us cruise line ports

Cruise Ship Ports - Full List & Map of US Departures [2024]

By jeremy camosse feb 2024.

Complete list of all United States Cruise Ship Ports (with map). Find your nearest port option and the cruise lines that sail from that port!

Here is a complete list of US Cruise Ship Ports We've also included a map. This should help find your nearest options for cruise daparture ports.

When deciding which cruise is perfect for your next vacation, one of the most important factors is "departure port." We're constantly asked the following.

What is the closest cruise ship port to me?

Here below is every U.S. departure port

Many cruisers start our search based on closest port . In an ideal world, our cruise would depart from one of the U.S. cruise port within driving distance.

Once we get out of range, we have to start planning flights, ubers, and hotels . That adds a whole level of complexity and additional costs that we'd prefer to avoid.

Check out the map and list below to find your closest cruise port.

Make sure to pin that list to your "Cruise Search" board for easy reference!

Here's a complete list below by state. Also provided are links to find more detail on each departure port as well as links to shore excursions for each.

ALABAMA :  Mobile Cruise Port

ALASKA :  Juneau Cruise Port

ALASKA :  Whittier Cruise Port

ALASKA :  Seward Cruise Port

CALIFORNIA :  Long Beach Cruise Port

CALIFORNIA :  Los Angeles Cruise Port

CALIFORNIA :  San Diego Cruise Port

CALIFORNIA :  San Francisco Cruise Port

FLORIDA :  Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port

FLORIDA :  Jacksonville Cruise Port

FLORIDA :  Miami Cruise Port

FLORIDA :  Port Canaveral Cruise Port

FLO  RIDA :  Palm Beach Cruise Port

FLORIDA :  Tampa Cruise Port

HAWAII :  Honolulu Cruise Port

LOUISIANA :  New Orleans Cruise Port

MARYLAND :  Baltimore Cruise Port

MASSACHUSETTS :  Boston Cruise Port

NEW JERSEY :  Bayonne Cruise Port

NEW YORK :  Brooklyn Cruise Port

NEW YORK :  Manhattan Cruise Port

OREGON :  Portland Cruise Port

SOUTH CAROLINA :  Charleston Cruise Port

TEXAS :  Galveston Cruise Port

VIRGINIA :  Norfolk Cruise Port

PUERTO RICO :  San Juan Cruise Port

WASHINGTON :  Seattle Cruise Port

You'll find that Mobile serves the following: Carnival Cruise Line .

HOTELS :   Mobile, Alabama Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Mobile, Alabama Port Info

You'll find that Juneau serves the following: Compagnie Du Ponant, Seabourne, and Windstar Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Juneau, Alaska Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Juneau, Alaska Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Juneau Shore Excursions

You'll find that Seward, Alaska serves the following: Celebrity, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Compagnie Du Ponant, Crystal, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Viking Ocean and Windstar Cruise Lines.

HOTELS :   Seward, Alaska Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Seward, Alaska Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Seward Shore Excursions

You'll find that Whittier, Alaska serves the following: Holland America, Princess and Seabourn Cruise Lines.

HOTELS :   Whittier, Alaska Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Whittier, Alaska Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Whittier Shore Excursions

You'll find that Long Beach serves the following: Carnival Cruise Line .

HOTELS :   Long Beach, California Hotels

PORT INFO :   Long Beach Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Long Beach Shore Excursions

You'll find that Los Angeles, California serves the following: Norwegian, Princess, Crystal and Oceania Cruise Lines.

HOTELS :   Los Angeles, California Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Los Angeles, California Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Los Angeles Shore Excursions

You'll find that San Diego, California serves the following: Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess and Silversea Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   San Diego, California Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   San Diego, California Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   San Diego Shore Excursions

You'll find that San Francisco, California serves the following: Carnival, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess, Cunard, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruise Lines .

PORT INFO :   San Francisco, California Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   San Francisco Shore Excursions

You'll find that Fort Lauderdale serves the following: Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Cunard and Silversea Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Fort Lauderdale Hotels

PORT INFO :   Fort Lauderdale Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Fort Lauderdale Shore Excursions

You'll find that Jacksonville, Florida serves the following: Carnival Cruise Line.

HOTELS :   Jacksonville, Florida Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Jacksonville, Florida Port Info

You'll find that Miami, Florida serves the following: Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Azamara, Compagnie Du Ponant, Crystal, MSC, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Viking Ocean and Windstar Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Miami, Florida Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Miami, Florida Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Miami Shore Excursions

You'll find that Port Canaveral, Florida serves the following: Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Port Canaveral, Florida Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Port Canaveral, Florida Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Port Canaveral Shore Excursions

You'll find that Palm Beach, Florida serves the following: Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line .

HOTELS :   Palm Beach, Florida Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Palm Beach, Florida Port Info

You'll find that Tampa, Florida serves the following: Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Tampa, Florida Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Tampa, Florida Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Tampa Shore Excursions

You'll find that Honolulu, Hawaii serves the following: Celebrity, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Compagnie Du Ponant, Crystal, and Regent Seven Seas Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Honolulu Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Honolulu Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Honolulu Shore Excursions

You'll find that New Orleans serves the following: Carnival, Disney, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   New Orleans Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   New Orleans Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   New Orleans Shore Excursions

You'll find that Baltimore, Maryland serves the following: Carnival and Royal Careibbean Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Baltimore Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Baltimore Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Baltimore Shore Excursions

You'll find that Boston, Massachusetts serves the following: Celebrity, Holland America, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn and Windstar Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Boston Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Boston Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Boston Shore Excursions

You'll find that Bayonne, New Jersey serves the following: Celebrity and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Bayonne Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Bayonne Port Info

You'll find that Brooklyn, New York serves the following: Princess and Queen Mary Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Brooklyn Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Brooklyn Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Brooklyn Shore Excursions

You'll find that Manhattan, New York serves the following: Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Princess, Crystal, Cunard, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Viking Ocean, and Windstar Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Manhattan Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Manhattan Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Manhattan Shore Excursions

You'll find that Portland, Oregon serves the following: American Cruise Line .

HOTELS :   Portland Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Portland Port Info

You'll find that San Juan, Puerto Rico serves the following: Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Crystal, Regent Seven Seas, SeaDream, Seabourn, Silversea, SeaDream, Viking Ocean and Windstar Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   San Juan Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   San Juan Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   San Juan Shore Excursions

You'll find that Charleston, South Carolina serves the following: Carnival Cruise Line .

HOTELS :   Charleston Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Charleston Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Charleston Shore Excursions

You'll find that Galveston, Texas serves the following: Carnival, Disney and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line .

HOTELS :   Galveston Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Galveston Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Galveston Shore Excursions

You'll find that Norfolk, Virginia serves the following: Carnival Cruise Line .

HOTELS :   Norfolk Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Norfolk Port Info

You'll find that Seattle, Washington serves the following: Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Oceania Cruise Lines .

HOTELS :   Seattle Cruise Port Hotels

PORT INFO :   Seattle Port Info

EXCURSIONS :   Seattle Shore Excursions

We hope that this list helped you find the closest port for your next vacation.

Please use the buttons below to help spread the word with your favorite cruising community!

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Breaking Down All Major Cruise Departure Ports In The U.S. And What Makes Each Unique

• Cruises and Sailing
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• United States

Experience the explosive growth of the cruise industry firsthand as we explore the major departure ports in the United States. Don’t be left behind; join the millions of satisfied cruisers who have discovered the ultimate vacation experience. But we know that hopping on board can be intimidating, especially when choosing the right port, ship, and cruise line. That’s why I’m here to guide you through it all.

Starting in the North Atlantic and working our way down to the South Atlantic, including the bustling ports of Florida, we’ll cover everything you need to know. We’ll then move on to the Gulf of Mexico and, finally, the beautiful Pacific. Learn about several American ports, from suggestions on getting to the port to a detailed list of all the cruise lines that sail from each location.

But that’s not all — I’ll also highlight each port’s unique features and attractions so you can make the most of your vacation before and after embarking on your cruise. Get ready for a vacation that gives you the most bang for your buck — starting with the perfect departure port.

Buckle in and get your popcorn; this will be a long one.

North Atlantic

The North Atlantic region has quite a few ports. It primarily sails to Bermuda, New England, and Canada. However, they also do trans-Atlantic and other specialty cruises from a few ports.

Pro Tip : Always label and prepare your luggage for easy transport . When driving, simply drive to the cruise terminal and hand over your bags. No need to fret if you need tape or a stapler — the friendly baggage handlers will assist you. Remember to show appreciation by tipping them before parking or returning your car.

