Explore Caribbean Small Ship Cruises

Table Of Content

• Rhapsody of the Seas
• You really want to visit some of the Caribbean's lesser-explored islands.
• Find the perfect trip
• The Caribbean Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips
• Best of Spain & Portugal
• Exploring The Caribbean: A Comprehensive Guide to Small Ship Cruises
• Royal Caribbean cruise ships ranked by size from biggest to smallest — the complete list

Ships are blissfully void of children — cruisers must be over 18 — making it a prime choice for an adults-only cruise. Parents will find opportunities to unwind at adults-only sun decks and pool areas that are closed to kids; there are also bars and clubs that are off-limits to anyone younger than 18. Western Caribbean ports of call include Puerto Costa Maya and Cozumel; Roatan, Honduras; Nassau; and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Culinary-focused cruises have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among foodies who want to... Royal Caribbean also has two more vessels similar to Icon of the Seas on order from shipyards for delivery in 2025 and 2026, respectively. That said, Grandeur of the Seas has a loyal following among Royal Caribbean fans who prefer smaller and more intimate ships.

What's it Like on a Yacht Cruise to the Caribbean? - Cruise Critic

What's it Like on a Yacht Cruise to the Caribbean?.

Posted: Fri, 01 Mar 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Rhapsody of the Seas

The big ships are restricted to busy, overdeveloped islandswhere going ashore means running a gauntlet of hassle from streetvendors, touts and taxi drivers. Often the main attractions areduty free shopping malls, and the chances of experiencing anauthentic slice of Caribbean culture are minimal. Some of the bigcruise lines even stop at their own private islands, a sanitisedpastiche of the Caribbean that we find rather depressing. Like any good expedition ship, Ocean Victory has one lounge dedicated to lectures with large flat screens to view presentations.

You really want to visit some of the Caribbean's lesser-explored islands.

The biggest Royal Caribbean cruise ships are, by nature, the Royal Caribbean ships with the most pools, waterslides and other deck-top activities, as well as the most onboard restaurants, bars and showrooms. They have the biggest casinos and spas among ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet as well as the most cabins and suites — and the most variation in cabin and suite types. Our Caribbean small ships offer a bright and airy atmosphere, bold colors, elegant decor and plentiful deck space perfect for taking in the sights and sounds of this sun-soaked region. Expedition ships feature sophisticated launch platforms, hydrophones and an underwater camera.

Find the perfect trip

Travel with AdventureSmith's Jennifer to Panama's Pearl Islands, Darien Jungle, Gamboa Rainforest and through the Panama Canal aboard the 24-guest Discovery catamaran. Register with Cruise.com to get access to exclusive rates, discounts and special offers. With its PC6 ice-class rating, Silver Endeavour spends November through April in Antarctica and the rest of the year in the Arctic, including Greenland, Arctic Canada, Iceland and Norway.

Eclipse has two helicopters on board to give guests a real bucket-list experience. Best for cruise and stayMake the most of a holiday in paradise by staying as long as possible. Banish the jet lag with seven lazy days poolside in Barbados then board the Royal Clipper, a five-masted ship that resembles a traditional tall ship and holds just 227 passengers. One of the unique advantages of small-ship cruises is the opportunity for cultural immersion.

Best of Spain & Portugal

Travel Agents: Small-Ship Cruises on the Rise in the Caribbean - Caribbean Journal

Travel Agents: Small-Ship Cruises on the Rise in the Caribbean.

Posted: Thu, 25 May 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

A distinguishing feature of small-ship cruises in the Caribbean is the focus on adventure and exploration activities. Depending on the itinerary, you may have opportunities for hiking in national parks, snorkeling in coral reefs, kayaking in marine reserves, or exploring historical sites. These activities offer enriching ways to experience the Caribbean's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Exploring The Caribbean: A Comprehensive Guide to Small Ship Cruises

This can take the form of local-led excursions, onboard lectures, cultural performances, and culinary experiences. By interacting with local communities and learning about their histories, traditions, and lifestyles, you'll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Caribbean's diverse cultures. Ponant's all-inclusive fares (some shore excursions, drinks, internet and gratuities) are competitive and provide high value for money. One of our favourite features -- available on each of Windstar's vessels -- is the water sports platform, with its range of complimentary activities  such as snorkelling, wind-sailing, paddle-boarding and even water skiing).

