Cruise stopovers in North America

Welcome aboard your complete guide: “Cruise stopovers in North America”! I am Sarah, aka Miss Tatane 🤩, passionate about cruises, and I will help you  optimize  your stopovers and  manage your budget .

Cruise stopovers in North America

For the privileged few who embark on this adventure, it is simply magical. Having had the privilege of traveling these routes, I can tell you that you are about to experience something extraordinary. While Mediterranean stopovers are great, these are on another level, simply because you’re heading to America! Come on, stop talking, let’s get on board!🛳‍️

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NEW YORK

Cruise stopovers in North America

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The Manhattan and Brooklyn cruise terminals, departure points for more than Embark on an unforgettable cruise and discover magnificent landscapes, fascinating cultures and unique experiences.

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How to exit New York cruise port

Whether you’re boarding in New York or stopping in the city that never sleeps, access to Manhattan Cruise Port is by foot or taxi. To leave the port, the option on foot is preferred, offering a free exit and allowing you to reach Times Square in just 15 minutes on foot. Even with luggage, this option remains practical and economical. For my part, during my trips to New York, I always prefer to go out on foot, thus avoiding any additional costs. The scenery is definitely worth the detour!

On the other hand, read below, if you disembark or embark in Brooklyn it’s not the same! I boarded in Brooklyn for my cruise in May and the Brooklyn terminal is a bit complex.

Where to board a cruise in New York?

In New York, you have the choice of three cruise terminals to board your ship. Each terminal is assigned based on the cruise line. Most MSC Cruises, Costa, etc. ships depart from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal!

I recommend that you check your travel diary or contact the company directly to find out the designated terminal.

Here are the three main embarkation ports for your cruise!

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Manhattan Cruise Terminal

Located in the city center 28 km from JFK, this terminal welcomes cruise ships from different companies. It is a place steeped in history, having hosted legendary liners like the Normandie and the France. Accessible on foot or by taxi, it offers a free exit and quick access to Times Square in 15 minutes on foot and 5 minutes by taxi.

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Brooklyn Cruise Terminal

MSC – Costa – Queen Mary 2

A modern terminal with stunning views

Opened in April 2006, the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is a state-of-the-art facility capable of handling the largest cruise ships, such as the famous Queen Mary 2 and MSC Mervaglia. Located in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, the terminal offers breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

Many international cruise lines dock at the Brooklyn Terminal, including:

• MSC Cruises
• Costa Cruises
• Cunard Line
• Princess Cruises

Access and transportation

The big drawback of the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is its lack of public transportation service. Buses and subways do not pass nearby, forcing you to take a taxi or VTC to get to the center of Manhattan. The trip takes about 30 minutes and costs about $100, + taxes (+$30). I found the drivers to be dishonest and many cruise lines gave me negative feedback. So I recommend Uber, because at least you know in advance how much you will pay. There, it’s a bit up to the customer!

• I would like to point out that in all taxis in New York, they are reminded that if you attack a driver, it’s 25 years in prison. It sets the scene. But I also think that, because they are protected by the state, they are not super correct. I would even argue that some of them are thieves.

Transportation Tips

• Taxi or VTC. Uber is a convenient and reliable option because you can know the price of the ride in advance. Don’t forget to tip.
• Shuttle. Some cruise lines offer paid shuttle services between the terminal and Manhattan. Check with your cruise line to see what options are available.
• Ferry: A ferry connects the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal to Wall Street/Pier 11 in Manhattan. The ride takes about 20 minutes and costs $4. It’s an economical and scenic option, but it’s not always convenient for those with a lot of luggage and it drops you off far from the cruise terminal.

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Cape liberty cruise port

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises exclusively!

Located in Bayonne, New Jersey, 43 km from JFK, this terminal has been operated by the Royal Caribbean Group since 2004. It is designed to accommodate Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises liners only. Although located some distance from Manhattan, it offers coach transportation and parking services to make traveling easier for travelers.