Boston Cruise Port – Raymond L. Flynn Black Falcon Terminal (Massachusetts)

Simplify your cruise parking experience at the Flynn Cruiseport in the Seaport District near Boston Harbor. Park easily at Congress Street parking or take a free shuttle from your hotel. Boston Logan International Airport is just a quick 10-minute drive away. The MBTA Silver Line bus stops within one block of the terminal for even more convenience.

Parking will cost you $27 per night.

Sailing From Here: Celebrity, Holland America , Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn

Points Of Interest: Boston Fish Pier, Fenway Park, Paul Revere House, Old North Church, Boston Children’s Museum, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. 

Brooklyn Cruise Terminal (Red Hook Section, New York)

Discover the best cruise ports in New York. Brooklyn and Cape Liberty (in Bayonne, New Jersey) take center stage, with Manhattan playing a supporting role. As a premier cruise destination, New York offers voyages to Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond.

Parking at Brooklyn Cruise Port may seem challenging, but a constant flow of arrivals and departures keeps things moving. While the $45 daily fee offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, other convenient options are available, such as private taxis, Uber, shuttles, or the subway. For a unique experience, consider taking the train from Penn Station or Grand Central Station.

Sailing From Here: Cunard , MSC Cruises, Princess

Points Of Interest: Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Prospect Park

Fun Fact: Per CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), most cruise passengers arrive in a port city a day in advance and spend nearly $400 per person on food, hotel, and transportation.

Cape Liberty Cruise Port (New Jersey)

Parking is slightly cheaper here than at Brooklyn’s cruise port and there are overflow lots during the busy season with free shuttles available. Cars run $30 per day and RVs $60. 

Sailing From Here: Celebrity , Royal Caribbean

Points Of Interest: Teardrop Memorial, Hudson River Waterfront, The Mills at Jersey Gardens (outlet mall)

Port Of Baltimore (Maryland)

I find the Baltimore cruise port one of the most accessible places to embark in the country. Parking is $15 daily (cashless) and you can walk to the terminal after parking. There is also RV parking for $30–$40 daily, depending on the size of your rig. Royal Caribbean and Carnival both offer shuttles to and from BWI airport. 

Sailing From Here: Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Princess , Royal Caribbean 

Points Of Interest: National Aquarium, Inner Harbor, Maryland Zoo, Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine

South Atlantic/Florida

Welcome to the sunniest region in the world, where cruise passengers flock in droves! With state-of-the-art terminals and buzzing activity, this destination offers an incredible array of choices. However, be prepared to master the art of patience, as navigating through crowds can be challenging. As someone who has been on 54 cruises, I can attest that more than half of my voyages have departed from these ports.

Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)

Prepare to be amazed! Contrary to popular belief, getting to Port Orlando (also known as Port Canaveral) requires a 48-minute drive, as Orlando is not on the coast. Despite the distance and expense of transportation (an Uber is $98), Port Orlando remains the country’s busiest and most powerful cruise port. Your best option is to take the cruise shuttle from Orlando (airport or hotel) to save the hassle of getting there, traffic, and parking fees. If you decide to drive, however, keep in mind that parking costs $17 per day, including RVs.

Sailing From Here: Carnival, Disney , MSC Cruises, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean 

Points Of Interest: Kennedy Space Center , Exploration Tower, Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum (in Orlando), Disney, Universal, Lake Eola Park, Harry P. Leu Gardens

Port Of Miami (Florida)

Discover the colossal cruise port just minutes away from Fort Lauderdale. PortMiami is a bustling hub, welcoming an impressive average of 12 cruise ships daily and 4.1 million passengers annually. Boasting 11 cruise terminals, it is the second busiest cruise port in the country.

While you can park at the port for $22 a day, I highly recommend avoiding the chaos by opting for Uber or a hotel shuttle. With my 10 years of experience living in Florida, I found navigating the port’s parking confusing and lacking proper signage. Thankfully, there are much simpler alternatives to reaching your cruise ship.

But fear not! Despite the initial challenges, PortMiami (known as the Cruise Capital of the World ) is renowned for its efficiency and seamless operation. Like a finely tuned machine, they ensure a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Indulge in the modern marvel that is PortMiami and embark on your dream cruise effortlessly.

Pro Tip: It is important to park in the garage that coincides with your terminal letter (example: Cruise Terminal B — Multi-Level Garage B); though terminals F, G, and V all use Garage G.

Sailing From Here: Azamara Club, Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, MSC Cruises , Norwegian, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas , Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Virgin Voyages

Points Of Interest: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Bayside Marketplace, Wynwood Walls, Little Havana, Jungle Island

Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)

This one may throw you for a loop since Port Everglades is the cruise port you’ll want for departing out of Fort Lauderdale. It is only 3 miles from FLL/Hollywood Airport and 25 miles north of Miami International Airport. Uber or Lyft is your best bet and is relatively inexpensive. Secure parking at Port Everglades (4,000 spaces) runs $15 per day or $19 for oversized vehicles.

Sailing From Here: Carnival, Celebrity, Crystal Cruises , Cunard, Disney, Holland America, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Silversea, Viking Ocean

Points Of Interest: Las Olas Boulevard and Riverwalk, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Everglades Holiday Park

Port Tampa Bay (Florida)

Tampa is a treat to sail out of, as the cruise terminal and port are well-marked and laid out. It is secure and monitored 24/7. Parking is $16 per day, or you can use Uber or Lyft for getting dropped off or picked up. Tampa International Airport is 21 minutes from the Port Tampa Bay Cruise Terminal or 90 minutes from Orlando (MCO).

Sailing From Here: Carnival, Royal Caribbean

Points Of Interest: Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium, Historic Ybor City

Port Of San Juan (Puerto Rico)

Discover why San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the ultimate destination for incredible cruise lines. From its advantageous Atlantic Ocean location to potential cost savings, this place is a true gem. If you’re planning a trip, I recommend arriving early and staying overnight to avoid airline hiccups.

While some hotels provide free shuttle services, taxis are readily available for a quick 8-mile journey to the cruise port. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to set sail from Old San Juan, which is a vacation before the cruise vacation begins.

Sailing From Here: Celebrity, Crystal, Disney, Norwegian, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Viking Ocean, Virgin Voyages  

Points Of Interest: Castillo San Felipe del Morro , Old San Juan, Casa Blanca Museum, Fortaleza Street

Gulf Of Mexico

Discover hidden gems and unbeatable prices on Gulf of Mexico cruises! Escape the crowds and embark on an adventure from Galveston, New Orleans, and Mobile. Immerse yourself in vibrant cities and soak up the magic of the gulf. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best-kept secrets of these charming destinations! I plan to include these three embarkation ports in my cruising future over the next few months.

Mobile Alabama Cruise Terminal (Alabama)

While Carnival is the only cruise line that sails from Mobile, it is an excellent option for those seeking a quick vacation option between Texas and Florida. Parking will run you $18 daily, though the closest airport is Pensacola, Florida, an hour away. This is definitely a drive to the cruise port destination. Check out the Mobile Carnival Museum or the USS Alabama in your free time.

Port Of New Orleans (NOLA, Louisiana)

A boatload of ships departs the Port of NOLA, making it the 6th busiest cruise port in the country. It is in the heart of the city with a plethora of amazing things to see and do. It is also a port for the three major river cruises (my bucket list!), which adds a feature most cruise ports don’t offer. Parking runs $25 daily at the Erato and Julia Street terminals.

Sailing From Here: American Cruise Lines , American Queen Steamboat Co., Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Viking River Cruises

Points Of Interest: New Orleans City Park, Jackson Square, Mardi Gras World, French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral, National WWII Museum

Port Of Galveston (Texas)

Discover Galveston — the vibrant heart of Texas and the state’s sole major port. With its convenient location, you’ll have easy access to all the city offers. Enjoy hassle-free parking for just $18 per day (discounts available for prepaying) and take advantage of the close proximity to the cruise terminal from the lots.

Port of Galveston’s only downside? The nearest major airport is 40 minutes away in Houston. However, worry not! Numerous shuttle services are available to whisk you directly to the cruise terminal.

Fun Fact: It is hard to believe that 2.2 million cruise passengers use this terminal annually.

Sailing From Here: Carnival, Disney, Royal Caribbean

Points Of Interest: Moody Gardens , Pleasure Pier, Seawall, The Strand

The cruise ports on the West Coast of the United States offer a wide range of fabulous cities, diverse weather, and opportunities for sailing around the area, trans-Pacific crossings, and specialty cruises.

Port Of San Diego (California)

Experience the beauty and convenience of the exceptional Port of San Diego . Getting to the port is a breeze, with various parking options and a convenient cruise ship shuttle from the airport. And that’s only some of it — many cruise lines even offer a complimentary pre-night hotel room.

