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A woman in an orange floral dress smiling under a thatched roof with the beach and greenery in the background.
Caribbean, Cruise Ports, Jamaica

What You Need to Know About the Falmouth, Jamaica Cruise Port

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Falmouth, Jamaica, is one of the country’s newest cruise ports, located on the northern coast. It is officially named the Historic Falmouth Cruise Port, or HFCP, and is one of five cruise terminals in the country. It’s located between two better-known Jamaican cruise ports, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The terminal is new and modern, and since it only accommodates a max of two cruise ships, it rarely feels overcrowded. Note that, like many other Caribbean nations, Jamaica prohibits civilians from wearing camouflage, so leave it at home or back on the ship. Once you do exit your cruise ship, you’ll navigate a short pier, traverse through a duty-free shop, and enter the terminal area, where you’ll find lots of typical cruise port shops (Effy, etc.), as well as some local buskers, and artisans selling their wares. Is Jamaica Safe for Cruisers? I know many cruisers don’t love Jamaica as a destination, and on my recent first visit, I felt a little nervous because I’d heard so many bad things, mostly about safety concerns and overly aggressive vendors. I had a wonderful visit to Falmouth, though, and found the cruise port safe, clean, modern, and welcoming—nothing like what I’d heard fellow cruisers describe. The Falmouth cruise port lies between the other, bigger Jamaican ports of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. After further reflection and discussion, I think these problems mostly apply to Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. I’ve never personally visited those two ports, so I can’t speak to them, but I can assure you that Falmouth is an outstanding cruise destination. That being said, Falmouth is not a “venture outside of the cruise terminal and explore the surrounding town on foot” kinda port. First, there’s not much to do outside of the cruise terminal area, and second, this area is a bit run-down, and some cruisers may not feel entirely safe. My advice if visiting here? Do a beach day or excursion. Related: New to cruising? Check out my Comprehensive Cruise Guide. Falmouth Cruise Port to the City Center The Falmouth cruise port is located close to the town center, although, as noted above, I do not recommend just walking around the city center. Instead, I recommend booking an excursion, either through the cruise line or an independent tour provider, or taking a taxi to a nearby beach or resort. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. Cost of Taxis in Falmouth, Jamaica Taxi and shuttle services are readily available at the port to get to a beach or other site on your own. Just hang a right as you exit the terminal, and you’ll see them lined up, with clear signage listing the cost to get to the area’s most popular destinations. Taxis are regulated and have set fares. On my recent visit to Falmouth, the taxi fare to Montego Bay was $60 one way for up to four people. The cost here is pretty steep compared to other popular Caribbean cruise port taxi prices like Cozumel. A more affordable option is a shared shuttle, with fares to Montego Bay (about 20 miles away) running $15 one way per person or $25 for a round-trip ride. Uber is not available in Falmouth, so if you want to get around on your own without an excursion, you’ll need to pay for a taxi or shuttle. If you take a private excursion, you’ll exit the cruise terminal to the right, passing the taxi stand, to a marked parking lot immediately outside of the terminal. Related: Explore the pros, cons, and risks of independent excursions. Best Beaches Near the Falmouth Cruise Port Renowned for its stunning beaches, Jamaica includes Falmouth, although you can’t directly access a beach from the cruise terminal, and no beaches are within walking distance. So, although it will require transportation to get there, below are some of the best beaches near the Falmouth cruise port. Like many of the beaches in Mexico’s popular cruise ports, Jamaican beaches, particularly during the summer months and after storms, can experience seaweed accumulation due to the natural movement of sargassum carried by ocean currents and tides. Resort for a Day While an “on your own” beach day is great, I encourage cruisers visiting Falmouth to consider buying a day pass through Resort for a Day, which includes more exclusive access to the resort’s beaches, round-trip transportation, and the amenities of an all-inclusive. While the upfront cost is much higher, if you compare the admission cost to the other beaches, rental of a lounger/umbrella and costly transportation, this becomes a much better value when you add up all the costs and account for the inclusion of food and beverages. During my recent visit to Falmouth with my young daughter, I chose this option, and we visited Iberostar Rose Hall. I felt safe because transportation was included, and I didn’t have to take a random taxi or shuttle. I found the experience to be wonderful and relaxing. We visited Iberostar, which is situated on Rose Hall Beach in Montego Bay. Iberostar Rose Hall in Montego Bay Burwood Beach Burwood Beach is the closest beach to the Falmouth cruise port, located about 5 miles away, and it is around a 10-minute taxi ride away. Cruisers like this beach for its clean, clear waters, friendly locals, and serene atmosphere, although (as noted above) it can become seaweed-y depending on the season. There is a nominal entry fee of around $5 USD, but it’s a great option for an affordable beach day and one that’s close to the port and has one of the lowest entry fees of the local beach options. Red Stripe Beach Red Stripe Beach is well-loved for its white sand, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It offers enjoyable beach activities and convenient facilities like bars and restrooms. Cruisers enjoy the beach’s beauty and amenities, but it’s important to note that it is on the smaller side and can become crowded when multiple cruise ships are docked. It’s also a bit far from the Falmouth cruise terminal, about 45 minutes. It also fronts a resort, so there’s a $10 USD entry

