New York City

As one of the largest and most famous cities on the United States’ Atlantic coast, New York City is one of the busiest cruise ports in the northeast. With so much to see and do in the city, however, travelers should learn a bit about it before embarking on their cruise.

Manhattan Skyline from the Hudson River.

Many different cruises depart from the city throughout the year, though only a handful of cruise lines make New York a regular departure port, including:

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Holland America Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Cunard Cruise Line, including the venerated Queen Mary II
• Silversea Cruises
• Crystal Cruises

Because of the city’s size, popularity, and connections with many print and news media sources, it also serves as a port during many maiden voyages. For example, when Royal Caribbean debuted the new megaship Freedom of the Seas, the ship participated in a naming ceremony in New York.

The summer and fall months are the busiest for itineraries leaving from the Big Apple, simply because New England and Canadian destinations are among the most popular for fall foliage tours. Other cruise options include Bermuda, the Bahamas, the Panama Canal, transatlantic voyages, and all types of southern, eastern, and western Caribbean sailings. Many river cruises also venture up the Hudson River rather than out to sea. Both round trip and one-way voyages are available, with itinerary lengths varying from 4-24 nights. Seven and eight night voyages are the most plentiful.

Another option for cruise passengers is a cruise to nowhere. These specialty cruises don’t stop at ports of call, but passengers are treated to the best of the cruising lifestyle, including gourmet dining, spectacular entertaining, formal nights, and onboard activities. Cruises to nowhere are infrequently offered, however, and because their two night length is very popular for a quick getaway, interested passengers should be sure to reserve their voyage well in advance.

Liberty Island is a popular New York attraction.

There is almost no end to the wonders for visitors to explore in the Big Apple. Several cruise lines offer pre-and post- cruise packages to give guests extra time in the city, an option which is particularly popular with international travelers. In addition, some cruise lines also offer shore excursions in the city to help passengers enjoy the port. Among the most popular activities are:

• Visiting the Statue of Liberty
• Viewing the city from the top of the Empire State Building
• Visiting the Ground Zero Memorial Plaza
• Walking the Brooklyn Bridge
• Enjoying a baseball game at Yankee Stadium
• Visiting Coney Island
• Shopping along Fifth Avenue
• Taking in a Broadway show

In a city with far too many shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment options to list, visitors should consider picking up a tour book or consulting their travel agent for suggestions that meet their interests, schedule, and budget.

The cruise ship terminal is located in downtown Manhattan on the Hudson River, several blocks west of Times Square. Three major international airports service the port: JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, giving passengers multiple airfare options. Taxi service from the airports ranges from $25-45 or higher depending on congestion and the total amount of tolls. More than 1,000 parking spaces are available for cruise ship passengers in numerous rooftop lots, and handicapped spaces are also available. Parking fees cost $24 per day for a standard car, though monthly rates are available for longer cruises at a reduced rate.

For more information about cruises from New York City and the facilities at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, prospective passengers can visit the official website at www.nypst.com, call (212) 246-5450, or write for information at:

Manhattan Cruise Terminal
711 12th Avenue
New York, New York 10019

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