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How to get from JFK to Manhattan cruise terminal

After arriving at JFK Airport (JFK) in New York, you can reach the Manhattan Cruise Terminal by following these simple steps:

By public transport:

• At JFK Airport, Terminal 4, take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station in Queens. (10 min journey)
• At Jamaica Station, take the E Line (at Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av-JFK Airport Station) and take that subway to 50 St.

→ You can use the AirTrain card for 10 round trips, which is more advantageous than purchasing individual tickets. This option costs $2 per ride on top of the cost of the card, making it $26 in total. It is recommended to save on your travel between the airport and the cruise terminal.

By taxi or Uber:

• A taxi ride will cost you around 100 euros, as taxis are quite expensive in New York.
• Using Uber could be a more economical option, with a price of around 80 euros for the ride.

By following these instructions, you can easily get from JFK to the Manhattan Cruise Terminal to begin your cruise with complete peace of mind.

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How to get from JFK to Brooklyn cruise terminal

JFK Airport is located approximately 16 miles from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, nestled in Upper Bay in the Red Hook area of ​​Brooklyn.

The distance between JFK Airport and the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is approximately 25 kilometers. Let’s find out together how to get there economically. I tested the following 3 modes.

By public transport:

• Take the AirTrain for $8 or $26 with the card for a group of 4 people . Note that the ticket is valid for 5 round trips but only for 4 people. Here are the steps to follow:
  • Meet at Terminal 4 of JFK Airport.
  • Take the tram to Howard Beach (12 minutes, every 10 minutes).
  • Make a change/transfer at Howard Beach-Station A for the subway (31 minutes, every 15 minutes).
  • Get off at Hoyt-Schermerhorn Sts (3 mins, every 10 mins) then take the G line to Carroll St.
  • Then, walk approximately 25 minutes (2.1 km) to the cruise terminal located at 210 Clinton Wharf, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA.
  • Usually I take a taxi to Carroll Station.😆

→ For the Air Train card at $26

If you’re traveling in a group, opt for the Airtrain pass offering 10 trips for $25. By choosing this option, you will benefit from 10 Airtrain journeys (duration 30 days).

Up to 4 people can take advantage of this pass to make the same journey (round trip). So, if you are traveling as a group of 4, you will be able to go back and forth between JFK airport and subway stations without having to purchase individual tickets.

By taxi or Uber:

• A taxi ride will cost you around 100 euros, but taxis are quite expensive in New York.
• Using Uber could be a more economical option, with a price of around 80 euros for the ride.

We tested these three options and they are all feasible, but the choice will mainly depend on your budget.

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How to get from JFK to Cape liberty cruise port

• Take the AirTrain to Terminal 4 at New York JFK Airport (JFK), United States.
• From there, take the trolley to Howard Beach-Station A, Queens.
• Make a change/transfer at Howard Beach-JFK Airport, Queens.
• Take the subway to Fulton St in New York.
• Get off at the Fulton St station in New York.
• Arrived in Fulton, you will have to take a taxi (count 50/70 euros)

If you opt for a taxi:

• Take a taxi from JFK airport, cost 130/160 euros

→ For the Air Train card at $26

If you’re traveling in a group, opt for the Airtrain pass offering 10 trips for $25. By choosing this option, you will benefit from 10 Airtrain journeys (duration 30 days).

Up to 4 people can take advantage of this pass to make the same journey (round trip). So, if you are traveling as a group of 4, you will be able to go back and forth between JFK airport and subway stations without having to purchase individual tickets.

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Flight to the USA

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What to do in New York on a cruise?

Cruise stopovers in North America

Enjoy your stopover in New York before boarding your cruise! Here are some activity ideas:

• Visit must-sees like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building and Times Square.
• For art lovers, MoMA and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) are must-sees.
• Gourmets will not fail to taste the New York pizza and bagels.
• For a unique experience, see a Broadway show.

