Cruise World

Introducting San Juan

In 1508 the Spanish expedition leader Juan Ponce de Leon established Caparra, a small settlement close to a protected bay on the north coast of the island of Puerto Rico. In 1521 the town was vacated and resited to the present location of Old San Juan. In the 16th century, San Juan was the origin for Spanish exploratory trips to little known parts of the Caribbean.

Nowadays the old section of San Juan has an authentic Old World feel with over 300 restored Spanish 17th century town houses. The area also contains many shops, restaurants, bars, and casinos for cruise passengers to sample.

Touring San Juan

Characterful Old San Juan sits on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean northwards, and the port southwards. This walled and fortified area, now a major historical landmark, was established in 1510. Old San Juan is compactly sized, easy to get around on foot. If your energy runs out take the free bus that runs around the main attractions. Take time to stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the brightly colored houses, craft shops, and go to the interesting museums.

El Morro Fort

El Morro, a huge fort dating from 1539, defends San Juan from sea pirates. Its full name is Castillo San Felipe del Morro, after the patron saint of King Philip of Spain. You'll find six sets of gun platforms and huge walls that loom over San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

La Fortaleza

Don't miss La Fortaleza, San Juan's oldest fort, founded in 1540. Later it was to become the official residence of the governor. Informative tours take you through the sumptuous building, with gilded banqueting hall, tall galleries, and rooms furnished in period fashion.

Cathedral de San Juan

This impressive cathedral dates back to 1592, on the site of the previous cathedral which was destroyed by a storm. Situated on Calle Cristo, this structure with a unique gothic pavonine facade contains the crypt of Ponce de Leon, a Spanish seaman, and the first ever governor of Puerto Rico.

Shopping

Most of the shopping in Old San Juan is to be found in the many shops along Cristo, Fortaleza and San Francisco streets. As an alternative go to the two markets where you'll find a big choice of jewelry, fashions, art and souvenirs. One is located at the Plaza de la Darsena, in front of pier 1, the other on the Paseo de la Princesa, just along from pier 1.

Bacardi Rum Distillery

Rum drinkers may prefer its nickname the Cathedral of Rum. There's a free guided tour and enjoyable trolley ride. After the boring talk about the distillery's early years enjoy a drink or two.

El Yunque

The only tropical rain forest in the US National Forest system. Very beautiful with a totally sylvan atmosphere. Situated about 45 minutes from San Juan.

Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve

A fascinating ecological reserve with 7 different tropical habitats. Be warned though, visitor numbers are limited, so a reservation is essential.

Cruise Ideas

Enthusiastic cruise vacationers pick San Juan as an alternative to a Florida port. Thanks to its central Caribbean location, the island provides quick access to wonderful Southern Caribbean ports, like the Netherland Antilles and the Windward Isles. A short flight is a better alternative to the long cruise to these areas from mainland US. The range of cruises on offer from San Juan is wide, including the Leeward Isles (USVI, St Maarten, St Kitts, Guadeloupe), the Windward Isles (Dominica, St Lucia, Barbados, St Vincent, Grenada,Tobago), and the Leeward Antilles off the north coast of Venezuela (the ABC islands ie Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao). See San Juan cruises for detailed cruise departure information. Several major cruiselines offer cruises from San Juan, such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, PO Cruises, Princess Cruises, Silversea and Celebrity Cruises.

Cruise Ship Terminals

There are three major pier areas in San Juan port. Old San Juan piers 1 through 6, the Pan American pier, and Navy Frontier pier. Most times cruise ships visiting San Juan berth at the Old San Juan Piers, so passengers can walk into Old San Juan. Cruise ships leaving from San Juan will berth at Old San Juan pier 4, or the Pan American Pier, 15 minutes by cab from Old San Juan.

Getting to the Port

From the Airport

San Juan airport is located about nine miles from the Pan American pier and 12 miles from the Old San Juan piers. It usually takes about three quarters of an hour in a cab for the journey. The cost is around twenty dollars. Additional charges apply for luggage, some drivers charging by item.

Resources

Introducing San Francisco

San Francisco is situated on the west coast of California at the entrance to one of the continents's best natural harbors, San Francisco bay.

The city spreads across more than 40 hills. The two highest are Mount Davidson and Mount Suttro, both of which are over 900ft high. And the two best known are Telegraph Hill, long in favor as a haunt for artists and writers and Nob Hill, as the name suggests the neighborhood of the rich and famous.

San Francisco’s history begins in 1769, when Spaniards from Mexico sailed into the bay. When they reported back to their base about the area’s exciting potential, an expeditionary party marched to the area from the Spanish base at San Diego, and on arrival set up a military camp. This outpost was eventually ceded to the US in 1848. Strangely (was it a coincidence?) in the very same year that San Francisco changed ownership, gold was found close to the city, attracting the attention of legions of would be gold miners. San Francisco's years of being a quiet town in the middle of nowhere ended as more than 30,000 people, all heavily infected with Gold Fever, rushed in.

By the beginning of the 20th century San Francisco had enlarged into an attractive cosmopolitan center of 390,000 inhabitants, dubbed by some as the 'Paris of the West'. The city’s economy boomed as the completion of the Pacific Railroad fostered the establishment of new assembly line based industries. 

San Francisco's growth was halted in the spring of 1906 when an enormous earthquake hit the city. The earthquake was so powerful it was felt even as far away as Los Angeles. Devastating fires spread out of control burning to the ground over three quarters of downtown.  The city rose from the ashes in a frenzy of rebuilding.

After two decades of progress and consolidation, the city emerged in the 1930s and early 1940s to enjoy another economic boom. The Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge were built, and in 1940 the Golden Gate World Fair received visitors from all over the world.

Today San Francisco is a vibrant technology and financial center, a busy port, and the entrypoint to Silicon Valley, home of technology giants such as Apple, Google, HP and Oracle.

Touring San Francisco

San Francisco has long been popular with visitors, and not surprisingly so, since the city has a whole host of 'must-see' attractions.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf, which has served as the dock for the bay's commercial fishing fleet since the Gold Rush years, is today more tourist honeypot than fishing port. As an alternative how about following the Port Walk, an idea of the Fisherman’s Wharf Merchants Association. The walk stops at a series of signs which give information on the rich history of this waterfront.

Alcatraz

Though the last prisoners were moved away from the island more than 50 years ago, Alcatraz with its claustrophobic cells, foreboding mess hall and frightening solitary confinement holes is well preserved. Tourists can reach the island by a short boat trip from Pier 33, sailings are every half hour, but make sure to book ahead.

Cablecars

Of the twenty-three lines which operated in the city at the end of the late 19th century just three remain, Powell-Hyde, the California Street Line and Powell-Mason . A ride on a cable-car is a never forget experience, but beware - if you end up standing on a car’s running board, it takes a lot more arm muscle than you might think to hang on!

Chinatown

Despite the fact that many of the buildings in SF's Chinatown may not be truely Chinese in design, the cooking, inhabitants and culture bring an authenticity to the district. Charming globe lanterns and dazzlingly colored banners cross the avenues, which are lit at night by highly decorative streetlights in the shape of a Chinese pagoda held up by two dragons.

Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge crosses the stretch of sea which separates the Pacific and San Francisco Bay. It's a little known fact that the distinctive color was picked on account of the fact it enhances the bridge’s visibility in dense fog. To travel to the south side of the bridge board the SF Muni bus 28 at Laguna and Chestnut, a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf. To return be sure to take route 28 towards Fort Mason, not Daly City.

Cruise Ideas

Cruises sail north following the Canadian and Alaskan coasts, a midsummer favorite on account fo Alaska’s glorious scenery, or west to islands of Hawaii, popular in winter because of the gorgeous white sand beaches

For a full calendar of cruises, see cruises from San Francisco.

San Francisco Cruise Terminals

San Francisco offers 2 cruise terminals. Before 2014, Pier 35 was used for cruises which start and end in the city, and Pier 27 a back-up facility used for day-calling cruises. Late in 2014 the terminals swapped places, as the brand new terminal on Pier 27 (The James R. Herman Cruise Terminal) became the primary cruise terminal, and Pier 35 the backup.

Pier 27 Terminal

Due to its crosswise orientation, Pier 27 is SF’s longest berth and can accommodate one ship up to 1250 feet in length. Whilst perhaps in not quite as good a position as Pier 35, the new terminal is still close to the popular Fishermen’s Wharf area. The new terminal offer states of the art facilities serving the largest cruise ships.

Pier 35 Terminal

Pier 35 was the home of the Matson Line’s famous white passenger liners until the 1970s. These ran cruise vacations and passenger services to Australia, the South Pacific and New Zealand until 1978. The pier offers two cruise ship berths pier 35 south and pier 35 north. Services include customs clearance, restrooms, taxi rank, security and information point.

For the port authority website, see Port Of San Francisco.

Transport To The Cruise Terminal

Introducing Dubai

The City of Dubai is a member of the seven emirates of the UAE. The city is situated on the shoreline of Arabia. Just sixty years ago Dubai was a quiet fishing and trading town. Today due mostly to incredible oil deposits a towering metropolis has risen. All around is bigger, taller, and more astonishing. Glass skyscrapers rise up out of the bleak sands and dreamworld islands have been built offshore, created like trees or unbelievably a world map. 

Dubai is now a large trading zone and has become a key trading center in the vicinity. Dubai has the nickname the 'City of Merchants', thanks to the massive quantity of trade, and also 'City of Gold', on account of its vast  Gold markets. Dubai's most distinguishing element is its wonderfully appointed hotels and its enormous shopping centres, sure to astonish even the enthusiastic traveler.

The weather is sizzyingly hot so all indoor areas are cooled. In wintertime, Dubai is superb, warm and dry, wonderful for outdoors. During summer the temperature can reach 100°F and it is tiringly hot.

