time of day and other factors, but that is for up to four passengers. Private Transfer: Cruisers can book their own private transfer service, which is much more convenient than cruise line transfer service or hotel transfer services, which are typically on a bus or shuttle with other cruisers. Get Transfer offers transfer service for up to three people from Tampa Airport to Port Tampa Bay starting at $40, or cruisers traveling in a larger group can book a van for up to 8 people starting at $61 or a minibus for up to 16 people starting at $119. Public Transportation: The TECO Line Streetcar is free to ride and runs a route that takes travelers to a stop at Channelside Drive, which is the location of the three Tampa terminals. The TPA website has a great comprehensive summary of up-to-date transportation options, including pricing. Book a transfer Best Tampa Hotels for Cruisers This is an involved topic, so I created a separate post detailing the best Tampa hotels near the cruise port with a shuttle. Port Tampa Parking Best tampa cruiser hotels The Port Tampa Bay parking garage is located across the street from the central cruise terminal at 815 Channelside Drive, Tampa, Florida 33602, and signs on-site direct cruise passengers to the garage. Rates are $15.75 per day for self-parking, and cruisers can pony up a $20 one-time additional fee to enjoy the convenience of valet service.  With valet service, cruisers can pull right into the terminal area, and a valet will park your car for you, and then have it waiting for you when you later disembark the ship.   Parking can be purchased in advance directly from the Port Tampa Bay website, although no reservation is required. If you plan to park an oversized vehicle over 7’2″, which costs $36.50 per day, however, booking in advance is advisable, as these spaces are very limited and can sell out far in advance. Port Schedule The Port Tampa Bay cruise schedule can be found directly on the port’s website. Things to Do in Tampa Before a Cruise If you have time to kill in Tampa before embarking on a cruise, consider a morning in Ybor City. There are locations in this charming and historic district, which is located less than three miles from port, where you can pay a small fee to securely store your bags and then explore the many nearby stores and restaurants before your cruise. Other popular Tampa attractions include the Busch Gardens theme park, Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, and Tampa Riverwalk. Things to Know About the Tampa Cruise Port

A woman and her daughter pose on a Carnival cruise ship docked in Galveston, Texas, with the Galveston skyline visible behind them.
Cruise Tips, Departure Ports, Galveston, Hotels, United States

Best Affordable Hotels in Galveston with Shuttle to Cruise Port

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Looking for hotels in Galveston before your cruise? Port of Galveston in Texas is a popular departure port for Western Caribbean itineraries, but it can present a tricky dilemma for cruisers who come in the day before their cruise and need an affordable place to stay. Most who come to Port of Galveston by plane fly into George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), neither of which are close to the cruise port. While it may seem tempting to select a hotel near the airport and transport to Port of Galveston on embarkation day, I advise against this for three reasons. First, the Houston-area hotels aren’t exactly in the best locations, especially Hobby. Second, the distance between the airports and port is 41 miles (Hobby) and 70 miles (IAH), and the traffic and construction on Interstate 45 are both notoriously bad, meaning that the time from the airport to cruise port can exceed an hour and a half. Finally, there isn’t much to do in the immediate vicinity of Houston airports, unlike in Galveston. I advise cruisers to stay at a hotel in Galveston, although properties near the cruise port during peak times can spike in price. If that occurs, budget-conscious cruisers might consider finding a hotel halfway down I-45 between Houston and Galveston to put them much closer to port, but not pay as much for a hotel stay. As for hotels in Galveston proper, my top recommendations for affordable options are below. Hotels near Port of Galveston Holiday Inn Resort Galveston on the BeachAddress: 5002 Seawall Blvd, Galveston Island, TX Port of Galveston is on Galveston Island, and this hotel is on that island and in close proximity, at just 3.5 miles. The property features ocean view and balcony rooms, along with free Wi-Fi and a heated outdoor pool. It’s oceanside, meaning that it’s just a short walk across the street to the beach, where loungers and umbrellas are available for rent. There are a ton of restaurants within walking distance, including Rainforest Cafe. Parking is available for $70 for the week, for up to 8 days, and there is a “Park, Stay and Go” rate that includes shuttle to port, parking, and one night’s stay. The shuttle to port is $15 per person, compared to an Uber which runs $15-30 for up to four people. The Tremont House Hotel GalvestonAddress: 2300 Ship Mechanic Row St, Galveston, TX The Tremont House brings character and charm as Galveston’s only downtown historic hotel in The Strand, and it’s consistently one of the top-rated properties in the area. The Strand is Galveston’s historic district, lined with ornate late 1800s buildings and filled with restaurants, art galleries, museums, shops, and more. It’s one of the few hotels that’s feasibly walkable to port, just two blocks, although they offer shuttle service for $15 per person (an Uber in comparison is $8-15 for up to four people). Guests receive complimentary Wi-Fi and continental breakfast, and parking is available at $100 for a week (up to 7 days). Harbor House at Pier 21 Address: 28 Pier 21, Galveston, TX 77550 Another property located less than a mile from port (0.9 mi.) is Harbor House, which is technically walkable to port, depending on the terminal from which you’re sailing. They do offer shuttle service, at $15 for two people, along with free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. An Uber runs around $9-15 for up to four people. For cruisers driving in, parking is $15 per night. There are some restaurants around the hotel, but the best bet is to walk the three blocks to The Strand. Transportation to Port of Galveston Given that Galveston is quite a distance from Houston and its airports, hotels do not generally offer shuttle service, even for a fee. Here are the three best options to get from Houston to Port of Galveston: Things to do Near Galveston If you’re staying at a Galveston hotel the night before your cruise from the Port of Galveston, or have a morning to kill before your cruise, there are a number of great activities nearby. All of these sites are close to the recommended hotels; many of them walkable. The Strand is a great place to explore and is Galveston’s historic district, lined with ornate late 1800s buildings filled with restaurants, art galleries, museums, shops, and more, and it’s just blocks away from all of these recommended properties. Rainforest Cafe is another nearby option that is great for families, although this one isn’t walkable at about 4 miles in distance. Another family-friendly site is the Galveston Railroad Museum, which provides interactive exhibits at a location that’s less than a mile from these hotels. The museum has forty pieces of rolling stock, a substantial collection of dining car china, and two incredible model railroad layouts, and runs weekly caboose rides on Saturdays. Book Your Galveston Hotel Now!

