cruise ships sailing out of miami

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Miami (Florida)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-04-16 17:36

Port Miami cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Miami, Florida. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

PortMiami and Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale are the world's largest/busiest cruise ports and the USA's main turnaround/departure ports for roundtrip Caribbean voyages. Both seaports and their respective airports are relatively nearby to each other. PortMiami's area is sized 518 acres (0,8 mi2 / 2,1 km2). The city has the world's largest number of cruise company headquarters, including Carnival , RCI-Royal Caribbean International , MSC , NCL-Norwegian , Celebrity , Oceania .

Miami Metro is USA's 8th-most populous and 4th-largest, with population around 5,5 million. The city is a leader in international trade, commerce, finance, media, entertainment, arts. In 2010, it was ranked USA's 7th and world's 33rd in terms of human capital, business activities, information exchange, politics and culture. Nicknamed "Capital of Latin America", Miami is USA's largest city with Cuban-American citizens.

The city has USA's 3rd tallest skyline with over 300 skyscrapers. Downtown has USA's largest concentration of international banks, large national and multinational corporations. PortMiami is one of USA's fastest growing containership ports . It contributes annually with around USD 43 billion to the economy and supports over 334,000 jobs countrywide.

Miami cruise port

PortMiami (locode URMIA) is currently ranked the world's second-largest cruise port (after Port Canaveral).

The world's top-10 busiest cruise ports (by annual passengers numbers/stats 2023) are in Florida USA ( Port Canaveral/Orlando (4,07M), Miami (4,02M), Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale ), Mexico ( Cozumel ), Bahamas ( Nassau ), China ( Shanghai ), Spain ( Barcelona ), Bahamas (Out Islands), Texas USA ( Galveston ), Italy ( Civitavecchia-Rome ).

Miami is also among the most fortunate ports where newest cruise ships make show-off visits and many schedule inaugural homeporting seasons. Port's facilities are among the most modern, providing easy processing and boarding. PortMiami serves 20+ cruise companies and 60+ different passenger ships.

On August 3, 2014, was opened Miami Port Tunnel. The tunnel is undersea (beneath Biscayne Bay), with length 4200 ft / 1300 m and consisting of 2 parallel tubes (1 in each direction). It connects MacArthur Causeway (Watson Island) with PortMiami (Dodge Island) removing the heavy traffic to the cruise port from downtown Miami.

In 2016, PortMiami handled nearly 4,98 million cruise passengers and also added new (MSC-exclusive) terminal for year-round homeporting. Also were started projects to enlarge MSC's cruise terminals (AA and AAA) and were added new passenger-boarding bridges.

For FY2017 (fiscal year/season 2016-2017 September 30) the cruise port reported a record year with over 5,3 million cruise passengers - the world's highest-ever number. In 2017 started works on "Terminal A" (completed in November 2018). Viking OCEAN made inaugural visits in November 2017 with Viking Sky (Nov 12) and Viking Sun (Nov 17). Among the Port's most famous newcomers in 2018 were Carnival Horizon, Norwegian Bliss, Symphony OTS. In 2019 here was homeported MSC Meraviglia .

For season 2017-2018, PortMiami expected 5,3+ million passengers (4,9 million in 2016). The 6-million pax threshold was reached during season 2018-2019. Discussions on long-term agreements are ongoing with NCLH and Carnival Corporation . 2017's growth came from RCI-Royal Caribbean (~350,000 more). The number grew further after RCI inaugurated "Terminal A" (and homeported Oasis-class liners) and MSC inaugurated "Terminal F" (for Meraviglia-class and Seaside-class liners).

In 2017 started discussions for turnaround operations by vessels of Virgin Voyages  and NCL-Norwegian . However, Carnival Cruise Line remained the Port’s largest customer (2+ million passengers in 2017).

Various studies on LNG bunkering were conducted, regarding whether these operations (LNG supply to berthed vessels) to be land or water-side. The port expects to receive its first LNG-powered cruise liner in 2022.

On May 4, 2018, from Barcelona to PortMiami were delivered 2x large-sized "Seaport Passenger Boarding Bridges". The tailor-made (fully assembled) bridges were for the renovated "Terminal F’". Each of these 2-ton walkways is 4-sectioned (telescopic) and has length 32 m (105 ft). The bridges were designed by Adelte (Spain) and custom-made for "Terminal F" - to serve large liners with LOA length over 300 m (984 ft).

In late-October 2019 was approved the agreement for Brightline Miami to be rebranded "Virgin Trains" and Virgin Group to build a train station (Virgin Trains PortMiami) at the cruise port. The new station serves high-speed trains and connects PortMiami directly with the USA's intercity railway system (via Aventura, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach ) to Orlando International Airport. Brightline plans to expand the railway to Tampa  and  Jacksonville .

On August 31, 2020, Miami-Dade County' commission authorized the issuance of up to USD 0,5 billion in special obligation bonds, of which USD 335 million was designated for PortMiami and the rest going toward development projects related to the County's general fund.

• The approval came as cruising out of US homeports remained banned through October 1, and all major cruise companies suspended departures through October 31.
• Before the Coronavirus crisis (2020) paralyzed the cruise shipping industry, the County agreed to pay USD 700 million toward 7 projects - 5 new cruise terminals and 2 cruise company headquarters. Five shipowners (Carnival Corporation, NCLH-Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, MSC, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, Virgin Voyages) agreed to repay USD 5,8 billion over the next 20-62 years.
• The biggest part of the USD 335 million in bonds (USD 130 M) was allocated for the building of the Virgin Voyages Terminal.

On November 15, 2022, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group signed a 36-year lease agreement that includes developing and exclusive operation of PortMiami's Terminal G.

• By the deal, RCG will construct a new facility (exclusive passenger terminal for ships of RCI-Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises) and will also redevelop RCI's headquarters (at PortMiami) which lease was extended through 2072.
• By May 2020, RCI spent ~US$70 million to upgrade its headquarters prior to halting construction works to mitigate financial losses during the COVID crisis.
• By the new lease deal (2022), Miami-Dade is now financing the RCI headquarters' completion as well as Terminal G's construction. In turn, Royal Caribbean guarantees a minimum annual passenger movement ~600,000 (during Terminal G's reconstruction), 1,5 million (following the completion/scheduled for 2027) and 2,1 million passengers annually (from 2038 to 2063). RCI also agreed to repay the cost of finishing its headquarters via increased rent and to pay back up to 53% (US$172,5M) of Terminal G's redevelopment costs.
• Terminal G's lease includes 3x 7-year renewal options, while RCI's headquarters lease has 2x 5-year renewal options.
• The deal also provided for RCI's shared use of Berth 10 Terminal (scheduled for completion in October 2028) - together with MSC.
• The 2022-signed agreement replaced the expiring in 2033. Reportedly, the lease will generate ~US$2,5 billion (from Terminal G) and ~US$260 million (from RCI's headquarters) and will create ~12000 permanent jobs, including ~1000 additional positions with RCI (+50% over 2022's staff count).

In Miami is also headquartered CMI-Cruise Management International and its subsidiary CMI Leisure (smaller-sized and expedition cruise ship management company). Since 2022, CMI is owned by Anglo-Eastern (1974-founded company that manages 600+ vessels/crew recruitment and management, technical services).

Since January 2024, in Block 55 at Sawyer's Walk (premium retail shopping and residential area in Downtown Miami) is headquartered MSC Group (the world's second-largest container shipping company/after Maersk).

World's largest cruise ports

Based on 2016 passenger traffic numbers reported by CLIA, Miami cruise port was ranked world's largest (4,898 million pax). Follows the list of world's busiest cruise ports with annual shipping traffic over 1 million passengers.

• Miami FL (4,898 million)
• Port Everglades Fort Lauderdale FL (3,890 million)
• Port Canaveral Fl (3,686 million)
• Cozumel Mexico (3,637 million)
• Shanghai China (2,847 million)
• Barcelona Spain (2,683 million)
• Civitavecchia-Rome Italy (2,340 million)
• Nassau Bahamas (2,035 million)
• Canary Islands Spain (combined 1,981 million)
• Balearic Islands Spain (combined 1,957 million)
• USVI (combined 1,777 million)
• Galveston TX (1,730 million)
• Grand Cayman Island (1,712 million)
• Southampton UK (1,7 million)
• St Maarten Island (1,669 million)
• Jamaica (combined 1,655 million)
• Venice Italy (1,606 million)
• Marseille France (1,597 million)
• Sydney Australia (1,309 million)
• Naples Italy (1,306 million)
• New Orleans NOLA (1,070 million) - excluding USA river cruise passengers.

PortMiami statistics

PortMiami is a major US seaport located on Dodge Island (Biscayne Bay, Florida). It is ranked the world's largest passenger port (serving both cruise and ferry shipping traffic). The port is linked to Watson Island via PortMiami Tunnel (building cost USD 1 billion). Dodge Island combines 3 islands (Dodge, Lummus, Sam's) into one.

PortMiami has capacity to handle the world's biggest passenger ships and is homeport (turnaround port) for numerous large-sized vessels. However, port's prime shipping business are container ships , ranking it Florida's largest container cargo port and USA's 9th-largest. Annually, it handles 4+ million cruise ship tourists, around 7,4 million cargo tons and 1+ million TEU-containers.

Currently, PortMiami has 9 passenger terminals, 6 gantry crane-equipped wharves (total 9 gantry cranes serving containerized cargo), 7 Ro-Ro docks (serving ferries and car carriers), 4 reefer yards (for refrigerated containers), breakbulk warehouses. The port has 2 super post-Panamax gantry cranes (among the world's largest) with capacity to handle 22,000-TEU boxships.

In 1997 was started USD 250 million port redevelopment project for facility upgrades and expansion in order to accommodate the industry's demands. PortMiami Tunnel was built 2010-2014, linking (via SR 836) directly the seaport with USA's interstate highway system, thus bypassing downtown's congestion. By this project were also constructed new cruise terminals, roads, terminal parking garages, new lighting, landscaping, signage. Security Gates (opened in 2006) increased the port's processing rate for container trucks.

In 2007, the port served over 3,787 million cruise passengers. In 2010 were handled 4,33 million cruise passengers (1 in 7 in the world). In 2015 were handled nearly 4,9 million cruisers. For FY11 (fiscal year 2011), PortMiami reported an economic impact in Miami-Dade County of USD 18 billion, providing around 176,000 local jobs.

On December 9, 2018 (Sunday), the port reported its ultimate one-day record for cruise shipping traffic - 52,000 passengers. The list of berthed liners included Carnival Horizon , Carnival Magic , Disney Magic , MSC Divina , Norwegian Getaway , Oceania Riviera , Allure of the Seas , Empress of the Seas , and the high-speed catamaran San Gwann (FRS Caribbean - German company serving the ferry route Miami- Bimini Islands ).

Port Boulevard connects PortMiami with Downtown. This link is a causeway over the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway. ICW has length 3000 mi (4800 km) and runs along the USA's Atlantic (Eastern Seaboard) and Gulf of Mexico coasts (from Manasquan River NJ, around Gulf of Mexico to Brownsville TX). According to US federal law, ICW must be maintained at min-depth 3,7 m (12 ft). ICW is toll-free, but since 1978 commercial users (cargo barges) are charged a fuel tax, which is used for facilities maintenance.

PortMiami Deep Dredge project (budget USD 180 million, completed in 2016) increased the harbor's max draft to 15 m (48 ft) allowing access to Super Post Panamax boxships after the Panama Canal expansion completion.

In March 2018, NCLH unveiled details on NCL's exclusive new Cruise Terminal B scheduled for completion in 2019 (read more in the port's "Terminal" section).

In 2018, PortMiami implemented the NOAA agency's (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) PORTS system (Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System). The system is a public-private partnership for reducing in-port ship accidents (by over 50%) and transit delays for commercial shipping traffic. It also improves hazardous spill response. PortMiami's annual benefit from the PORTS system was estimated at around USD 300 million. The system serves a total of 31 US seaports, supporting 85% of the USA's cargo shipping traffic. PORTS provides real-time maritime data to vessel operators and harbor pilots, including information on currents (in and around port), water levels, waves, water salinity, bridge clearances (air gaps), visibility, winds (speed and direction), air and water temperatures.

On May 10, 2018, was officially opened Carnival's "Fleet Operations Center". The 35,000 ft2 facility allows simultaneous real-time monitoring of all ships in the fleet. The main feature is its 74 ft (22,5 m) long video wall composed of 57x LED screens. The data processed here includes itinerary information, current position, weather conditions, logistics, environmental status, guest operations. The interactive world map shows also the current locations of all Carnival Corporation ships (all brands). The center is staffed 24 / 7. The Corporation also owns similar monitoring centers in Seattle and Hamburg.

FY2018 (Sept 2017-Sept 2018) was another (4th consecutive) record year, with 5,8% growth in containerized cargo volumes (total 1,084 million TEUs) and 4,7% increase in cruise shipping (total 5,592 million passengers). Cargo shipping growth was attributed to the seaport's USD 1 billion investments in infrastructure improvements that allowed handling of Post-Panamax ships (with min draft 12 m / 40 ft). In 2018, the port handled over 250 such vessels, following a deep dredging project and the installation of Super Post-Panamax gantry cranes. Cruise shipping growth was attributed to expanded business opportunities (adding 3 new cruise companies - Viking Ocean, Seabourn, Victory Cruise Lines), extended homeport seasons and homeporting larger passenger liners.

In early January 2019, MSC signed with Miami-Dade County a letter of intent for expanding the company's PortMiami operations. The project's approval was received on Sept 19, 2019. By this project (completed in November 2023) MSC increased its annual capacity by building two (exclusive) cruise terminals (AA, AAA). The project included design, construction and management of the buildings (pax capacity 7000/28000 daily movements), berths (2 mega-liners), terminal parking garages, administrative offices, storage facilities plus infrastructure. MSC planned to homeport here several ships, including of the WORLD class (fleet's largest).

FY2019 (Sept 2018-Sept 2019) was again record-breaking for both container shipping (+3,4 % increase, to 1,12 million TEUs) and cruise shipping (+22% increase, to 6,824 million passengers). In 2019 were signed terminal development projects with Carnival Corporation, MSC, NCLH-Norwegian, Virgin UK, CMA-CGM (for Terminal Link Miami). The port generated ~USD 7,8 billion (economic impact) and supported ~27,500 South Florida jobs.

In FY2019, the cruise port handled 6,823816 million passengers, providing 27500 jobs and contributing ~USD 7,8 billion to the state's economy.

In February 2021, Miami-Dade County signed a deal with FPL-Florida Power & Light Company (subsidiary of NextEra Energy Inc) and 6 major cruise companies (Carnival Corporation, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, MSC, NCLH-Norwegian, DCL-Disney, Virgin) for funding the Shore Power Pilot Program ( shoreside power capabilities at cruise berths). In May, the program received USD 2 million funding by DERA Program (Diesel Emissions Reduction Act).