Take a Tour of the City of Dubai Dubai Museum Al Faheidi Fort, built in the late 18th century, houses the Dubai Museum, which presents an extensive collection of cultural, artistic and military items. The fort, Dubai's oldest structure, was constructed to guard the town from warlike tribes. Today tourists can see pearl diving tools, traditional musical instruments, copper jewelry, clay pots and alabaster statues. Sited on the southern bank of Dubai Creek. 

Creekside Park and Dubai Creek Dubai Creek, which divides the city's Deira and Bur Dubai neighborhoods, is a saltwater thoroughfare which is hectic day and night with dhows on their way back and forth between East Africa, Arabia and India. Hire a water taxi for a trip up the Creek and back. Next walk along the creekside path, which connects the waters of the Gulf and verdant Creekside Park. Here the tourist will find gardens, a cafe, mini-golf and fishing piers. Gold Souk Whether or not you are thinking of buying something, a walk through the dazzling Gold Souk is enjoyable. The stores offer large amounts of silver, precious gems, diamonds, gold and platinum. It’s a good idea to negotiate. Either side of the alleys of the gold souk, each store front is crammed with gold necklaces, bangles, rings, watches and earrings. Gold prices are extremely competitive. Situated on the waterfront of Dubai creek. Spice Souk In the tiny alleyways of the spice market, you can smell the atmosphere and the smell of a wide range of spices. Enticing containers of spices, flower petals, incense, fragrances, aromatic oils and medicinal herbs are presented outside each stall. Close to the Gold Souk. Burj Khalifa At 160 stories and 2625ft Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. You can stop at the observation deck at story 124 or the Atmosphere restaurant at story 122. Reached from the lower basement story of the Dubai Mall. Burj Al Arab hotel The fabulous Burj Al Arab is the star of the Dubai coastline. It’s 7 star rating may be preposterous, but everyone agrees upon its amazing design.One way to enter without paying for a room is to reserve a table at one of its pricey eating places.  Bastakia Quarter The traditional Bastakia Quarter is reminiscent of the era when Dubai was a little Gulf town. Meander through the maze of lanes and witness the characterful buildings with their functional wind towers that directed any wind downwards to the home so lowering the heat indoors. The Quarter is found on the north bank of Dubai creek. Al Mamzar Beach Park Al Mamzar is a big park with sandy beaches and gardens. You’ll find playground, lifeguards, restrooms, picnic areas, cafes and showers.Wednesdays are restricted to women and children. Al Mamzar Beach Park is around three miles north-east of the cruise port. Available Cruises The most popular cruise is a circuit of the Gulf of Arabia stopping at beautiful centers such as Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Bahrain and Muscat. Longer cruises to Far East and India are also available.  A further choice is a cruise through the amazing Suez canal to the Mediterranean.  See the full range of cruises available at cruises from Dubai.

Cruise Ship Terminal

In 2010 a new cruise ship facility was opened forming part of a wide-ranging redevelopment of the Rashid zone.  Ornate inscriptions, domes and arches are the main architectural features of the building’s outside. This facade reflects contemporary Arabic design, and reflects Dubai's long heritage as a trading port. The terminal contains many facilities like a post office, souvenir shops, duty free shop, ATM machines, business center and currency exchange.

The terminal is able to cater for four cruise ships simultaneously.

The port terminal provides free bus shuttles into Dubai city center.

The cruise port website is at

Dubai Tourism

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Getting to the Cruise Terminal

Introducing Seattle

Seattle is located on a narrow ribbon of land sandwiched between the fresh waters of Lake Washington and the salt waters of Puget Sound. To the far side of these waters lie two high mountain ranges, the Cascades to the east and the Olympics to the west .

The first township in the Seattle area, built in 1852, was called New York. The pioneers soon moved a short distance across Elliott Bay to the area now named Pioneer Square, which offered an easily accessible deep water natural harbor. This second township was called Seattle, honoring a Duwamish Indian chief who had helped the settlers cope with their myriad challenges.

The town grew rapidly, thanks to two main economic activities - timber processing and coal mining. A further boost to growth occured when Seattle was connected up with the Northern Pacific railroad.

But disaster struck, when on June 6, 1889, a devastating fire destroyed large parts of the city. The burnt-out buildings were rebuilt during a busy decade of reconstruction. The new layout included rebuilt wharves, proper sewers and wider streets.

The 1929 Great Depression hit the city hard, with economic activity grinding to a stop. World War II saw the beginnings of economic recovery as Boeing, a small airplane manufacturer, grew its workforce quickly.

Today Seattle is an international center for industry, commerce and communication, home to global enterprises like Amazon, Costco and Microsoft.

In 2000 Seattle became a major cruise ship departure port, when the Port of Seattle inaugurated the Bell Street Pier cruise port. In 2009 the Smith Cove port was built to add more cruise passenger capacity. In 2010 the Port of Seattle hosted 223 cruise ship visits and 930,000 passengers.

Touring Seattle

Space Needle Seattle’s landmark Space Needle is 605 feet tall, and has an exciting viewing level just under the top of the building. You can see the surrounding islands, the sound, the far mountains and the downtown skyline. Stop at the souvenir shop for small model tower or, for food with a difference, eat at SkyCity, the tower's rotating restaurant that turns once per hour.

Museum of Flight The Seattle Museum of Flight houses over 85 airplanes representing the past and present  of flying. Find out about the progress of aviation from the Wright brothers’ planes, through WWI and WWII, through to current commercial and military planes.  Inspect the first jet Air Force One, an outstanding collection of WWII fighters, the faster than sound jet Concorde, a history of air hostess fashion and a full size replica of the International Space Station. Seattle Museum of Flight is located about 4 miles southwards from the city center.

Pioneer Square Pioneer Square is the position of Seattle’s first lumber mill, the commercial heart of the original pioneer settlement.  Seattle’s 1889 fire ruined the ramshackle structures constructed by the town’s founders. The district is now distinguished by 1890s Romanesque stone and brick buildings, and is packed with magnificent architecture, friendly cafes, bookstores and art galleries. Pioneer Square is about a mile southwards of Bell Street Pier.

Pike Place Market In 1907 a City Councilman helped establish a farmers’ market, to cut out the big rake of greedy middlemen. The market has matured into a vast shoppers’ heaven laid out over 9 acres. Browse numerous food outlets like wine, dairy, berries, vegetables and bakery, and then to follow an even bigger number of non-food shops such as toys, kitchenware, candles, art and  goods. After browsing the busy stalls take a break and enjoy a coffee at the original Starbucks, located in the market. Pike Place market is positioned next to Bell Street Pier.

Cruise Ideas

Seattle acts as a cruise departure point just in summer, due to Alaska’s long and cold winter months.  A typical cruise itinerary is the 6 night return cruise stopping at Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. The passenger will see characterful port-of-call towns, magnificent mountain scenery and mighty glaciers calving ice into the ocean. At the end of the season a range of interesting repositioning cruise vacations are available: to places like Hawaii, Florida and Asia. For a full calendar of departures see cruises from Seattle.

Seattle Cruise Terminals

Seattle has two cruise ship terminals, the more popular city center Bell Street Terminal, and the Smith Cove Pier which is 2 miles north of the city center. 

Bell Street Pier The Bell Street Pier cruise port was inaugurated in 2000 as part of a 10-acre, city center, coastline, multi-purpose scheme. It is sited on Pier 66 which was originally constructed as far back as 1914.  The terminal is 2 floors high, with a modern bridge platform providing direct access to the ship from the upper story. Facilities at the terminal include check-in, rental car kiosk, snackbar, restaurant, customs, concierge service, luggage handling and retail kiosks. At the junction of Alaskan Way and Wall Street, across from the cruise port, there is a large parking garage.The cruise terminal offers just one cruise ship berth. The cruise terminal homeports Norwegian Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises cruise ships.

Smith Cove Cruise Terminal The Smith Cove cruise port is sited 2 miles from the city center, on Pier 90 and Pier 91. The waterside property was purchased by Seattle Port in 1912 for use as a commercial port. Facilities include customs, concierge service, shops, baggage handling, check-in and car rental desk. A 1,000 space parking garage is located near by with a complimentary shuttle to the terminal. The cruise port has 2 cruise ship moorings at Pier 90 and Pier 91. Smith Cove hosts RCCL, Carnival Cruises, Princess Cruises and HAL.

For the port authority website see Port Of Seattle.

Traveling To The Cruise Terminals

Bell St Pier

From the Airport The journey time from Sea-Tac airport to Bell Street Pier by cab is around half-an-hour. As an alternative you can catch the Sea-Tac airport Central Link Light Rail, alighting at the terminus Westlake. Next catch a taxi or walk to Bell Street Pier, three-quarters of a mile distant.

By Car From the North From Interstate 5 leave at exit 167, signed Mercer Street/Seattle Center.  Head right onto Fairview Avenue.  Then the first left onto Valley Street. Carry along Valley St which becomes Broad Street. When you reach the waterfront turn left onto Alaskan Way.  Immediately before the cruise port building, turn left onto Wall Street for the entrance to Bell Street Pier parking. From the South Join Interstate 5. Take exit 164A signed Dearborn St/James St, Madison St.  Follow Madison St/Convention Center signs. Make a left onto Madison St. Stay on Madison Street until you reach the seafront. Turn right to join Alaskan Way. Carry on for a mile, until you pass the cruise terminal on the left hand side. Make a right onto Wall Street to access Bell Street Pier garage.

Smith Cove

From The Airport It takes around three-quarter of an hour by car from Sea-Tac airport to the cruise port from Sea-Tac Airport.