Most people find "lullaby" waves -- those that gently rock the ship to and fro -- soothing. But, in bad weather with rough seas, the rocking can be more intense and stomach-churning for some individuals. Most itineraries embark/disembark from places like Bridgetown, Barbados; Fort-de-France, Martinique; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Marigot, St. Martin; and even Fort Lauderdale in the United States. They also call on more established isles like St. Lucia, St. John and St. Thomas in the U.S. Carnival Cruise New Orleans is a popular cruise line that offers a wide range of exciting and fun-filled activities... Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community.

This slow travel approach allows you to connect more deeply with your surroundings and create lasting memories. When packing for your cruise, consider the climate, onshore activities, and cruise line's dress code. Essentials include swimwear, beachwear, casual clothes, and a few smart-casual outfits for dinner. Don't forget sun protection, comfortable footwear for excursions, and any necessary gear for activities such as snorkeling or hiking.

Imagine the unique feeling of cruising the world on a small ship and sharing your journey with anywhere from 6 to less than 1,000 guests. Small ship cruises are offered across the globe, following itineraries that tend to include visits to both larger and more intimate ports; ports where larger ships simply cannot call. Small ship cruises are offered by a variety of cruise lines, catering to a range of itineraries and budgets. The onboard experience is much more intimate and small ships make it easier to know the ship, its staff and your fellow travelers. Smaller ships tend to focus more on the destinations with onboard lecturers or naturalists and unique excursions. Dining is an intimate affair where you can meet for cocktails followed by gourmet fare, often in a single seating or at a time of your own choosing.

Passengers choose from 10 original cabins, including Post's own suite with its Louis XIV–style bed and nightstands, marble fireplace and bathroom, chandeliers and intricate moldings. After passing through various owners, Sea Cloud I has spent the last several decades offering casually elegant windjammer cruises to old-ship lovers from Europe and North America. Lindblad Expeditions has been a leader in small-ship expedition cruising since 1966 when company founder Lars-Eric Lindblad pioneered expeditions to Antarctica, Easter Island and the Galapagos.

Two more yachts are due to follow before 2025 but the company’s Evrima will remain its smallest, with fewer than 300 passengers. This has regular sailings in the Caribbean starting at just four nights for those looking for a quick escape. Offering a round trip from San Juan, it minimises sailing time with a stop each day in the British Virgin Islands’ Virgin Gorda, St Maarten and St John in the US Virgin Islands.

Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. Silversea's classic fleet, ranging in size from 298 to 728guests, offers a number of Caribbean options, including a handful of Barbados round-trips. There are alsovarious itineraries embarking or disembarking in Fort Lauderdale,and Silversea have some interesting voyages combining the islandsof the Caribbean with either Bermuda or Central America.

Bridge Cams

Table Of Content

• Jacksonville Beach, Jacksonville, Florida Camera
• United StatesCruise Region Cameras
• Map of Port Miami, U.S. State of Florida
• Port of Miami Cruise Webcam

Select a camera location on the map below to view that camera live. Although it won't give you a view of the ship, this Roatan port cam shows you the outdoor port facilities area at Mahogany Bay. The view is a bit hazy, and it's a still photo that's only updated once every few hours, but if you're missing Roatan, this is a good way to get your fix.

Jacksonville Beach, Jacksonville, Florida Camera

If you’ve been to Nassau, then you know how busy port day can get. Having four or more cruise ships in port at once is common. You can see them all from this webcam, located right in the heart of the cruise pier.

United StatesCruise Region Cameras

The muddy Mississippi may not look anything like the Caribbean, but it’s the key to getting from New Orleans to points further south. Princess Cruises makes it easy to find an assortment of bridge views by housing all of its cruise ship webcams on a single page. The visual includes a note of where the ship is or is on route to. Get the latest current and forecast weather information that may affect your cruise vacation travel plans.

Map of Port Miami, U.S. State of Florida

Several cruise lines including Carnival and Norwegian sail from the port, located right near downtown. This webcam will give you view of the ships in port and the surrounding area. If you are going on a cruise, then chances are high that it will make a stop in Cozumel. It’s often that you’ll find multiple ships in port on any given day, making it a prime place to watch while you’re sitting at home.

You’ll be dreaming up your next Cozumel cruise booking in no time. Viking Ocean Cruises has eight webcams available online on one aggregate page. Live feeds from the cruise ship webcams note the current location and itinerary name for each Viking vessel.