In February 2023  was subcontracted PowerCon AS (Hadsund Denmark-based engineering and manufacturing company specializing in electrical power conversions) to deliver 5x shore power systems for cruise vessels. For this particular project was established the subsidiary PoweCon USA. The cruise shore-power facilities are to be installed at four PortMiami cruise terminals - Terminal A (RCI-Royal Caribbean International), Terminal B (NCL-Norwegian and MSC), Terminal F (CCL-Carnival), and Terminal V (Virgin Voyages). When completed (2023-Q4), the combined shore-power system will be the world's largest.

April 9, 2023, was PortMiami's record-breaking day when were handled a total of 67594 tourists visiting on 8 different ships (Carnival Celebration, Carnival Horizon, Explorer of the Seas, MSC Seascape, Norwegian Encore, Oasis of the Seas, Seabourn Ovation, Scarlet Lady).

FY2023 (October 1st, 2022, through September 30th, 2023) became PortMiami's record year for cruise shipping, with handled a total of 7,299294 million passengers (~7% increase over FY2019).

Cruise itineraries to and from Miami Florida

Follows a list of destinations visited by ships leaving out of Miami:

• World Cruises - around the world voyages from Miami are offered in January, as well as shorter itinerary segments part of the main round-trip itinerary.
• South America itineraries from Miami are operated by luxury lines or by budget lines ships on relocation routes to Brazil ( Santos or Rio de Janeiro ) or Argentina ( Buenos Aires ). Round-trip itineraries usually visit ports in the Southern Caribbean, Brazil (often the Amazon River region), then go back to Florida.
• Bahamas itineraries from Miami visit Nassau (New Providence Island) and Freeport (Grand Bahama Island) , often combined with Florida ports (mainly Key West ). Major lines also include exclusive stops at their Bahamian private islands. These are Coco Cay (Royal Caribbean) , Half Moon Cay (Carnival, Holland America) , Princess Cays (Princess) , Castaway Cay (Disney) , Great Stirrup Cay (NCL Norwegian) .
• Short-break (3-day) cruises to Bahamas stop in Nassau. Some 3-day and most 4-day itineraries additionally include a private island stop, while 5-day itineraries add Freeport.
• Short-break (4-day) roundtrips to Mexico stop in Key West and Cozumel .
• 7-day Western Caribbean itineraries visit ports in Honduras, Belize, Mexico, also Grand Cayman Island (George Town) and Jamaica.
• 7-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries visit ports in BVI, USVI, Dutch Antilles, also Puerto Rico, Bahamas (Nassau) and the lines private islands.
• B2B (back-to-back) cruises combine two 7-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries into a 14-day roundtrip itinerary.
• 8-day Southern Caribbean itineraries visit Grand Turk Island , Dominican Republic, Aruba (Oranjestad) , Curacao (Willemstad) .
• Panama Canal transits  between Miami and California ports ( Los Angeles , San Diego , San Francisco ) are offered with one-way itineraries (up to 16 days in length). They include transition through Panama Canal and usually visit ports in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Mexico (Mexican Riviera).

Seasonal ship relocations (RepositionCruises.com) include Panama Canal transits from Florida to Alaska in late Spring. The itineraries end either in California ports or in the turnaround ports for Alaskan roundtrip from Vancouver BC or Seattle WA . The reverse routes (Alaska to Florida) are in early Fall.

Transatlantic crossings from Florida to Europe are offered in Spring. Relocation routes from Miami usually include the Canary Islands and Mediterranean ports, and often Bermuda (stopping at King's Wharf ). The longest relocation itineraries end in Baltic Sea turnaround ports ( Amsterdam , Copenhagen , Hamburg ).

Transatlantic crossings from Europe to Florida usually depart from the UK (Southampton, Dover, Harwich) or Mediterranean (Barcelona, Civitavecchia-Rome, Piraeus-Athens) and often stop in Bermuda (Kings Wharf).

Miami cruise terminal

Port Miami has been the "Cruise Capital of the World" and also "Cargo Gateway of the Americas" for many years. It kept that title for more than two decades and accommodated world's biggest cruise ships of all major passenger shipping companies. PortMiami lost the title in late-2000 to Port Everglades .

The port is situated in Biscayne Bay, Miami, FL on Dodge Island. There the Sam's Islands, the Lummus and the Dodge (famous historic islands) combine in one. The Port of Miami is related to four important projects &ndash: the Panama Canal expansion, the Port of Miami Tunnel, the bridge and rail line restoration and the Port of Miami Deep Dredge Project. The ship schedule offers voyages all the year. The Miami International Airport is 8 mi/13 km away, the Fort Lauderdale International Airport - 25 mi/40 km.

Port Miami has 9 terminals. Located at the Dodge Island north part are terminals B/C, D, E , F, G, on the west is terminal H (V) and on the south – terminal J. The most modern cruise terminals are D and E. They started to operate in 2007 and host mega-liners. The luxury market is operated by cruise terminal J - facility made to look like a boutique. All passenger terminals offer cafes, check-in, shops, bars and cab ranks. Multi-Agency Facility is available at terminals D and E.

Miami cruise terminals B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J

• port address - "1741,1751 Africa Way, Dodge Island, Miami Florida 33132"
• location (on Dodge Island) - 8 mi / 13 km (25-min drive distance) from Miami International Airport, 25 mi / 40 km (45 min drive distance) from Fort Lauderdale International Airport
• Port entrance is via Biscayne Blvd (Port Bridge).
• Terminal address - "zzz Cruise Boulevard, Port of Miami, Miami, FL 33132"
• In the above address replace "zzz" with the corresponding address (by terminal) listed below:
• (new) "Terminal A" (address "1015 North") - here dock Royal Caribbean ships only. Berth length is 1300 ft (396 m).
• Terminal B (address "1751 North") - here dock NCLH-Norwegian ships only
• Terminal C (address "1741 North")
• Terminal D (address "1435 North") - here dock Carnival ships only.
• Terminal E (address "1265 North") - here dock Carnival ships only.
• Terminal F (address "1103 North")
• Terminal G (address "909/1055 North") - here dock Royal Caribbean ships only (berth length 1000 ft / 305 m)
• (west, Bimini Tent) Terminal H (address "897 South") - for Resorts World Bimini (Bimini SuperFast).
• Terminal J (address "1120 Caribbean Way") Terminal J is primarily for docking luxury cruise ships from the fleets of Azamara, Crystal, Oceania, Regent. This terminal underwent a USD 3 million refurbishment which upgraded the furniture, more lounge seating was added, along with new check-in counters.

Terminals D and E are the newest (both open in 2007) and can berth the world's largest cruise ships with capacity up to 5000 passengers. Their buildings are 3-story facilities (sized 105,000 ft2 / 9750 m2. Each terminal has a VIP lounge, separate security screening facility (embarkation), airline counters, conveyor baggage system.

(expanded) MSC Terminal F

In December 2016 started construction works for renovating and expanding "Terminal F" to be able to homeport MSC Seaside in December 2017.

Miami-Dade funded the USD 38 million reconstruction project, which increased the terminal's capacity up to 6000 passengers. MSC Seaside has max capacity of 5179 passengers. Planned terminal enhancements included an expanded waiting area (1500 seats), larger VIP waiting area (exclusive lounge for "MSC Yacht Club" VIP passengers), new "group passengers" dedicated lounge, improved baggage-claim area, 60 ticket counters, also implementing the latest technology for faster passenger embarkation/debarkation process.

The 2-story terminal covers a total area of 3557 m2 (38280 ft2). The new terminal was officially opened/inaugurated on December 7, 2017, MSC Seaside's scheduled dock in PortMiami was on December 21, 2017.

On May 4, 2018, from Barcelona were delivered two large passenger boarding bridges. Tailor-made for "Terminal F’", each bridge is 2-ton and 4-sectioned (telescopic), with length 32 m (105 ft). They serve ships with LOA length over 300 m (984 ft).

(NEW) Carnival Terminal F

In September 2019, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line received approval for major expansion and renovation of "Terminal F". The upgraded (471000-ft2 / 43760-m2 sized) facility can handle the Excel-class vessel Carnival Celebration (homeported since November 2022).

The 2019-signed Carnival-PortMiami agreement included the company's commitment to homeport at Terminal F ships for 20 years, with the option of two additional 7-year lease extensions.

Carnival Terminal F's renovations officially started on January 29, 2021 (with the groundbreaking ceremony) and are scheduled for completion by October 2022. Terminal F's groundbreaking was attended by Christine Duffy (CCL's President) and Daniella Levine Cava (Miami-Dade Mayor), along with construction companies representatives and county commissioners.

Terminal F is PortMiami's 3rd cruise terminal dedicated to Carnival ships as well as currently the largest in North America.

(NEW) MSC Cruise Terminal (AA, AAA)

In July 2018, Miami-Dade County and MSC signed an agreement for extended preferential berthing rights and MoU for building a new "Cruise Terminal AAA" at PortMiami (company's exclusive homeport in the USA).

The new agreement extended the old (Saturdays) preferential berthing rights to Sundays as well.

MSC Terminal AAA (completed in October 2022) has capacity to handle MSC WORLD-Class liners (fleet's ever-largest, with passenger capacity 7000).

The 2018-signed MoU agreement received approval from Miami-Dade's Commissioners on April 9, 2019 and the deal was officially signed on September 19, 2019. MSC designed and started construction works on a large building (to serve its two cruise terminals - AA, AAA) plus two new berths. For the terminal's design was contracted Arquitectonica (global architecture, landscape and interior design company).

PortMiami's MSC terminals AA and AAA can serve 2 turnarounds/homeported ships simultaneously and have max capacity 28000 passengers daily.

On July 8, 2021, MSC and Fincantieri signed a contract for the construction of PortMiami's newest MSC Cruise Terminal. The project (valued ~EUR 350 million/~USD 414M) was signed by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri).

The new MSC Terminal can handle three large vessels simultaneously (max daily passenger capacity 36000) and is fitted with shorepower connectivity .

The 4-story building houses office areas and has multi-level parking (min capacity 2400 vehicles), 4 passenger boarding decks, a new road connection, two new docks (berths with total length 750 m / 2460 ft) plus a 3rd berth (built/financed by Miami-Dade County).

The new facility was designed by Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure. It is adjacent to Royal Caribbean's Terminal A. Construction works started on March 10, 2022, with scheduled completion and inauguration in December 2023.

Starting in 2025, MSC World America will be also homeported at the new terminal.

(NEW) Royal Caribbean Miami Terminal A

In September 2015, the world's second-largest cruise ship company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd/RCCL announced its plans to build a US$100 million terminal at PortMiami.

In June 2016, PortMiami leased 10 acres (0,04 km2) of land to RCCL to build and exclusively operate a dedicated terminal. Here are also homeported two of RCI's largest liners - Allure of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas .

The new "Terminal A" facility is sized 170,000 ft2 (15,800 m2) and is able to handle the world's largest passenger ships of the OASIS-class. According to the MoU (memorandum of understanding) between Royal Caribbean and Miami-Dade County, the Terminal's completion date was July 31, 2018. By the deal, RCCL leased the land and financed the whole project. RCCL was responsible for the Terminal's design and construction of the facilities (including parking garages with combined capacity 1000 vehicles).

The plans for the new Royal Caribbean terminal were approved by Miami's Board of County Commissioners on July 7, 2016. Under the agreement, RCCL fully financed the construction, except US$15M that PortMiami paid for infrastructure/road works.

Annually, Royal Caribbean pays Miami-Dade County US$7,5M in rent.

The project's value was estimated at USD 247 million for PortMiami - after taking into consideration up-front costs and annual rent for current cargo shipping purposes. For comparison, the Port's annual revenues are US$1,2M (from cargo activities) and US$9,5M (from cruise shipping).

Royal Caribbean is leasing the land for an initial 20-year period (until 2048) at base rent US$9,5 million per year (annual increase 1,5%). In addition to the base rent, Miami-Dade County receives US$5,50 per cruise passenger in excess of 1,55 million pax.

The new terminal building (nicknamed 'Crown of Miami') serves exclusively RCCL/RCG-Royal Caribbean Group-owned ships.

As of 2016, PortMiami handled ~750,000 Royal Caribbean passengers (per year) or ~15% of the Port's entire cruise traffic. The new terminal generates at least 1,8 million cruisers (or ~30% of the projected traffic) with estimated economic impact ~USD 0,5 billion. The facility generated ~4000 new local jobs.

Construction works started on March 8, 2017. RCCL later added to the project another building (named "Innovation Lab") that serves as the corporation's headquarters. Innovation Lab is sized 1860 m2 (20,000 ft2) and also hosts the company's ship design studio.

"Terminal A" was officially inaugurated on November 2, 2018. The opening ceremony was attended by Richard Fain (RCCL's CEO), Michael Bayley (RCI's CEO), Carlos Gimenez (Miami City Mayor), and Rebecca Sosa (Port Commissioner).

Until 2018, RCI represented annual capacity 0,8 million passengers (~15% of the Port's overall traffic). With the new terminal, this capacity was expected to increase to ~2 million.

(NEW) NCL-Norwegian Cruise Terminal B

On May 2, 2017, was announced that Miami-Dade County commissioners approved the agreement with NCLH/Norwegian Cruise Line Holding for a new terminal at PortMiami.

The facility has berthing capacity of two vessels (simultaneously), having 2 berths for large-sized vessels (up to 5000 passengers each). The facility was inaugurated in February 2020, with the arrival of Norwegian Encore (homeported here for winter 2019-2020 season).

NCL terminal's construction officially started on April 26, 2018 (ground-breaking ceremony). The project was officially approved on April 10th, and works started on May 1st, with planned completion in Fall 2019.

The new Terminal B's cost was estimated at ~USD 100 million. The facility incorporates PortMiami's existing terminals B and C into a single/new "Terminal B". 

Miami-Dade shares the county's parking and marketing revenues. The expected numbers for fiscal 2018 were ~US$180,000 (parking) and US$210,000 (marketing).

NCLH's new terminal was expected to generate ~US$24 million in gross revenue (starting FY2018), with an estimated increase of 3% each year. By the April 2018-signed agreement, NCLH guarantees Miami-Dade a minimum of 1,3 million passengers annually. The deal created ~160 new full-time jobs.

By the agreement, NCLH received preferential berthing rights at the new Terminal B. This means priority docking of vessels from the fleets of NCL , Oceania  and RSSC-Regent . The required minimum number of ship calls (per fiscal year) is 45, which is 15 more than the previous agreement.

The building's design is inspired by nautilus (marine mollusks of the cephalopod family Nautilidae). It features a spiraled, multi-level facade and open-floor interior.