For these activities, I highly recommend the tour bus , as time is precious during a layover in New York. All of these attractions are included in the bus route, allowing you to hop off and hop on as you please without having to pay again. It is a simple and economical option despite the initial price.

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Empire State Building

Cruise stopovers in North America – A marvel 🤪

The Empire State Building is one of New York’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the heart of Manhattan, this historic skyscraper offers breathtaking views of the city that never sleeps. It’s the perfect place to admire the New York skyline.

When visiting the Empire State Building, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from its observatory. You will be able to see famous landmarks such as the Chrysler Building, the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park. The observatory also offers interactive exhibits to learn about the history of the skyscraper and the city.

How to get there:

• Take the subway to 34th Street – Penn Station (Lines A, C, or E) or 34th Street – Herald Square Station (Lines B, D, F, M, N, Q, or R).

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9/11 Memorial & museum ❤

North America cruise ports of call – World Trade Center

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a moving and memorable site in New York. It sits on the exact location of the former World Trade Center, the site of the September 11, 2001 attacks. As a traveler, I have explored many incredible places around the world, but this one is truly unique of its kind.

How to get there:

1. Subway: You can take lines A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 or E and get off at the World Trade Center subway station.
2. Bus: Several bus lines serve the World Trade Center area.
3. Path Train: If you’re coming from New Jersey, the Path Train is a great way to get to the site.
4. On foot: If you’re staying in Manhattan’s Financial District, you can easily get to the memorial on foot.

September 11 Memorial

• Daily: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

9/11 Museum

• Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The address for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is: 180 Greenwich St, NY 10007.

Be sure to plan your visit with these times in mind to take full advantage of these important memorial sites during your stay in New York.

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BOSTON

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How to get out of Boston cruise port

When you arrive in Boston, you are faced with a multitude of things to see and do, making this stopover a real gem. Personally, I loved every moment, feeling like a child in wonder. To reach the city center of Boston, you can go there on foot (allow around thirty minutes). At the exit of the port you will find taxis, buses and the trolley.

Exiting the port is free dear friends! The distance of 30 minutes can be scary for some, but it’s okay if you don’t want to pay or the budget is a little tight!

I can give you some advice if you want. The companies offer return tickets for $22 to reach the city center, but I do not recommend them. We booked the trolley and it’s already great. The drivers are incredibly friendly and, what’s more, you don’t just go to the city center: you really go all around the city. There is so much to see! With the trolley, you go down wherever you want and come back up as many times as you want. Boston will no longer have any secrets for you.

Boston is my favorite. You have the choice: if you take the trolley, know that it is taken at the foot of the boat, on the left when you leave the port. The ticket offered by the company leaves you in the center, but once in the center, you manage. It’s up to you, friends!

How to get around Boston on a cruise stopover?

Travel Options	Benefits
Metro (T)	Fast, efficient, covers many neighborhoods.
Trolley	Save time, guided tour, panoramic view, appreciated by cruise passengers.
Bus	Extensive network, access to areas not served by the metro.
Tram (tram)	Serves the city center and historic districts.
Walking	Easy to explore, access to many attractions.
Bike	Bike sharing system, secure cycle paths.

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What to do in Boston on a cruise stopover

Embark on an incredible whale-watching cruise off the coast of Boston and see a variety of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Accompanied by your professional guide, observe these magnificent creatures up close from the deck of your boat, for an unforgettable experience on the open sea.

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PORTLAND

North America cruise ports of call in Maine

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How to get out of Portland cruise port

When you arrive at the cruise port of call in Portland, Maine, prepare to be enchanted by the quaint charm of this coastal town. With its bustling wharves, fresh seafood restaurants (I recommend the lobster) and magnificent maritime landscapes, Portland offers an authentic New England experience. The town, located in Casco Bay, is unique with its lobster fishing!

Explore its cobblestone streets lined with unique boutiques, visit its iconic lighthouses or take a scenic excursion along the rocky coast. Whatever your preference, Portland promises you a memorable stopover, imbued with the very essence of maritime life.