Cruise Ship Webcams: Find Your Favorite Ship in Port or at Sea

Webcams - Galveston, TX - Galveston.com

Webcams - Galveston, TX.

Posted: Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades webcam is another way to keep tabs on the constant influx of ships in Florida. Check out dock views on this port cam by pressing the play button. This collection of port cams at Grand Cayman shows the outdoor cruise port facilities, the dock and cargo facilities. You might catch a glimpse of sunshine, or see the occasional poor weather that strikes the Caribbean from time to time. You will then be shown a list of active cruise port and travel destination cameras within that cruise region. While no continuous port cam feed is available, the webcam for Grand Turk's cruise center features still images that are updated every few minutes.

AIDA Cruises Webcams

Norway Webcams: Enjoy Live 24/7 Views From Norway - Life in Norway

Norway Webcams: Enjoy Live 24/7 Views From Norway.

Posted: Tue, 01 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT [source]

This webcam sits in the middle of the village with a great view of the ships in port. Some live camera streams allow for viewing in full screen. If full screen mode is available a button will be present to activate it. Hitting the ESC key or double clicking the video will typically return you to normal view.

There are webcams all over the island, including several pointed at the port. Here you can see great views of the ships come in and dock before taking thousands of cruise passengers on their trip. With this webcam, Port Canaveral views include images of your favorite family-friendly ships as they come and go. Be sure to click the play button and skip the commercial to start the feed. The Port Nassau webcam shows live views of the cruise ship docking area from the top of a nearby hotel. Hit the play button and you’ll see docked ships and sail aways aplenty.

Princess Cruise Ship Webcams

This rotating webcam in Key West, set atop the Shipwreck Museum's tower, offers sweeping real-time views of the Key West Harbor. Press play on the port cam and skip the commercial to stay updated on cruise ship arrivals and departures. Watch live video from your favorite cruise ports. Many of these sites offer live-streaming in HD quality.

It’s also a nice glimpse at Ketchikan’s waterfront, though the Salmon Walk is just out of view. Sitting at your desk, wishing you were on your cruise already? Or maybe you just need a little “Vitamin Sea” to get you through your day. While nothing would compare to actually being on a cruise, technology has made it easier to get your fix.

While these Costa cruise ship cameras offer a small live feed from the bow and aft, larger webcam views are available elsewhere. On the weekend days it’s not unusual to see six or more ships docked and waiting for passengers. This webcam high above a nearby building give a perfect view of the port, where you can also see all the way to South Beach on a clear day. The tourist mecca of Galveston has become the busiest cruise port outside of Florida.

Norwegian Cruise Line has cruise ship webcams on much of its fleet. While there isn’t a single aggregate webcam page on NCL.com, it is easy enough to find individual cruise ship cameras by visiting NCL’s website. While Miami might be known for cruising, Port Everglades in nearby Fort Lauderdale sees nearly the same number of passengers each year. It also sees the biggest cruise ships in the world sail from its port.

German cruise line AIDA offers 36 cruise ship webcams, including three different perspectives from their newest ship, AIDAcosma. Guests who have downloaded Aida’s mobile app will also be able to watch live feeds from cruise ship cameras, including views from the bridge. Not all cruise lines offer live feeds, unfortunately. The Royal cams were discontinued, for example, but there are many cruise ship webcams to watch. The Norwegian Getaway webcam offers dreamy views from the bridge, as do many others included in the list below. Take a look at our roundup of cruise ship webcams and port cam availability below.

This webcam looks right at the ships docked at the main pier. Don’t be surprised to see four or more docked right now. This camera looks right now the port where ships dock when sailing from the Big Easy. The image updates every 60 seconds with a live view of what’s going on at the port.

If you have “Vista fever” then you can check out this webcam from the bridge of the ship. Get your view of what’s going on just as if you were the captain standing watch. If the image being displayed is old, incomplete, or missing it is most likely due to an issue with the camera itself which is out of our control. As soon as the camera issue is resolved and a current complete image is available it will automatically be displayed. In the foreground, you have a glimpse of a wonderful marina as well as the Port Boulevard Bridge. View over 810 Cruise Port & Vacation Destination Cameras Worldwide!

Alaska cruise in early May Good idea? Princess Cruises Cruise Critic Community

Table Of Content

• Benefits of Alaska Travel in September:
• Tours & Activities
• Search
• So, When is the Best Time to Visit Alaska?
• What is the best time of year to see the northern lights in Alaska cruise?
• Want Alaska planning help?