The building is sized approx 166,500 ft2 (15,500 m2) and implements all modern technologies that support faster and more efficient passenger processing, as well as expedited security screening and luggage check-in.

The new Terminal B has a dedicated waiting hall, separate bar lounge, service area, new parking garage, valet parking area (accessing the building directly).

(NEW) Virgin Voyages "Terminal V"

On November 28, 2018, Richard Branson (Virgin Group's Founder) and Tom McAlpin ( Virgin Voyages ' President and CEO) officially announced the plans for a new/exclusive cruise terminal in PortMiami.

"Virgin Voyages Terminal" is a 3-story building (sized 100,000 ft2 / 9300 m2) located on PortMiami's northwestern side (address "718 N Cruise Blvd"). Approval for the project was given on September 20, 2019, with a subsequent berthing agreement deal.

Construction works started in October 2019, with scheduled completion in November 2021. The USD 150 million (~EUR 137 million) facility was officially renamed from "Terminal H" to "Terminal V". Virgin Voyages has brand's name on a for-profit train connecting Miami with West Palm Beach (via Aventura and Boca Raton). Virgin's cruise operations from PortMiami were planned to start in April 2020 with Scarlet Lady .

In late-October 2019 was approved the agreement for Brightline Miami to be rebranded "Virgin Trains" and Virgin Group to build a train station (Virgin Trains PortMiami) at the cruise port. The new station serves high-speed trains and connects PortMiami directly with the USA's intercity railway system and Orlando International Airport. Construction works on Virgin Trains PortMiami are scheduled for completion in 2022.

PortMiami's "Terminal V" was officially opened/inaugurated on February 13, 2022. The ceremony was attended by Richard Branson, Tom McAlpin and Daniella Levine Cava (Miami-Dade County Mayor).

Cruise ship terminal directions and parking

• From North - take I-95 South, drive eastbound I-395 (Miami Beach). Continue driving on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway). The entrance of Port Miami Tunnel (Road 887) is on the left. Follow the signs to your Cruise Terminal.
• From North (via Downtown Miami / Port Bridge) - take I-95 South. Exit 3B-Bayside. Drive south to Northeast 5th Street, turn left. 5th Str leads onto PortMiami Bridge. Continue over the bridge and follow the signs to your terminal.
• From South - take SR-826 North to SR-836 East. Drive eastbound on SR-836 to I-395 East (Miami Beach). Continue driving on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway). The entrance of Port Miami Tunnel is on the left. Follow the signs to your Cruise Terminal. You can also take I-95 North and drive eastbound I-395 (Miami Beach).
• From South (via Downtown Miami / Port Bridge) - take I-95 North. Exit at Northwest 2nd Street. Drive straight to NW 5th Street, make a right. 5th Str leads onto PortMiami Bridge. Continue over the bridge and follow the signs to your terminal.
• From Miami Beach - take I-395 (MacArthur Causeway), drive westbound, exit on Biscayne Blvd ramp and make U-turn on North Bayshore Drive to enter MacArthur Causeway eastbound. Then continue on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway).
• Parking rates (subject to change) - USD 20.00 per day. All parking lots are outdoor and located in front their corresponding terminals. Special arrangements are offered for cruise passengers with disabilities.

Miami port, besides its 9 cruise terminals also has facilities to handle cargo ships (bulk carriers and container vessels) and dry dock facilities for marine vessel refurbishments and repairs.

• UN-LOCODE (United Nations location code) - USMIA
• eight dedicated cruise terminals
• supported by excellent road, rail and air infrastructure
• deep water channel - North Ship Channel has 2 turning basins - west (Fisher Island) and east (Main).
• deep water berths
• sheltered harbor area
• access unrestricted by tides
• no restrictions on length and GT tonnage of cruise ships
• The cruise port is accessible the whole year round – 24/7, 365 days a tear.
• Cruise ships usually arrive in Miami in early morning (7 or 8 am) and depart from Miami in late afternoon (at 4, 4:30 or 5 pm) and in the evenings (at 7 pm).

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Celebrity Beyond

Launched in April 2022, Celebrity Beyond is the third ship in the cruise line's Edge Series, capable of holding up to 3,260 passengers and 1,400 crew members. On board, guests have their pick of 32 food and beverage venues serving everything from Greek to French to Italian cuisine; there are also several cocktail bars and lounges where guests can grab a drink.

One of the highlights of Celebrity Beyond is its 4,500-piece art collection, which includes works by travel photographers and international artists. There is also no shortage of unique entertainment options; these range from acrobatic shows to juggling mixologist performances. To enjoy stunning water views, enjoy Celebrity's "Magic Carpet," a large platform that hangs off the edge of the ship and moves from deck to deck.

Staterooms offer amenities like plush bathrobes, comfortable Cashmere mattresses and flat-screen TVs; many also come with private verandas. For a one-of-a-kind experience, splurge on a room in The Retreat. This resort-within-a-resort features villas and suites with added luxuries like plunge pools, hot tubs and butlers. Plus, guests of The Retreat have exclusive access to a private sundeck, restaurant and lounge, along with an onboard credit that can be used however you see fit.

Celebrity Beyond sails to a variety of popular Mediterranean and Caribbean destinations, including the French Riviera, Italy, Mexico and more. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Celebrity Beyond, if you're lucky, your drink might be poured by Captain Kate McCue herself during the nightly flair bartender show at the Grand Plaza Martini Bar. Make sure to follow her behind-the-scenes adventures on Instagram. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Seven Seas Splendor

Debuted in September 2021, the 746-passenger, 548-crew member Seven Seas Splendor is the newest ship within the Regent fleet. Seven Seas Splendor – along with most of the line's other ships – takes opulence to the next level by equipping each suite with its own private balcony. Other standard in-room amenities include interactive flat-screen TVs, luxurious bath products, bathrobes and slippers, signature queen-size beds and dining tables for two. There are 10 suite categories available, ranging from the smallest Veranda (307 square feet) and Deluxe Veranda suites (308 to 361 square feet) to the largest Regent (4,443 square feet) and Master suites (1,895 to 2,108 square feet). 

Guests have a wide array of things to do while on board. Spend your days relaxing at the spa, playing paddle tennis or bocce ball, working up a sweat on the jogging track or taking a dip in the ship's two whirlpools and two pools, one of which is an infinity-edge pool that stretches along the edge of the ship, providing swimmers with exceptional views of the ocean. At night, enjoy one of five shows at the onboard theater. 

When it comes to food, Seven Seas Splendor offers eight eateries ranging from casual to fine dining. Enjoy your breakfast alfresco at La Veranda and grub down for lunch at the Pool Grill buffet. For something more formal, opt for a French-inspired meal at Chartreuse, Pan-Asian dishes at Pacific Rim or Compass Rose, the largest restaurant on the ship.

Seven Seas Splendor visits a variety of European and Mediterranean destinations, as well as ports across Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and South America.

Resilient Lady

An adults-only, LGBTQ-friendly cruise ship, Resilient Lady has a capacity of 2,770 passengers and 1,150 crew members. Since setting sail in May 2023, Virgin Voyages' third ship has received praise among travelers for its exceptional dining scene and exciting entertainment options. With onboard experiences ranging from acrobatic performances to comedy shows to themed parties, Resilient Lady is best for travelers who are seeking an upbeat and social atmosphere.  

When you've worked up an appetite from your activity-filled day, grab a bite at one of the ship's 20-plus eateries, which serve everything from Mexican to Asian to Italian fare. Although all food is included, reservations are still required at many restaurants. There is also no shortage of bars to choose from, whether you want to sample The Loose Cannon's signature cocktails or sip some bubbly in the Champagne lounge.

Standard Insider rooms range from 105 to 177 square feet. All accommodations come equipped with comforts like flat-screen TVs, rain showers, mood lighting and convertible Seabeds. For more room, opt for one of the ship's RockStar Quarters. These upgraded suites feature extras like a terrace with a hammock, European king-size mattresses and spacious marble bathrooms.

Resilient Lady sails to a variety of destinations in Europe and the South Pacific, including top destinations such as Athens, Greece ; Sydney ; and Dubrovnik, Croatia .

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The Wake boasts the most ambiance of all eateries on Virgin Voyages vessels by far, so make sure to lock in reservations when you can. This upscale restaurant offers prime entrees with plenty of upgrade options for those who want to splurge. This establishment also features huge windows that provide incredible views of the ocean from the back of the ship. –  Holly Johnson, Contributor

Debuted in May 2023, Oceania Cruises' first new ship in more than a decade can hold up to 1,200 passengers and 800 crew members. Vista is the inaugural ship in Oceania's Allura Class, featuring top-of-the-line amenities like a culinary center, an artist loft and an extensive library, along with facilities like a pool, a casino, a spa and a fitness center. Additionally, Vista offers enrichment opportunities like destination-focused seminars led by guest speakers and dynamic musical performances.

One of the highlights of Oceania Vista is its wide array of dining venues, from specialty restaurants like Ember (American fare) and Toscana (Italian cuisine) to the poolside Waves Grill and daily afternoon tea service. In the evening, guests can grab a drink at their choice of several bars and lounges; Vista's immersive mixology program utilizes innovative techniques and trends to create an elevated cocktail experience.

Vista's well-appointed staterooms – which range from 240 to 2,400 square feet – boast balconies, queen-size beds, rainforest showers, flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service, among other amenities. If you splurge for a suite, you'll enjoy added benefits like iPads, cashmere blankets, complimentary laundry and shoeshine services, access to the Executive Lounge and butler service.

Oceania Vista explores an array of popular destinations in the U.S., the Caribbean, Mexico, the Mediterranean and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The design of the Vista creates more expansive and contemporary public areas than other ships in Oceania's fleet, so even when the ship is at full capacity, it never feels crowded. Also, since it is an all-veranda ship, all guests have the same great ocean view. – Julie L. Kessler, Contributor

Symphony of the Seas

The 6,680-passenger, 2,200-crew-member Symphony of the Seas set sail in 2018 and features 18 decks packed with activities.

For heart-pounding fun, travelers will find a surf simulator, an indoor ice skating rink, two 40-foot rock walls, a zip line and a 10-story slide. Meanwhile, relaxation seekers can unwind in the spa, sip cocktails made by robotic bartenders or stroll through the Central Park -inspired neighborhood.

Onboard snacks and meals are served at 20 quick-service and sit-down eateries. The Main Dining Room is where the ship's traditional, complimentary dinners are provided nightly, but specialty options like a steakhouse, a bistro and a Johnny Rockets outpost are also available. What's more, cruisers can dine at Jamie's Italian, a restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

After filling up on gourmet fare, passengers can retreat to their cabins, all of which include work desks, flat-screen TVs and minibars. Guests can choose from 149-square-foot Interior Staterooms, some of which have virtual balconies with real-time views of the ocean, or opt for upgraded cabins with furnished balconies and up to 1,524 square feet of space. Select suites also feature two bedrooms, whirlpool tubs and dining rooms.

Symphony of the Seas departs from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Rome and Barcelona for sailings throughout the Caribbean and Europe.

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re on one of the 19 Royal Caribbean ships that have a FlowRider, like Symphony of the Seas (which has two!), reserve a private lesson with a pro. For a small fee, you'll save yourself some embarrassment and get more ride time. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Scarlet Lady

The first ship within the Virgin Voyages fleet, the adults-only Scarlet Lady welcomes more than 2,770 passengers and 1,160 crew members. Debuted in October 2021, the Scarlet Lady boasts a collection of unique amenities not often found on cruise ships, including a tattoo studio, a record shop and a blow-dry bar. And instead of a buffet or a dining hall, the Scarlet Lady offers a collection of more than 20 specialty restaurants, all covered by the cruise fare. Standouts include Extra Virgin, a traditional Italian restaurant serving handmade pasta, and Gunbae, a Korean barbecue eatery.

The Scarlet Lady also deviates from cruise industry tradition when it comes to onboard entertainment. Instead of Broadway classics, cruisers will be treated to six original shows, along with "micro plays" that are performed throughout the ship.

Cabin sizes range from 105 to 177 square feet for the Insider rooms to nearly 2,150 square feet for the RockStar Quarters suites. The latter are outfitted with marble bathrooms and serviced by RockStar Agents who are available to assist guests 24/7. All accommodations feature mood lighting, minibars, free Wi-Fi and adjustable Seabeds, which allow travelers to transform their beds into couches when they want to entertain.

The Scarlet Lady sails to destinations in the Caribbean, like the Bahamas , from Miami .

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Use the app to book dinner reservations as far out from your sailing as you can, or 45 days out for most sailors. If you wait until closer to time or until you're on board, you will likely find that the most popular restaurants and dining times are all booked up. –  Holly Johnson, Contributor

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas, which embarked on its maiden voyage in March 2022, holds 7,084 passengers and 2,204 crew members. The ship measures 1,188 feet long and 215 feet wide, and it weighs 235,600 gross tons. It surpasses its sister ship, Symphony of the Seas , as one of the largest cruise ships in the world.  

Guests can enjoy plenty of thrill activities on board, such as the Ultimate Abyss – a 10-story dark tunnel slide – or the 40-foot-long FlowRider surf stimulator. The ship also offers a fitness center, shopping venues, rock climbing, a carousel and clubs for kids and teens. When it's time to dine, cruisers have the option of 21 dining venues ranging from Italian fare to Southern cuisine. Travelers can also indulge in a few cocktails at 14 bars and lounges.

Accommodations include Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite staterooms. If you're looking for something more spacious, check out the ship's all-new Suite Neighborhood. Located on the upper decks, these suites offer guests ample private quarters to recharge during the cruise. Amenities included in the exclusive suites include priority boarding, a members-only dining facility and a dedicated check-in line. For families, the new neighborhood may be of particular interest because it features the Ultimate Family Suite. The family suite offers two floors of space with stunning ocean views, in-suite movies and video games and a kids slide between the floors.  

Wonder of the Seas sails from Orlando , Florida, to ports in the Caribbean.

Allure of the Seas

The 6,826-passenger Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. There are a whopping 2,054 crew members on board to cater to passengers' needs. Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. The ship underwent a $165 million refurbishment in 2020, which added approximately 50 new staterooms, the Ultimate Abyss (the tallest slide at sea), redesigned kids and teens spaces, new dining venues and more.

Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 19 dining options – and a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

Allure of the Seas departs from Miami, Orlando, Florida, and Galveston , Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean.

Seabourn Quest

Seabourn Quest, which launched in June 2011, is one of the smallest ships in Seabourn's fleet. It can fit up to 458 passengers and about one crew member for every cruiser. It is virtually identical to the Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Odyssey .

Seabourn Quest differs from the line's newer ships in terms of accommodations, as it offers some Ocean View Suites with porthole windows instead of verandas. However, all cabins still come equipped with amenities like flat-screen TVs, designer toiletries, personalized stationery, Egyptian cotton linens and in-suite bars stocked with your preferred refreshments.