Introducing Miami

Miami is positioned on the mainland of Florida. Offshore, due east in the Atlantic ocean, there are a series of barrier islands. Furthest south of the islands is Key Biscayne. Next to the north is Virginia Key, followed by Fisher Island, and finally comes Miami Beach. The body of water in between the barrier islands and Miami is Biscayne Bay.

Miami started as a modest rural township.  Next when a railroad was extended to the township, its warm temperatures and coastline setting were attractive to newcomers, so the settlement expanded rapidly.

At the beginning of the twentieth century resort companies looked to the Atlantic coastline of Miami Beach, and thus commenced the construction of the fashionable Art Deco buildings at South Beach. The storms of 1929 resulted in major devastation to the island, but was just a blip as new properties were built as rapidly as before. 

The 1960s saw a big influx into the city of Cuban refugees, escaping the control of Fidel Castro. This meant the city inherited the atmosphere of a Latin America city, with lots of energy mixing with a laid-back lifestyle.  

Miami has now grown into an important hub for industry, tourism, the arts and entertainment. The port is a huge undertaking and Miami is often described as the Cruise Capital of the World. Miami cruise port welcomes all the well-known cruise lines, with sailings to the sunny Caribbean or beyond.

Take a Tour of the city of Miami

South Beach (also known as SoBe) This famous  Art Deco designed oceanfront district has everything, fine restaurants, laid-back cafes, up-market boutiques, a long, wide beach, wonderful people-watching, beautiful historic buildings and hip shops. SoBe is about twenty minutes from the port by cab.

Coconut Grove Coconut Grove, built in the late 19th century, is Miami’s oldest area. It's a place of eateries, trendy galleries, bars and fashionable shops.  Tour Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, an early 20th century estate designed by a businessman with the aim of recreating a Renaissance like property.

Fairchild Tropical Garden Botanical experts should head to the Fairchild Tropical Garden, here a group of man-made lakes wind through lush plants and trees.

Coral Gables The Coral Gables area was founded in the 1920s, and has an assortment of cool bars, contemporary galleries, fashionable boutiques and classy restaurants. Bring swimsuit and make for Venetian Pool, the unique public pool hewn from a rock quarry. 

Little Havana For a taste of Cuban life today, visit Little Havana, the place where lots of Cubans settled after leaving their homeland.  Walk down Calle Ocho, stop at a café for some real Cuban coffee, make a trip to the Cuban Museum and watch cigars being rolled at the El Credito Cigar factory. 

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Bill Baggs Cape Florida Park is sited at the southern side of Key Biscayne  island. It is the home of a historic lighthouse first constructed in 1825 and rebuilt in 1846. Spend some time at the State park to swim, surf, hike, picnic and sunbathe on a superb length of sandy Atlantic beach. 

Bayside Marketplace This large shopping mall is within easy walking distance of the cruise terminals. It's an open air mall, so can be very hot in summertime.  There are lots of souvenir stalls, fashion stores, bars and restaurants.

Available Cruises

The range of cruises available feature the Eastern Caribbean (San Juan, Tortola, St Thomas and St Maarten), the Western Caribbean (Belize, Grand Cayman, Roatan and Cozumel), the Bahamas (Freeport and Nassau), or the Southern Caribbean (St Johns, St Kitts and Barbados). More extended cruises are occasionally on offer, like South America, the Amazon and trans Panama canal to the west coast of the USA. For a full listing see cruises from Miami.

Cruise Ship Terminals

The Port of Miami is located at Dodge Island, a piece of reclaimed land in Biscayne Bay formed by the merging of three islands, Lummus, Sam’s and Dodge. It's only five minutes from Miami center to the cruise port.  Port Boulevard, which runs over Biscayne bay, links the city to Dodge island.

Ten cruise terminals operate at the cruise port. The AA/AAA, A, B/C, D, E, F and G terminals are located at the north coast of Dodge island, terminal V on the west, and terminal J on the south. The container ship berths are along the south coast of the island.

Cruise terminals AA/AAA and A, which began operations in 2022, are the most modern. These are designed to host mega ships. The total length of all cruise ship berths is some 2800 yards. Ten cruise ships can be docked at the same time. Each terminal has  the basic amenities, like cafes, bars, check in, shopping and cab ranks. 

For the port's website see Port of Miami.

Getting to the Cruise Terminals

By Road Take I-95 north or south then leave the road to join the I-395 eastwards (follow the signs for ‘Port Miami via Tunnel’). Carry on over the MacArthur Causeway then into the tunnel.  Follow the signs to the required cruise terminal.

Introducing Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the foremost city in the state of California, and  the second biggest city in the US. Situated on a wide basin in the South of California, the city is enclosed by the blue Pacific Ocean, huge mountain peaks, widespread forests and dry deserts.

Starting as a insignificant town in the eighteenth century, the city began to develop when the railroad arrived, and enlargened quickly throughout the following years.  Nowadays the urban region has as its center LA County, but extends into San Bernardino County, Orange County, Riverside County and Ventura County.

LA’s population of 18 million originate from all corners of the world. LA , incorporating a large Hispanic population, a major Asian community, and big populations from many further ethnic origins.

Los Angeles is an important hub for retail, culture, global trade and business, however it is most recognized as the focal point of the world's movie industry. The glitz of Bel Air, Hollywood, Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills has increased Los Angeles's allure as an obtainable dream contributing to the area's huge growth.

The popularity of Los Angeles as a cruise port has increased dramatically recently, and today about 300 cruises originate from the city every year. Itineraries on offer take in the Hawaiian islands and the Mexican Riviera. A cruise from Los Angeles makes an unforgettable vacation.

Touring San Pedro

Los Angeles Maritime Museum

Discover  the history of Los Angeles harbor at the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, sited at the Municipal Ferry Terminal. Check out numerous items such as old documents, models, photographs and machines of noted boats and ships. Sited by Harbor and 6th around 1/2 mile south of the cruise port.

Red Car Trolley Ride

The Waterfront Red Car Line is a 1.5 mile long trolley line interconnecting the World Cruise Center and the Marina. The car stops at the LA Maritime Museum and Ports O' Call. The Red Cars are entirely refurbished to their former glory, with authentic wooden seats, wood panelling and ornate brass fittings. 

Ports O' Call

Designed like a New England seaside town, Ports O' Call is an interesting stop. It has numerous shops, bars, galleries and restaurants, beside meandering cobbled walkways. There’s also a quay for boat sailings around the bay, day trips to Catalina and whale watching cruises. Ports O’Call is about a mile south of the cruise port.

Touring Long Beach

Queen Mary

In 1936 Queen Mary was launched for the famed Cunard Line and she operated for more than 30 years, including a time of military operations during World War II. RMS Queen Mary crossed the Atlantic Ocean more than a thousand times, posting speed records on several occasions. In the late 1960s RMS Queen Mary came to Long Beach to become a museum and art deco hotel.  The Queen Mary is positioned right next to the cruise terminal.

Shoreline Aquatic Park and Aquarium of The Pacific

Be introduced to the sunny waters of  California, the frigid seas of the Arctic and the colorful reefs of the Tropics at this amazing aquarium. Come face-to-face with the ocean’s ultimate predators in the large Shark exhibit. Following your trip to the aquarium stroll around adjacent Shoreline Aquatic Park, an attractive open space with an outlook over the sea.  Sited just across the bay from the cruise terminal, taking just 5 mins by cab.

Tour Naples by Gondola

Naples island possesses over a mile of canals, if one adds the straight Naples Canal and the long Rivo Alto Canal.  A singing gondolier dressed in stripes will be your guide. Gondolas for rent are offered next to the Bayshore Aquatic Playground Park. As an alternative you can hire a canoe at the park, for a much lower price. Positioned around 2 miles east of the Long Beach cruise terminal.

Available Cruises

The most popular voyage from LA cruise port is a trip following the west coastline of Mexico. Baja California cruises generally stop at Ensenada and Catalina island. Mexican Riviera cruises call in at  Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo. Longer  voyages available are journeys to the Hawaiian islands, and non-return trans Panama canal trips to Florida.  In late spring there's a variety of cruises to Vancouver, as cruise ships reposition for the Alaska cruising season.  See Cruises From Los Angeles for a full calendar of cruises.

Los Angeles Cruise Terminals

LA’s San Pedro bay contains two cruise ports, the World Cruise Center in the Port of Los Angeles (commonly named San Pedro), and 4 miles to the east Long Beach Cruise Terminal adjacent to the Port of Long Beach. Ships dock at the World Cruise Center, except most (but not all) Carnival cruise ships which leave from Long Beach.

World Cruise Center Cruise Terminals

The World Cruise Center contains 2 cruise ship terminals, Terminal 91-92 for boarding at berths 91-92 (total length of dock 1550') and Terminal 93 for berth 93 (length of pier 1200'). The terminals serve two to three big cruise ships.

Both cruise terminals have  the necessary services, including shops, cab ranks, bars, eateries, parking areas and check in desks. 

For the port website see Port of Los Angeles Website .

Long Beach Cruise Terminal

In 2003 Carnival deserted San Pedro cruise port and built the Long Beach Cruise Port across the bay.

The  terminal is located in the dome that once was home to the Spruce Goose airplane, now moved to Evergreen Aviation museum, in McMinnville.

Long Beach cruise center has a single 1110-foot sized berth  handle one  cruise ship.

The cruise terminal offers all of the regular amenities, like bars, shopping, eateries, check in desks, parking zones and cab ranks.

Getting to The Cruise Ports

San Pedro

By Car Head south on the Harbor freeway (Interstate 110). Exit at CA47 and proceed across the Harbor Boulevard crossing. Go right so to arrive at the World Cruise Center.

From the Airport Take the supershuttle service to San Pedro cruise terminal. About a forty minute journey.