Alternatively, birders might want to time their cruise with the Copper River Shorebird Festival, which takes place early in May in Cordova. Check ahead to make sure your itinerary will stop here, as it's usually only featured on longer 14-day cruises to Alaska. You can take an ocean charter to fish for halibut in May; this is also when king salmon fishing season begins.

Benefits of Alaska Travel in September:

Not all cruise ships have repositioned for the Alaska season in the early weeks. So, these weeks offer fewer crowds in ports, vessels sailing at lower capacity, and less chance of shore excursions selling out. With fewer cruise passengers boarding ships, the process of embarkation can be much quicker.

Tours & Activities

Layering your clothing is essential to adapt to the varying temperatures throughout the day. Most of the month of June in Alaska is either cold or pleasantly cool with very cold temperatures being less frequent than in May. The lows can be as low as forty-three degrees Fahrenheit, and the highs can get up to the sixties on average.

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So far, we've gone once in early May, once in mid-May, once in mid to late August, once in mid to late Sept and the rest in the first week of Sept. May is a bit cooler than later in the summer, but the difference is not huge. Days are longer (for example, sunset in Juneau is around 9 pm in early May vs. 8 pm in late August). There is more snow in the mountains in May, so the scenery is even more spectacular. There are fewer bugs in May than there are later in the summer.

Best time for Active Glaciers Cruise in Alaska 2024 - Best Season - Rove.me

Best time for Active Glaciers Cruise in Alaska 2024 - Best Season.

Posted: Wed, 30 Aug 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

As September begins, the sun dips below the horizon signifying the inauguration of fall. The lush green forests transition into vibrant hues of gold and saffron while the mountaintops become freckled in snowfall. Daylight quietly recedes and the growing twilight perfectly contrasts the luminous green lights of the Aurora Borealis. The enchanting colors invite you to marvel at the miracles of Mother Nature that so often act as the inspiration for treasured postcards.

Anchorage Matanuska Glacier Walk Tour

Protecting your head with a hat or cap can also help prevent discomfort caused by strong gusts. July is known as the hottest month in this section of Alaska with the hottest day of the year falling on July 9th. Temperatures range on average between fifty and sixty degrees with mostly cool afternoons and evenings and chilly mornings and mid-day hours. Road conditions can vary in May, especially in more remote or mountainous areas where snow and ice may still be present.

There is also potential for viewing orcas, gray whales, and walruses. In April, towns along the Inside Passage will have just over 15 and a half hours of sunlight and will be gaining daylight every day. Because of its latitude, Alaska experiences extremes in daylight in the summer and darkness in the winter. The average rainfall in Juneau during the month of April is 2.77 inches.

The best time to see the Northern Lights is between late August and April, typically peaking in March. If you cruise to Alaska this month, you can enjoy more shop and restaurant options in port towns but expect things to be slightly more crowded. Small-ship Alaska cruise lines like American Queen Voyages and Uncruise can go further into narrow passages and get closer to shoreline wildlife like Dall sheep and bears. That being said, the weather and wildlife in Alaska are notoriously unpredictable. You might take a float plane to see bears and, sadly, not see a single one. If you cruise to Alaska in June, you can expect warmer and drier temperatures, fewer children onboard, increased wildlife sightings, and more cruise offerings.

Alaska is still gaining sunlight as the Summer Solstice approaches, so you’ll experience longer days during your May cruise. While prices in the early season are generally less expensive, your experience during a May cruise will look different from during the high season in July and August. For major cruise lines, the Alaska cruise season runs between May and late September, including Viking and Disney.

Both September and October are ideal times to see the stunning Northern Lights, otherwise known as aurora borealis displays. October in Alaska can see lows can be as low as 28° Fahrenheit, and the highs can reach up to 40° Fahrenheit. You can also expect more precipitation, which can result in some snowy weather. I hope you are able to plan and fulfill all of your fantastical travel dreams! Feel free to click around my site to discover more exciting destinations and itineraries.

With a variety of venues to choose from, you’ll undoubtedly find something to satisfy your taste buds at every meal. Alaska’s culinary scene is a delightful fusion of local flavors and international influences. Joining a cooking demonstration on the cruise ship can offer insights into creating delectable dishes inspired by Alaska’s abundant seafood and fresh produce. Learn new recipes and techniques while indulging in mouthwatering delights that embody the flavors of the region. Accessories can make a significant difference in your comfort and enjoyment during your May cruise in Alaska. Consider bringing a warm hat or beanie, gloves or mittens, and a scarf to protect against chilly winds.