Outside your suite, you can enjoy a range of pursuits, such as spa and salon treatments, free fitness classes, a nine-hole putting green and two swimming pools. Additionally, Seabourn Quest offers complimentary water sports equipment rentals at its Watersports Marina in select destinations.

Once you've worked up an appetite, sit for a meal at one of the ship's four restaurants, including the main dining room and The Grill, a steakhouse helmed by Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller. And for evening entertainment, you'll have access to a variety of bars, plus a casino, a dance club and the Grand Salon, where cabaret performances, comedy shows and more are hosted nightly.

Quest sails to and from destinations around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip: The aft pool on Deck 5 is a hidden gem, often overlooked by most passengers who tend to gather at the main pool. – Dana Freeman, Contributor

Seven Seas Navigator

Carrying only 496 passengers, Seven Seas Navigator offers guests an intimate setting, with all-suite accommodations outfitted with marble bathrooms, private balconies and free Wi-Fi throughout the voyage.

Thanks to a major refurbishment in 2019 (the ship originally launched in 1999), the ship features updated staterooms and refreshed public spaces and restaurants. Passengers can choose from six dining venues, including a specialty steakhouse and the causal Pool Grill.

During days at sea, guests can unwind at the expansive pool deck, play card games or mingle with fellow shipmates at the Pool Bar. In the evenings, cruisers can sip cocktails at one of three onboard lounges or take in a live show.

Like other ships in the fleet, Seven Seas Navigator prides itself on providing a high-caliber service and maintains a nearly 1-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio, with 365 crew members. Guests praise the "Regent Experience," which includes specialty dining and shore excursions in the cruise fare.

Seven Seas Navigator offers a variety of sailings throughout Miami , the Caribbean, South America, Australia, Europe and more.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Cruises From Miami, Florida

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Miami Florida Port Guide

With its beautiful beaches, pulsating nightlife, and culture-filled neighborhoods, Miami is one of the most popular destinations in the United States. Visitors from all over the world flock here to enjoy its Art Deco buildings and romantic palm tree-lined streets filled with fantastic restaurants before embarking on cruises from Miami.

Known as the cruise capital of the world, Miami’s convenient location and year-round beach weather make it the perfect jumping-off point for a tropical vacation. Whether it’s a short cruise to the Bahamas or a longer sailing around the islands of the Caribbean, Miami is an exciting departure port for an unforgettable cruise.

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Top Destinations on Cruises from Miami

Tropical bliss awaits in the Bahamas, where you’ll spend a day lounging on powdery white sand and dipping in warm turquoise waters. Sample some of the best rum in the world, feast on the freshest of seafood, or go snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea, where you’ll see colorful schools of fish and sea turtles.

In Nassau, relax under a palm tree at Cable Beach, or spend a fun-filled family day at the Atlantis Resort, where you’ll find water slides, lazy rivers, and a stunning aquarium filled with exotic underwater species.

Discover ancient ruins and pristine beaches on cruises from Miami to Costa Maya and Cozumel. See Costa Maya’s natural wonders, like the Seven Colors Lagoon and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. On the island of Cozumel, melt your worries away at heavenly beaches like El Cielo and Playa Palancar. Swim with dolphins, or head to the mainland to explore the fascinating ruins of Chichen Itza.

Key West, Florida

Embrace the kitsch of Key West, a quirky coastal town in Florida with a fun, laidback attitude and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Paddle around its mangroves on a kayak, dive into its coral reefs rich with marine life, and finish off your day in the sun with a refreshing slice of the city’s famous key lime pie.

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Walk around Puerto Plata’s bustling Malecón boardwalk, which is full of restaurants, bars, and friendly street vendors. Take pictures in front of colorful colonial buildings located in the town’s historic districts. Ride a cable car—the only one in all of the Dominican Republic—up to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres and enjoy unrivaled views of this charming port city.

Our Ships Sailing Out of Miami

Why sail from miami with celebrity cruises®.

Cruise to the Caribbean aboard Celebrity Silhouette or Celebrity Summit, luxurious ships where you’ll enjoy impeccable service and endless entertainment. Savor world-class cuisine in our onboard restaurants, enjoy exhilarating performances at our state-of-the-art theater, and rest and recharge at The Spa.  Spend your days lounging under the sun, snorkeling in crystal-clear water teeming with fish, and exploring historic architecture and forts. After a busy day in port, unwind in luxuriously appointed accommodations or visit one of the exciting bars or lounges onboard, where you can dance the night away. During a Miami cruise aboard Celebrity Silhouette or Celebrity Summit, you won’t have to lift a finger—just sit back and enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

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Miami port facilities and location.

The state-of-the-art terminal at the Port of Miami is designed to quickly move people through check-in and onto the ship. The port is located less than 10 miles from Miami International Airport. Taxi services, rideshares, shuttles, and limousine services are available to take you to the cruise port. If you’re driving to the Miami cruise terminal, long-term parking is available. You’ll also find taxis waiting outside each terminal as well as car rental agencies. To get between the port and the main attractions of Miami, such as South Beach, you’ll need to arrange transportation or take a local bus. To make it easy for you, you can book shore excursions the day you disembark from your cruise that take you from the port to some of Miami’s top sites, like the Everglades National Park and the Art Deco District, and then to the airport.

Train to Port on Brightline

Why stress about traffic and parking? With Brightline’s convenient train service, you’ll arrive at the cruise port relaxed and ready for your adventure. It’s the smoothest way to transition from city to sea. Brightline is far from your ordinary train ride. Enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, a variety of food and beverage options, and friendly service. All designed to make your trip as pleasurable as your cruise.

Opt for Brightline+ services, designed to take you from train to cruise ship—or vice versa—with zero hassle. Secure your transit arrangements in advance and set the stage for a relaxed, carefree voyage from the moment you step aboard our train.

And for our PREMIUM guests, relish in the added luxury of a complimentary Private Ride powered by Uber within a 5-mile radius of any South Florida Brightline station, making your entire vacation smooth sailing.

Top Sights & Attractions for Cruises From Miami

Art deco historic district.

To see some of the finest Art Deco architecture in the city, head to the Art Deco District in South Beach, which was constructed in the 1930s. It features over 800 buildings of different designs with creative geometric motifs, making it the largest grouping of Art Deco architecture in the world. These historically significant buildings are the perfect backdrop for your Instagram feed.

South Beach Nightlife

To truly experience the culture of Miami, you should explore the city at night. Many of Miami’s most popular nightclubs are in South Beach, located on the tip of Miami Beach. The white-sand coastline provides a gorgeous setting for the hip clubs, restaurants, and hotels that have made Miami one of the hottest nightclub areas in the world. 

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

If you’re a beach lover, head to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. It’s located on Key Biscayne and has some of America’s most beautiful beaches, along with hiking trails that lead to views of Miami’s downtown skyline. A big draw for travelers to the park is the historic lighthouse, where you can take a tour with a guide on select days of the week.

Little Havana

Little Havana is the epicenter of Cuban culture in Miami. A walk down Calle Ocho will give you a good taste of all that Little Havana has to offer, from cuisine to bars and souvenirs. Visit El Credito Cigar Factory, where you can see how they roll cigars in Cuba. If you really want to experience the Latin culture in Little Havana, time your cruise from Miami so you can be in Miami before or after your sailing on the last Friday of the month. On this day each month, a street party is held in Little Havana called Viernes Cultural that features an array of music performers, dancers, Cuban cuisine, and theater performances.

Learn More About Miami Shore Excursions

Top things to do in miami, explore everglades national park.

Miami is located close to Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best way to fully comprehend the rich nature and wildlife of the Everglades is to take an airboat tour with a knowledgeable guide who will tell you about the history of the Everglades and point out its most popular feature: the many alligators that call it home. When the guide starts telling you about some of the stories surrounding these prehistoric looking creatures, we won’t blame you if you scoot a little bit farther from the edge of the boat.

Walk Around Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Due to its wet, humid climate, gardens in Miami are able to prosper into lush, beautiful landscapes. One of the highlights of the Miami garden scene is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, where you’ll find an Italian-style mansion surrounded by manicured gardens adorned with lovely sculptures and a view of sparkling Biscayne Bay. 

See Animals at Zoo Miami

A popular attraction in Miami for families is Zoo Miami, where you can see over 3,000 animal species. Kids have a chance to feed giraffes, rhinos, and camels, as well as play in the splash pads. Rent a Safari Cycle to navigate the expansive grounds of the zoo.

Pretend You’re Under the Sea at Miami Seaquarium

Miami Seaquarium is another fun outing in Miami that is centered around animals, only here you’ll see ocean mammals. The Seaquarium features a variety of species, including bottlenose dolphins, crocodiles, and sea lions. Children will love the fact that there’s an onsite play structure (the Salty’s Pirate Playground) and a touch pool where they can feel the silky skin of stingrays. Visitors of all ages will be wowed by the Sea Trek Reef Encounter, an underwater walking path through the aquarium. 

What should I eat in Miami?

Miami’s food scene is a fusion of international flavors, but you’ll find a particular Latin flair going through many of the dishes. While in Miami, there are some dishes that stand out from the rest, and five you should try are:

Arepas: This popular South American food item is also popular in Miami. It infuses cheese into a flattened, folded pastry, which is then cooked until the dough turns golden.

Ceviche: With the close proximity to the sea, you can find a variety of ceviche in Miami, which typically mixes cold seafood with any number of ingredients from fruit to salsa.

Chicharrones: If you’re a meat-lover, you can’t miss trying chicharrones in Miami, which are pork skins that are deep-fried and have a salty aftertaste.

Florida Stone Crab: If you’re visiting between October and March, try the local seafood delicacy of stone crab, served chilled on ice. The meat of the stone crab claw is known for its tenderness and hint of sweetness.

Cuban Sandwich: This iconic Miami dish is a sandwich made with Cuban bread. In between the slices of bread, you’ll find a pile of delicious ingredients like roasted pork, baked ham, gooey Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and yellow mustard.

When it comes to drinks, you’ll likely be able to find your favorite libation at one of the many bars and nightclubs lining the streets of Miami Beach. However, if you want to try a local specialty, look for a mojito or a Miami Vice.

What is the culture and history of Miami?

The culture of Miami has been largely influenced by the influx of immigrants to the city over the past 80 years, giving it an intriguing multicultural scene that extends to the arts, music, beach, and nightlife. You can find Latin flair throughout the city before departing on one of our cruises from Miami, along with a distinctly Caribbean vibe, especially when you’re in the Little Havana and Little Haiti areas of the city. Beach bars intermingle with nightclubs, and the laidback lifestyle mixed with the ritzy nightclubs that attract the rich and famous from all around the world create an interesting dichotomy.

Where can I go shopping near the Miami cruise port?

It’s not hard to find places to shop in Miami, but if there’s a particular type of shop you’re after, certain areas of the city are best. The Design District of Miami is known for its art galleries and high-end boutiques.

For clothing, you’ll find designer boutiques at Bal Harbor, and more clothing stores along Collins Avenue or Lincoln Road in Miami Beach. You’ll also find some shopping with an international flair in Little Havana or along historic Española Way in Miami Beach. 

For jewelry and local crafts plus more fashion and trinkets, the Miami Fair Trade Marketplace is a great place to shop both for the variety and because you can be assured that souvenirs were made in fair and safe working conditions.

For a fun shopping mall experience with a quintessential Miami vibe, head to Bayside Marketplace. This mall has open-air walkways leading to over 100 shops. At this mall, you’ll also find restaurants and bars, street performers and live music, and even a launchpad for boat tours along the Miami coastline.

Bargain shoppers who love a great deal on luxury finds will enjoy a day of shopping at Dolphin Mall, which is an outlet mall located close to Miami International Airport.

How can I get around Miami?

Public Transport

You have four main options for public transportation in Miami: the Metrobus, the Metrorail, the Metromover, and the trolley. The Metrobus is a bus system that runs all around the Greater Miami area, and the Metrorail runs from the north to the south end of Miami with stops in downtown.

The free Metromover covers downtown Miami and Brickell. It is a fully automated shuttle that runs on electricity. The Metromover also connects with the Metrorail and Metrobus at downtown stations. For traveling around Miami and Miami Beach, trolleys offer free services with many routes available.

For private transportation, taxis and rideshares are popular ways to get around Miami. Make sure you’re hailing a licensed taxi, which should have written that it’s a taxi cab on the side of the car and display the license for the driver and the taxi’s rate card inside the vehicle.

Miami International Airport (MIA)

If you’re embarking on one of our cruises from Miami and you don’t live within driving distance to the port, there’s a good chance you’re flying into Miami International Airport (MIA). Upon landing, you can get local information at the airport, where you’ll also find a bank, post office, pharmacy, baggage storage, ATM, and car rental companies.

If you’re flying in the night before your cruise (which we recommend to accommodate for possible flight delays), check with your hotel if they offer a shuttle from the airport. Otherwise, you have plenty of other options, including a 24-hour Super Shuttle van service, taxis, and buses. If you’re going straight to the cruise port from MIA, you can take a taxi to the cruise terminal or take the cruise shuttle bus that you can purchase tickets for through Celebrity Cruises.

What are the local currency and tipping customs?

The currency accepted in Miami is the U.S. dollar, and you’ll be able to find ATMs dispensing U.S. dollars all over the city. Tipping is very common and expected in Miami, especially in restaurants, bars, and taxis. A common tip for restaurants, taxis, and most other services is 15% to 20% of the total amount.

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• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
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• Spring Break Cruise Deals
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• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
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Port of Miami Cruise Guide: Everything About Sailing From Miami

When it comes to cruising, there’s simply no bigger — or busier — port than the Port of Miami. Also known as PortMiami, the cruise side of the port handles about 6 million passengers in a typical year, making it the most popular starting point for cruises on the entire planet.

By our count, the Port of Miami has eight active terminals with more on the way (including the current or soon-to-be “flagship” terminals of several major cruise lines), services over 1,200 sailings in the typical year, and offers a year-round warm weather locale to start (and end) your cruise.

With so much going on at the port, you might have questions about cruising from the city. For instance, how do you get to the port? Where do you park? What sort of tips and advice is there to make embarkation smoother?

We’ve dug into the all the details of cruising from PortMiami below. It will give you everything you need to know before you set sail.

In This Article...

• Distance from Miami Airport: 10 miles
• Number of Terminals: 8 (AA/AAA under construction and F being renovated)
• Passengers Carried Each Year: ~6 million
• Cruise Ship Dockings Each Year: 1,200+

Port of Miami Location

The Miami cruise port sits in a perfect location, on Dodge Island just over the causeway from downtown Miami. About three miles from the open waters of the Atlantic, the port is protected from the ocean yet still close enough to make it a short time to get out to sea.

The port is also near the Miami airport, which is roughly 10 miles away. The ride over will take 15-25 minutes by car.