Long Beach

By Car Go along the Long Beach freeway (I710)in a southerly direction. Follow the signage showing the way to the Queen Mary.  When you arrive, watch for directions to the cruise terminal passenger parking and drop-off.

 Introducing Southampton Southampton found fame in the 20th century as England's most important port for the major cruise lines. In terms of number of passengers, the busiest route used to be the transatlantic crossing to the USA.  However in 1939 the first ever Pan Am  passenger flight across the Atlantic Ocean signalled the finish of this golden era of ocean travel. In the following years Southampton came to prominence as a major Cruise port. Southampton is known as the 'Cruise Capital' of England and is home to many of the world's finest cruise lines.  Southampton's natural deep harbor, unique double tide and effective Ship Traffic Control allow the port to berth the largest vessels, from large container ships to today's huge cruise ships. The port is split between the Eastern Docks and Western Docks. The Mayflower and City Cruise Terminals are to be found at the Western Docks, whilst the QE2 and Ocean Cruise Terminals are to be found at the Eastern Docks. The Eastern Docks saw probably Southampton's biggest moment in history. In 1912 the Titanic departed from White Star Dock (near Ocean dock) on its maiden voyage. When the ship went down, of the 1500 lives lost, 500 were crew who lived in Southampton and the impact on the city was huge.

Take a Tour of The City of Southampton The City of Southampton is normally viewed as a port of departure, and not many cruise passengers linger to investigate Southampton itself.  But if you've spare time either before or after your cruise, there's a lot to do and see. Old Town During medieval times, the city was encircled by a stone wall with imposing gateways. The 'Bargate' at the northern entrance to the old town, is still the city's most famous landmark. The building makes a good point to begin the walk of walls. Visit the wall's towers, the remains of the castle, the West Gate, the ruins of the old friary and God's House Tower where you'll find is home to} the Archaeological Museum (free entry). Other noticeable places are the fully restored Medieval Merchants House, the Maritime Museum found in the Wool House (free entry), with its moving Titanic exhibits,  and the remarkable Tudor House, another (free) museum with gorgeous grounds.

Theater The Mayflower theater puts on leading  shows throughout the year. Aviation Museum The Solent Sky Aviation Museum showcases the pioneering work of the Supermarine Spitfire's creator, RJ Mitchell. The Titanic Trail Stroll around the city taking in memorials and places with connections to the Titanic. The walk commences at the Musicians Memorial and stops at the Maritime Museum, located in the Wool House at Town Quay, which presents the history of the tragic voyage. The Jane Austen Walking Trail Jane Austen first visited Southampton as a child and she vacationed in the city. Later on she lived in the city. The Trail visits buildings associated with the author. Available Cruises Cruises from Southampton go to the Baltic Sea, Canary Islands, round Britain, Norwegian Fjords and the Mediterranean.   Transatlantic and even round-the-world cruises are also available. If you're UK based cruises departing from Southampton are easily accessible, thanks to its excellent rail and road links. For a comprehensive listing of cruises leaving from Southampton see Cruises from Southampton at Cruise Schedules.

Cruise Ship Terminals Eastern Docks Queen Elizabeth II Terminal The QE2 terminal was opened by HM Queen Elizabeth II in 1966. The dock is the home of Cunard's cruise liners, Queen Mary II, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria. Facilities include a short stay car park, a bar, a taxi rank and a cafe. The viewing area is not open to visitors. Ocean Cruise Terminal The first Ocean Cruise Terminal was an iconic Art-Deco construction. Sadly this was demolished in 1983 The replacement building, completed in 2009, is hugely different from the earlier building, being a large up-to-date design with curved lines. Facilities available are  a short stay car park, a taxi rank, a bar and cafe. Western Docks

City Cruise Terminal This Terminal has completed a 7 year refurbishment to increase its size. It can now handle the large 'Freedom Class' cruise ships of Royal Caribbean International. Facilities available include a short stay car park, a taxi rank, a bar and cafe. The nearby Mayflower Park is a great place to watch ship sailings.

Mayflower Cruise Terminal The Mayflower Cruise Terminal, opened in 1960, has long been associated with the P&O fleet of cruise ships. Facilities include a taxi rank, a bar and cafe, and viewing gallery.

Horizon Cruise Terminal

Horizon Cruise Terminal Berth 102

The newest terminal in the Western Docks is the Horizon cruise terminal, which was inaugurated in 2021.  A full range of facilities for checking-in are available.

Getting to the Cruise Terminals

By Car The M27 motorway, linking towns bordering the south coast of England, passes to the north of Southampton. The M3 motorway links Southampton to London and also, by linking to the A34 road at Winchester with the Midlands and North. The M271 motorway, off the M27, connects it with the Docks and city centre.

On the Train Direct trains connect Southampton with London, and many parts of the UK. There is an every 30 minute service between London Waterloo and Southampton Central. Rail routes run eastwards towards Portsmouth, north towards the Midlands and beyond, and west to destinations like Salisbury,  Bath, and Bristol. From outside the train station you can either catch a taxi, or there is a free CityLink bus service between the rail station and Town Quay every fifteen minutes.

Introducing Barcelona

The capital city of Spain's Catalonia region is one of Europe's most impressive and awe-inspiring travel destinations. A city of contrasts, it is distinct in Spain, most evident in its signature architecture, a marriage of Gothic and modern, with one name featured more than any other, the famous architect Antonio Gaudi. If you are a visiting tourist it's good to know the city is basically divided into two, the old city, with the most famous buildings and museums, and Port Vell, featuring bars, restaurants, aquarium and theaters.

Take a Tour of Barcelona

It takes even an energetic tourist a week to do Barcelona, so with only a single day, you'll be very busy. Don't miss famous destinations such as La Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's astounding church, the medieval, characterful Barrio Gothic area, and the Picasso museum. Finally head up to Montjuic for a wonderful view over the whole of the city and the surrounding hills and ocean.

La Sagrada Familia

Barcelona's funkiest church was designed by Barcelona's most famous son  Gaudi. Work began in 1883, and the imaginative building is only now nearing completion. Don't miss features like the nativity-themed facade, the mosaic bell towers, and ornate doorways showing faith, hope and charity.

Las Ramblas

A fabulous boulevard leading from Port Vell to Placa de Catalunya, the heart of old Barcelona. The street is packed with cafes, shops, florists, street entertainers, and Boqueria, a colorful market. Half way along Las Ramblas lies the Gran Teatre del Liceu, Barcelona's gorgeous opera house. La Rambla ends at the Placa de Catalunya, a large plaza filled by cafes and shops.

Barri Gotic

The Gothic Quarter is steeped with a wonderful olde-world atmosphere. The streets are winding and narrow and packed with busy life. Art lovers will enjoy the Museu Picasso, showcasing the artwork of Picasso. Also worth visiting is the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, a splendid example of early-European architecture.

Gaudí planned an amazing house with undulating, living curves for the developer Pere Milà Camps. La Pedrera was Gaudi's last work before spending all his time to the construction of the Sagrada Família.

Parc Guell

Another Gaudi design, Parc Guell is a fascinating town park.  The planting is imaginative and colorful, but the real star is Gaudi's hard landscaping, likefaux temples and mosaic seats.

Montjuic

The area of Montjuic is 700 ft above Barcelona's port and is chock-a-block with boutiques, galleries,cafes and museums.  Don't miss the Museu Arqueologic which showcases items from early civilizations from Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. Another superb museum is the Museu Nacional d'art de Catalunya, which has a large collection of Romanesque art.

Available Cruises

Barcelona offers a big choice of itineraries. A favorite is the trip around  the Western Mediterranean. Other options include the Canary Islands, Morocco, or longer trips to the Eastern Mediterranean and Greece. For more details see Barcelona Cruises.

Cruise Ship Terminals

Cruise ships berth at Port Vell. The area has become a tourist attraction by itself with a large Maremàgnum shopping center with a fun IMAX theater, and Europe's biggest aquarium. Port Vell links directly to Las Ramblas, the main Barcelona avenue packed with eateries and street entertainment that leads right into the center of the city.  Las Ramblas is alternately called the singular form, La Rambla.

There are eight terminals at the Barcelona port, split into 3 locations.

Adossat Quay

Cruise Terminals A, B, C and D are located at the Adossat Quay and are the greatest distance from the city. Terminal D also has the name Palacruceros.  Buses run from these terminals to the foot of Las Ramblas.

Port Vell Terminal M

Across from the WTC terminal. This ferry terminal is sometimes used for cruiseliners.

All the terminals have a taxi rank. For a map of the port see Barcelona Port Map.

Getting to the Port

From the City to the Port

Walking

For the Adossat quay cruise ship  terminals, (A, B, C and D)  you need to catch a shuttle bus called the Blue Bus which picks ups at the Christopher Columbus memorial and drops off at Adossat dock.

Metro

The Drassanes stop (Green Line, L3) is no more than 5 minutes by foot from the Columbus statue.

Taxi

It's easy to take a cab from the city center to the port.  This is inexpensive, fare about eight euros, and quick, normally less than a quarter of an hour. .

Travelling from the Aiport to the Port

By public transport

Take the Aerobusline A1 from terminal 1, line A2 from terminal 2 to Placa Catalunya in Barcelona, service approximately every 10 minutes, then catch the metro from Catalunya to Drassanes. From Drassanes walk to the Columbus monument. Wait for the Blue bus which takes you to your cruise terminal.

Taxi

The quickest option for travelling from the airport to the port is a taxi.  The trip will take you about 25 minutes and will cost you around thirty Euros in total. The cost will include per-bag extras plus additional airport and cruise port charges.