To leave the port, the exit is free, no fees to be expected. You are about 2 km from the city center, which equates to about a 25-30 minute walk.

When leaving Portland Harbor, I advise you to follow the waterfront on the left as you exit the port. There is the tourist office immediately after leaving the boat, and everything is indicated on the maps. For our visit to Portland, we decided to do everything on foot. We walked 25 km this day, which is to say that Portland is a small city, but it’s a climb if you want to go up to the fire station or to the church. If you are not in great physical condition, you can take a trolley which is located immediately after leaving the boat. You can’t miss them!

Getting to Portland, Maine?

Travel Options	Benefits
Walking	Easy neighborhood exploration, access to local attractions.
Trolley	Guided tour, ideal for discovering the city’s points of interest.
Fire truck (unusual)	Unique experience, original visit to Portland.
Bus	Reliable public transportation service, serving different areas of the city.
Bike	Well-designed cycle paths, ideal for discovering the city at your own pace.
Taxi/Uber/Lyft	Ease and convenience to move quickly from one point to another.

What to do in Portland on a cruise stopover

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CANADA

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SAINT JOHN

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How to exit Saint John cruise port

When you arrive at the North America cruise stop in Saint John, you find yourself in Canada, a destination that is sure to amaze you. With its picturesque coastal landscapes, bustling streets and rich historical heritage, Saint John offers an authentic and memorable experience for visitors.

Explore its cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, discover its beautiful parks and taste the delicious local cuisine (the best cod of my life). Whether you take a guided tour or decide to explore on your own, Saint John promises an unforgettable stopover in this charming Canadian city.

When you dock in Saint John, you’ll be just a stone’s throw from downtown. The outing is free, friends!

You can also follow the waterfront where you will find local artisans. Stop to chat with them, they are adorable, especially Sallie, the t-shirt seller. Saint John is similar to Portland in size, so you can do everything on foot. There are plenty of things to see, but above all, see you in 2 or 3 years, because the city is booming. They are preparing something huge, it will become the Canadian Saint-Tropez, I think.

In this city you can pay in US dollars and Canadian dollars, since it is the first Canadian gateway when coming from the United States. I advise you to eat poutine at the shopping center where the library is located. They are great and inexpensive.

I really wish you a nice stopover!

What to do in Saint John on a cruise stopover

Cruise stopovers in North America

In Saint John, on a cruise stopover, here are the best activities according to cruise passengers and myself :😃

• Visit the historic Saint John Public Market to discover a variety of local produce, crafts and culinary delights.
• Explore Irving Nature Provincial Park to enjoy scenic hiking trails, stunning views, and diverse flora and fauna.
• Don’t miss a visit to the Reversing Falls Historic Site to observe this unique natural phenomenon where the tides change the course of the river.
• Immerse yourself in the region’s maritime history by visiting the New Brunswick Museum and discovering fascinating exhibits on shipbuilding and the port industry.
• Take a boat trip to admire the spectacular coastal scenery and perhaps spot whales and other marine animals in their natural habitat.

These activities promise you a memorable cruise stopover in Saint John, combining discovery, adventure and relaxation in this charming Canadian city.

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HALIFAX

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When you arrive in Halifax, prepare to discover a vibrant and historically rich city nestled on Canada’s east coast. Halifax offers a wealth of exciting activities for cruise passengers, from historic site visits to nature excursions.

How to exit Halifax cruise port

For my part, there is no point in renting anything unless you want to go up to the citadel (extraordinary viewpoint), because you need to be in good physical condition!

When you are in Halifax, follow the waterfront and there the adventure begins. It is really beautiful! You can go shopping, stop to eat poutine, beaver tail, or whatever you want, because you can find everything. Everything can be done easily on foot.

You will see, they have installed colorful chairs if you want to sit down to observe Peggy’s Cove, or eat an ice cream and just enjoy the decor. It’s incredible, it’s clean, it’s beautiful, people have their hands on their hearts.