If you are driving to the port, the address is:

1015 North America Way Miami, Florida 33132

The entire South Florida area is a hotspot for tourism, so you might be coming from anywhere in the area. In that case, here is the distance and expected drive time from a number of popular spots:

• Miami Airport: 10 miles | 15-25 minutes
• Fort Lauderdale Airport: 30 miles | 40-60 minutes
• Hollywood: 20 miles | 25-45 minutes
• South Beach: 6 miles | 10-15 minutes
• Doral: 15 miles | 30-40 minutes
• Brickell: 3 miles | 10 minutes
• Downtown Miami: 2 miles | 5-10 minutes

Things to Do Near the Port of Miami

As we said, downtown is near the port, meaning there are a number of interesting things to do and see right nearby.

FTX Arena Home of the Miami Heat, along with a number of special events, FTX Arena is right at the foot of the bridge that crosses to the cruise port. If you’re staying in the area before or after your cruise, check out the schedule to see if there is a concert or sporting event to give you something to do without going far.

Frost Science Museum A great place to visit with kids, the Frost Science Museum is just a couple of blocks from the cruise port. The museum offers a lot of science-focused exhibits, along with aquariums and a planetarium. Head up to the roof to get a dramatic sweeping view of the entire port area in the thoughtfully-designed open-air wildlife exhibit.

Freedom Tower The Freedom Tower is perhaps Miami’s most famous building. Originally built in the 1920s, the tower looks small and a bit out of place next to the towering modern skyscrapers nearby. Still, there is a lot of history here as it served as a processing center for Cuban refugees following the Communist revolution. Today it houses an art museum and is a gem in the history of Miami.

Cruise Terminals at the Port

As you would expect given the number of cruises that leave Miami, it has the capacity to dock a number of cruise ships as once. In fact, with a total of eight terminals (with several more on the way), more than a half-dozen ships can be berthed at any given time. Below we’ve listed current terminal and those under construction or soon to be built.

Terminal A Currently one of the crown jewels of the Port of Miami, Terminal A is exclusive to Royal Caribbean and is a monument to the cruise line. Featuring a modern styled look, Terminal A is at the far east end of the port, and is large enough to handle Royal Caribbean’s biggest ships, which are the largest in the world.

Terminal AA/AAA  Slated for completion in 2023/24 at a cost of $300 million, this terminal complex (pronounced “Double A” and “Triple A”) will be home to MSC and act as a flagship terminal at the port, with the ability to dock two ships at once. It is planned at the far east end of the terminal complex, making them the last terminals as you make your way out of the main channel to the open ocean.

Terminal B Terminal B (pictured above) is home to a Norwegian Cruise Lines. Featuring a large rounded façade that’s reminiscent of an ocean wave and a spectacular piece of modern architecture, the terminal — known as “The Pearl of Miami” — acts as the flagship home for one of the world’s largest cruise lines. 

Terminal C An older terminal that often served Norwegian Cruise Lines before that cruise line moved next door, Terminal C still gets use from cruise lines like Disney and MSC. From here you can get a great view of all of the Miami area, looking out east to South Beach or west to downtown.

Terminals D & E Often serving Carnival ships, Terminals D & E are where you will likely go if you are sailing the world’s largest cruise line. Terminal D in particular is bright, open and airy, making check-in a breeze.

Terminal G Terminal G sits at the far west end of the cruise port. It’s literally across the street from Garage G, making it extremely easy to park and get to your ship in just a couple of minutes. The terminal currently sees use from Royal Caribbean on weekend trips when the cruise line has multiple ships in port.

Terminal F Terminal F is undergoing a nearly $200 million renovation (which is likely to be completed by the time you read this) to become the new home to Carnival’s Excel class ships, like Carnival Celebration. It marks the third terminal dedicated to Carnival, with plans to keep ships there for at least 20 years.  

Terminal J Sailing on a cruise line with smaller ships, like Regent Seven Seas or Oceania? There’s a good chance you’ll sail from Terminal J. The cruise terminal is on the southern side of the island, opposite of the rest of the cruise port traffic. Its location with no other ships around make getting to your cruise a bit less hectic than some of the busier terminals.

Terminal V Notice that all the terminals go in alphabetical order, until you reach Terminal V? That’s because this is home to Virgin Voyages. The new terminal sits on the west end of Dodge Island, serving the adults-only cruise line.

Hotels in the Miami Port Area

When you cruise, it’s usually a good idea to arrive to the port city the day before your trip. Not only are there lots of things to do in the Miami area, but it also give you plenty of time should you run into a delay getting to the port. You don’t have to stress about missing the ship due to a flat tire or delayed flight on cruise day.

Of course, there are a number of hotels near the Miami cruise port. Hotels closest to the port usually offer higher-end accommodations due to being near trendy downtown and also usually have nicer atmosphere. You can also try staying in South Beach, with its famous art-deco hotels. It’s only about 10-15 minutes from the port and offers lots to see and do before a cruise.

If you’re not picky, however, you can save some cash by staying at hotels nearer the airport or elsewhere around the city. These hotels don’t have the “flash” of a swanky downtown Miami or South Beach hotel, but offer a comfortable place to stay for cheaper.

Below, we’ve listed just a few hotel options (there are hundreds — if not thousands in the Miami area).

Hotels Near the Cruise Port:

• Hampton Inn & Suites Miami/Brickell-Downtown
• DoubleTree Biscayne Bay

Hotels Near the Airport (Usually Less Expensive):

• Comfort Suites Miami Airport
• Hampton Inn Miami Airport South/Blue Lagoon
• Hyatt Place Miami Airport-West/Doral

One thing to watch is that many hotels in the touristy areas like South Beach have expensive charges to park and also charge resort fees. If you want to stay in South Beach, be sure to ask about these possible charges before you book so that you don’t see surprise charges you weren’t expecting. 

Getting to the Port (Transportation)

The great news about being in a tourist hotspot like Miami is that there’s an entire industry catering to tourists and cruise passengers to help you with anything you need. That means you have an number of transportation options to get to the port.

We’ve covered all of your options in-depth here in our port transportation page . For most people, however, they will use one of a handful of options.

Driving to The Port Live in Florida? Then you might be thinking about driving to the cruise port. While that means you’ll have to deal with South Florida traffic, it is a convenient way to get to your ship. Driving offers you the ability to arrive exactly when you want and to leave to get home as soon as you debark the ship. There is also ample parking at the Port of Miami, but know that it will cost $22 per day ($25-$28 if sailing from the Royal Caribbean terminal). See details on parking below for more details.

Uber/Lyft If you fly in for your cruise — or simply don’t want to deal with driving — then Uber and Lyft offer service throughout South Florida to the Miami cruise port (including the airports). Getting a ride at any time you want is as simple as opening the app and requesting a ride at your location. Estimated rates from points of interest are below and will vary based on traffic. Keep in mind these rates are for the car, not per person.

• Miami Airport: $20-$25
• Fort Lauderdale Airport: $40-$45
• Hollywood: $30-$35
• South Beach: $10-$15
• Doral: $25-$30
• Brickell: $10-$15
• Downtown Miami: $10-$15

Taxi Taxis are usually more expensive and less convenient than using a rideshare program like Uber or Lyft. Still, for those without a rideshare account or who simply prefer to take a cab, you can pick one up at the airport or request one from area hotels. Rates from the Miami airport are a flat $27. Estimated fares are below from the location listed to the port:

• Miami Airport: $27 (Flat Rate)
• Fort Lauderdale Airport: $65-$75
• Hollywood: $60-$70
• South Beach: $20-$25
• Brickell: $20-$25
• Downtown Miami: $10

Hotel Shuttles If you are staying at a hotel in the area, then know that many of them offer shuttles to the cruise port. Some hotels offer the service for free while others charge a nominal amount for the service. Either way, it’s a simple way to get to the ship on cruise day. See our full list of hotels in Miami with cruise shuttles to the port .

For all of your options on getting to the Miami cruise port, (including public transportation and more details on each of the items above), see our port transportation page here .

Parking at the Cruise Port

If you’re driving to the port, then you obviously need a place to park your car. As in other port cities, there’s an industry surrounding cruise parking for passengers. We cover all of your options in full detail (with prices and locations) in our Port of Miami cruise parking article .

To keep things simple, you have two main options — park at the official port parking or with an independent parking lot.

Official Port Parking The Port of Miami offers parking garages and lots near all of the cruise terminals. Parking is literally across the street from the ship. In total there are thousands of parking spaces — you don’t need to reserve a space or worry about finding a spot. 

Parking at the port is convenient, but it’s also expensive. Rates run $22 per day. There is space for oversized vehicles like RVs, but the rate is an additional $22 each day. Cash and all major credit cards are accepted, but debit cards are not.

Note that parking at Royal Caribbean’s Terminal A is $25 per day for sailings of six nights or more. The rate is $28 per day for cruises of five nights or less.

Are you a disabled cruiser? If so, you may be eligible for free parking at the Port of Miami. If your car has special modifications — such as ramps or driving controls — or you have a Florida Disabled Veteran license plate then you can park for free. For more details, see our article on free parking for disabled passengers here .

Independent Lots In addition to parking your car at the port, there are a number of independent lots on the mainland, across from the cruise port. While these lots aren’t near as convenient as parking right at the ship, they do offer transportation to and from the cruise ship.

The biggest draw, however, is that they offer much cheaper prices than the port. That said, the reviews we’ve seen of these independent lots aren’t always stellar and the lots seem to change hands often. In our opinion, it’s a safer bet to park at the port or with a hotel that offers parking.

Hotels with Parking Miami is known for its tourism and that means there are countless hotels in the area. If you stay in the area between the airport and cruise port, then the hotels also cater heavily to cruise passengers.

As a perk, many hotels near the Port of Miami offer cruise parking deals. You stay one night and parking while you are on your cruise is included in your room package or is a small additional daily fee. As a bonus, many of the hotels also offer shuttles to the cruise port. Given the high cost of parking at the cruise port, hotel parking can save you considerably. You can see our list of Miami hotels with cruise parking here .

Dropping Off/Picking Up Passengers

Dropping off passengers at the port? Or picking up someone after your cruise? That’s a great way to help passengers save money and hassle of parking at the port.

While navigating around the port can be a little confusing given the twists and turns and the number of terminals, picking up and dropping off is simple. You’ll see signs at the terminal directing you to the spot where you can let out passengers (and pick them up afterward). Simply pull up and drop them off, similar to what you would do at an airport.

Numerous signs throughout the port area will direct you to the correct terminal for your ship. It may help to drop off or pick up at the very beginning or end of the terminal as there is less traffic here and it may be less of a hassle to stop and let out passengers.

Security & Check-In

These days many of us have gotten used to airport security, complete with long lines, body scanners, and strict rules on what you can and cannot bring. By comparison, security at the Port of Miami is much more enjoyable.

While the specifics of each terminal may be a little different, you’ll usually drop off any bags you want to check (simply meaning you don’t want to carry them on and rather have them delivered to your cabin later), enter the terminal and be asked for your boarding documents and ID. After this initial check, you’ll put any carry-on items through an x-ray machine and then you’ll walk through a metal detector.

Assuming that there’s no contraband or prohibited items in your luggage, you’ll collect it on the other side of the x-ray machine and then proceed to check-in.

These days many cruise lines have made a switch to allow passengers online check-in. There, your entire account is set up before cruise day. If you opt for this, you’ll proceed directly to the ship. Your room keys will be waiting in a sealed envelope at your cabin.

If you don’t do online check-in, no problem. You’ll wait in line for a cruise line representative. There are usually dozens of them working in the terminal, making the line move quickly. When it’s your turn, you will set up your onboard spending account, get your room keys and then proceed to the ship.

Disembarkation

Unfortunately, all good things have to come to an end, and that also means your cruise. So what’s it like to get off of a cruise ship in Miami?

Thanks to its popularity as a cruise port, we’ve found that Miami is one of the best in the business at getting folks off the ship as quickly as possible. When announced that you can depart the ship, you’ll re-enter the terminal that you left from but be directed to the disembarkation part of the facility.

Here, you will pick up any luggage that you set outside your cabin door for the crew to pick up. Many people, however, choose to simply carry all of their luggage off to get off the ship sooner.

Once off the ship and in the arrival hall, you will wait your turn for a Customs and Border Patrol officer to check your travel documents to return into the United States. Most terminals now have electronic kiosks that allow you to scan your passport or just take a photo and then continue on your way. It can literally take just minutes from leaving the ship until being out of the terminal. After that, you simply head outside to find your transportation from the cruise terminals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time should I arrive for my cruise from Miami? When you book your cruise, you’ll be assigned a boarding time or given a window when the cruise ship boards at the port. For instance, Carnival lets you select a 30-minute boarding time of your choice. Other lines simply tell you that boarding is open from, say, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

If you are given a boarding time, then obviously you should get to the port at this time. Entering the port, parking, and walking to the ship is usually pretty quick. For that reason, we suggest planning only about 10-15 minutes time extra. So if your boarding time is 1:00 p.m., then plan to actually get to the Port of Miami around 12:45.

If your cruise line has a broad boarding window (something like noon to 4 p.m.), then you can arrive at any point during that window. We suggest waiting until the second half of the boarding window to actually arrive. There is usually a big rush of people who want to board as early as possible, leading to longer lines. Waiting a little later can make check-in a breeze as the crowds have died down.

Is there anything to do at the port? If you are early for your cruise or need to kill some time before catching a ride to the airport or home, there is a small park at the Miami cruise port. Seafarer’s Park offers a swimming pool, restaurant, tennis courts, basketball court, and a sand volleyball court. It’s where you might find some crew from the cruise ships blowing off steam in between cruises.

If you want to walk over the causeway bridge, there are restaurants and things to do in downtown Miami. But in general, there isn’t a ton to do right at the cruise port. You’ll want to exit the area and head to downtown Miami most likely if you have time to spare.

How can I see what ships are in Miami the day I sail? Chances are slim that you’ll be the only cruise ship in port the day that you sail out and when you get back. If you’re interested in the other cruise ships that you’ll see while in port, then you can see a full schedule at Crew-Center.com . It’s a neat way to know what other mega ships you will see while on your trip.

How long does it take to get to the airport from the Port of Miami? We mentioned it above, but it takes about 15-25 minutes in normal traffic to get to the Miami airport from the cruise port. Expect 45 minutes to one hour if you are headed to Fort Lauderdale.

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Do I pay for parking at Garage G after the cruise is over? Thank you

When arriving at the port for a Royal Caribbean cruise do you drop of luggage in front of the ship and then park or do you park and bring it all with you from the parking garage?

You can do either. When you turn into the terminal when driving, you’ll see a huge wall with “Bag Drop” painted on it. Here you can drop luggage and then proceed to parking. Or if you want to just walk it in, you can do that too.