A Carnival cruise ship docks at one of its private islands in the Bahamas.
Cruise Tips, Departure Ports, Hotels, Jacksonville, United States

Affordable Hotels Near the Jacksonville Cruise Port with Shuttle

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It can be difficult to find advice about affordable hotels with a shuttle near the Jacksonville cruise port (JAXPORT) as this is a tiny port compared to the other Florida giants: Port Canaveral, Port Miami, and Port Everglades. Selecting a hotel near the Jacksonville port is also challenging, as there aren’t many options right at the port. Carnival is the only cruise line that uses this port, and its current ships that sail out of Jaxport are Ecstacy and Elation. Below are four great Jacksonville hotel options for cruisers: one right at port, one with oceanfront access for an extra beach day, a downtown option on the Riverwalk, and a hotel close to the airport. Hotels near Jaxport Holiday Inn Express, Jacksonville – Blount IslandAddress: 10148 New Berlin Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226 Carnival is the only cruise line that sails from Jaxport. (Outfit: Floral two-piece set) This property is one of the few choices located at the port, just 1.5 miles which is a short 5-minute drive. There are numerous locations within a 15-minute drive, including the Jacksonville Zoo and Anheuser Busch Brewery. The hotel partners with a local driver who is available to transport guests to the cruise port for $5 per person, and all guests receive free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast. Parking is free for guests during their stay, but Holiday Inn Express does not provide an extended parking option for cruisers, even at an additional cost. Book Crowne Plaza Jacksonville Airport/I-95NAddress: 14670 Duval Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218-9429Airport hotels aren’t generally the sexiest properties, but the Crowne Plaza rates as one of the top Jacksonville hotel choices because it hits all the marks: reasonably priced, great location, and recently renovated. It also provides a free airport shuttle to guests and free Wi-Fi, as well as an outdoor heated pool. On-site breakfast is available, although it is not free. For cruisers driving in, parking is a great value; free the night of your stay and then $5 for each additional night. The property is less than 3 miles from the Jacksonville airport, close to many of the major Jacksonville attractions, and is just 15 minutes to Jaxport. Book Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach OceanfrontAddress: 10573 Brightman Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246-7502 Given the lack of options at Jaxport, cruisers may opt to explore Jacksonville and stay at a hotel a little further out, and this property is a great choice, as it provides an extra beach day at Jacksonville Beach before the start of your cruise vacation. Located about 30 minutes from the port, it’s close enough not to add much time to transportation to Jaxport on embarkation day. Most rooms offer private balconies with oceanfront views, and guests receive free Wi-Fi and a hot breakfast. Unlike many Florida beachfront hotels, this property does not charge a resort fee, and loungers and umbrellas are available to rent at the beach. Book Hyatt Regency Jacksonville RiverfrontAddress: 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202-5458This property puts guests not just in downtown Jacksonville but right on the scenic Riverwalk, which is at the heart of the city’s business, entertainment, and sports districts, offering dining, entertainment, and proximity to various activities. There is no airport or port shuttle, and no free breakfast, so the perk of this property is its location and river views. Free Wi-Fi is available to all guests, and it’s located about 20 minutes from Jaxport. Book Getting to Jaxport Given that Jaxport isn’t as bustling a port as the others in Florida, shuttle service isn’t as readily available. Jaxport is about 10 miles from the Jacksonville airport, which is about a 15-25 minute drive, depending on traffic. Cruise Line Transfer: Most cruise lines offer transfer service from airport to port, but Jaxport is the exception, as Carnival does not provide this service here. Taxi Service: JAXPORT’s franchised taxi service provides taxi and shuttle service between the cruise terminal and Jacksonville Airport. Cruisers can contact the taxi service at 904- 222-2222, and call for shuttle & special needs transportation 904-338-9595, Option 2. Rideshare: When it comes to getting to port, I typically recommend using Uber, which runs $20-30 from the airport, depending on the time of day and other factors. Private Transfer: Cruisers can book their own private transfer service, which is much more convenient than cruise line transfer service or hotel transfer services, which are typically on a bus or shuttle with other cruisers. Get Transfer offers transfer service for up to three people from the airport to Jaxport starting at $37, or cruisers traveling in a larger group can book a van for up to 8 people starting at $56 or a minibus for up to 16 people starting at $110. Public Transportation: There aren’t any easily accessible public transportation options to get to JAXPORT. book transfer service Things to do Near Jacksonville

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