I personally loved taking advantage of this option before setting sail from the Port of San Diego. Book your cruise now and let the cruise line shuttle take care of the rest. San Diego’s weather is exceptional year-round and the flights are relatively quicker and smoother than in other parts of California. I call this a stress-free cruise port.

Sailing From Here: Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, Norwegian , Princess

Points Of Interest: San Diego Zoo , Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, USS Midway Museum. 

Port Of Los Angeles (California)

Discover the luxury and cruise lines variety at World Cruise Center at Port of Los Angeles (actually in San Pedro, California). Arriving at this massive port is a breeze, whether driving a car or using transportation options like shuttles, taxis, or Uber. Parking is $20 per day.

Avoid the high cost of taxis and enjoy a ride from LAX for just $40 with a rideshare service. From John Wayne Airport, expect to pay around $60, though nearly $100 for a taxi. Embark on your dream cruise effortlessly and at a great price from the World Cruise Center.

Sailing From Here: Azamara , Celebrity, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Norwegian, Oceania, Princess, Seabourn, Silversea , Viking Ocean

Points Of Interest: Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Observatory, Universal Studios

Port Of Long Beach (California)

Discover the convenient and stress-free Port of Long Beach , just a stone’s throw away from the Los Angeles cruise port. As a cruise port owned by Carnival Corporation , it offers an easier and more accessible experience than LA. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Queen Mary , this gem provides an alternative West Coast sailing experience away from the bustling cities. Located just 23 miles from LAX, you can park your car for only $23 per day. Plus, ample parking options exist for oversized vehicles adjacent to the covered garage.

Points Of Interest: Knott’s Berry Farm , Long Beach Museum of Art, Aquarium of the Pacific 

Port Of San Francisco (California)

For a city this big, I was surprised that the Port of San Francisco was not busier and bigger, but honestly, it is not one bit intimidating. Parking runs around $18 per day and there are many options for getting there, including bus, Uber, Lyft, and shuttles.

Sailing From Here: Crystal Cruises, Disney, Princess, Royal Caribbean

Points Of Interest: Alcatraz Island, Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park

Port Of Seattle (Washington)

The cruise port of Seattle is your gateway to Alaska , so hopefully in your lifetime, you’ll explore this one for yourself. There are two terminals (Piers 91 and 66), with parking running $22–$27 per day, though shuttles and Lyft are the most popular ways to get there. The airport is 40 minutes away.

Sailing From Here: Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America, Norwegian, Oceania , Princess, Royal Caribbean

Points Of Interest: Pike Place Market, the Space Needle , Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass

Melody and her daughter Taylor run both Wherever I May Roam and Travel The South travel blogs. She is a digital influencer, freelances for both print and online publications, and hosts an annual travel conference, Southern Travelers Explore. Melody has been traveling her entire adult life and has visited 49 states and 49 countries. She loves cruising, small towns, historical sights, and National Parks.

Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

United States Cruise Ports Map and Information

There are so many amazing cruise ports in America. We're helping you locate them with a convenient United States cruise ports map and additionally useful information on a majority of the ports. We've included appropriate information, like how to get to the port, park and closest airports, and things to do nearby or while in port.

Disclosure: This page has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

United States Cruise Port Map

On the map below. we've starred all the ports. If the port is colored in, we have information on it below. If it's white, it's not included below; however, check back for updates as we will continue to add to this post.

West Coast United States Cruise Ports

Seattle, washington cruise port.

By Chris, from the Amateur Traveler

Seattle has grown to be the largest cruise ship port on the West Coast of the USA. Most of the traffic is heading to an inside passage cruise to Alaska from Seattle, with over 200 departures in a typical year.

Most major cruise lines sail from Seattle, including Carnival, Oceania, Norwegian, Holland America, Princes s, Celebrity, and Royal Caribbean. Seattle has two different cruise terminals: Bell Street Cruise Terminal and Smith Cove Cruise Terminal.

The Bell Street Cruise terminal is very close to downtown. It is around 1,500 feet from the Seattle Marina. This is a bit farther to the Seattle Great Wheel and just down the hill from the Pike Place Market. An able-bodied person can easily get to a number of popular attractions on foot from the terminal. 1,700 parking places across the street charge $23 a day. This terminal can berth one cruise ship.

The Smith Cove Cruise Terminal is at Pier 91, 3.5 miles further northwest along the coast. It's not really close to anything. The closest of the well-known landmarks would probably be the Space Needle, which is about a 50-minute walk from the pier. It has 1,000 parking spaces and charges $27 a day. This terminal can berth two cruise ships.

There are lots of  things to do in Seattle , including world-class museums like the Chihuly Museum, The Pacific Science Museum, and the Museum of Pop Culture. There are landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.

Some of the more unique things to do include the underground tour near Pioneer Square and the  Locks Cruise . If you are heading to Alaska, stop at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park to learn more about the history of Alaska.

Check out these Seattle tours:

• 20-Minute Scenic Tour Over Seattle in a Small Airplane (only a 15-minute Uber ride from the port)
• Premiere 3-Hour Seattle City Tour
• Chef-Guided 2-Hour Food Tour of Pike Place Market

San Francisco, California US Cruise Port

By Jyoti, from Story at Every Corner 

Few people would think of San Francisco as a cruise port city. And rightfully so, as many more visitors arrive by air, road, train or other means. The big commercial port of the area is across the bay in Oakland.

However, when considering the United States cruise ports map, ships sailing the western coastline of North America dock at one of the cruise terminals along Embarcadero street every summer. One could spend the day just on the piers visiting the Fisherman’s Wharf area for all sorts of entertainment: sailing the bay, visiting Alcatraz Island, dining etc. 

Parking is convenient but expensive in San Francisco so it’s best to take a rideshare, public transit or have someone drop you off at the terminal. There are bicycle rickshaws along the piers so it’s easy to travel between the piers and attractions.  

Some of the most popular things to see in the city are the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, Palace of Fine Arts, Fisherman’s Wharf, Coit Tower, The Seven Sister, Nob Hill, SFMOMA, Yerba Buena Gardens, the Missions, etc. The list goes on and on. 

Besides the famous landmarks, one can visit the lesser-known hidden gems of the community, such as beautiful mosaic steps and sunset sail in San Francisco Bay .

For chocolate lovers, Ghirardelli Square is an absolute must. And it’s close to the piers. 

There is so much to see and do just within the tiny Doty of San Francisco that you could spend the week. If you have more time, there are many incredible day trips you could take from San Francisco , such as Silicon Valley, Yosemite NP, Monterey Peninsula, and Lake Tahoe to name a few. 

Check out these San Francisco Tours:

• San Francisco 2-Hour City Tour in a VW Bus
• GoCar Tour of San Francisco (per 2 people)
• See San Francisco Sites for less with a CityPASS

Cruise Port at San Diego, California

By Maria of San Diego Explorer

The United States cruise port in San Diego is one of the most convenient ports in the world. It mainly offers cruises heading south to Mexico or up the California Coast. But you can also find itineraries to Hawaii and even the South Pacific.

Holland America and Norwegian are the most common cruise lines that sail from here, but some ships from Silversea, Celebrity, and Disney Cruise Line have added San Diego to their United States cruise ports map. 

Cruise ships dock right in the heart of Downtown San Diego. From here, cruisers can explore the top attractions of San Diego on foot, including the San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, the USS Midway and Maritime Museum, Balboa Park , and much more.

If you still have not had enough time on the sea, you can do a  Flagship Harbor Cruise  to enjoy the sights of San Diego from the water. You can also hop on a ferry to cross the bay over to Coronado Island. Explore its quaint downtown, the famous Hotel Del Coronado, and its magnificent beaches.

Another fun excursion is a trip to La Jolla. Here, you can check out the seals sunbathing on the rocks, go kayaking around the caves, and watch the sunset over the stunning coastline. 

If San Diego is the starting and endpoint of your cruise and you need to park your car, your best option is airport parking; the airport parking lots are a short cab ride away from the San Diego cruise terminal. If you arrive by Amtrak at Santa Fe station , you can even walk to the cruise terminal. 

➜ Reserve Tours in San Diego

United States Cruise Ports in Alaska

Ketchikan alaska cruise port.

By Ellie, from Ellie's Travel Tips

As the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan is one of the top cruise ports in the United States. While you can book a flight to Ketchikan through a 90-minute flight from Seattle, the easiest way to get to Ketchikan is through an ocean cruise from either Anchorage, Seattle, or Vancouver.