A Carnival cruise ship is seen through palm trees at Amber Cove in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
Caribbean, Cruise Ports, Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata

Exploring Amber Cove: Free Activities, Beaches, and More

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Amber Cove cruise port is located in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, and is named in honor of the amber found on its shores. If you’re sailing to Puerto Plata, it’s important to note your specific cruise port, as there are two popular ones here — Amber Cove and Taino Bay (pronounced Ty-ee-no). 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. If you’re cruising to Amber Cove, 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 Puerto Plata. Unlike Taino Bay, unfortunately, Amber Cove is not within walking distance to many of the city’s top attractions, like Umbrella Alley and Paseo de Doña Blanca. Is Amber Cove Free? As noted, Amber Cove is primarily served by Carnival Cruise Line and what I love about this port is that it’s not a tender port, and in fact has a short pier, and there is a lot to do and see right at the port without the need to invest in an excursion. It’s also a smaller port, which can only accommodate two ships at a time, so you don’t have to worry about it getting overly crowded. What’s best about the Amber Cove cruise port is that it’s free… well, mostly. Use of the pool and its loungers is completely free, and cruisers do not have to pay any sort of admission fee to enter and use them. There are, however, additional amenities available for rent, and attractions for purchase, detailed below. Cruisers visiting Amber Cove can enjoy free pool access. Free Things to Do at Amber Cove As noted above, if you’re looking for things to do at the Amber Cove cruise port, you’re in luck, because there are a lot of great options to enjoy at no cost. In addition to the standard shops, bars, and restaurants (the legal drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18), there is an “Aqua Zone” with a zip line, over-water cabanas, and a pool with a designated splash zone, including a small water slide, for younger children. Cruisers can enjoy complimentary lounge chairs, hammocks, pool access, and many free fun activities, although some of the port’s activities, such as zip lining and the aqua bikes, have a cost, detailed below. Amber Cove Rental Pricing As of 2024, rental costs were $28 for unlimited zip line access, $5 for the big water slides (unlimited); $8 for all-day Wi-Fi (and no, if you bought Carnival’s Wi-Fi package, it unfortunately does not work here). Single or double kayak rental is $20 for a half hour or $35 for an hour; pedal boats for up to four people for $25 for a half hour of $45 for a full hour; aqua cycle pedal boats (4×4) for $40 for a half hour or $60 for an hour. Stand up paddleboards and hydrobikes rent for $20 for half an hour of $35 for one hour; solar catamaran for two people at $40 for half an hour or $60 for an hour. While use of the pool is free, umbrellas cost $22 to rent for the day, although use of chairs is free. All-day use of a pool float is $12 (although I always recommend to bring your own), noodles are $5, and all-day locker rental is $6 with a refundable $6 deposit. A sign at the Amber Cove cruise port displays the prices of activities at the port (click to enlarge).   Beaches Near Amber Cove Many curious wonder whether or not Amber Cove has a beach, but unfortunately it does not. There are beachfront views and over-water cabanas in the aqua zone, but no direct ocean access exists. There also aren’t any beaches that are really walkable from Amber Cove. If you want to visit one of Puerto Plata’s beaches, you will need to take a taxi, and -warning- taxis in Puerto Plata are pricey! Another option is to hire a private driver (more on that in a moment). If a beach day is really the thing you seek, there are several beaches with free public access that are accessible via taxi from Amber Cove. I have visited two of Puerto Plata’s public beaches: Cosita Rica and Playa del Pueblito. I would not recommend either of these beaches, though. They are both polluted, and the water is very murky and filled with seaweed. Look, I love a good beach day, but in my experience, Puerto Plata just is not the best cruise port for that. Can I Visit Taino Bay if I Port at Amber Cove? Cruisers sometimes find themselves wishing they were docking at Taino Bay instead of Amber Cove, 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 Amber Cove 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. Unfortunately, Umbrella Street, Paseo Dona Blanca, and the historic