Halifax is really something!

That day we started by exploring the town on foot, then at 2 p.m. we set off to visit Peggy’s Cove. We had booked the transfer to Peggy’s Cove and its fishing village via my site, which is truly a magnificent activity. Honestly, I recommend it.

Here are some of the best things to do in Halifax on a cruise stopover:

• Visit the Halifax Citadel, a historic fortress with panoramic views of the city and harbor.
• Stroll along the Halifax waterfront, where you can admire boats, restaurants and quaint shops.
• Explore the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to learn about the region’s maritime history and the famous sinking of the Titanic.
• Discover Halifax Public Gardens, a peaceful haven in the heart of the city, with winding paths, fountains and manicured gardens.
• Take a trip to discover Peggy’s Bay (Cove), one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks, with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque lighthouse.

Whatever your preference, Halifax has an unforgettable cruise stopover for you, combining history, culture and natural beauty.

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Private transfer from Halifax cruise port to your hotel

Is your cruise coming to an end? Would you like to book a private transfer from the port to your hotel?

Halifax Cruise Port Private Transfer

• Price → 124 euros per person
• Meeting with a nameplate
• Private transport
• Door to door service
• No hidden fees
• Clean cars and professional drivers

See availability – Reservation 

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What to do in Halifax on a cruise stopover

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Miami

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A stopover in Miami is more than just a stopover. It’s an opportunity to discover a vibrant city, full of life and exciting activities. Personally, I had the chance to embark in Miami and spend two nights there before leaving on a cruise. I was captivated by this incredible city, one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. Whether you choose an adventure in the Everglades (I highly recommend this experience!), or you prefer to explore Miami on foot, every moment spent in this magical city promises unforgettable memories.

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How to exit the port in Miami?

Once you arrive at Dodge Island , the Port of Miami, you will need transportation to get to downtown or other Miami attractions. Unlike some other ports, it is not possible to leave the port on foot due to its size and infrastructure. Fortunately, there are several options available to you.

• Cruise Line Shuttles . Most cruise lines offer shuttles to major points of interest in Miami.
• Taxi or Uber . Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are easily accessible just outside the terminal. They will quickly take you wherever you want to go.
• Public Transportation . Miami’s bus system, operated by Cruise Connection Florida, is an affordable option for getting to downtown or the beaches.

→ For those who are used to seeing ”  free exit  ” on Mon Tatane Tour, rest assured, if you opt for the metrorail it will cost you $3 per person, it’s the cheapest.

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How to get from the port of Miami to downtown

To reach Downtown Miami from the Port of Miami, you have several convenient options:

• City of Miami Coral way trolley route . This trolley is the only public transportation that goes from PortMiami to downtown. If you are already in downtown, you can catch it at Government Center Station. At this location, you will find connections to the Metrorail, Metrobus, Brightline etc.
• Tri-Rail . If you are arriving from other areas north of Miami, the Tri-Rail offers convenient service to downtown Miami. From the Tri-Rail station, you can easily access PortMiami using the other public transportation options available at Government Center Station.

These options will allow you to easily travel from PortMiami to the heart of the city to explore all of its attractions.

I have made an article for those who want to know more about What to do in Miami on a cruise stopover.  Click here to learn more.

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Must do activity in Miami

The Everglades

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MTT cruise lines

Thank you for following this exploration of our cruise stops in North America! But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Stay tuned as new destinations will be added as I travel. Don’t hesitate to bookmark MonTataneTour so you don’t miss any updates and continue to discover new horizons with me!

Your support and curiosity are my greatest motivation. See you soon for new adventures!😍

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Cruise ports and stops in the mediterranean

To discover the complete and detailed page, click on the image!

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Round the world cruise ports of call

To discover the complete and detailed page, click on the image!

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Cruise stopovers in the Fjords

To discover the complete and detailed page, click on the image!

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Explore the incredible cruise stops in the Caribbean

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MTT wishes you the most wonderful of cruises.