Most major cruise lines offer sailings to Ketchikan during the Alaskan cruise season, between April and September. Popular cruise lines visiting Ketchikan include Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, and Celebrity Cruises.

One of the best  things to do in Ketchikan  is explore the nearby Misty Fjords National Monument. This stunning Alaskan landscape stretches over 3 million acres and is the spot to find moose, sea lions, killer and humpback whales, wolverines, and much more!

Another fantastic Ketchikan activity is seeking out the Ketchikan totem poles. This beautiful Alaskan cruise port is home to the largest collection of totem poles in the world, each representing a unique story of the local native tribes.

When you are visiting Ketchikan, make sure to try some of the best salmon in the world. There are plenty of street vendors located downtown offering free samples. Overall, Ketchikan is truly one of the most remarkable ports in the United States, perfect for any cruising adventure.

Sitka Cruise Port in Alaska

By Dan and Mikkel, from Sometimes Sailing

Sitka quickly became a favorite cruise port and city when we arrived there one summer to explore Alaska. It's where we boarded our small cruise ship with Alaskan Dream Cruises to sail the Inside Passage, but large cruise ships stop in Sitka, too.

It's a very special city, and we recommend extending your vacation to spend time in Sitka before or after your cruise. There's plenty to do, from wildlife spotting tours to hiking, learning about salmon, and visiting Sitka National Historical Park with totem poles to admire.

It's unlikely you'll drive to Alaska to start your cruise, instead opting to fly to their small airport, which is just a five-minute drive from the center of downtown Sitka.

Cruise Port at Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska

When we think of the United States cruise ports map, one of the most magical ports is in Alaska, And it may not be as readily recognizable as a city like Juneau, their capital. But it's definitely one of the most interesting! This US Cruise Port, Icy Strait Point , earned the award for “Port of the Year” by Seatrade in 2020.

There is a ton to do here, including a Ziprider zip line that will knock your socks off, a salmon cannery to tour, whale-watching excursions, and an awesome gondola ride. Though it's possible to arrive at the port with a flight and a ferry ride, most people arrive via cruise ship.

Walk along the beach with a local beer in hand or try a Crabby Bloody Mary in Hoonah. Get to know the native people, the Tlingit, through cultural performances and interactions. Interestingly enough, the port is actually owned by about 1,450 native Alaskans, many with ties to the Tlingit.

Cruise lines that commonly sail to Hoonah, Alaska, to visit Icy Strait Point, are Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line , Cunard, Oceania, Windstar, and more.

Juneau Cruise Port

By Nicole, of Eat Live Travel Drink

Juneau is a fantastic United States cruise port to visit while taking either an Inside Passage or Glacier Bay cruise. It is usually one of the main ports on either itinerary.

Something unique to know about Juneau is that it is landlocked. The only way to get there is by boat or plane.

Some of the popular cruise lines that visit Alaska on their itineraries include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Windstar, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises , and more. There is definitely a wide selection of cruise companies and ships to choose from to reach Juneau.

If you do not wish to fly here to start your cruise, you can start in Seattle or in Vancouver, both of which have many itineraries that sail to Alaska.

Pro tip: get a room with a balcony so you can enjoy Alaskan scenery your entire cruise at any time of the day. The waters tend to be very calm, and you never know what wildlife you will see. (Alaska has bald eagles, whales, otters, and even bears.)

Alaska cruise season runs from about May to September. The weather can range from cold winter temperatures to high summer heat within a short time, so pack for any scenario; be prepared for the weather to change at any moment.

Things to do in Juneau include seeing Tracy Arm Fjord and Mendenhall Glacier, going white water rafting, whale watching, taking a seaplane ride, or even flying over glaciers.

Central United States Cruise Ports

Mobile, alabama.

By Lori, of Fitz5 on the Go

Mobile, Alabama, is a historic southern city located on the northwest side of Mobile Bay. The city is rich in history and charm.

Mobile's US cruise terminal was built in 2001, and hosts the Carnival Cruise line ships. Mobile has hosted several Carnival ships but was quiet from 2011 to 2016 until a new contract was signed and Carnival returned. Carnival's Fantasy has made its home in Mobile, before it was replaced by Carnival Fascination in 2022. But no matter the cruise ships currently in residence, cruises from Mobile are very affordable.

The cruise port of Mobile, Alabama, is easy to get to by car from I-10. The closest airport is Mobile, airport code MOB. It may be more cost-effective to fly into one of the surrounding airports, including New Orleans, Gulfport, and Pensacola.

The cruise terminal has onsite parking for 500 vehicles and overflow parking down the street. Parking rates are listed at $72 for a four-day cruise and $126 for a seven-day cruise. Several nearby hotels include Hilton's The Admiral hotel, Marriott's Battle House , and the Malaga Inn. 

Mobile has many activities to enjoy while visiting the city. The downtown area near the port is fun to explore and features museums, beautiful older buildings, and delicious food. The USS Alabama Battleship from the 1940s, at Battleship Memorial Park, is also a great place to visit. 

Mobile is a wonderful and easy choice as a location to sail off for your next cruise.

Galveston, Texas

By Lee and Stacey, from One Trip at a Time

The port of Galveston, Texas, on a barrier island 50 miles south of Houston, is one of the first ports developed for the mega-ships that visit sunny destinations on eastern and western Caribbean itineraries. It’s been steadily growing as a hub port in the Gulf of Mexico and features two cruise terminals for ships from Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean.

Because of Galveston’s location, it’s only about 30 minutes to the open sea of the Gulf of Mexico; it won’t take you long to start enjoying refreshing sea breezes!

Galveston is also a beach resort area with island vibes and a vibrant port. Within walking distance of the cruise terminals, you can stroll the historic Strand District with its pretty Victorian-era buildings that are home to restaurants, galleries, and museums.

Or, go aboard the Tall Ship Elissa, a three-masted, iron-hulled 1800s ship that is part of the Seaport Museum. If you're cruising with children, a visit to Moody Gardens is a must, especially to explore their aquarium and rainforest ecosystems. You can even sign up for lessons in building amazing sandcastles on the beach!

We recommend arriving a day or two before your cruise to extend your vacation with so many things to see and do in Galveston . Many hotels offer “Park & Cruise” deals if you stay with them.

There are several other cruise parking lots, like Galveston Park N Cruise, within walking distance of the port. This means you'll have easy luggage drop-off and embarkation on your ship to start your cruise vacation as soon as possible!

East Coast United States Cruise Ports

Boston, massachusetts.

By Mikkel, from Sometimes Sailing

The cruise port of Boston, MA, is just a short car ride from the heart of the city. We sailed from Boston to Quebec City on a New England and Canada cruise with Holland America Line.

As many cruise ports have, the Boston port is partially industrial. But the cruise passenger terminal has some pops of color to spark some interest and is well-labeled with signage everywhere.

There are elevators and escalators, bathrooms, and even a water bottle filling station (though you cannot go through security with water).

There's plenty to do in Boston, from historic sightseeing to eating at great restaurants where local seafood (like lobster) is a highlight to taking a duck boat tour in the Boston Harbor.

Port of Boston Parking

Parking at the terminal is in an uncovered, open-air lot. The rate for cruise passengers is $20 per day. Cash, Visa or MasterCard are accepted forms of payment.

Uber and Lyft are available in Boston. Additionally, there is a cell phone lot for anyone waiting to pick up passengers at the port.

Cape Liberty, New Jersey Cruise Port

Just a few miles outside of Manhattan is the Cape Liberty Cruise port in Bayonne, New Jersey.

Though the area is particularly attractive immediately surrounding the cruise port (it's an industrial port for the most part, even though some of the drive there is really pretty along the waterfront), there's something very special here: you can see the Statue of Liberty from the cruise while it's in port, on a clear day. It's truly breathtaking!

You can also very clearly see the NYC skyline too.

Cruising from this NJ USA cruise port is beneficial because of the abundance of airports nearby, including Newark, Westchester, JFK, and LaGuardia.

If you want to extend your trip, there are endless things to do in NYC, from world-class restaurants to Broadway, Central Park, The High Line, and more.

Parking or Getting to Cape Liberty Cruise Port

You can drive to the cruise port, take a car service like Uber or Lyft, or take public transportation.

Without traffic from the west side, central or south Manhattan, it could be a 35-minute drive to the port. With traffic, it could be over an hour. We spent about $60 from NYC to NJ to board Celebrity Beyond . From NJ to NYC was more expensive, at around $80.

You can also take the PATH train to NJ, then call a cab to go the rest of the distance from the station to the cruise terminal in Bayonne. Go from Manhattan to one of these NJ stations on the PATH: Jersey City, Newport, Exchange Place, or Hoboken.