Resources

An Introduction to Civitavecchia

A large number of cruise ships dock regularly at the Port of Civitavecchia, which lies around 45 miles north-west of Rome. Cruise companies with a presence at the port include Costa, Carnival, Princess,  and Seabourn.  A frequent rail service connects Civitavecchia to the center of Rome, the trip taking just over 70 minutes.

Located about 80 km northwest of Rome, Civitavecchia, which means 'ancient town', is a working ferry, cruise and cargo port serving the Rome area and southern Italy. You'll find an efficient direct rail link from Civitavecchia to the center of Rome, with services every 30 minutes, and a time for the journey of around 70 to 80 minutes.

Emperor Trajan established Civitavecchia Port in the  2nd century, calling it Centumcellae. Even today, ruins of Trajan’s Port, which stand inside the modern port , can still be seen. At the end of the fifteenth century, Civitavecchia port was under frequent attack by pirates. Pope Julius II commissioned the building of a castle to protect the harbor.  This was completed by Michelangelo in 1537. In the 19th century the Port of Civitavecchia was linked to Rome by a railroad. World War II brought destruction to large parts of the Port. The rebuilding enlarged the Port beyond its previous area. Nowadays Civitavecchia handles over two thousand ferry and cruise ship movements a year, for nearly two million passengers, making it an important Mediterranean port.

Civitavecchia Port and Cruise Terminals The Port of Civitavecchia contains  twenty piers.  Much of the port is taken up by container and ferry ships. Cruiseliners dock at quays on the land side of the sea wall.  These are 11 (Traianea), and numbers 12/12B/13A/13B - Antemurale Colombo. Sometimes 25 (Commerciale) across the harbor also becomes used. There are currently three terminals, named the Bramante at pier 12, and non-permanent terminals on quays 11 and 25. The temporary facility at quay 25 has the moneker 'Rome Cruise Terminal' - a bit of a nerve as Rome is over 40 miles away! See further details at Civitavecchia Port.

Available Cruises Generally cruises focus  on either the Eastern Mediterranean - Greece, the Greek Islands and Istanbul, or the Western Mediterranean - Spain, France, Corsica and Sardinia, and Mallorca/Ibiza.  Typical Itineraries would be 10 Night Eastern Mediterranean (Celebrity) Civitavecchia, Messina, Piraeus, Mykonos, Kusadasi, Rhodes, Santorini, Naples, Civitavecchia 14 Night Best of Italy (Azamara) Civitavecchia, Sorrento, Giardini-Naxos, Ravenna, Trieste, Venice, Dubrovnik, Livorno, Civitavecchia 13 Night Holy Land (Celebrity) Civitavecchia, Piraeus, Rhodes, Kusadasi, Haifa, Ashdod, Alexandria, Naples, Civitavecchia 7 Night Western Mediterranean Cruise (RCI) Civitavecchia, Genoa, Marseille, Barcelona, Palma, Cagliari, Civitavecchia 17 Day Mediterranean Explorer (Holland America) Civitavecchia, Cannes, Barcelona, Palma, Tunis, Trapani, Civitavecchia, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Katakolon, Santorini, Kusadasi, Piraeus, Messina, Civitavecchia

For comprehensive departure listings see Cruises from Civitavecchia

Spending a Day in Civitavecchia As the Port of Rome, the City of Civitavecchia is the gateway to one of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations on the globe. Yet Civitavecchia contains one or two interesting places deserving a visit, if you have time to spare either side of your vacation. Stroll through the town, preferably with a map, and you will spot pieces of the old city walls, Benedict XIV's fountain, medieval buildings like the old hospital, pretty squares and plenty of Italian life.  Thus combining a stroll through the town with a beach visit to enjoy your day ashore. Specific sights include: Forte Michelangelo The 16th Century fortress called Forte Michelangelo stands over the harbor.  It was started by Pope Julius II and finished in 1535 by Giulano Leno.  The middle tower was designed by Michelangelo. Constructed on the ruins of Roman barracks of the Imperial Fleet, the fort is protected by walls over 6 metres in depth. Cathedral of San Francesco d'Assisi The Franciscans constructed the 18th Century Cathedral of San Francesco d’Assisi on an earlier 17th Century church. The Baroque-Neoclassical design of the building attracts many visitors. The foundation stone was laid by Pope Gregory IX in 1228, and the cathedral was finished in 1253. The cathedral features interesting frescos and stained glass windows.

La Scaglia tombs The La Scaglia tomb complex dates from the 6th and 5th Centuries BC.  View these extensive underground workings The cool atmosphere will bring a chill to your bones. Civitavecchia Beach Steps from the seafront promenade, just opposite the train station, descend to a yellow sandy beach. The water is remarkably clean and popular with swimmers.

Travelling to the Port of Civitavecchia From Fiumicino Airport Taxi A cab ride from Fiumicino airport to the Port of Civitavecchia costs around 150 EUR one way. Cabs are available outside the arrivals terminal. Try to use authorized cabs (white vehicles with a taximeter). Train Catch the train from the Leonardo da Vinci Airport to the Rome Termini train station. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Make sure you validate/punch your ticket before boarding your train. Travelling From Rome center to the Port of Civitavecchia

Train The train to Civitavecchia runs from Rome's Termini Station, located in the heart of Rome. Trains depart every half hour and cost about €11 per person. The journey takes between 70 and 80 minutes. The Port is a ten minute walk from the train station. Make a right as you exit the station, and walk along the seafront road.  Frequent signs confirm you are going the right way. When you reach the port gates, by the Forte Michelangelo, look for a bus stop.  Here cruiseline coaches leave to the actual cruise piers. There's also an information booth  which can be helpful.

Introducing San Diego

San Diego,  the Golden State's oldest, second largest and southerm-most city is celebrated for its perfect weather, miles of beaches, and  location next to the Mexican border, opposite Tijuana.  Originally San Diego was a small Spanish settlement, in the early 19th century, and developed slowly, until the mid twentieth century, when the population boomed. San Diego bay is superb for boating, and the city boasts a long naval heritage. The city is the base for the Pacific Fleet of the United States Navy.  Nowadays the city blends contemporary urban planning with historical Spanish neigborhoods, sparkling ocean scenes to the west side with dry, boulder-strewn hills to the eastside, and fine restaurants, positioned side by side with authentic tortillarias.

Touring San Diego

USS Midway Museum It's a 5 minute stroll on North Harbor Drive from the cruise port towards the big carrier ship, named the USS Midway, docked at Navy pier. Tour around the USS Midway Museum to find out about San Diego's distinctive navy heritage.

Maritime Museum of San Diego Tour the interesting Maritime Museum, a fine collection of historic ships, such as Pilot, Californian, Medea, the Berkeley and the Star India.

Coronado Beach Catch a half hour ferry ride across to Coronado island. A  5 minute cab ride across the barrier island will get you to Coronado beach, a lovely sweep of sand on the ocean's coastline. Drop in at famous Hotel del Coronado, one of the few surviving examples of the Victorian beach hotel.

San Diego Zoo San Diego Zoo, located in Balboa Park, is world-famous for its size and diverse collection of animals.  There are over eight hundred species, who live in an attracively built 100 acre space. Be sure to see the Penguins and Polar Bears.  Kids will love the infant animal kindergarten and petting zoo.

Gaslamp Quarter San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter is probably the city's most attractive section.  Development of the area started in 1867. Here you'll find a concentration of boutique shops, galleries, restaurants, bars, sidewalk cafes, jazz clubs and nightclubs offering a charming Victorian feeling mingled with a modern buzz. The quarter is also a center for big city parties, from music and food festivals to St Patricks Day.  

Spanish Missions San Diego is home to twenty one spanish catholic missions, built more than two centuries ago. The major aim of the missions was to covert the American Indians to Catholicism. The first ever, known as the Mother of the Missions, is Mission San Diego de Alcala. This was founded in the eighteenth century by Blessed Junipero Serra. Only six years after construction finished Mission San Diego de Alcala was burnt down in a riot, but the building was speedily reconstructed.

Available Cruises

You can choose from a wide variety of cruises from San Diego port.  Possibilities are the Mexican Riviera, Baja California, the islands of Hawaii, or through the Panama canal journeys to Florida. For unusual cruises longer routes to South America or the South Pacific are on offer. See cruises from San Diego for a full calendar of cruises.

San Diego Cruise Terminals

The main San Diego Cruise Ship Terminal is situated adjacent to North Harbor Drive on the B Street Pier, very close to downtown San Diego. The cruise terminal is a modern building with the usual variety of functions for passengers. The B Street Pier cruise terminal has now been joined by a second cruise terminal on the adjoining Broadway Pier. The cruise port is able to dock four cruise ships simultaneously. For the port website see Port Of San Diego.

Getting To The Cruise Terminals

Introduction

Sydney, which has a population of over four million, is the largest urban district in the country of Australia. The city is sited on the eastern coast of Australia. The Blue Mountains are located to the west, and the Pacific Ocean to the east.

The town was started in 1788 when a fleet of prisoners from England arrived at Sydney Cove. The new settlement was named after Lord Sydney, the British Secretary of State, who suggested the creation of a penal colony in Australia. Just 5 years later, in 1793, the first boat of free settlers came, drawn by the mild climate and cheaply obtainable land.

Unconstrained by bureaucracy, the town developed quickly through the next hundred years, as the inhabitants established lots of farms, mines, businesses, shops and factories. The grown continued through the twentieth century, growth carried on as migrants arrived from both Asia and Europe.

Today Sydney is a multicultural, modern and large city, with inhabitants originating from all over the world. The city is a favorite destination for tourists. Celebrated sights include Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbor Bridge and The Rocks. The city’s many attractions and coastal location have made it a top cruise ship port, both for cruise ship departures and visits. Over one hundred and fifty cruise ships make use of Sydney port annually.