After a long winter, Alaska begins to wake up in April, and that includes the wildlife. A few big ships, such as the 4,000-passenger Norwegian Bliss out of Seattle, begin their season this month with discounted early season pricing. Since Alaska cruises command the highest prices, you’ll benefit from shoulder season prices by sailing in May. Guests will also enjoy the driest time, see fewer crowds, and sail on ships with empty staterooms. Alaska, however, brings globetrotters to experience its vast undeveloped landscapes with stunning tidewater glaciers. Those traveling to Alaska in May, won’t experience the high daytime temperatures, but the chance of rain along the coastal areas is minimal.

Your views will likely include snowy mountains, but they are gorgeous nonetheless. An April sail date is one way to save money on your Alaskan cruise. Just expect cooler weather, fewer wildlife viewing opportunities, and less active ports with some shops that are still shuttered. Arguably, the biggest draw is the marine animals, with opportunities to see pods of humpback whales, gray whales, orcas, sea lions, sea otters, and more. Locals typically call the months of April and May “break-up” because the snow and ice begin to break apart and melt after the long winter.

May in Alaska invites travelers to embrace the changing seasons and immerse themselves in a wide range of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. For cruise itineraries in Alaska, August high temperatures will be somewhere in the upper 50s and low 60s. We’ve reached the pinnacle of summer temperatures, and the rainier season has just begun. July and August are considered peak seasons to cruise to Alaska for good reason.

Packing layered clothing is crucial, as sea breezes can make temperatures feel even cooler. Fog is another characteristic weather pattern in Alaska, particularly along coastal areas and near glaciers. In May, fog can occasionally roll in, creating an ethereal atmosphere that adds an air of mystery to your cruise. While it may limit visibility at times, it also lends a unique beauty to the landscapes you’ll encounter. However, sightings are less common compared to the peak aurora season from late August to April.

Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Table Of Content

• Answered: Do You Need a Passport for an Alaskan Cruise?
• Tips & Things to Know About Sailing Alaska
• Popular Mediterranean Ports?
• Cruise Lines

Although a closed-loop cruise may not require a passport, every cruise line and the U.S. It’s always better to be prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise during your trip. While these options are convenient, they do come with limitations. You’ll miss out on international ports like Vancouver or Victoria, British Columbia, which are common on many Alaska cruise itineraries. State Department recommend traveling with a passport for an Alaskan cruise. Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A.

Answered: Do You Need a Passport for an Alaskan Cruise?

It’s called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) and the rule has a section for “closed-loop cruises.” These are cruises that begin and end at the same port. So if you sail from Seattle, head to Alaska and Canada, and then return to Seattle, you are on a closed-loop cruise. We’ll cover the details, but the bottom line is that it’s much easier to cruise to Alaska with a passport. This practice dates back to a regulation known as the Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886. Some places in America’s largest state are not even accessible by road, so a cruise ship is the ideal way to see many wonderful sights without having to pack or unpack.

Tips & Things to Know About Sailing Alaska

If you don’t know which month to choose for cruising, check out our Alaska cruise season tips when we tell you which month is the best. If you haven’t decided which Alaska cruise to take, we invite you to read our detailed review of our 10-day Alaska cruise. We also have a special review of the Norwegian Sun ship, the vessel we enjoyed sailing on.

Popular Mediterranean Ports?

It’s a chance to experience a landscape you can’t really visit any other way. You get to see and do things that you just don’t get anywhere else. We have yet to hear anyone be disappointed with a cruise to Alaska.

Rarely do cruise lines include these fees in their advertised rate. That being said, before booking a cheap cruise fare, you will want to research all extra costs that you may encounter. When cruising to Alaska, you will want to have a generous budget for shore excursions. Due to their intensity level and duration, they can often be pretty expensive! If, however, they disembark prior to reaching Canada, that would be considered violating the act, as Seward and, for instance, Icy Straight Point are both in the U.S. Here is everything you need to know about cruising to Alaska with and without a valid passport.