Alternatively, take the NJ Transit Light Rail on the NJ Hudson-Bergen line toward 8th street Bayonne. Exit at the 34th Street Station in Bayonne, NJ. You'll be just two miles from the cruise port, accessible by cab or ride share, like Uber.

Baltimore, Maryland Cruise Port

By Pamela, from the Directionally Challenged Traveler

The Baltimore Cruise Port is a great destination to start off any vacation! The Baltimore Cruise Port is located in the heart of the city, right off Route 95. There is parking available on-site within walking distance of the port.

Passenger vehicles only cost $15 per night; recreational vehicles range from $30-$40 per night based on size. No advanced reservations are required to use the parking lot. Royal Caribbean and Carnival are the two most popular cruise lines that leave from Baltimore. 

Extend your time in Baltimore and explore this city rich with personality. One of the best things to do in Baltimore is explore the Inner Harbor. It’s an icon of the city and is home to several attractions.

The USS Constellation is a historic ship built in the mid-1800s and used during the Civil War. Explore the numerous museums around the harbor. Grab a bite at Miss Shirley’s Cafe or Phillips Seafood for fresh crab! 

Another great thing to do in Baltimore is take a food tour of the area. Be sure to sign up for a day tour if you need to return to the cruise ship or embark at a certain time.

🦀 Reserve Your Baltimore Tour

For incredible boutique shopping, head to Fells Point. This area of Baltimore had residents before America was even a country! Fans of street art can visit the colorful Graffiti Alley to glimpse at the local culture.

You can visit Edgar Allen Poe’s house and final resting place near Lexington Market. If you need a break from the city, head to Druid Hill Park for some open space. There’s a conservatory with a botanical garden in the park. Keep an eye out for a Druid carved into an old tree!

The ease of access and variety of things to do in the area makes Baltimore one of the best cruise ports in the United States.

Port of Palm Beach, Florida

This port is located just 20 minutes from West Palm Beach airport and is where Margaritaville at Sea will sail from. It's a very easy port to reach with key cities nearby, like West Palm Beach and Lake Worth.

You can easily reach Fort Lauderdale, which is just under an hour away from here.

Port Canaveral, Florida Cruise Port

By Mikkel, from Sometimes Home

One of the most exciting things about driving to the Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal is seeing Disney Cruise Line's ship in port as you drive over the highway to reach your destination. Disney Cruise Line has its own terminal next to Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line terminals. (You can check the current list of cruise lines leaving from this port on the Port Canaveral website .)

On a United States cruise ports map, it's on the east coast of central Florida, about an hour away from Orlando.

Naturally, if you're going to Port Canaveral, an obvious choice of nearby things is to visit Lake Buena Vista, where Walt Disney World is, and Orlando, where Universal is. (There's plenty to do in Orlando besides the theme parks, though.) Or, you can enjoy Cape Canaveral and a visit to Kennedy Space Center, which takes an entire day to enjoy.

You can also head to the beach – like Cocoa Beach to enjoy the pier or Satellite Beach just south of the area. If you're feeling adventurous, you can kayak to find manatees and dolphins in the area on a guided tour.

Parking at Port Canaveral Cruise Terminals

There are several parking garages at the terminals, which is your best bet for getting your car close to your cruise ship. It costs $17 per day, even for partial days.

Offsite parking is also an option here, like at Park Port Canaveral . Rates are better than at the port, and you may save some extra money if you reserve online and prepay.

Alternatively, you can fly to a major airport, like Orlando International Airport (MCO) and take a shuttle over to Port Canaveral. Melbourne International Airport (MLB) is also close to the port; a drive between MLB and Port Canaveral would take about 45 minutes.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida Cruise Port (Port Everglades)

By Derek Hartman and Mike Walsh, from Robe Trotting

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is one of America’s premier cruise ports. It's called “ Port Everglades .” Conveniently, the cruise ship terminal is only three miles from Fort Lauderdale Airport.

There are some shuttle options, but the best way to reach the terminal from the airport is to take an Uber or taxi. The cost is around $10-15, and most of the shuttles are similar or more in price, but on a fixed schedule.

For example, the Carnival shuttle is $16. Parking at the cruise port is about $15 per day, and many lots require an advanced reservation, so make sure to research before your departure.

The port of Fort Lauderdale services some of the biggest cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity Cruises, and Holland America. It’s a popular departure point for many themed cruises on these lines, whether Biker-themed, Star Trek-themed, or an LGBTQI+ cruise , for instance.

It's worth noting that Fort Lauderdale is an incredibly gay-friendly city . (This popular south Florida destination and has one of the largest LGBTQI+ communities in the United States of America.)

If you’re sailing from Fort Lauderdale and book a few extra nights in town, you will have plenty of options for entertainment.

There are dinner cruises on the Intracoastal Waterway or you can dine at any of the incredible seafood restaurants in town. The magnificent beaches in Fort Lauderdale are clean and popular with cruise guests before or after their departure, because there is no such thing as too much sand and sun.

🗓 Reserve Fort Lauderdale Tours

Port of Miami (or “PortMiami”), Florida Cruise Port

By Dan, from Sometimes Home

The Port of Miami is an incredibly popular port for many cruise lines to start their sailings. It's been deemed the Cruise Capital of the World with good reason, having four active cruise ports with more in the works. It's at the southern tip of mainland Florida, and their nearby major airports make it easy to get there. (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is about 45 minutes to an hour from the Port of Miami, and Miami International Airport (MIA) is about 30 minutes away from the port.)

Parking at the Port of Miami will cost about $25 a day, or you can park offsite. There are a few nearby parking options that will shuttle you to the port as part of the parking arrangement (aka: for free), including Safe Cruise Parking and We Park in Miami . These are just two of many options.

Many cruise lines have contracts to dock at the Port of Miami, including Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Cruise Line. Virgin Voyages does as well, and recently opened their brand new dedicated terminal there.

There is plenty to do in the area, like visiting the famous Wynwood, Miami neighborhood, most famous for its mural walls. Or heading to South Beach to start your pre-cruise vacation in the sand.

Key West, Florida US Cruise Port

By Lori, from Travlinmad

Key West, Florida, the Southernmost City in the USA, is one of the most popular and busiest ports-of-call in the Caribbean as reflected by the number of major cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean that now include the port in their itineraries.

Fisherman’s Wharf at Mallory Square receives the lion’s share of scheduled cruise ships, which gives cruisers a great starting point for exploring the Conch Republic. Depending on the ship’s schedule, time ashore varies from 6-10 hours.

If this doesn’t sound like much time to you, you may be right. But there are plenty of  fun things to do in Key West  for those who want a quick taste of the island.

Cruise ship tourists can easily walk to Duval Street where there are island-y restaurants, Jimmy Buffett-style watering holes, souvenir shops, art galleries, trolley tours, and trolley tours. And just off Mallory Square is Key West’s most famous fun bar of all, Sloppy Joe’s Bar.

It’s easy to get around this part of town and everything is close by, from unique museums, funky architecture, and historical sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Just off of Duval Street is the Mel Fisher Museum, Audubon House, and the Key West Aquarium, definitely worth a visit.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, Key West will have you singing “It’s Been a Lovely Cruise.”

San Juan, Puerto Rico Cruise Port

By Annick, from The Common Traveler

San Juan, Puerto Rico is the largest and busiest port in the Caribbean, accommodating up to nine cruise ships at once. Used both as an embarkation point and destination stop, San Juan features on many Caribbean itineraries and is the starting point for many Southern Caribbean cruises. 

There are two cruise ports in San Juan. Royal Caribbean and other cruises depart from the Pan American Pier, about a 10-minute car ride from Old San Juan. The three piers next to Old San Juan are mostly used as port stops (as opposed to departure/arrival ports). The only exception is Carnival Cruise Line which departs and arrives in Old San Juan. Celebrity mostly uses the Pan American Pier, even for port stops.

Parking decks are available near both the Pan American and Old San Juan piers. Pan American Pier parking is available at the Sheraton or neighboring Isla Grande Airport. Parking is outdoors and varies greatly between $8.56 per day to $22 for valet. Several covered garages are located in Old San Juan, including a few near the piers. Most travelers arrive by taxi to avoid the cost of long-term parking.

San Juan offers a lot to visitors. Old San Juan is a great city to visit on your own as everything is within walking distance. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites or sample a pina colada where they were first created. There is lots to do on a port day in Old San Juan !

Check out these San Juan Tours:

• Old San Juan Walking Tour
• Flavors of Old San Juan Food Tour
• Puerto Rico Craft Cocktail Walk in San Juan

Hawaii United States Cruise Ports

Port of hilo.