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

Carnival Valor cruise ship docked at Costa Maya, Mexico
Costa Maya, Mexico

Explore Costa Maya Cruise Port: What You Need to Know

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While Cozumel is the most well-known figure among Mexican cruise ports, Costa Maya is another gem. Like Cozumel, Costa Maya, Mexico is situated on the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico, and is a popular stop for many Western Caribbean cruises. It services most of the major cruise lines and can accommodate up to four cruise ships simultaneously. The pier is long, but a shuttle is available to transport cruisers with mobility issues or small kids. Language and Currency in Costa Maya Unlike Cozumel, where most vendors near the port speak both Spanish and English, and US currency is almost universally accepted, that may not always be the case in Costa Maya. In my experience at the shops just outside the port terminal, many vendors spoke little or no English, and several merchants only accepted Mexican Pesos (MXN). Credit cards are generally accepted, although not universal. The symbol for pesos is the same as a dollar ($), which can become confusing, so always double-check the currency before purchasing anything. The Costa Maya Port can fit four ships. About the Costa Maya Port Cruisers should first note that Costa Maya has earned the unfortunate nickname “Costa Maybe” because of the frequency with which calls here are canceled due to high winds. When this happens, the call is either changed to another local port of call or (what happens more often) canceled completely, and that port day is changed to a sea day. While it is more likely than not that you will enjoy a great day in Costa Maya with no issues if this port is on your itinerary, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. First, make sure that any pre-booked excursions allow for a refund if your call does get canceled. Second, prepare activities for a potential unexpected sea day. Enough about the potential for bad — let’s talk about the good. Things to do at the Costa Maya Cruise Port Nestled just south of the Riviera Maya, the Costa Maya cruise port is more than just a stop on your itinerary. It’s a gateway to ancient Mayan ruins, stunning beaches, and an authentic slice of Mexican culture. Unlike its rustic sister port Progreso, the Costa Maya cruise port is notably modern yet calls back to the area’s ancient history and is designed to cater to cruise passengers, ensuring that you’re immersed in a world of vibrant culture from the moment you step off the ship. Staying at the Terminal In fact, this port is so interesting that some cruisers choose to stay in the port area at the terminal rather than venture outside of it. As you disembark, the lush, tropical surroundings and the architectural charm of the port invite you to explore further. The terminal is new, clean, safe, and filled with things to do beyond even just the standard cruise port shops, bars, and restaurants, although not all of these activities are free (more on that below). The scenery is lovely, and even flamingos and parrots live on site to admire. Hayhu Beach is about 40 minutes from port. (Swimsuit: CharmLeaks 2-piece) Some critics, however, refer to this as a “tourism village” and prefer to explore the authenticity of Mahahual (Majahual), a small (actual) village nearby with just 600 inhabitants. If doing the latter, note that the areas outside the cruise terminal aren’t as developed as at other cruise ports, like Cozumel. Free Things to Do at the Costa Maya Cruise Port The port has a saltwater pool that is free for cruisers to enjoy at the terminal. However, food must be purchased from the adjacent restaurant to use a lounger or chair surrounding the pool. There is also a separate beachfront lounge area, although entry to the ocean is not an option here. Food or drinks must also be purchased to use the chairs, swings, and loungers here. The truly free activities are quite limited here, other than just walking around and admiring the scenery and window shopping. Paid activities at the port include an Aviarius Bird Tour, Fish Spa, Dolphin Discovery, and Mayan Baths. Costa Maya Excursions Because this port isn’t as developed as some of the others, cruisers may find excursion choices here to be quite limited. Below are my recommendations for beach day options, including more luxurious private experiences further from port, like at Hayhu Beach, to more affordable all-inclusive “beach breaks“. Aside from beach excursions, many activities here center on ocean activities, like private boat charters, which are expensive for couples but can be a bargain for bigger groups, and snorkeling. For those who seek more cultural immersion and history, there are some tours of ancient Mayan ruins, although these are a bit of a distance, about 30 miles, from the cruise port. Krazy Lobster Costa Maya is an interesting port because while the pier area is new and expansive, it is a bit of a tourist trap. Due to the underdeveloped nature of the surrounding areas, venturing out isn’t always an attractive option, either. A happy medium for many cruisers is to visit Krazy Lobster, which is a private beachfront restaurant immediately adjacent to the cruise port, just a short taxi ride away. At Krazy Lobster, guests can enjoy beach access and Wi-Fi in exchange for purchasing food and drinks. While erosion has cut away the beachfront area, there’s still a great swim area sectioned off from the waves, and a floating platform for patrons to use. Due to the erosion, and poor snorkeling conditions, the beach experience here is fairly limited. Kayaks and beach massages are available here for a cost. Krazy Lobster isn’t the most luxurious destination, but the food is good and inexpensive, it provides beach access (although not the most ideal), and is a bit more of an authentic experience than one found at the terminal. Beaches at the Costa Maya Cruise Port As noted above, there is no direct ocean access from the Costa Maya cruise terminal, although beachfront access is available for those who just want to dig their toes in the