I need transportation from the Port of Miami to the Hampton Inn Ft. Lauderdale-Plantation on January 25th for 5 people. Could you give me an estamate of the cost for this? thank you

We see estimates of about $40 for a regular Lyft and about $80 for Lyft XL (larger car). Given the number of people and luggage, you’ll either need two cars or Lyft XL to fit everyone.

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Virgin Voyages' guide to Miami

From the Wynwood art scene to the world-renowned shores of Miami Beach, the Magic City is a perfect collision of relaxation and cultural exploration.

The atmosphere beyond the pier

The picture painted on television — clad with string bikinis, frozen drinks, and catchy 90s songs that echo its namesake — doesn’t quite do Miami justice. Sure, South Beach still radiates the colorful electricity of a gorgeous and multicultural beach not found elsewhere in the United States, but there’s so much more to uncover of Miami’s diverse identity.

Beyond the dock

Hop-On Hop-Off Miami

We have even more in our curated catalog., miami is the only us city that was founded by a woman — julia tuttle., port sweet port.

Our PortMiami Terminal

Terminal V, our new 100,000 sq. ft. terminal, is a palm grove inspired design concept developed by Miami-based Arquitectonica. Uniting the energy and style of Miami with nautical nods to the history of sailing, we’re creating a terminal experience with the same incredible ethos as our ships.

Vacation doesn’t start when the ship slowly pulls away from the dock and out into international waters. It starts the moment you touch down in Miami — a city that even for Americans feels like you’re far from home.

It’s rhythmic, rowdy, and evolving, yet calm and tranquil depending on where you find yourself. Miami can party like Vegas, with beaches like the Caribbean and the backcountry of the Bayou, all with the rich cultural diversity of cities like New York and Houston. The Magic City is not just where your journey takes off from — it’s where it begins.

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The best cruises from Miami for every type of traveler

What are the best cruises from Miami? It's a tough question to answer, in part because there are so many choices.

Miami has long been the cruise capital of the world, and even though it recently has been challenged by nearby Port Canaveral for the title of world's busiest cruise port, it still offers one of the most diverse mixes of options when it comes to ships and itineraries.

Many of the world's biggest cruise lines operate sailings from Miami, in some cases with multiple ships. On any given day, there can be as many as seven different cruise vessels sailing from the port.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The large number of options means that there's a little something for everyone when it comes to Miami cruises. That's great because the best Miami cruise for you may not be the same as the best cruise out of Miami for someone else, depending on your travel style.

Here we list our top picks for the best cruises from Miami for five different types of travelers.

Best cruises for families: Icon of the Seas

Quite a few family-friendly ships call Miami home, including vessels operated by such family cruise leaders as Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line. However, when it comes to the best cruises from Miami for families, there's never been anything quite like the voyages in the works for Royal Caribbean's soon-to-arrive-in-Miami Icon of the Seas .

Scheduled to debut in Miami in January 2024 and already available to book, the 5,610-passenger Icon of the Seas will be the biggest cruise ship in the world — more than 6% bigger than the biggest cruise vessel currently at sea.

That means it has more space than any other ship at sea for children's clubs, waterslides, watery play areas and other family fun zones.

But it's not just Icon of the Seas' larger size that will make its sailings the best cruises out of Miami for families. The cruise line has designed the vessel — the first of a new class of ships — specifically to cater to families in a bigger way .

Icon of the Seas will offer more cabins with extra bunks to accommodate families with multiple children, including new room designs. Some family suites will even feature separate rooms for the little ones.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

Many of these family-friendly accommodations will be near a new-for-the-line outdoor "neighborhood" called Surfside, which is dedicated to families with young children. As announced late last year, Surfside will feature splash areas for babies and kids, pools and lounge spaces for parents, family-friendly eateries and shops, and a bar with "mommy and me" matching mocktails for kids and cocktails for grownups.

The water park that Royal Caribbean plans for Icon of the Seas will be the largest ever built on a cruise ship. It will feature a record six top-deck waterslides and an unusual-for-Royal Caribbean ropes course. Teens and tweens have never had it so good.

Come January, Icon of the Seas will take the place of Royal Caribbean's family-friendly Harmony of the Seas in Miami. If you're looking for the best cruise out of Miami for families between now and January 2024, Harmony of the Seas is our pick. It's almost as big as Icon of the Seas and similarly loaded with family-friendly attractions.

That said, if you're a diehard Disney fan, be advised that the best family cruise from Miami for you is probably not a voyage on Icon of the Seas or Harmony of the Seas but one of the seasonal sailings that Disney Cruise Line offers out of Miami on the 1,754-passenger Disney Magic.

Unlike the Royal Caribbean ships, it's not a new vessel with all the latest bells and whistles. In fact, it's the oldest ship in the Disney fleet, dating to the 1990s. But it's, well ... a Disney ship. And if you're a Disney lover, that's probably all you need to know.

Best cruises for adults: Scarlet Lady

As of October 2021, the uncontested best cruises from Miami for adults are the four- and five-night sailings to the Bahamas and Caribbean offered on Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady. That's the month the new cruise line launched, promising to shake things up in the cruise world with a lively, adult-focused onboard experience unlike anything else in cruising.

Specifically designed for adults only — no children under the age of 18 are allowed on board — the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady is all about grownup fun. We're talking everything from rollicking dance parties to a drag show.

Related: I've been on more than 150 cruise ships; here's why I loved Scarlet Lady

Notably, Scarlet Lady offers many stylish, adult-oriented nightspots and bars, creating a hopping scene late into the night. Passengers are able to shake their phones to have Champagne delivered to wherever they happen to be standing, get inked at an onboard tattoo parlor and belt out tunes in a colorful karaoke lounge .

Unlike some other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages also eschews buffets, dress codes and big Broadway-style theater shows. In place of the latter, the line offers such entertainment as dance parties, DJ sets and unconventional performances in a multi-purpose room.

While initially dubbed the "cruise line for millennials" in media coverage, Virgin Voyages was designed to appeal to not just young adults but older adults who are "young at heart," executives have said. In its first two year of operations, it's been drawing passengers in a wide range of ages .

Best cruises for budget travelers: MSC Seascape

For years, the low-cost ships of Carnival Cruise Line were the go-to vessels for the best cruises out of Miami for budget travelers. But Carnival's Miami-based ships have had new competition for the title in recent years from the even-lower-cost vessels of MSC Cruises — a fast-growing line that has been taking the Miami market by storm.

Our take is that the MSC Cruises ships sailing from Miami — particularly the just-out-of-the-shipyard-new MSC Seascape — are now the vessels to book if you're looking for the best value in cruises from Miami.

Based in Miami year-round, the 4,550-passenger MSC Seascape operates alternating seven-night voyages to the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean that sometimes sell for as little as $399 per person — or just $57 per day.

That's a pretty amazing fare when you consider that it covers not just your room but meals on the ship, too.

Related: TPG's guide to cruising from Miami

The ship's Eastern Caribbean sailings typically are priced a tad lower than its Western Caribbean sailings (when we were pricing them for this guide, they started about $30 per person lower). The Eastern Caribbean trips call at Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Nassau, Bahamas; and Ocean Cay , MSC Cruises' private island in the Bahamas. The Western Caribbean voyages stop at Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico; and Ocean Cay.

What's striking about these low-priced sailings on MSC Seascape is that the ship is one of the newest and snazziest operating out of the Port of Miami, having just been unveiled in November 2022. Often, the lowest-cost cruises in any cruise port are on the oldest ships sailing from the port — vessels that don't have the latest and greatest when it comes to onboard attractions and amenities.

Eighteen decks high and more than 1,100 feet long, MSC Seascape is loaded with family-friendly attractions, including multiple waterslides, a giant kiddie splash zone with a pirate ship theme and a robotic thrill ride. The latter, called Robotron , will flip you upside down and around as you dangle over the side of the ship.

Related: Our first impressions of MSC Seascape

MSC Seascape also offers 11 dining venues, 20 bars and lounges, a bustling casino, a sprawling spa and a showroom for big production shows.

Plus, there's a giant "ship-within-a-ship" luxury zone loaded with suites and a private lounge and restaurant — one only accessible to well-heeled passengers who pay up for access. With fares for its rooms nearly 10 times higher than the starting rates for the ship's basic cabins, The Yacht Club, as it's called, is not a budget option. However, if you've got money to burn, you can check in here and feel like you're living the high life.

In short, MSC Seascape is a big, bustling megaresort at sea of the sort operated by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival. If it's big ships with lots of activities you love, it's a good choice if your budget is tight.

MSC Cruises has two other vessels based seasonally in Miami: MSC Magnifica and MSC Divina. MSC Magnifica mostly operates short three- and four-night sailings to the Bahamas. MSC Divina operates a wide mix of three- to 18-night sailings to the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

Best cruises for solo travelers: Norwegian Encore

The best cruises from Miami for solo travelers are those offered on Norwegian Cruise Line 's 3,998-passenger Norwegian Encore , as well as its sister vessels, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Escape.

This is largely because Norwegian Encore and its sister ships boast unusually large private zones for solo travelers — something you won't find on the Miami-based vessels operated by Norwegian's main competitors.

The so-called "studio" zones on Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Escape — vessels that all are part of the line's recently unveiled Breakaway-Plus class of ships — have 82 special solo cabins apiece and a private Studio Lounge where solos can gather for happy hours and other events.

One other Norwegian ship that sometimes sails out of Miami, Norwegian Breakaway, has a similar solo zone with 59 cabins.

Only the studio zone on Norwegian's 2010-built Norwegian Epic is bigger, but that ship doesn't sail out of Miami.

A special zone for solo travelers is a concept that is rare in the cruise world, where almost all rooms for vacationers are designed for two people and sold with per-person fares that are based on two people occupying the room.

Solos staying in the solo cabins on the above vessels get exclusive access to the Studio Lounge (using their keycards), meaning a maximum of 59 to 82 people will share the space.

Related: The best cruise lines for solo travelers

The solo cabins in the zones are small (measuring 100 square feet) but are superbly designed to maximize storage space (something I learned firsthand staying in one on Norwegian Epic).

Solos on Norwegian Encore and its sister ships also will find a bustling bar scene, with plenty of counter-style seating in bars that are a great place to meet other solo travelers and friendly guests.

All of the ships mentioned above are great for solos, but we put Norwegian Encore first among them because it's the newest. Of all Norwegian's ships, it has the widest array of onboard attractions including one of the longest go-kart tracks at sea , an epic, open-air laser tag course and a virtual reality play zone.

Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Breakaway are scheduled to rotate in and out of Miami for Bahamas and Caribbean sailings over the next two years. None of them operate out of Miami year-round, and typically they're not in town at the same time. If you're planning a solo cruise from Miami in the next couple years, you'll want to search for which vessel is scheduled to sail from Miami when you want to travel.

Best cruises for unrivaled fun: Carnival Celebration

Looking for a cruise out of Miami that is all about fun? Look no further than the sailings on Carnival Cruise Line 's new Carnival Celebration .

Carnival famously markets itself as the Fun Ship line, and this massive, 19-deck-high ship takes the tagline to heart with loads of fun-focused activities. It's got everything from a water park and ropes course to one of the first roller coasters at sea .

In the ship's interior areas, you'll find many bars, eateries and showrooms where fun is the focus, including restaurants where the waiters dance for you in between courses (something of a Carnival signature). The always-busy casino can be a fun zone for some, depending on the vagaries of Lady Luck.

Carnival draws a lively, outgoing crowd looking to be part of the action, and that's what you'll find on Carnival Celebration. The typical Carnival customer shoots up a hand when an entertainer asks for a volunteer to come on stage or jumps up to dance with the waiters during the dinner show. If this sounds like you, you've found your ship for a cruise from Miami.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival ships and itineraries

Just don't expect anything too highbrow. Carnival is about fun in a laid-back, unpretentious, nothing-too-fancy way.

At 183,521 gross tons, Carnival Celebration is one of the biggest ships sailing regularly from Miami. With room for up to 6,630 passengers, it's one of the most packed, too. Expect fun in the form of a bustling party at sea.

As for that roller coaster, just be warned that it's not the biggest you've ever seen. Dubbed Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster, it has an 800-foot-long track and vehicles that can hit speeds of 40 miles per hour. When it comes to top-deck cruise ship fun, it's hard to think of anything that compares.

Bottom line

Few ports in the world are home to as many cruise ships as Miami, which means cruisers have plenty of choices when it comes to sailings from the port. Almost all of the world's biggest cruise lines — including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian and MSC Cruises — operate departures regularly from the port, typically with multiple ships and on multiple itineraries.

What is the best cruise from Miami for you? That'll depend on your personal interests and travel style. There are cruises from Miami that appeal to everyone, including family travelers, budget travelers and solo travelers.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 best cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

Navigate 2024‘s 17 Best Cruises from Miami: Book Your Getaway

• Updated on March 5, 2024
• Tips and Tricks
• Florida , Miami

What You Will Learn (Click to Expand)

Set sail on a dream voyage from miami, discover the magic of cruising from the vibrant magic city.

Embark on a sea adventure that begins in the heart of vibrant Miami, where every cruise offers more than a journey — it’s the start of countless stories and memories.

Whether you’re drawn to the soothing rhythms of Caribbean shores or the allure of exploring new horizons, there’s a ship waiting to carry you there, including the Best Cruises from Miami .

Top 2024 Cruise Destinations from Miami

1. carnival horizon: western caribbean escape.

Embark on a six-day journey filled with excitement aboard the Carnival Horizon as it sets sail from Miami, FL, to explore the stunning Western Caribbean.

With endless entertainment options, including live shows, water slides, and gourmet dining, this ship promises an unforgettable experience for all amidst the vibrant destinations of the Western Caribbean.

Top Features:

• Diverse entertainment choices.
• Exciting water slides.
• Gourmet dining options.
• Spacious accommodations.
• Fun-filled onboard activities.
• Endless entertainment for guests of all ages.
• Delicious dining experiences.
• Comfortable and spacious accommodations.
• Variety of onboard activities to keep guests entertained.
• Opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones.
• Crowded conditions during peak seasons.
• Additional expenses for certain onboard activities and amenities.

Best For: Carnival Horizon is perfect for families and thrill-seekers looking for a lively and fun-filled cruise experience .

2. Norwegian Gem: 3-Night Bahamas Cruise: Great Stirrup Cay & Nassau

Embark on a delightful three-night Bahamas adventure aboard the Norwegian Gem , setting sail from and returning to Miami, Florida.

Discover the charming ports of Nassau, Bahamas, and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island paradise.

• Lavish accommodations.
• Broadway-style entertainment.
• Onboard spa and wellness facilities.
• Exciting onboard activities like go-kart racing and laser tag.
• Indulgent luxury throughout the ship.
• Culinary delights from around the world.
• High-quality entertainment for guests of all ages.
• Relaxation and rejuvenation at the onboard spa.
• Thrilling activities for adventurous travelers.
• Crowded facilities during peak travel times.
• Additional charges for certain specialty dining options and activities.