U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port) are able to enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. U.S. and Canadian citizen children ages 16 and under are able to enter with only proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. Verbal claims of citizenship alone are not sufficient to establish citizenship for entry into the United States. For U.S. citizens embarking on a closed-loop Alaskan cruise that begins and ends at the same U.S. port, such as Seattle or Vancouver, a passport may not be required. Instead, a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, and a certified birth certificate may be sufficient for re-entry into the United States. Department of Homeland Security strongly recommends that all cruise passengers, including U.S. citizens, carry a valid passport for travel by sea.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Guidelines

These rules allow you to sail on “closed-loop” cruises with only an official birth certificate and a photo ID. You can use a passport card or passport book to reenter the United States at sea ports of entry from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. If you’re departing from Vancouver, Canada, you must have a valid passport. As a Canadian citizen, you might not need a passport book if your cruise is a closed-loop, returning to the same port. You’ll need a valid passport if your Alaskan cruise begins or ends in a Canadian cruise port.

Get ready for a world of fun and excitement as you enjoy the onboard activities and entertainment on the newest MSC cruise ship. To book a Disney cruise departing from one of these ports, you can visit their official website or call their customer service. The booking process is straightforward, and they have a flexible cancellation policy for your peace of mind. The snorkeling opportunities are unparalleled, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life just waiting to be explored. Dive into the clear waters and discover a world of tropical fish, turtles, and even the occasional dolphin.

For example, on a round-trip closed-loop cruise to Alaska from Seattle or San Francisco, you may not need a passport. A government issued photo ID and a birth certificate are accepted. Almost every Alaskan cruise includes a stop in Canada due to U.S. regulations.

Even though Alaska is part of the U.S., the answer can depend on the embarkation and disembarkation points, where the ship sails and your age. It’s always best to travel with a passport in case you get stuck in a foreign country. If you miss your cruise departure in Canada, for example, you’ll need a passport to fly or drive back to the U.S. However, if you don’t currently have a passport, you can typically go to Alaska with just your birth certificate and a picture ID.

But if you are a U.S. citizen and going for a closed-loop cruise, a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID are technically sufficient. Navigating Alaska cruise passport requirements was a crucial part of our cruise preparation. Having a passport makes your travel experience smoother, especially during port stops in Canada. Even though our cruise was a closed loop, starting and ending in Seattle cruise port, it’s better to have a passport. Having a government-issued ID and a birth certificate is sufficient for U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises.

Some lines also offer Alaska cruisetours that venture into Canada's Yukon, including a few Holland America tours that combine half a cruise with a cruisetour that starts or ends in Skagway. For these itineraries, you'll need to fly into or out of Anchorage and take a train or bus to/from the cruise departure ports, which can take an hour or two. You can book the transportation on your own or through your cruise line.

Weeklong itineraries generally embark in either Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia — though some itineraries originate in Juneau. A few lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Cunard Line, offer 10-night Inside Passage cruises from Seattle or Vancouver. Nearly every major cruise line has a presence in Alaska from May through mid-September, with some offering sailings as early as April or as late as October. Cold temperatures, icy waters and a long snowy season are not conducive to early spring and late fall cruises. Also, if you happen to miss the ship at a port for an unexpected reason like a car breakdown or accident, again, it can be hard to get to the next port or return home without a passport. Unfortunately, there have been a number of cases where cruisers have been stuck in a foreign location with inadequate documentation, causing a lot of stress.

Again, as a good rule of thumb, you should always cruise with a passport, even if it is not technically required. When it comes to dining on board the MSC cruise ship, guests have a wide range of options to choose from. Whether it’s a casual buffet-style meal, a fine dining experience, or even a specialty dining experience, there is something to suit every taste and preference. As you indulge in the onboard entertainment and stay active at the fitness facilities, get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other. The ship offers an array of dining and culinary experiences that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. When departing from Miami, passengers have several transportation options to get to the cruise terminals.

16 mistakes cruise ship passengers make on disembarkation day - The Points Guy

16 mistakes cruise ship passengers make on disembarkation day.

Posted: Sat, 27 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Lastly, Mazatlán is a port that offers a mix of cultural experiences, from strolling along the Malecón promenade to visiting historic sites like the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Yes, there are exceptions to the WHTI for American citizens on an Alaskan cruise. However, without the context of COVID-19, it is important to check with the cruise line and the U.S.