Paradise Beach Club in Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel, Cruise Tips, Excursions, Mexico

Discover the Best Cozumel Beach Club: Comparing the Options

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One of the most popular attractions among cruisers porting in Cozumel is to enjoy a day at one of the many local beach clubs, with the most popular ones being Mr. Sancho’s, Paradise Beach, Nachi Cocom, and Chankanaab. If you’re looking for a luxury beach club in Cozumel, there are generally your best options as they (well, three of these) provide an all-inclusive experience and personalized wait service. While the island does offer some public beaches, the free access areas aren’t always desirable (they’re generally very rocky), and offer no amenities unless you pay to rent umbrellas and chairs from a local vendor. In which case, springing for a pass to a beach club may become a more appealing option. Most of the beach clubs are located just a 15 to 25-minute taxi ride from the three Cozumel cruise terminals. Top Cozumel Beach Clubs Which Cozumel Beach Club is best is a hotly contested question in the cruise world, but in my opinion, they’re all really good. Below are my top recommendations for Cozumel Beach clubs based on my own experiences. Prices vary seasonally, so consult each club’s site for the most up-to-date pricing. Note that most of them do not provide beach towels, so you’ll likely need to bring your own from the ship. Taxis are readily available at each to take cruisers back to port at the end of their day. While not required, it’s customary to tip your wait staff at the end of your stay. Paradise Beach Paradise Beach is my favorite of all the beach clubs because it offers a more laid-back vibe. It’s all-inclusive and provides beachfront access for cruisers who want to enjoy a beach day, with a wide array of large inflatable obstacles, slides, and floats for guests to use (although this requires the VIP pass, which is an additional cost). The VIP pass also includes access to stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. The pool is large and well-maintained, and there are numerous loungers and umbrellas, both poolside and beachside. The music is upbeat and pleasant, but not thumping bass, and the party crowd here is minimal. Paradise Beach is family-friendly, and the club will even provide parents of children in diapers with their own small inflatable pool, so babies and toddlers can enjoy water activities. The only thing I don’t like about Paradise Beach is that their pool does not include a swim-up bar, although the waitstaff does a great job of walking around to provide drink service to guests who want a drink without exiting the pool. They also do not provide any dessert options. I generally find all-inclusive food to be quite “meh”, and this was the case on my prior visits to Paradise Beach, but as of late spring 2024, the club has a new chef and the food is significantly better now.   Most of Cozumel’s beach clubs offer massages (Bathing Suit: Pink Halter Bikini) Book paradise beach Mr. Sancho’s Mr. Sancho’s is perhaps the most popular of the Cozumel beach clubs, and I like it, but this is one that I prefer to visit when I’m cruising with friends, rather than with my children. Why? Because this is definitely the one most associated with a party vibe, compared to the other beach clubs. That being said, it’s not that it’s not family-friendly, and you’ll certainly find lots of families with children there, but it’s more of a loud music and drink-to-excess crowd. It’s also typically more expensive than the other options. Like Paradise Beach, Mr. Sancho’s is all-inclusive (although they have a non-all-inclusive option) and boasts three pools, a buffet, and personal wait service. Admission includes access to a beachfront table, chairs, umbrella, food and drinks, and alcohol (but not the top-shelf stuff). Like Paradise Beach, Mr. Sancho’s offers a pass for an extra fee that allows guests to access an array of inflatables in the water. The advantages of this club are that they have more pools than the other options, and they offer personalized wait service and a buffet. Other amenities available at Mr. Sancho’s for an additional cost include beach massages, horseback riding, jet skiing, and parasailing. Mr. Sancho’s offers towels to rent, at $5 for the day with a $10 deposit. However, these towels are quite thin, so I recommend bringing your own. book Mr. sancho’s Nachi Cocom Many Cozumel beach clubs sell activities like banana boat rides. Nachi Cocom is a hidden gem among the Cozumel beach clubs because it doesn’t seem to be as well known as the prior two. Admittedly, the facility here is much smaller and dated than the other choices, but it still has a lot to offer. A big advantage of this beach club is its exclusivity, in that the facility limits admission to just 130 guests daily — so if you want to visit this one, be sure to book it in advance. It’s all-inclusive, so wait staff are on hand throughout your day there to serve you with whatever food and drinks you would like. While Mr. Sancho’s offers the BIG experience… tons of options and that big, party-like vibe, Nachi Cocom is the opposite. This club is small and quiet. If you’re seeking a very chill, laid-back day at the pool or beach, then this is your spot (although Paradise Bach offers this experience, as well). Of the options in Cozumel, Nachi Cocom is generally one of the most affordable ones, too. This is not the spot for tons of aqua activities and large water inflatables, although banana boat rides and parasailing are available for an additional fee, nor is the spot to party. Nachi Cocom also offers towels for rent for $5 each, but they’re quite thin, and again, I recommend just bringing your own from the ship. Of the three main beach clubs, Paradise Beach, Mrs. Sancho’s, and Nachi Cocom, this one has the most limited food options, and I like their food the least overall. Still, though, for its price value, quiet experience, and exclusivity, it’s definitely a Cozumel beach club worth considering. book nachi cocom

A replica Carnival cruise ship statue at the Puerta Maya cruise pier in Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel, Mexico