Best For: Norwegian Gem is ideal for travelers seeking a sophisticated and indulgent cruise experience with a wide range of onboard amenities and activities.

Bahamas Cruises

3. independence of the seas: miami cruise adventure.

Embark on an unforgettable cruise aboard the Independence of the Seas , departing and returning from Miami, Florida.

Experience the excitement and luxury of this roundtrip journey as you explore captivating destinations and enjoy onboard amenities.

• Rock climbing wall.
• Ice skating rink.
• Broadway-caliber shows.
• Multiple pools and whirlpools.
• Specialty dining options.
• Exciting activities for adventure seekers.
• High-quality entertainment options.
• Variety of swimming and relaxation areas.
• Delicious dining choices for every palate.
• Family-friendly atmosphere.
• Additional fees for certain onboard activities and dining options.

Best For: Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas is perfect for families and active travelers looking for a wide range of onboard activities and entertainment options.

4. Oasis of the Seas: Caribbean Bliss

Embark on a magical seven-night journey through the Western Caribbean aboard the Oasis of the Seas , departing and returning from Miami, Florida.

Explore vibrant ports including Nassau, Bahamas; Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Bahamas; Labadee, Haiti; and Falmouth, Jamaica.

• Disney-themed entertainment.
• Character meet-and-greets.
• Broadway-style shows.
• Family-friendly pools and waterslides.
• Youth clubs for kids of all ages.
• Magical experiences for Disney fans.
• Opportunities to meet beloved characters.
• High-quality entertainment suitable for the whole family.
• Fun-filled aquatic areas for relaxation and play.
• Supervised activities for children, allowing adults to relax and enjoy the cruise.
• Higher cost compared to some other cruise lines.
• Limited itineraries compared to non-themed cruises.

Best For: Oasis of the Seas is perfect for families with children and Disney enthusiasts looking for an immersive and enchanting cruise experience.

Also, explore the list of best fishing spots in Miami.

Solo to Group Excursions: There’s a Cruise for Everyone

5. msc seaside: cruise the eastern caribbean & bahamas.

Embark on a seven-night voyage aboard the MSC Seaside as it explores the captivating Eastern Caribbean and Bahamas.

Departing and returning to Miami, Florida, this roundtrip journey promises unforgettable experiences amidst the sun-soaked islands of the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

• Innovative onboard amenities.
• Immersive entertainment experiences.
• Stylish and contemporary design.
• Varied dining options.
• Spacious staterooms with modern amenities.
• Access to cutting-edge onboard facilities.
• Engaging entertainment for guests of all ages.
• Contemporary and stylish ambiance throughout the ship.
• Comfortable accommodations with modern conveniences.
• Limited availability of some onboard activities during peak times.

Best For: MSC Seaside is ideal for travelers seeking a modern and dynamic cruise experience with innovative amenities and stylish surroundings.

6. Carnival Sunrise: 4 Night Bahamas

Embark on a delightful four-night Bahamas getaway aboard the Carnival Sunrise , departing and returning from Miami, Florida.

Explore the beautiful ports of Half Moon Cay, the Cruise Line Private Island, and Nassau, Bahamas, on this memorable roundtrip cruise.

• Elegant and stylish design.
• Gourmet dining experiences.
• Upscale onboard amenities.
• World-class entertainment options.
• Spacious and well-appointed accommodations.
• Sophisticated ambiance throughout the ship.
• Culinary delights from renowned chefs.
• Access to luxurious onboard facilities .
• Comfortable and spacious accommodations for a restful retreat.

Best For: Carnival Sunrise is perfect for travelers seeking a refined and luxurious cruising experience with upscale amenities and gourmet dining options.

Hair Tools Travel Bag

Special offshore experiences only from miami cruises, 7. carnival magic: 6-night eastern caribbean adventure.

Embark on a six-night adventure aboard the Carnival Magic as it cruises through the enchanting Eastern Caribbean.

Departing and returning from Miami, Florida, this roundtrip journey promises unforgettable experiences as you explore the sun-soaked islands and vibrant cultures of the Eastern Caribbean.

• Thrilling onboard activities.
• Lively entertainment options.
• Diverse dining choices.
• Family-friendly amenities.
• Comfortable and well-appointed accommodations.
• Endless entertainment options for guests of all ages.
• Delicious dining choices to suit every palate.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with activities for kids and adults alike.
• Relaxation and comfort in well-appointed accommodations.
• Opportunity to create unforgettable memories with loved ones.
• Crowded conditions during peak travel seasons.
• Additional charges for certain onboard activities and specialty dining options.

Best For: Carnival Magic is perfect for families and groups of friends seeking a lively and fun-filled cruise experience with a wide range of onboard entertainment options.

8. Symphony of the Seas: 4 Night Eastern Caribbean

Experience a four-night Eastern Caribbean escape aboard the Symphony of the Seas , departing and returning from Miami, Florida.

Explore the vibrant port of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, on this unforgettable roundtrip cruise adventure.

• Ultimate Abyss slide.
• Broadway-caliber entertainment.
• Onboard Aqua Park.
• Thrilling experiences with onboard attractions like the Ultimate Abyss slide .
• High-quality entertainment with Broadway-caliber shows and performances.
• Culinary delights from around the world with a variety of dining options.
• Crowded conditions during peak travel times.
• Additional fees for certain onboard activities and specialty dining options.

Best For: Symphony of the Seas is perfect for travelers seeking a diverse and action-packed cruise experience with thrilling onboard attractions , entertainment, and dining options.

9. Carnival Conquest: 4-Night Bahamas Getaway

Embark on a four-night Bahamas escape aboard the Carnival Conquest .

Departing and returning from Miami, Florida, this roundtrip journey includes stops at Princess Cays, the Cruise Line Private Island, and Nassau, Bahamas. Experience the sun, sand, and vibrant culture of these tropical destinations on this unforgettable cruise adventure.

• Poolside fun and relaxation.
• Live music performances.
• Family-friendly activities and amenities.
• Non-stop entertainment for guests of all ages.
• Relaxation and enjoyment by the poolside.
• Live music performances to keep the atmosphere lively.
• Delicious dining options to satisfy every craving.
• Family-friendly activities and amenities for a memorable vacation.

Best For: Carnival Conquest is perfect for travelers seeking a fun and energetic cruise experience with a variety of entertainment options and family-friendly amenities .

10. Freedom of the Seas: 3 Night Bahamas & Perfect Day Excursion

Embark on a thrilling three-night Bahamas & Perfect Day excursion aboard the Freedom of the Seas , departing and returning from Miami, Florida.

Experience the ultimate relaxation and adventure with stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas, and Nassau, Bahamas, on this unforgettable roundtrip cruise.

Top 5 Features:

• Expansive art collection and enriching onboard activities.
• Culinary Arts Center offers cooking demonstrations and hands-on workshops.
• Greenhouse Spa & Salon provides rejuvenating treatments.
• The Retreat is an exclusive outdoor lounge area for relaxation.
• An impressive lineup of live music and entertainment venues.

Five Benefits:

• A refined cruising experience with a strong emphasis on dining excellence.
• Educational enrichment programs range from digital workshops to guest speakers.
• Attentive and personalized service catering to each guest’s preferences.
• Destination-focused activities and excursions that enhance port visits.
• Comfortable and well-appointed staterooms offer magnificent ocean views.
• Some travelers might find the atmosphere more traditional than contemporary.
• Limited options for thrill-seekers who prefer high-energy onboard experiences.

Best For: Freedom of the Seas is ideal for discerning voyagers who appreciate sophisticated travel with a touch of historical maritime flair.

11. Carnival Celebration: Western Caribbean Expedition

Embark on a thrilling seven-night Western Caribbean expedition aboard the Carnival Celebration , departing and returning from Miami, Florida.

Explore the vibrant ports of Cozumel, Mexico; Mahogany Bay (Roatan), Bay Islands, Honduras; and Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico, on this unforgettable roundtrip cruise.

• The Waterfront is a promenade of dining and shopping with ocean views.
• A multi-slide Aqua Park includes the fastest waterslides at sea.
• Over 25 dining options that take your palate on a global adventure.
• Broadway-caliber performances such as “ Million Dollar Quartet .”
• Vibe Beach Club is an exclusive adults-only retreat.
• A myriad of activities ensures never a dull moment aboard.
• Exquisite dining choices cater to every craving and diet.
• Premium entertainment options create unforgettable evening experiences.
• The children’s program provides both fun and educational activities .
• State-of-the-art fitness center and luxurious spa services for wellness enthusiasts.
• During peak times, popular areas can become crowded .
• Some services and experiences may carry an additional charge beyond the inclusive fare.

Best For: Carnival Celebration suits adventure-seeking families, couples, and solo travelers who desire an activity-rich vacation with the freedom to customize their onboard experience.

12. Explorer of the Seas: Caribbean Bliss

Set sail on a four-night Caribbean adventure with Explorer of the Seas , departing from Miami, Florida.

Explore the exclusive paradise of Labadee, Haiti, with its pristine beaches and thrilling water activities. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable voyage!

• Custom-designed furnishings and a prestigious art collection.
• Culinary Center featuring cooking classes with master chefs.
• Canyon Ranch SpaClub promotes unmatched wellness experiences.
• Multiple gourmet dining venues, including the acclaimed Polo Grill.
• Spacious, sumptuously appointed suites and staterooms.
• Intimate is a mid-sized ship offering highly personalized service.
• Exquisite attention to detail, from cuisine to guest accommodations.
• Hands-on culinary workshops for aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts.
• Enriching onboard activities, from wine tastings to artist-led workshops.
• A relaxed atmosphere allows guests to explore destinations at leisure.
• Less suited for those seeking budget-friendly cruising options.
• Limited children’s amenities compared to other family-oriented cruise lines.

Best For: A perfect match for epicureans and anyone who prefers unhurried elegance blended seamlessly with immersive cultural experiences.

13. Norwegian Sky: Caribbean Getaway

Experience a five-night Caribbean getaway aboard the Norwegian Sky . Departing from Miami, Florida, this roundtrip journey includes visits to Key West, Florida; Cozumel, Mexico; and Great Stirrup Cay, the Cruise Line Private Island in the Bahamas.

Enjoy the added luxury of an open bar throughout your cruise.

• All-inclusive experience with a wide selection of complimentary dining options.
• Onboard activities range from Broadway shows to comedy nights .
• The Great Outdoors is a spacious deck for alfresco dining and stunning views.
• Multiple bars and lounges , including a lively poolside bar.
• Generous selection of cabin types to accommodate any preference or budget.
• An all-inclusive fare structure simplifies your vacation planning.
• Varied entertainment options cater to a diverse audience.
• Numerous dining venues eliminate the chance of monotonous mealtimes.
• Family-friendly activities ensure enjoyment for guests of all ages.
• Spacious public areas reduce the feeling of crowding, even on full sailings.
• Some areas might feel dated compared to newer fleet members.
• Premium experiences outside of the all-inclusive package might add to your budget.

Best For: Ideal for first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers alike looking for an all-encompassing cruise experience without the hassle of constant budgeting.

14. Celebrity Summit: Island Escape

Embark on a refreshing four-night voyage aboard the Celebrity Summit , departing and returning from Miami, Florida.

Explore the vibrant culture of Key West, Florida, before indulging in the tropical beauty of Nassau, Bahamas.

• The Rooftop Terrace offers movies under the stars.
• Cuisine crafted by a Michelin-starred chef across multiple dining venues .
• The Retreat experience includes exclusive suites and a private lounge.
• Canyon Ranch spa offers a sumptuous array of treatments .
• The Celebrity iLounge℠ features a modern approach to staying connected at sea.
• A small ship ambiance allows for intimate and personalized service.
• Exceptional dining experiences, promising culinary delights at every meal.
• Exclusive spaces offer a sense of privacy and luxury for suite guests.
• Comprehensive wellness programs to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.
• An array of enrichment programs, from art auctions to lectures on various topics.
• Less variety of high-adrenaline activities compared to larger ships.
• The sophisticated atmosphere may not appeal to guests seeking a casual cruise vibe.

Best For: The Celebrity Summit is most suited to adult couples or groups wishing for a serene cruise with a touch of luxury and attentive service.

15. Norwegian Joy: Caribbean Voyage

Set sail on a thrilling seven-night Caribbean voyage aboard the Norwegian Joy , departing and returning from Miami, Florida.

Explore the captivating ports of Roatan, Honduras; Harvest Caye, Belize; Costa Maya, and Cozumel, Mexico.

• The Sanctuary is an adults-only retreat for relaxation and tranquility .
• Princess Theater, showcasing original Broadway-style productions.
• Scholarship@Sea enriching educational programs.
• Specialty dining options , including Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria.
• Personalized service with the MedallionClass™ experience.
• The cozy atmosphere aboard a mid-sized ship allows for easier navigation and less crowding.
• Signature activities and entertainment offer something for every taste and interest.
• Innovative technology for expedited boarding and personalized service.
• Culinary delights range from casual bites to fine dining experiences.
• A robust itinerary covering unique and exotic ports of call.
• It may lack the array of amenities found on mega-ships.
• Fewer adrenaline-packed activities , possibly limiting for adventure seekers.

Best For: Norwegian Joy is an exceptional choice for travelers who prefer a more traditional, relaxed cruising ambiance with a touch of personalized luxury.

Looking for some family fun? Check out our recommended list of amusement parks in Miami.

16. Norwegian Pearl: Caribbean Getaway

Experience a five-night Caribbean getaway aboard the Norwegian Pearl . Departing from Miami, Florida, this roundtrip journey includes visits to Key West, Florida; Cozumel, Mexico; and Great Stirrup Cay, the Cruise Line Private Island in the Bahamas.

• Multiple unique dining venues, including Asian fusion and French gourmet.
• Bowling alley in the ship’s spirited sports bar.
• Crystal-clear climbing wall and outdoor sports court for active fun.
• Poolside screens for movies under the stars.
• A variety of live music and entertainment options, including magic shows and comedy .
• Family-friendly with a range of activities and accommodations to suit any group size.
• A plethora of dining options ensures a new culinary adventure with every meal.
• A full roster of live shows and interactive entertainment to enliven your nights.
• Recreational amenities cater to both relaxation and active pursuits .
• Comprehensive children’s programs to engage young travelers.
• Some premium experiences and dining options require additional fees .
• The ship’s size and multitude of offerings might be overwhelming for some.

Best For: The Norwegian Pearl is fantastic for families, groups, and solo travelers who crave diversity and the freedom to tailor their cruise experience.