By Noel, from This Hawaii Life

One of the Easiest port cities to visit is Hilo, Hawaii located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Servicing the cruising industry that travels to all the islands, Hilo is one of the first stops on the circle island cruise before it goes around the island to the Kona side. 

Most of the cruises arrive at the port in the early morning, allowing for a full-day tour of the highlights, which typically are Hilo town, East Hawaii, Volcanoes National Park or even an adventure tour type of package or helicopter tour.

The choices are limitless and since you have the entire day, there's plenty to see. Even renting a car is feasible so you can actually do your own DIY tour and visit more places if you want to see more.

Most visitors opt to tour the Hilo area and highlights and maybe squeeze in some beach time to local beaches that are an easy cab ride or walk from the harbor area.

Although the walk from the port to town is a trek, it's easier to do on a Hop On Hop Off bus that allows you to see all of the best highlights in town in an affordable setup. Check out the  top things to do in Hilo  for more inspiration and touring the city and surrounding area.

United States Cruise Port at Oahu

By Nicole, of Eat Love Travel Drink

Cruise ships in Oahu, Hawaii, dock close to the Aloha Tower Marketplace, which is conveniently located about a 10-20 minute drive from Honolulu International Airport. It's very easy to book a tour from the Oahu, Hawai cruise port too.

The most popular cruise line sailing the Hawaiian Islands is Norwegian Cruise Line. They are docked at Port of Honolulu Pier 2 and are easy to access. You can get a taxi/Uber/Lyft from the airport and is about $30 USD each way.

For parking, the public parking is about ¾’s of a mile away, and the cost is about $21 a day. It may be easier to just take a taxi from the airport, so you don’t have to pay for a rental car and to park it for the duration of your stay.

Norwegian’s Cruise Ship in Hawaii used to do 7-day sailings around the island but has now included French Polynesia in some of their itineraries. It is like getting two vacations in one, and you get to stay on the same boat.

Most cruises originate in and out of Oahu, so you will want to plan to stay an extra day or two as not to miss anything.

Some things you should have on your Oahu bucket list include : a visit to the North Shore, Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, piping hot malasada from Leonard’s Bakery, shaved ice, and some snorkeling.

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You left out the Long Beach Cruise Terminal in Long Beach CA, as well as the Los Angeles Cruise Port in San Pedro CA. They are hope great Cruise Ports that usually have tours going into Hollywood, or any of the many amusement parks within a couple of hours drive. Not to forget that Long Beach California is a beautiful city with beachfronts & restaurants & shops to wander & enjoy along the waterfront, with the iconic Queen Mary docked permanently next to the Long Beach Terminal. It’s worth the time to mention this!

Hi Bill! Thanks for your comment! There are many cruise ports around the United States, as you’ll see from the map we included. Not all are mentioned in the text but we’re looking forward to expanding on the piece in the future. Thanks for your input! Long Beach is a wonderful destination and cruise terminal as is Los Angeles!

Distance of the port in Baltimore?

If you’re driving from the center of Baltimore to the cruise port, it’s about a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic.

Don’t forget PORT of TAMPA Cruise Terminals in your next review.

Thanks, Thomas! We are looking forward to writing about Tampa’s cruise port!

Thanks for the information! In the section “Baltimore, Maryland Cruise Port” you have the word porn instead of port. Thought you’d want to know.

Oh my gosh, thank you! Definitely a mistake! Updated it. Whew, thank you SO much, Tricia!

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Cruise Departure Ports (USA & Canada)

Last updated on September 18th, 2023 at 07:51 pm

Embark on a remarkable journey from the diverse cruise ports of the USA and Canada. Whether you set sail from the bustling Miami Cruise Terminal, immerse yourself in the rich history of New Orleans Cruise Terminal, or experience the natural beauty of Vancouver Cruise Terminal, each departure point offers its own unique charm. From vibrant cities to picturesque coastal towns, these ports provide the gateway to unforgettable cruise adventures, where you'll create lifelong memories as you explore exotic destinations and indulge in onboard luxuries. Let the excitement of cruising begin at these remarkable ports of departure.

• Anchorage, AK
• Baltimore, MD
• Cape Liberty, NJ
• Charleston, SC
• Ft Lauderdale, FL
• Galveston, TX
• Honolulu, HI
• Jacksonville, FL
• Long Beach, CA

LA (San Pedro), CA

• Montreal, QC
• New Orleans, LA
• Norfolk, VA
• NYC – Brooklyn
• NYC – Manhattan
• Port Canaveral, FL
• Quebec City, QC
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• San Juan, PR
• Seattle, WA
• Vancouver, BC
• Whittier, AK

© 2023 cruiseportadvisor All Rights Reserved.

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East Coast USA and Canada New England Cruise Ports Schedules

East coast usa and canada new england schedules, terminals, wiki, news, live port maps,  woody point nl , gros morne np, newfoundland-labrador canada.

Woody Point is a port town in Bonne Bay and the cruise gateway to Gros Morne National Park, located on Newfoundland Island's western coast. Gros Morne covers a total area of approx 1805 km2 (697 mi2...

 Gloucester MA , Massachusetts

Gloucester MA is a port city located on Cape Ann in Essex County, Massachusetts USA. The city has total area approx 108 km2 (42 mi2) and population around 30,000. Gloucester is part of North Shore...

 New York , NYC Manhattan-Brooklyn

Port New York has two cruise ports with their own passenger terminal facilities. Port Manhattan (4 berths on 2 piers - numbers 88 and 90) is located on Manhattan Island's western coast, beside the...

 St Johns NL , Newfoundland-Labrador Canada

St John's NL is a major seaport, capital and biggest city in Canada's Newfoundland and Labrador province (abbrev NL), with population around 110,000 (metro around 210,000). Positioned along the...

 New Bedford MA , Massachusetts

New Bedford MA is a port city in Massachusetts USA, with population around 95,000, ranking it the state's 6th-largest. In the 19th century, the town was nicknamed "The Whaling City" being one of the...

 Prince Edward Island , Charlottetown, Canada

Prince Edward Island (aka Ile-du-Prince-Edouard) is a Canadian province comprising the main island plus 231 smaller isles. The island's largest/principal seaport is Charlottetown (locode CACHA...

 Saint John NB , New Brunswick Canada

Port Saint John NB is New Brunswick Canada's largest port city, Canada's 4th busiest cruise port and also the country's 3rd largest cargo port by shipping volume (dry-liquid-break bulk carriers and...

 Cape Liberty Bayonne , New Jersey

The Port of New York and New Jersey occupies a large area in New York Harbor, encompassing the coastline within a 25-mi/40-km radius of the Liberty Statue. The Port (locode USNYC) has a total of...

 Corner Brook NL , Newfoundland-Labrador Canada

Corner Brook is a port city located in northeastern Canada, on Newfoundland Island's west coast. The city is Atlantic Canada's most northern one and has a population of around 20,000. Corner Brook...

 Boston , Massachusetts

Port Boston is owned and operated by the Massachusetts Port Authority (abbrev MASSPORT). Boston is a major cargo port (the largest in Massachusetts USA), one of the principal East Coast USA ports...

 St Anthony NL , Newfoundland-Labrador Canada

St Anthony NL is a port town located on the northern coast of Great Northern Peninsula (Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada). The town covers a total area of approx 37 km2 (14 mi2) and has population...

 Bangor ME , Maine

Bangor is a Penobscot River cruise port and town in Maine USA (Penobscot County). By population (over 30,000) making Bangor is ranked Maine's third-largest city - following Portland (~70K) and...

 Killarney ON , Ontario Canada

Killarney is a Great Lakes/Lake Huron cruise port (on Baie Georgienne/Georgian Bay's northern shore) and a small town in Canada's Ontario province (Sudbury District) with population under 500...

 Norfolk VA , Virginia

Norfolk VA is a major port city in southeastern Virginia (USA). It borders to the west Elizabeth River and to the north - Chesapeake Bay (Atlantic Ocean). The city has population around 250,000...

 Bar Harbor , Maine

Bar Harbor is a port town on Mount Desert Island (Hancock County, Maine USA), with a population of around 5,000. It is a very popular tourist destination in Maine's Down East region. Since January...

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From the glaciers and pristine forests of Alaska to the old-world charm of Charleston and the culinary delights of Maine, the U.S. offers an astonishingly diverse range of sights and sensations to absorb on a cruise.