Amsterdam Makes Huge Move and Bans Cruise Ships

Table Of Content

• Amsterdam Votes to Ban Large Cruise Ships From City Center—What This Means for Upcoming Cruises
• Media Services
• Latest News
• SMART NEWS
• Sky News Services

“Although sustainable marine fuels and technologies are not yet available at scale, cruise lines are addressing these challenges with significant investments and innovative approaches,” the statement said. The discussions between the local government, Amsterdam port, and cruise industry are ongoing, and the next steps for the proposed ban have yet to be released. If approved, it will see the closure of Cruise Port Amsterdam on the river IJ near the city's main train station, Amsterdam Centraal Station. In 2021, authorities in Venice, Italy, announced decided to ban large ships from anchoring in the centre. According to Amsterdam’s Research and Statistics unit, the city is estimated to attract a total of 20 million passengers this year.

Amsterdam Votes to Ban Large Cruise Ships From City Center—What This Means for Upcoming Cruises

Amsterdam's council has banned cruise ships from the city centre as the Dutch capital tries to limit visitor numbers and curb pollution. The current cruise terminal was built in 2000 and cost around 40 million euros to build, according to Cruise Port Amsterdam. A few weeks before the city council’s decision, the city had approved the installation of shore power connections for ocean and river cruise ships that are expected to be operational by 2025.

Media Services

“Amsterdam sails better without the cruise,” says Rooderkerk in a statement, per Google Translate. “Holland America Line has been bringing guests to and from the Netherlands for 150 years, and that tradition will continue for many years to come,” the cruise line tells the Points Guy’s Jordan Waller in a statement. City leaders have not given any indication as to when they would officially implement the ban, or where the terminal might be relocated to. “This will take some time, so at the moment we cannot give any details on how or when the proposal will be implemented,” she wrote. The city has long been trying to curb rowdy behaviour such as stag parties, especially near the red light area where sex workers operate.

Latest News

The growing northern district is one of the few areas within the city’s limits with room to add housing stock, and the city wants to build the bridge to a height of just 30 feet for both cost and accessibility reasons. The decision comes amid a wider crackdown on the tourist influx and sense of disruption they bring to Amsterdam, a city famed for its red-light district and coffee shops that sell marijuana. Ms Halsema, the city's first female mayor, has been the face of Amsterdam's campaign to clean up its streets, which welcome up to 22 million tourists each year, despite the city's relatively small size. More than 3.8 million passengers have gone through the Cruise Port Amsterdam since 2000, its website says, and more than 2,100 ships have docked in that port. The move comes amid a years-long effort to address the impact of overtourism in Amsterdam and follows a broader outcry over crowding from popular cruise destinations in Europe and elsewhere.

The city has struggled with over tourism since travel resumed post-Covid, Bloomberg reported, and short-term visitors from cruise ships aren’t seen as overly helpful to the local economy. Pollution was also a concern for the Spanish port—Barcelona was the European city most polluted by cruise ship emissions in 2019, per Bloomberg, and in 2017 there were 32.8 tons of sulfur oxides emitted at the port. The Dutch capital’s council voted on Thursday to restrict the jumbo ships from docking in the city and aims to close its central cruise-ship terminal, according to a municipality spokesperson. The timeline and details of implementation will be decided after consultations with various stakeholders, the spokesperson said.

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The council claims cruise ship vessels are not conducive to the city's efforts to limit tourism and boost sustainability, according to a statement from the Democrats 66 party. Amsterdam’s latest measure against out-of-control tourism and worsening pollution is closing down a cruise ship terminal in the city center. The Dutch city’s municipal council voted on Thursday (July 21) to restrict large ships from docking in the center with aims to eventually close the terminal, the BBC reported. While cruise ships were welcomed with open arms before, the current city government has even called cruise ship passengers ‘locusts’ and wishes to ban cruise ships entirely from the city limits. The policy aligns with other initiatives in Amsterdam to discourage tourists from visiting the Dutch capital. According to a municipality spokesperson, Amsterdam’s council voted on Thursday to restrict the jumbo ships from docking in the city while the Netherlands’ capital also aims to close its central cruise-ship terminal, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.

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She said that they did not benefit the city's residents because they only visited for a "couple of hours", ate meals at "international brands" and had "little time" to visit museums. The proposal was adopted by a large majority of the city's council, which is run by a coalition of the centrist Democrats 66 party (D66), the social democratic PvdA and the GroenLinks environmentalists. Amsterdam is set to receive a total of 73 cruise ship visits through the end of 2023. Holland America Line’s ms Rotterdam is scheduled to make nine visits, making a total of 15 visits for Holland America Line. Norwegian Cruise Line also has 15 calls scheduled this year, six of these will be from the cruise line’s flagship, Norwegian Prima.