Take A Tour Of Sydney Sydney Opera House Sydney Opera House, sited on Sydney Harbour at Bennelong Point, is considered by many to be an architectural marvel. Designed by Jorn Utzon and constructed with much controversy, it was inaugurated in 1973.  Try to go to an opera, a concert or a ballet, if your vacation timetable enables you to. The Opera house is a short walk up the coastline from the Overseas Passenger Terminal. The Rocks The first colonists landed at The Rocks, and many of the structures here are near original, like Cadman’s Cottage, Campbells Storehouse, the Merchants House and Susannah Place.  Within this historical district, the visitor will see bars, galleries, shops, cafes and restaurants. The Rocks area is next to Circular Quay. Royal Botanic Gardens The beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens is an oasis of greenery positioned between the waterfront and the busy city center. A trail leads around the sea front, giving great vistas across Sydney Harbour and Farm Cove. Sydney Harbour Bridge A pedestrians-only pavement runs across the Sydney Harbour Bridge alongside the roadway.  Call at the Pylon Lookout on the southern end of the bridge to see an absorbing  display on how the bridge was made.  If heights don’t scare you book the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb, a three and a half hour expedition to the summit of the bridge.  The climb takes you up catwalks, ladders and girders during day or night.   Bondi Beach Bondi Beach is famous across the world as a home of surfing. In the summer months Bondi beach is a centre for sun, fun and surf. The white sandy beach looks out on a large crescent shaped bay of deep blue water. Bus 380 from Circular Quay takes forty-five minutes to Bondi. Available Cruises Sydney is the departure port for a great range of cruise vacations. First time cruisers may like the short cruises to nowhere, a great introduction to cruising. 7 day routes would include sunny tropical Queensland, or rainforest-covered Tasmania. Slightly longer 9 or 10 night cruises visit the beautiful beaches of the Pacific islands Vanuatu and New Caledonia. 14 day itineraries would be a voyage around New Zealand, or a sailing to the stunning Pacific atolls of Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia. Longer cruises include voyages to the oriental wonders of Japan and China, or the fabled circumnavigation of Australia. See cruises from Sydney for detailed cruise departure information.

Cruise Ship Terminals Sydney’s cruise services are split between 2 places, Wharf 5 and the Overseas Passenger Terminal.

Overseas Passenger Terminal

The OPT has access to a 800ft quay, able to handle one large vessel. The terminal is a contemporary building with the usual variety of facilities for passengers.  It further has an hotel, restaurants and outside dining areas. The terminal is situated at Circular Quay, opposite the Opera House within short walking distance from Sydney’s attractions.

Darling Harbour Wharf  5

Wharf 5 at Darling Harbour is a short-term terminal in use during the building of a new terminal at White Bay. Wharf 5 offers an immigration area, customs  control, a departure area and an arrivals area. The terminal is within easy walking distance of the Circular Quay area. The new cruise terminal at White Bay is only suitable for cruises originating from the city, as its location is inconvenient for the city center.  Additionally the terminal will be inaccessible to several cruise ships due to size restrictions at Sydney Harbour bridge.   With this in mind further plans for a further terminal at Garden Island, a mile east of Circular Quay, are under consideration.

Getting to the Port from the Airport

OPT - Pick up the train from either the Sydney Airport Domestic station or International Train Station to Circular Quay (green line).  The Overseas Passenger Terminal is a short walk from the station at Circular Quay.

Wharf 5 - Pick up a train from either the International Train Station or the Sydney Airport Domestic station to Wynyard station (Airport and East Hills line).  It is a 10 minutes walk from Wynyard station to Wharf 5.  Another option is a taxi.

Resources

Introducing Singapore

Strategically located at the intersecting point of trade routes, Singapore lies off the south-most point of the Malay Peninsula. Singapore and the Malay Peninsula are connected by a 1km bridge crossing the narrow Johore Straits.

The city’s name comes from the Malay word Singapura (in Sanskrit 'Lion City'). People from Southeast Asia think a lion a mythical almost dragon-like creature, so it's a apt name for a spectacular city.

Modern Singapore was founded in 1819 by Sir Stamford Raffles who came to an agreement with the Shah of Johor giving control of Singapura to the British East India Company.

As the need for rubber and tin from the Far East soared in the industrial West, Singapore grew rapidly. In 1924, a causeway opened linking the northern part of Singapore to Johor Bahru.

During WWII Singapore's rise stopped dead when it was forced to surrender to the Japanese in 1942.  It stayed under Japanese control for three years then returned to British control.

Self-government was attained in 1959. That year in May a general election was held to pick 51 delegates for the first Legislative Assembly.

Today the city boasts a tourism industry welcoming over 10 million people annually, the world's second biggest container port and major businesses operating in chemicals, logistics, banking and communications.

Touring Singapore

Merlion Park

A must-do on a visit to Singapore is to see the fabulous Merlion fountain in Merlion Park. The statue, 28 feet high with the body of a fish and the head of a lion, is Singapore's national symbol. From Merlion Park you can take a river cruise and enjoy other famous sights along the Singapore River like Clark Quay, Parliament House and Boat Quay.

National Gallery Singapore

Costing over $500 million, taking 10 years and completed in 2015, the renovation of the historic Supreme Court and City Hall buildings created the splendid National Gallery Singapore.  Reflecting Singapore's cultural legacy and art history, the Gallery features Singapore and Southeast Asian art within a spacious 64,000 square metres.

The Long Bar Raffles Hotel

The imposing colonial-style Raffles Hotel, named after British diplomat Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles the original architect of Singapore, has been Singapore's premier hotel sinces its grand opening in the late 20th century.  The refreshing pink and sweet Singapore Sling cocktail was created at the hotel's Long Bar over a hundred years ago by barman Ngiam Tong Boon.  Raffles also has a nice cafe called Ah Tengs Bakery.

Gardens By The Bay

Containing three dazzling waterfront gardens - Bay South, Bay Central and Bay East - Gardens by the Bay helps transform Singapore from 'Garden City' to 'City in a Garden'. An easy getaway from noisy traffic and mega skyscrapers, the Gardens give a quiet place to enjoy lush vegetation from across the globe and the Flower Dome, the Cloud Forest and the Supertrees show greenery in a way never seen before. Gardens in the Bay is open every day 9am through 9pm.

Siloso Beach

The southern side of Singapore's Sentosa island is home to three man-made beaches.  Tanjong beach is the most peaceful, Palawan is the most child orientated, and Siloso beach is the liveliest. Facilities include umbrella and sun lounger hire, showers and restrooms. After the beach one idea is to walk to Fort Siloso, which was constructed in the 1880s by the British for the defence of Singapore.

Southern Ridges Canopy Walk

Another exciting outdoor experience is the canopy walk in the Southern Ridges. The six-mile walk can be started from Mount Faber Park (conveniently close to the Singapore Cruise Centre). On the walk, you'll see the rich vegetation of Singapore and wild monkeys.

Cruise Ideas

Singapore enjoys a tropical climate, and is always hot and humid. The cruising season runs year round except for a small pause in the summer months.  Malaysia cruises and Thailand cruises are the two most common routes for cruises from Singapore and either makes a great idea for a one week vacation.

For a comprehensive cruise calendar see Cruises From Singapore.

Singapore Cruise Ports

In 1991 Singapore's first cruise centre, the Singapore Cruise Centre at Harbourfront, began operations.  Then in 2012 a second centre, the Marina Bay Cruise Center (MBCCS) at Marina South, was inaugurated.

Singapore Cruise Center

The Singapore Cruise Centre has undergone a number of major upgrades over the past two decades and today processes more than one million cruise passengers each year. The terminal offers an excellent range of portside facilities including brand fashion concessions, multiple dining outlets, tour booking counters and left luggage service. 

Marina Bay Cruise Centre

The terminal has spacious departure and arrival halls and a large ground transport area with coach area, taxi bays and bus stop. Facilities in the top-level departure hall comprise foreign exchange point, food shop, cafe and visitor centre and facilities in the lower-level arrivals hall comprise taxi rank, public bus stop, left luggage counter, cruisefly counter and ground transport desk.

Transport To The Port

Introducing Copenhagen

Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, lies on the island of Zealand 26 miles southwest of Sweden and 160 miles east of the Danish mainland (called Jutland). The city is connected to Malmo in Sweden by the Oresund bridge and Drogden tunnel which form a rail and road connection across the 8 mile wide Oresund straits.

The city has its beginnings in the mid 12th century when Bishop Absalon of Roskilde built a castle and a small town with moat and a wall.

Over the next 250 years herring fishing and commerce brought great prosperity to Copenhagen and in 1443 the city became the Danish capital city.

The most exceptional buildings of the city such as the Old Stock Exchange, Rosenborg Castle and the Round Tower were constructed by the celebrated architect King Christian IV, who ruled over Denmark 1588-1648.

The 18th century saw the naissance of Copenhagen's historic Royal Danish Porcelain which began making fine porcelain in 1775. The first batches made were all dinner pieces for the Monarchy.

Today Copenhagen has a reputation as one of the most attractive tourist destinations on the Baltic, with a distinctive mixture of Medieval and Baroque heritage.

Touring Copenhagen

The Little Mermaid

The beautiful Little Mermaid statue has been admired and photographed by millions of people from all across the globe and has become an icon of Copenhagen. On seeing the statue at the Langelinie waterfront some say that the statue is possibly smaller than they anticipated (at 1.2m high), but a lot more beautiful.

Amalienborg Palace

Four magnificent palaces surround Amalienborg Palace Square, with its marble statue of King Frederik V on a horse. The palaces were originally occupied by different branches of the Danish nobility, but when an enormous fire destroyed the crown's Christiansborg Palace, the Amalienborg Palaces were purchased by the royalty to act as a replacement. At the Amalienborg Museum in Christian VIII's palace you can see superbly grandiose rooms and experience the life of the royal family past and present.