What You Need to Know About the Cozumel, Mexico Cruise Port

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The Cozumel cruise port, formally known as “Port of Cozumel,” in Mexico is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world and has much to offer to cruisers. It’s an island paradise located off the Mayan Riviera coast and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Along with Costa Maya, it’s one of Mexico’s most visited cruise ports. It’s also significantly developed.Unlike other Mexican cruise ports like Progreso, and very touristic – although this isn’t necessarily a good thing, depending on what you like when you travel. Pronounced “Coe-zoo-mel,” most American tourists pronounce it “Cah-zoo-mel,” but don’t sweat it because generally, nobody will correct or mock you if you use either pronunciation. San Miguel de Cozumel is the arrival point for most visitors. It is the largest town on the island. It can be confusing because most people usually just refer to it as “Cozumel”. I love this port because there’s much to do that is affordable; namely its popular beach clubs, detailed further below. Unlike other ports, where taxi prices are overly inflated (I’m looking at you, Puerto Plata), taxis here are quite affordable and easy to access. Language & Currency in Cozumel Given its huge influx of tourists yearly, with more than four million cruisers alone, Cozumel is a tourist-friendly cruise port. Spanish is the official language, but most vendors on the island speak Spanish and at least conversational English. Cozumel is one of the world’s busiest ports. There’s no need to convert currency here. While the official currency here is Mexican Pesos (MXN), US currency is widely accepted. Note, though, that the symbol for pesos is the same as a dollar ($), which can be confusing. While you don’t need to bring pesos, however, do bring cash as credit cards are not as universally accepted here, as they are at other large cruise ports of call. Most taxis, for instance, accept cash only. Besides taxi prices, which are regulated and fixed, haggling is the norm here. Cozumel, Mexico Cruise Terminals There are three terminals in Cozumel: Puerta Maya, International Cruise Terminal, and Punta Langosta, and cruisers can consult their cruise documents to determine which pier they will visit if Cozumel is on the itinerary. It’s important to check this, as all the piers are different, not just in where they are located in Cozumel but also in the amenities that they offer. Puerta Maya The Puerta Maya terminal in Cozumel, Mexico. Puerta Maya is a busy cruise ship terminal on Cozumel’s western coast, and it’s exclusive to Carnival Corporation cruise ships, which includes several brands other than just Carnival Cruise Line. It’s modern, clean, and lush, with lots of plants and even a water feature with small wooden bridges where cruisers can view a dozen or so turtles that live there. It also contains many of the amenities of most other cruise terminals, including cruise mainstays like Effy and other souvenir shops. Of the three terminals, this one arguably has the best