🛍️ Banning new tourist shops in the city’s central Singel area and on all main streets reaching out to the edge of its Canal Belt. While the council has the power to enact this policy locally due to the Port Authority’s ownership by the municipality, the motion needs to be translated into law or regulation, which can be a lengthy process. Moving the terminal was first brought up in 2016, but little else has happened besides limiting the number of calls from 300 to 190. CLIA also addressed the pollution concerns, noting that operators are working to reduce emissions at sea and in port. The campaign, targeting young British men, involved online advertisements warning people searching for getaways to Amsterdam of the “consequences of antisocial behaviour and excessive drug and alcohol abuse”. Any changes or relocation efforts would likely take years to implement, possibly in a multi-phased approach or with only limited impact in the initial stages.

Mayor Femke Halsema, a former GroenLinks party leader, has been a strong proponent of reducing "party tourism" in the city. "We do not want to become Venice or Dubrovnik, where your historical center has become a closed theme park," Halsema told Bloomberg in 2022. Further bolstering its sustainability efforts, the Dutch government also plans a 12% reduction in air traffic to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) by 2024. The plan will see the airport's current annual cap of 500,000 flight movements cut to 440,000.

To appease the city’s 900,000 residents, the local government this spring introduced a raft of new measures aimed at sending a message to disruptive tourists to behave or stay away. It has banned the smoking of marijuana on the streets of its popular red-light district, mandated earlier closing hours for cafes and restaurants and prostitution businesses, and banned the sale of alcohol in stores after 4 p.m. Such efforts would likely be actioned through multiple phases over the next few years. The city is a popular embarkation port or stop on transatlantic, British Isles and Northern and Western Europe itineraries. Many river cruise lines, such as Viking and AmaWaterways, also embark ships or dock in the city on Rhine River and "Tulip Time" cruises around Belgium and the Netherlands. Amsterdam is not the first city to ban cruise ships, as Venice,Italy, announced in 2021 that it worked with UNESCO cultural body to banlarge vessels from entering the city center.

Which European cities are trying to cut back the number of cruise ship visits? - Euronews

Which European cities are trying to cut back the number of cruise ship visits?.

Posted: Tue, 16 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

He added that the cruise port is expecting to welcome 125,000 cruise ship passengers this year, and 175,000 cruise ship passengers next year. The decision follows a motion passed with a considerable majority in the city council. The resolution involves relocating the current cruise terminal to an area outside the city center.

A study of the Marella Discovery, a ship that docked in Amsterdam, estimated that the vessel produced the same amount of the pollutant nitrogen oxide as 30,000 trucks or 370,000 cars. The trade group said about 1 percent of Amsterdam’s visitors arrive by cruise ship every year and noted that cruise tourism contributes about 105 million euros to the city every year. Industry group CLIA has clarified that cruise ships are currently still being welcomed to the city, and upcoming cruises with scheduled stops in Amsterdam are still allowed to port there. The crackdown on cruises is the latest move by the city to reduce tourism in the Dutch capital, which has seen numerous recent campaigns to discourage tourists attracted by its infamous party town reputation and reduce group travel. “Of the more than 21 million visitors that Amsterdam receives each year, around 1% arrive by cruise ship, with cruise tourism contributing around 105 million Euros to the city annually,” CLIA said. D66 politician Ilana Rooderkerk, who compared cruise passengers to a "plague of locust" in an opinion piece last month, said Amsterdam would "sail better" without cruise ships.

She’s covered Netflix’s hottest documentaries, a surge of assaults reported on social media, the most popular books of the year and how climate change stands to impact the way we eat. Roeloffs was included on Editor & Publisher Magazine's “25 Under 30” list in 2023 and worked covering local news in the greater Boston area from 2017 to 2023. She graduated with a double major in political science and journalism from Northeastern University. Follow Roeloffs for continued coverage of streaming wars, pop culture news and trending topics. Environmental concerns also contributed to the decision—the European Federation for Transport and Environment said in June that 63 cruise ships owned by the Carnival Corporation emitted 43% more sulfur oxides than Europe’s 291 million cars in 2022. Anouk Panman, a spokesperson for deputy mayor Hester van Buren, confirmed in an email Friday the city council had adopted the motion.

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