Nyhavn

Nyhavn is perhaps everbody’s favorite view of Copenhagen, rows of brigh pastel colored town houses overlooking an old sea harbor. Nyhavn (meaning New Harbor) was originally a busy merchant port where ships coming from all over Europe would moor. At the harbor you'll see the Veteran Ship and Museum Harbour and its impressive collection of old boats some of which are available to view.

Strøget

Copenhagen's main shopping area is centered on Stroget in the heart of the city. The street goes from the city's City Hall Square (Radhusplads) to King's New Square (Kongens Nytorv). There are literally hundreds of exciting shops, many offering uniquely Danish products for sale.

Rosenborg Castle

In the early 17th century Christian IV commissioned the construction of the impressive Rosenborg Palace to serve as a royal summerhouse. Following the era of Frederik IV, Rosenborg was only used as a royal official residence on two occasions, after the fire at Christiansborg in 1794, and during the English bombardment of Copenhagen in 1801. Four flights of state apartments are open to tourists - letting you gain a unique insight into the life and times of the 17th century Danish royals.

Cruise Ideas

Denmark's harsh winter limits the cruise ship calendar to the summer and autumn.

Most cruises sail north east to the historic Baltic cities of Stockholm, Helsinki , St Petersburg and Tallinn.  In Tallinn walk around the famous medieval town, which dates from the 1600s.  In Stockholm enjoy a coffee at a cafe in Stortorget, the oldest square in Stockholm. In St Petersburg wonder at the awe-inspiring Church of our Saviour on Spilled Blood, adorned with shining domes with sculpted cupolas.  In Helsinki visit the enormous fish market at Market Square to sample some genuine Finnish seafood. 

An alternative to the Baltic  is the voyage north west to the spectacular Norwegian Fjord towns of Bergen, Alesund, Flam and Geiranger.  In Bergen wander along the picturesque harbor front of Bryggen. In Geiranger drop by at the Geiranger Fjordsenter to experience life in the Fjords. In Alesund climb the 418 steps to reach Mount Aksla with its wonderful vista of the town beneath.  In Flam follow the Navvies Road an old track that follows the Flam Railway.

For a comprehensive cruise calendar, see Cruises from Copenhagen.

Copenhagen Cruise Ports

Copenhagen is the largest home port in the Baltic region and is able to manage 6 turnaround and 4 visiting cruise ships at the same time.

Copenhagen Port manages 4 cruise ship ports, Ocean Quay (Oceankaj), Freeport (Frihavnen), Langelinie and Nordre Toldbod.

Ocean Quay

Ocean Quay, the newest cruise facility in Copenhagen, boasts 3 state-of-the-art cruise terminals. Each terminal building has 1800 sq m for passenger checking-in and 1500 sq m for luggage processing.

Freeport

The recently refurbished Freeport (or Frihavn in Danish) cruise terminal can now handle two cruise ships at the same time. Also useful is a small makeshift souvenir shop selling items like T-shirts, amber jewelry, fridge magnets and stickers.

Langeline Quay

Langelinie Quay does not boast a purpose built cruise terminal building.  It is rather a long quay secured by fencing mostly used by calling vessels. A Welcome Crew meet visitors giving out Cruise Copenhagen Maps and offering time-saving information. The pier is very well placed - it’s just a short stroll away from the Little Mermaid statue.

Nordre Toldbod

The Nordre Toldbod wharf is the closest cruise ship berth to the city center, just over a kilometre away. The quay has one berth, able to handle a small cruise vessel.

Transport To The Port

By Cab

The quickest method of travelling from the airport to any of the cruise terminals is by taxi.

By Public Transport

Introducing Brisbane

Brisbane, positioned on the eastern coastline of Australia is the capital of Queensland, the country's third most populous state

Though now a major city, Brisbane has it roots as a small penal colony on the Brisbane river for British convicts expelled from Sydney. The initial count of inmates was 45 men plus just 2 women. A few years later the area’s suitability for farming, timbering and fishing caused it to be opened up to settlement by all.

In 1859 in the wake of the Queensland Proclamation, which confirmed Queensland as a separate state to NSW, Brisbane was picked as the state’s capital. This led to an upswing in commerce, and by the late 1880's Brisbane was the principal center of industry in the area.

In the twentieth century Brisbane steadily turned into a large metropolitan sprawl as suburbs of low rise housing encompassed an extensive area.

Today, Brisbane is a modern city basking in a subtropical climate boasting a spectacular skyline and a scenic river. Highlights include the expansive Queensland art gallery, the enjoyable South Bank parklands and the lush City Botanical Gardens.

Touring Brisbane

South Bank Parklands

The South Bank Parklands are located on the site of Brisbane's World Expo 88, and several of the buildings and art structures made for the event still stand. Take all the stress out of life at the Nepal Peace Pagoda, an arresting recreation of a Kathmandu Temple, watched over by terrifying lion statues.

South Bank Cultural Centre

From the Central Business District on the northern bank of the river, it's a easy walk via the Victoria and William Jolly bridges to the South Bank Cultural Precinct, the location of the Queensland Art Gallery, the Queensland Museum and the Gallery of Modern Art. The Queensland Art Gallery features both permanent and temporary exhibitions of fine paintings and impressive sculptures by local and international artists. The Gallery of Modern Art or GOMA concentrates in works of art from the 20th and 21st centuries and includes multimedia and photographic works as part of its collection. The Queensland Museum is the guardian of Queensland's cultural and natural inheritance with a collection of over a million items giving an understanding into the state's fascinating history.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

At the world famous Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary the visitor can meet with a great range of Australian wildlife, including koalas, wombats, Tasmanian devils, echidnas and dingos. 

Mt Coot-tha Lookout

A quick 1/2 hour journey by coach (or the number 471 public bus servoce from Adelaide Street) takes you to the Mt Coot-tha Lookout, set up high up on a steep hill overlooking the city. A short walk based from the Lookout through the magnificent eucalyptus forest is a great way to get up close to nature.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise, the jewel of the beautiful Gold Coast, is just 45 miles south from Brisbane. Here there's lots to do. Or just relax with a sunbathing hour-or-two  on the golden sands of Main Beach. 

Cruise Ideas

The choice of cruises out of Brisbane includes 1) the Pacific islands of Tonga, Fiji and Vanuatu 2)  Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef 3) New Caledonia 4) Papua New Guinea. For a comprehensive calendar, see cruises from Brisbane.

Brisbane Cruise Ports

Most cruise shops dock at Portside Wharf, a recently constructed cruise terminal on the north bank of the Brisbane River near the central business district.  Occasionally larger ships, incapable of navigating the river upstream, may dock at the Multi-User terminal at the Port of Brisbane on the coast, about 50 minutes by road from the city. Though the situation may soon change, as there are advanced plans to add a new terminal at Luggage Point (across the Brisbane river from the Multi-user terminal).

Portside Wharf

The main Brisbane cruise terminal is a section of an extensive business, residential and retail site, known as 'Portside Wharf'. After check-in, passengers are free to enjoy all the things to do at the shopping and leisure center whilst awaiting embark.

Port Of Brisbane Multi-User Terminal

The Multi-Use Terminal at the Port Of Brisbane  is only able to handle day visits, not turnaround vessels. Facilities at the Multi-Use Terminal are few with only a small snack bar.

Transport to the Port

Traveling to the Cruise Terminal (Portside Wharf)

Introducing New Orleans

New Orleans is positioned in southeastern Louisiana straddling the Mississippi river. Lake Pontchartrain lies to the north, and the great river's delta basin and the Gulf of Mexico lie to the south.

La Nouvelle-Orléans (New Orleans) was established in 1718 by the French Mississippi Company on a piece of land occupied by native Americans. It was named after Philippe d'Orléans, Duke of Orléans, who was at the time fulfilling the duties of the as the King of France for the child Louis XV.

New Orleans, as a part of the French colony of Louisiana, was ceded to the Spanish Empire in the Treaty of Paris (1763), and remained under the Spanish crown for almost 40 years.

Several fires destroyed the original French buildings in the Vieux Carre, so the Spanish reconstructed the city in the much-loved style seen today.

Today the visitor to New Orleans will find a city that boasts a historic appeal, world-famous jazz, tasty cuisine, and a characterful Creole heritage.

Touring New Orleans

Bourbon Street

Bourbon street is renowned for its lively drinking places, clubs, great restaurants and live jazz and interesting shops offering jewelry, voodoo figures and carnival masks. Visit Pat O'Brien's bar, famous for the invention of the cocktail known as the Hurricane. Enjoy listening to jazz music at The Famous Door, the oldest jazz club on Bourbon street. Treat yourself to lunch at Galatoire’s Restaurant, established by Jean Galatoire back in 1905, with its signature Creole menu.

Moonwalk

The Mississippi river Moonwalk runs along the west bank of the river from Jackson Square south to Canal street. The promenade was named for mayor Maurice Moon Landrieu, the mayor responsible for the construction of the amenity. You can sit on one of the benches beside the path to take in the panoramic views across the river.

Jackson Square

Jackson Square is at the center of the French Quarter, one of the best preserved historical neighborhoods in the United States.  Several iconic buildings surround the square, like the 1850 house, faithfully decorated with fixtures and fittings of the time, the 1795 Cabildo, the site of the signing of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and the St Louis Cathedral, originally built in 1724. A statue of General Andrew Jackson in the center of Jackson square recognizes his defeat of the British at New Orleans in 1814.

St Charles Streetcar

There are three streetcar lines in New Orleans, the St Charles Line, the Canal St Line and the Riverfront Line. The St Charles Line is the visitor’s favorite, as its beloved green cars are over a century old. The St Charles streetcar travels from the edge of the French Quarter all the way along gorgeous St. Charles Avenue. 