Sail the West Coast and soak up the sunny, laid-back vibe of California. Explore quirky neighborhoods in San Francisco and sample world-class wines from the rolling vineyards of Sonoma County. Admire the gorgeous coastal scenery of rugged cliffs, endless beaches, and pounding Pacific waves around Santa Barbara, taking time to visit the beautiful Old Mission. Hike wildflower-strewn meadows and towering cliffs on Catalina Island, and soak up the surf culture of San Diego. 

Further north, take in the wild beauty of the landscapes around Astoria, Oregon, and discover the coffee culture and fresh Pacific Northwestern cuisine of Seattle, Washington.

Alaska is a state packed with adventure. Hike on a glacier, learn to drive a team of huskies, or kayak the pristine waters of the Inside Passage, looking out for distant bears and breaching whales. Learn about Gold Rush history in Skagway, and fly over the forest canopy on the thrill-packed ZipRider at Icy Strait Point.

The East Coast is equally as exciting when it comes to cuisine, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Discover the famous Southern hospitality and old-world charm of Charleston, and tuck into fresh lobster rolls in Bar Harbor, Maine. Chic Martha’s Vineyard offers long, wild, Atlantic beaches with salt on the breeze, while Newport, Rhode Island is filled with glorious old mansions and maritime history. Let Celebrity Cruises open your eyes to the beauty and diversity of these U.S. cruise ports.

United States Ports of Call

Alaska cruise ports & cruisetour stops.

Alyeska (Girdwood), Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska

Denali, Alaska

Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska

Homer, Alaska

Hubbard Glacier (Cruising), Alaska

Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Inside Passage, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska

Ketchikan, Alaska

Seward, Alaska

Sitka, Alaska

Skagway, Alaska

Talkeetna, Alaska

Tracy Arm Fjord (Sawyer Glacier), Alaska

West Coast & Hawaii Cruise Ports

Astoria, Oregon

Catalina Island, California

Hilo, Hawaii

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Kailua Kona, Hawaii

Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii

Los Angeles, California

Monterey, California

Pago Pago, American Samoa

San Diego, California

San Francisco, California

Santa Barbara, California

Seattle, Washington

East Coast & Caribbean Cruise Ports

Bar Harbor, Maine

Boston, Massachusetts

Cape Liberty, New Jersey

Charleston, South Carolina

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Key West, Florida

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Miami, Florida

New Orleans, Louisiana

Newport, Rhode Island

Portland, Maine

Rockland, Maine

San Juan, Puerto Rico

St. Croix, U.S Virgin Islands

Statue of Liberty (Cruising)

Tampa, Florida

View U.S. Cruise Itineraries

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Cruises From U.S & Canada

Visit 225 different ports in 91 countries, all from the U.S. or Canada. From five North American ports, you can circumnavigate Africa or Australia, coast through the turquoise waters of Tahiti, or experience outdoor adventures in Alaska and beyond. Find your nearest departure port and See the World!

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Cruises from Seattle

Venture into rugged northwest territory with a 13-Day Tiple Denali Tour of Glacier Bay and Denali National Park or embark from the Emerald City on a 28-Day Japan & North Pacific Crossing Collector voyage to wander modern cities of East Asia. 

Cruises from Vancouver

Expeditious getaways are perfect from this stunning port city — embark on a 5-Day Pacific Northwest Cruise to climb the Astoria Column, walk Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market, and to wander the enchanting Butchart Gardens in Victoria, B.C. 

Cruises from Ft. Lauderdale

See wonders great and small on a 128-Day Grand World Voyage, take in stunning landscapes on a 74-Day Grand South America & Antarctica Voyage, or traverse the Southern Hemisphere on a 73-Day Grand Africa Voyage.

Cruises from Boston

Count hundreds of lighthouses on both the 25-Day Canada, New England & Iceland adventure or the 35-Day Voyage of the Vikings and cross the Atlantic to wander stunning fjords and magical lands of lore like Ísafjörður and the historic Godafoss waterfall. 

Cruises from San Diego

Bury your toes in black sand beaches and get lost in the rhythms of a luau on a magical 35-Day Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas voyage or learn to surf on Oahu’s North Shore or visit the Royal Palace in Tonga on a 15-Day Tales of the South Pacific sailing!

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Another Cruise Ship Set to Skip Port of Amsterdam Because of Protests

Photo: qizai00 / Shutterstock.com

A small group of environmental activities at the Port of Amsterdam are again causing a major cruise ship to skip the port.

The Disney Dream, which was scheduled to call on Amsterdam on Sept. 6, will instead skip the port and sail on to Zeebrugge (Bruges) in Belgium. The call is part of a 7-night British Isles Cruise from Southampton, which also includes a call at Hamburg and the Zeebrugge call.

The news was first reported by NL Times .

Disney notified its guests ahead of time via email, writing that “due to issues outside of our control at the port in Amsterdam, there is a significant possibility that the ship will not be able to dock, resulting in a missed port day.”

“Because of this, we have made the decision to modify your sailing and spend an additional day in Zeebrugge, Belgium.” Disney is offering all guests onboard a $250 credit because of the itinerary change.

TMR has reached out to Disney for comment.

There have been a few weeks of changes at the Port of Amsterdam because of protestors from the environmentalist group Extinction Rebellion. First, on Aug. 10, the group stopped Royal Caribbean’s Jewel of the Seas from docking at the port by blocking the locks the ship needed to pass through. The ship was forced to backtrack and disembark guests at the smaller port of Ijmuiden.

The following day, Aug. 11, protesters returned and again blocked the lock, this time delaying Seven Seas Mariner by about three hours.

The same protestors again stopped Serenade of the Seas on Aug. 18 . The ship was able to dock after police removed the group of eight protesters. Later the same day, the British cruise line Ambassador Cruise Line switched its port of call to Ijmuiden in fear of a possible blockade.

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Celestyal has canceled two repositioning cruises that would have exposed guests to the dangers of the Red Sea.

The ship is the third of four Coastal Cap ships.

Crystal is partnering with three Michelin-star chef Massimiliano Alajmo and his brother Raffaele for a new specialty dining venue.

Windstar Cruises has revealed select details of its next new ship, Star Seeker, a 224-guests vessel that will debut in Jan. 2026.

Cruise-hating environmentalists have struck again in Amsterdam.

Regent unveiled two new incentives for advisors, including a booking contest that will earn winners a complimentary cruise for two.

Port Canaveral backtracks on plan for new cruise terminal over concerns from state, space sector

Facing threats from state officials that many millions of dollars in state government grants might dry up or be withdrawn, Port Canaveral commissioners on Wednesday voted to halt plans to build a new cruise terminal on the site of its current North Cargo Berth 8.

Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue earlier this month sent a letter to the five Canaveral Port Authority commissioners, claiming that the port's plan to turn the North Cargo Berth 8 site into a cruise terminal and cruise parking garage would negatively affect the space industry.

They said that's because of the effect it would have on the commercial space companies' current and planned future operations to recover and reuse launched rocket hardware like boosters and fairings.

"Growing cruise capacity is important," the letter read. "But it cannot be accomplished by shouldering out the longer-term benefits presented by the commercial space launch industry."

"We encourage you — the commissioners of the port — to immediately rescind your announced plans."

Port commissioners reverse course

Port commissioners capitulated, voting 4-1 to reverse their decision to build a cruise terminal/parking garage complex on the North Cargo Berth 8 site. Port Commissioner Kevin Markey voted against that move.

Commissioners did not discuss an alternative plan.

The port had originally planned to build its new cruise terminal on the port's south side, at the current site of Blue Points Marina. But, in May, Port Canaveral CEO John Murray said developing a new cruise terminal there has complications that would take extensive time to sort out, leading the commissioners to choose the north side site.

Murray said after Wednesday's Canaveral Port Authority meeting that the port would "take a hard look" at all its options, "and start all over again," including potentially finding ways to more efficiently use its existing cruise terminals.

"We're going to look at everything," other than making North Cargo Berth 8 a cruise terminal, Murray said. "It's part of doing business. We're OK with it."

Murray did not discuss any timeline for implementing a solution.

Murray said he wants to create a balance between its various business sectors ― cruise, cargo, space, recreation, marinas, restaurants and real estate — adding that "it's tough to keep everybody happy all the time, but we do our best."

State officials' funding threat

Had Port Canaveral not reversed course, the state officials said in their letter:

• "FDOT will commence an immediate review of all current investments in Port Canaveral, and repurpose all planned investments for transportation work program priorities at other seaports and spaceports."
• The Florida Department of Commerce will cease to fund or support funding for Port Canaveral projects; will rescind current funding allocated to Port Canaveral; and will "stringently review the port’s performance with and adherence to the terms and conditions of its (fiscal year) 2017-18 Florida Job Growth Grant Fund award, which was granted, in part, to support of the aerospace industry."
• Neither the Department of Commerce nor FDOT will certify Port Canaveral’s three most recent applications to the Florida Seaport Tourism Economic Development Council for projects related to the cruise industry.