shopping, with over 65 stores and stalls. Speaking of shopping, while being forced through a duty-free store isn’t uncommon at cruise terminals, one thing that I don’t love about the Puerta Maya terminal is that the store here is very long and narrow, and it can get congested. For cruisers like me, who sail often and avoid shopping and souvenir-buying, this is a bit frustrating and can add quite a bit of time just traversing from the ship, down the long pier, through the very long and narrow duty-free store, and through and out the terminal. This is especially true when the pier is at capacity, accommodating three ships simultaneously. Otherwise, though, this is a lovely terminal with a well-organized, albeit busy, taxi stand. There isn’t much that’s walkable from the Puerta Maya cruise port once you exit the terminal, and of the three Cozumel cruise piers, it’s the furthest from downtown San Miguel de Cozumel, about 5 miles. International Cruise Terminal The International Cruise Terminal, or “SSA International Pier” is used by several cruise lines, including Holland America Line, Norwegian, Princess, and others. Like Puerta Maya, it’s not walkable to downtown San Miguel, but it’s an easy taxi ride, only about 3 miles away. This is the oldest of the three piers in Cozumel, but it’s still full of great shops, restaurants, and bars. Cruisers who love the bar scene will be happy to know that there’s a Margaritaville right at the end of the pier in the cruise terminal. Besides food and shopping, there’s not much else to do at the International Pier, although it has a pretty cool cenote. It’s very small and walled off, but it is an interesting sight to see while you’re walking through the terminal. Photo Credit: This is Cozumel While the International Pier doesn’t have a pool or beach, there is a very small (and I mean small) area by Bubba Gump where cruisers can enter the water for a swim. Punta Langosta Punta Langosta (which interestingly translates to “lobster tip”) is used by several cruise lines, including Disney, Celebrity, and MSC. If you’re docking at this terminal, you’re in luck. Of the three in Cozumel, it’s the only one located right in downtown San Miguel and is a gateway to Cozumel’s bustling city center. From the Punta Langosta cruise terminal, cruisers can easily walk to shops, bars, and restaurants right outside of the terminal. Located in the heart of downtown San Miguel, Punta Langosta allows cruisers easy access to stroll along the waterfront promenade, browse local shops and galleries, and sample delicious street food. Once cruisers exit the pier, they will traverse an overpass to get to Punta Langosta Mall, a two-story shopping center offering the standard cruise shopping experience. From there, they’re in San Miguel and can explore all the area offers. Beach Clubs in Cozumel One of the most popular attractions among cruisers porting in Cozumel is to enjoy a day at one of the many local beach clubs. While the island does offer some public beaches, the free access areas aren’t always desirable (they’re generally

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