Cruise Ideas

Book a 4 day cruise and you’ll visit Cozumel, on a 5 day cruise you’ll see both Cozumel and Progresso, and on a 7 day cruise you’ll be able to enjoy a number of destinations either in the Western Caribbean such as Montego Bay, Progreso, George Town, Cozumel and Roatan or in the Eastern Caribbean including Key West, Freeport and Nassau.

What’s for store for you on your cruise? In Montego Bay walk along the beautiful sands of gorgeous Doctor’s Cave beach, in Costa Maya visit the lush flora and fauna of the verdant rain forest, in Roatan snorkel in the blue waters off Half Moon Bay beach and in Belize experience ever-popular Cave tubing in the Sibun Caves.

For a full calendar of cruises see cruises from New Orleans.

New Orleans Cruise Port

Located near the the Riverwalk shopping complex on the Mississippi, the Erato St and Julia St cruise terminals are in the heart of downtown just an easy stroll to the French Quarter. Cruise ships reach the Mexican Gulf from the port by traveling the Mississippi for 90 miles to the outflow past Venice, a journey taking about 9 hours.

Julia Street Cruise Terminal

The Julia Street cruise terminal is used by NCL and Royal Caribbean. Available facilities comprise check-in desks, a drive-in/drop-off area, souvenir shop, customs screening, A/C, a snack bar, elevated passenger loading ramp and baggage handling.  Car parking is available in the Whale parking lot, off Convention Center Boulevard.

Erato Cruise Terminal

The Erato Street cruise terminal is used by Carnival. Facilities comprise customs clearance, souvenir kiosk, full air-conditioning, baggage handling, elevated passenger loading bridge, a refreshment stand and check-in desks.  The top four stories of the terminal act as a parking garage for more than 1,000 vehicles.

For the port authority website see Port of New Orleans.

Transport To The Port

By Car

Take Interstate-10 south into New Orleans. Leave at exit 234A signed Business and Westbank to join US90. Follow US90, then leave at exit 11C, the last exit before the bridge over the river, signed Tchoupitoulas St and South Peters St. Merge with Calliope St. Turn right onto Tchoupitoulas St. At the lights make a left onto Henderson St.

For Whale parking lot. Make a left off Henderson St into Convention Center Boulevard. Head straight for three-quarters of a mile then turn right into the car park.

For Erato St terminal parking lot. At the bottom of Henderson Street turn left into Port of New Orleans Place. Carry on a third of a mile to get to the terminal.

From The Airport

Introducing Dover

The town of Dover sits at the outlet of the River Dour, which gives the town its name, on the southern coastline of Kent in the UK. The town is just 34km away from the French town of Calais, the two are separated by the Strait of Dover.

Thanks to this proximity to France, Dover has become a thriving cross-Channel ferry port. The town also boasts its famous White Cliffs, which form several miles of the region’s stunning shoreline.

Dover was established as early as the Bronze Age. A waterlogged boat found under the town was dated to 1500BC confirmed that the natural harbor was in use even in the times predating the history books.

In the 16th century Dover profited from a huge upturn in fortune when successive monarchs saw the important tactical position of Dover, guarding the Channel. Both Henry VIII and Elizabeth I paid for costly enlargements and renovations to the port and its defences.

In the Second World War Dover again showed its strategic position as a military center. In 1940, over 200000 of the 338000 soldiers rescued from Dunkirk passed through Dover.

Today Dover is Britain's busiest port, and the numbers of passengers and amount of cargo transiting the Channel via Dover continues to increase in spite of keen competition from the Channel Tunnel.

The town’s cruise port is now the second biggest UK cruise port and the eight biggest European cruise port servicing over 180000 cruise passengers each year.

Touring Dover

Dover Castle

Dover Castle is one of the biggest castles in England. It stands solidly on top of the White Cliffs, overlooking the important port below. Your sightseeing ticklist includes the Guest Hall, the battlements, the Outer Bailey, the Great Tower, the King’s Brewery, the Guest Chamber, the medieval tunnels and the King’s Hall.

Roman Painted House

Constructed around AD 200 the Roman Painted house formed part of a welcoming hotel for travelers crossing the Channel. The house boasts extensive well preserved wall paintings and an intricate hypocaust system.

White Cliffs Of Dover

Rising to over 320ft high in sections, the White Cliffs of Dover offer a superb view over the busy shipping lanes of the English Channel. The National Trust visitor information center, off Upper Road, is a great place for a visit as it has a coffee shop offering homemade scones and cakes.

St. Margaret’s Bay

4 miles along the shoreline east of Dover, sits charming St Margaret’s Bay, which boasts a lovely pebble beach, covered at high tide. There’s a good sized car park, an ice cream kiosk, and picnic tables.

Cruise Ideas

Cruises from Dover go to a wide variety of exciting destinations. Witness the majestic scenery of the mighty Norwegian Fjords voted as ‘The Europe's Most Beautiful  Voyage’. Head east into the Baltic to see magnificent St Petersburg with its marvelous Hermitage art museum and splendid Peter and Paul Fortress. Pick a cruise to the warm Mediterranean and sightsee around superb cities like Dubrovnik, Barcelona, Venice and Athens. Or go south to the wonderful Canary Islands, and find subtropical greenery and beautiful beaches. 

For a full calendar of cruises, see cruises from Dover.

Dover Cruise Port

Cruise Terminal 1

In 1996 the former Marine Railway Station at the Western docks was converted into cruise terminal 1. Lots of the original features were kept and they give a unique atmosphere of an earlier era. There’s plenty of seating, along with toilets, luggage porters, a cafe, a baby room and an information desk.

Cruise Terminal 2

Growing demand from the cruise ship companies led to the construction of cruise terminal 2, just further along from cruise terminal 1, in 2000. The terminal is an enjoyable place to start your vacation offering a full range of convenient facilities including an information desk, cafeteria, seating area, taxi rank and post box.

Parking

Car parking for both cruise terminals is adjacent to Terminal 1. You can book your car parking spot on the internet at the Port Of Dover website, or by telephoning the Port Of Dover Information Office.

For the port authority website see Port Of Dover.

Transport To The Port

By Road

From the M2/A2 It’s straightforward to drive along the M2/A2 road into Dover then follow the signs for the Cruise Terminals.

From the M20/A20 Just before Dover there’s a roundabout with an exit signed for Western Docks and Cruise Terminals. Follow this.

By Train There are two trains each hour running from London St Pancras mainline stations to Dover Priory train station. Allow around 70 to 80 minutes for the trip.

Introducing Boston

Boston, the biggest city in the north eastern US, is regarded as an unsanctioned capital of New England for its artistic and economic impact on the whole region.

The city has played a major part in American history from its beginnings. In March 1630 a fleet of 12 ships with 700 Puritans on board reached Massachusetts after a 2 month crossing from England. The migrants established a settlement, naming it Boston after Boston in Lincolnshire from where many of the settlers originated.

The people of Boston were very involved in the revolutionary years of the 1770s, and buildings from that tumultuous time still stand, including Faneuil Hall, the Old North Church and The Old State House.

Massachusetts flourished in the 19th century with new industries, improved roads and the construction of railways. Labor shortages in the clothing and leather goods industries were met by growth in immigration.

Today Boston boasts a strong economy, with innovative centers of technology, world-renowned institutions of higher learning and leading hospitals researching the cutting edge of medicine.

Touring Boston

Paul Revere’s House

The Paul Revere House, the oldest building in downtown Boston, stands as a witness to American history. Paul Revere is famous for his ‘midnight ride’ from this house to Lexington, to warn John Hancock and Samuel Adams that they were due to be arrested by armed British troops.

Boston Public Garden

Boston Public Garden opened in the mid 19th century, and the garden still retains a Victorian design. At the Lagoon don’t miss the Swan Boats, a famous Boston tourist attraction, which began operating over a century ago. In summer the boats are often joined by a flock of beautiful real swans.

Freedom Trail

A walk along the two-and-a-half mile Freedom Trail is a great way to become acquainted with Boston and to see the city's bounty of historic landmarks. Informative signs along the way describe each of 18 points of interest, including Massachusetts State House, Old Corner Book Store, USS Constitution, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, Old South Meeting House, Benjamin Franklin Statue & Boston Latin School and Paul Revere House. Be sure to stop for a refreshing drink at America’s oldest bar, Bell in Hand Tavern, on Union Street.

USS Constitution 

Built in Boston in 1797, the USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned battleship in the world. In 1940 the ship was named the symbolic flagship of the United States Navy. The ship is berthed at Pier 1 of the former Charlestown Navy Yard, close to the Freedom Trail.

Cruise Ideas

A large variety of cruises are on offer with lengths of 4, 7 or 14 days. Voyages sail north along the New England and Canadian coastlines, an autumn favorite for New England’s glorious tree foliage, or south to the beautiful white sand beaches of Bermuda.

For a full list of cruises, see cruises from Boston.

Boston Cruise Terminal

The Black Falcon Cruise Terminal is situated in South Boston’s lively Seaport District, only a quick bus or taxi ride from downtown.  In 2010, the cruise terminal’s operator Massport spent $11 million refurbishing the previously congested cruise terminal to create a new embarkation area, so allowing embarkation and debarkation at the same time. Services comprise of restrooms, luggage handling, waiting area, telephone booths, taxi rank and customs. A secure parking facility is sited just north from the cruise terminal - this offers monitored parking.

For the port authority website see Port Of Boston.

Transport To The Cruise Terminal

From the Airport

All the Logan Airport terminals have taxi ranks, and it is a short 3 mile journey to the cruise terminal.

By Car