Canaveral Port Authority Chair Micah Loyd said, with the reversal of the port's cruise terminal plan, "we will work with the state, and we will ask for things that we need here."

"So let's turn the lemons into lemonade," he told the other port commissioners.

Murray said the port's current cruise terminal facilities would have difficulty handling more ships, and that has resulted in the port turning away potential cruise business that it could have gotten in a few years.

"It's going to compromise some of our businesses," Murray said.

He said the similar lack of berth space for cruise line expansion at PortMiami and Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades means that cruise lines that might have expanded at Florida's ports instead will base their new ships in New York, California or Texas.

Once that cruise business leaves Florida, Murray said, "it's next-to-impossible to get back."

Murray noted that major cruise lines have many ships on order that are scheduled to enter service in the late-2020s and early-2030s — ships that might not have a cruise port to go to in Florida.

More than 82% of the port's operating revenue is derived from cruise ships and cruise passenger parking. Murray said only about 1% of the port's revenue comes from the space sector.

Port's 'most precious asset'

Murray said the waterfront is the port's "most precious asset."

Nevertheless, Murray said, the port wants to retain its good relationship with FDOT and the Department of Commerce, and that was a bigger issue than the potential loss of grants.

"There's obviously a concern, and we need to sort though that," Murray said, adding that he believes the port has a good relationship with the commercial space companies.

He said the space launch sector is an important industry for the state, and one that state officials don't want to lose to potential launch sites in Virginia, Texas or Alaska.

In a statement related to the latest developments at the port, Space Florida said: "Florida is fortunate that demand at the world’s busiest spaceport remains high now and for the foreseeable future. We look forward to continuing to work with local, state and federal partners and stakeholders on solutions that support the rapid growth of the space industry."

The number of recovered space components going through Port Canaveral is increasing with the increased cadence of launches. Murray said Port Canaveral's cargo facilities handled 54 recovered SpaceX boosters from Oct. 1, 2023, through July 31, 2024, up from 39 in the same period a year ago; and 128 SpaceX fairing, up from 82 in the same period a year ago.

Rick Neale contributed to this story.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

Port Canaveral halts cruise expansion amid concerns for space industry

The port will attempt to work with the state and other agencies to decide how to move forward and balance the needs of the booming cruise and space industries.

Port Canaveral’s planned seventh cruise terminal is dead in the water after commissioners voted to pull back the project based on concerns from state departments.

Canaveral Port Authority Commissioners voted 4-1 in a meeting Wednesday to abandon the plans agreed upon in May that would turn North Cargo Berth 8 into a new terminal. The decision comes after the Florida Departments of Commerce and Transportation sent the port a letter detailing displeasure with the intention and potential detriment for the space industry.

Commerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly and Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue sent the letter this month. No definitive alternative for the land was presented, but the pair emphasized that the benefit of the cruise industry should not come at the expense of the space industry. Mentioned in the letter was the land’s potential use for liquified natural gas (LNG).

LNG is used by the maritime and space industries and is at the forefront of clean energy debates.

The letter’s main warning, however, had to do with expenses. The two state departments threatened to shift or stop funding to the port unless the decision was reversed.

Commissioner Kevin Markey was the sole vote against reversing course on the cruise terminal and said it was largely symbolic. He was displeased with how the concerns were communicated but told Central Florida Public Media that if he was the deciding vote, he would have ultimately agreed.

“We got that letter, whenever it was dated, on a Friday after 5 (p.m.) by email. Not the way I would’ve handled it,” he said. “How about a phone call? How about a heads up? How about saying something during all those prior meetings?”

The competing interests of sea and space travel rise as the industries soar.

Port Canaveral is expected to reach 7.3 million guests from cruise vessels this fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30. This milestone would break a record 6.8 million cruise guests that the port reported last fiscal year. In fact, the port has already broken it, currently sitting at 6.9 million guests.

In May, Space Florida, the state agency that works to bring commercial space companies to the state, said it must nearly double its presence around the port by 2033 to support the growing business. Fifty-nine launches from the Space Coast have occurred this year, and the industry hopes to break its record 72 orbital launches set in 2023.

Thursday morning, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a $5.8 million state grant to help pay for a new road leading to a planned Titusville industrial park meant to meet the growing needs of the space business.

Although the industry is skyrocketing, Commissioner Fritz VanVolkenburgh disagreed with the state’s mention of using the land for LNG facilities.

“I would not be in favor of having, say, an LNG facility such as liquefaction at the port. I don’t think that’s a suitable location for it,” VanVolkenburgh said.

He added that the federal and state property north of the port may be a better destination but noted his say was just a precaution.

No course is set for where to move forward with North Cargo Berth 8 or where the cruise terminal will be slated.

The port will once again have to pivot its cruise terminal plans. Timing issues capsized the port’s original plans of building it on the south side, which sparked the change to the north cargo berth.

Commissioner Wayne Justice said he understood the competing interests but had concerns over whether the board’s decision - and lack of clarity ahead - may cost the state down the line.

“There’s not a lot of room for cruise ships in the state of Florida these days,” he said.

Still, Port Canaveral and its commissioners will look for a way to balance the industries and its own interests. Commissioner Micah Loyd said he spoke with Perdue recently to see if the state and port could align on expansion needs.

VanVolkenburgh noted the disagreement was a good problem to have.

“It’s much better to be in high demand as opposed to being underutilized,” he said.

“Unfortunately, the more demand that you get, the smaller the port gets.”

Copyright 2024 Central Florida Public Media

Cruise And Ferry

Bridgemans scraps cruise ship acquired in March for luxury accommodation role

Converted ro-ro that helped launch two top-tier luxury cruise lines ends 50-year career on Turkish beach

Canadian offshore accommodation provider Bridgemans Services Group has pulled the plug on a small luxury cruise ship it acquired only in March, selling it to a Turkish ship recycling facility.

The 8,300-gt Diamond XI (built 1974) was beached at a recycling yard at Aliaga on Saturday.

When Bridgemans bought the 226-berth cruise ship as Ocean Diamond from Diamond Cruise Partners, a group of investors linked to Miami-based SunStone Ships, it said that due to strong interest from project proponents, the company wanted an accommodation ship “sized to support projects in their earliest stages or to supplement accommodation at peak workforce”.

The company described its new purchase as “a beautiful ship that perfectly suits resource and other projects requiring premium accommodation space for up to 350 beds, catering, entertainment and more”.

It is unclear why Bridgemans decided to pull the plug on the Diamond XI so quickly, and the company could not be reached outside office hours on Monday.

During its heyday, the ship itself was proof that in shipping it was possible to make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear.

The vessel was built in Norway as the run-of-the-mill ro-ro Begonia, with accommodation for only 12 passengers.

Just over a decade later, it was converted by Oslo-based Fearnley & Eger into the luxury cruise ship Explorer Starship, with its blunt bow being the only hint of a more mundane past.

Upon completion of its conversion at Lloyd-Werft in Germany, the ship was chartered to US-based Exploration Cruise Lines for two years before being sold to newly formed Seven Seas Cruise Line, which after several name changes and merger deals is today known as Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Trading under the name Song of Flower for Seven Seas, the ship enjoyed a reputation as being one of the cruise industry’s top-rated ships.

French cruise operator Compagnie Des Iles Du Ponant became the ship’s owner in 2003. Under the name Le Diamant, it helped the niche cruise operator, which back then owned two very small ships, break into the increasingly popular polar expedition cruise sector and paved the way for the ordering of larger, even more luxurious ice-classed ships.

Outclassed by these newbuildings, the Le Diamant was sold in 2011 to a group of investors put together by Miami-based SunStone, who chartered it to various expedition cruise operators under the name Ocean Diamond.

The ship went into lay-up at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in early 2020 and remained inactive until Bridgemans acquired it in March.

The Diamond XI was one of just a handful of ships reported as being sold for recycling over the past week, during which weakening prices saw only the owners of a couple of small general cargo ships and a cement carrier, all of less than 15,000 dwt, opt to recycle their unwanted ships in Bangladesh.

Apart from the Diamond XI, Turkish recyclers were reported in the latest recycling reports as buying a trio of elderly ships of between 3,000 dwt and 5,000 dwt.

No recycling deals were reported for India or Pakistan.

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