17. Scarlet Lady: 4 Nights of Fire and Sunset Soirees

Embark on a delightful four-night journey aboard the Scarlet Lady , sailing roundtrip from Miami, Florida.

Experience the vibrant culture of Key West, Florida, before indulging in the exclusive paradise of The Beach Club in Bimini, Bahamas.

• Diverse Dining: Enjoy upscale Mexican at Pink Agave, beach-inspired fare at The Dock House, and more.
• Unique Entertainment: Live performances at The Red Room and themed dinner parties like Another Rose.
• Wellness Facilities: Luxurious spa treatments at Redemption Spa and fitness classes at B-Complex Gym.
• Stylish Accommodations: Choose from Mega Rockstar Suites to Solo cabins, designed for comfort.
• Exclusive Amenities: Access exclusive lounges like Richard’s Rooftop and personalized Sailor Services.
• Longer stays at ports and more overnight calls for an in-depth local experience.
• Intimate ship size provides access to unique, less-visited harbors.
• Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event on most voyages for a taste of local culture .
• Gourmet dining experiences are included in your fare, emphasizing quality and variety.
• Attentive, friendly service that anticipates your needs and desires.
• Additional Fees for Spa and Tattoo Services
• Scarlet Lady is an adults-only ship, which may be a drawback for families looking to cruise together.

Best For: Scarlet Lady is best for adults seeking a vibrant and inclusive cruise experience with a focus on relaxation, diverse dining options, innovative entertainment, and stylish accommodations.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or group of friends, Scarlet Lady promises an unparalleled vacation experience.

Your Premier Guide to Cruising from Miami

Essential pre-voyage information.

Before you embark on your epic voyage from Miami, it’s crucial to have all the necessary information to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience .

Here’s what you need to know:

• Passport and Documentation: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months past your travel dates. Keep your travel documents handy, including visas if required for your destinations.
• Packing Smart: Check the climate of your destinations and pack accordingly. Remember to include formal and casual wear for onboard activities.
• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unforeseen events.
• Vaccinations and Health: Stay updated with any required or recommended vaccinations. Bring any personal medications and a copy of your prescriptions.
• Online Check-in: Complete online check-in and print out your boarding pass and luggage tags to expedite your boarding process.
• Arrival Time: Plan to arrive at the cruise terminal early and consider staying in Miami the night before departure to minimize stress and potential delays.
• Port Transportation: Research transportation options from the airport or your hotel to the cruise terminal, be it taxi, shuttle, or public transportation.
• Cruise Apps and Technology: Many cruise lines offer apps that help with onboard communication, activity scheduling, and account management. Download and set these up before boarding.
• Cabin Essentials: Some travelers recommend bringing a power strip for additional outlets and a hanging organizer to maximize cabin space.

Adhering to these guidelines will place you on the deck, cocktail in hand, with nothing but the breeze and boundless adventure ahead.

Connect with Cruise Insiders for Expert Advice

For personalized guidance tailored to your cruising tastes and needs, connecting with a cruise insider is a smart move.

These seasoned professionals can offer the following:

• Insider Tips: Receive advice on selecting the best cabin, best dining experiences, and must-see entertainment on board.
• Exclusive Deals: Get access to insider-only promotions, cabin upgrades, and reduced fares that aren’t widely advertised.
• Port Insights: Learn about each destination’s highlights and hidden gems from someone who knows them well.
• Streamlined Planning: Let an expert handle the intricacies of cruise planning, from shore excursions to special requests.

Cruise insiders’ wealth of knowledge ensures that from the moment you step aboard, your cruise is nothing short of extraordinary.

FAQ: Navigate Your 2024 Miami Cruise Questions

The top cruise destinations from Miami in 2024 include the breathtaking beauty of the Bahamas, the vibrant culture of the  Caribbean Islands , and the picturesque coastlines of Mexico.

Adventurous travelers can also set sail to exotic locations such as Belize, Jamaica, and the Panama Canal for a taste of tropical paradise and rich cultural experiences.

To pick the best Miami-based cruise line that fits your preferences, consider these aspects: the type of experiences you enjoy ( relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion ), budget range, the size and amenities of the ship, dining preferences, and the type of traveler you are (solo, couple, family, group).

Read reviews, compare itineraries, and perhaps consult with a cruise agent to make an informed choice.

Reputation can be subjective, but consistently, cruise lines like  Royal Caribbean ,  Celebrity Cruises , and  Disney Cruise Line  are praised for their exceptional service, diverse offerings, and high standards of accommodation and cleanliness.

Choose based on what aligns best with your preferences in terms of luxury,  family-friendliness , and adventure opportunities.

The #1 cruise line often varies based on traveler reviews and industry accolades. However,  Disney Cruise Line  frequently earns top marks for its family-friendly atmosphere, exceptional service, and entertainment.

For more adult-centric luxury, Viking Ocean Cruises often ranks highly for its inclusive offerings and destination-focused itineraries.

The best time to cruise out of Miami is typically  between November and April  when the weather is warm and dry. This period avoids the Caribbean hurricane season and offers comfortable temperatures for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities at your destinations.

Miami boasts a rich mosaic of cultures influenced by its  historical roots  as a Native American settlement, its Spanish and British colonial past, and its growth as a melting pot for Caribbean and Latin American immigrants.

This diversity is reflected in its vibrant arts scene, diverse neighborhoods like Little Havana, and a culinary landscape filled with fusion flavors. Miami’s history as a tourist destination and hub of entertainment adds to its unique cultural tapestry.

Approximately 22 cruise lines sail out  of Miami, offering a vast array of itineraries, ships, and experiences for travelers of all types.

This includes industry giants such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises, and Carnival, as well as luxury lines and niche operators catering to specific interests and demographics.

The best cruises from Miami vary widely to cater to different tastes, but some of the top-rated options include the luxurious Celebrity Cruises for their modern sophistication,  Royal Caribbean  for fun-filled family adventures, and  Norwegian Cruise Line’s  freestyle cruising offering flexibility and a wide range of activities.

Consider your preferences for dining, entertainment, itinerary, and ship amenities to find your perfect match.

Near the Miami cruise port,  Bayside Marketplace  is a popular waterfront shopping area with a variety of stores and eateries.

Also, explore the trendy boutiques in the nearby artsy neighborhood of Coconut Grove, or venture a little further to Lincoln Road Mall and Miracle Mile for an extensive shopping experience. Don’t miss out on the  shopping malls in Miami —check out this curated list!

Calle Ocho in Little Havana  offers unique finds like hand-stitched guayabera shirts and hand-rolled Cuban cigars.

The best cruise line for you depends on your vacation priorities. For families,  Disney Cruise Line  offers a magical experience. Those seeking luxury might prefer lines like Celebrity or Viking. For value and variety, consider  Royal Caribbean  or  Norwegian .

Check reviews and consider destinations, onboard activities, dining options, and personal travel style to decide.

For cruising within Florida from Miami, options may be more limited since Miami is the primary Floridian departure point. However, short trips to the  Bahamas  often include stops at private islands owned by cruise lines, which are part of the Florida archipelago.

Look for weekend getaways or day cruises to the Keys, or staycations at sea with no ports of call.

To find all-inclusive cruises departing from Miami, check out offerings from major cruise lines like Norwegian’s all-inclusive packages or luxury lines such as  Regent Seven Seas Cruise s and  Silversea Cruises , which typically include amenities like beverages, dining, and excursions in their fare.

Research and comparing the packages provided by each line will help you find the perfect all-inclusive experience.

For the best cruises from Miami to the Bahamas, look to popular lines like  Royal Caribbean ,  Carnival , and  Norwegian  for short getaways or week-long vacations. These cruises often feature stops at the cruise line’s private islands along with other Bahamian destinations.

Reviews and travel websites like Cruise Critic can be great resources for current offerings and deals.

Several cruise lines offer 7-day cruises from Miami, including  Royal Caribbean International ,  Norwegian Cruise Line ,  Carnival Cruise Line , and  MSC Cruises . These cruises typically explore the Caribbean, giving you a week full of sun, sea, and exploration.

Each line offers a unique variety of onboard experiences, amenities, and shore excursions, tailoring to different tastes and preferences.

Made by travelers, for travelers, check out the Barefoot Caribou Products below!

Conclusion: Best Cruises from Miami

Your perfect cruise vacation awaits in the sparkling waters departing from Miami. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the selection of cruises is as diverse as the destinations they visit. From the grandeur of the Celebrity Beyond to the family-friendly Disney Dream , the sun-soaked Bahamas, or the rich tapestries of the Caribbean, choices abound.

Remember, the best cruise is the one that aligns with your dreams and desires. Factor in the onboard experience, the variety of ports, and the overall value to find your ideal seafaring journey.

Miami’s cruise port is your gateway to paradise , and with the wealth of options available in 2024, the hardest part will be choosing just one.

Ready to set sail? Pack your bags, book your voyage, and get ready to make waves, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Share your thoughts and experiences by commenting below !

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10 best cruises leaving from miami

By Amanda Mesa | Published on July 19, 2019

1. nassau, bahamas

2. COCOCAY, BAHAMAS

Unleash your inner adventurer on a Miami cruise to  Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas . You’ll find endless things to do at this Royal Caribbean private destination, from chasing thrills on the tallest waterslide in North America, to soaring above the island on a  helium balloon ride . No matter what your idea of the ultimate beach day, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers something for everyone.

Perfect Day at CocoCay has become one of the top-rated ports among cruise guests, so it should come as no surprise that Royal Caribbean now offers more sailings from Miami, Florida to this one-of-a-kind destination than ever before. Whether you’d rather spend the day unwinding on the beach at tranquil  Chill Island , or testing your courage on the adrenaline-amping rides at Thrill Waterpark, this private island destination was designed to cater to all kinds of visitors. There are also lots of complimentary dining options onshore serving up beach day favorites like BBQ, burgers, crisp salads, and tasty tacos.

A favorite destination among Royal Caribbean cruise guests, this private island has everything you need to enjoy the ultimate beach day. Soak up the sun and unwind on the white-sand beaches of Chill Island. Chase thrills down the tallest waterslide in North America at  Thrill Waterpark . Scope views from up to 450 feet above land in a helium balloon ride. And get a taste of Bora Bora in the first Floating Cabanas in The Bahamas. Whatever kind of vibe you’re looking for on your Miami cruise to the Caribbean, you’re bound to find it at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

3. labadee, haiti

Adventure abounds in  Labadee , also a Royal Caribbean private destination. You can set your own schedule in this tropical paradise, whether you prefer to go zip-lining over the ocean or unwinding in a breezy beachside bungalow.

When you take a Miami cruise to Labadee, you’ll find lots of different ways to spend your day. Looking for a rush? Brave the longest over-water zip line in The Caribbean, known as Dragon's Breath Flight Line, to score breathtaking views of Labadee from 500 feet above the ground. Or get your adrenaline pumping on the Dragon's Tail Coaster, where you'll race down a mountainside at 30 miles per hour. If relaxing is more your vibe, recharge in the shade of a private bungalow overlooking Columbus Beach. But don't forget to refuel at Dragon's Rock Cafe, Labadee Cafe or Columbus Café — each serves BBQ and rum-based cocktails. See what Labadee is all about on sailings from Miami, Florida year-round.

4. COZUMEL, MEXICO

Cozumel is where  Mexican  heart meets Caribbean soul. Explore ancient Maya ruins in Tulum, snorkel the reefs in Chankanaab, or simply stop and take in all the wonder around you on a Miami  cruise to Cozumel .

If it's history you're seeking, get a close look at Maya culture at San Gervasio. Dating back to 300 AD, this area is the largest Maya site in Cozumel, and it offers opportunities to see the Yucatan Coast while exploring ancient history. If you're looking to go down under, dive into adventure at Chankanaab National Park, where you'll find everything from snorkeling to scuba diving to swimming with dolphins. Then, set out on a hike through Punta Sur National Park, where you'll trek through sea fan gardens and observe crocodiles in their natural habitat. From exotic wildlife to underwater thrills, Cozumel has it all.

5. PUERTO COSTA MAYA, MEXICO

6. KEY WEST, FLORIDA

7. EXPLORE PUERTO RICO'S RICHES BY KAYAK

8. ORANJESTAD, ARUBA

9. SURF THE CARIBBEAN'S BEST WAVES

10. FALMOUTH, JAMAICA

from miami on symphony of the seas

STARTING FROM 

BAHAMAS &

PERFECT DAY

CRUISE FROM MIAMI

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• Scarlet Lady 2.860 passengers 17 Apr 2024 - 19:00
• Norwegian Pearl 2.873 passengers 18 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Independence Of The Seas 4.356 passengers 18 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• MSC Divina 4.202 passengers 18 Apr 2024 - 19:00
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 19 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 19 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• Explorer Of The Seas 3.938 passengers 19 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 19 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Carnival Sunrise 3.730 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Carnival Magic 4.428 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Celebrity Summit 2.590 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Icon Of The Seas 7.600 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• MSC Seascape 5.877 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Norwegian Breakaway 4.819 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Carnival Celebration 6.338 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Carnival Horizon 4.716 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Oasis Of The Seas 6.563 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• Scarlet Lady 2.860 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• MSC Divina 4.202 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 20:00
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Independence Of The Seas 4.356 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Carnival Sunrise 3.730 passengers 25 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 26 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 26 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 26 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Amera 835 passengers 26 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 26 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Independence Of The Seas 4.356 passengers 27 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Carnival Horizon 4.716 passengers 27 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Independence Of The Seas 4.356 passengers 27 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Icon Of The Seas 7.600 passengers 27 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• MSC Seascape 5.877 passengers 27 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Norwegian Breakaway 4.819 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Carnival Magic 4.428 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Carnival Celebration 6.338 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Norwegian Breakaway 4.819 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Explorer Of The Seas 3.938 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 29 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Carnival Sunrise 3.730 passengers 29 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 29 Apr 2024 - 16:30
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 01 May 2024 - 18:00
• Norwegian Sky 2.405 passengers 02 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 03 May 2024 - 15:30
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 03 May 2024 - 16:30
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 03 May 2024 - 18:00
• Carnival Sunrise 3.730 passengers 04 May 2024 - 15:30
• Carnival Magic 4.428 passengers 04 May 2024 - 15:30

Carnival Celebration

EXPERIENCE LIKE THAT… BUILDS SHIPS LIKE THIS!

Welcome Carnival Celebration, now sailing from Miami,

filled with so much fun. Let's get packing!

A unique partnership brings Space Cruisers™ to kids ages 2–11… and Carnival Celebration is the first ship on Earth where you’ll find it!

STAGE PERFORMANCES THAT MIX SONG, DANCE AND A SPECIAL SOMETHING EXTRA WOW YOU ON CARNIVAL CELEBRATION

YOUR INNER EXPLORER WILL LOVE IT! THERE’S A WORLD OF FUN TO TAKE IN AT THE GATEWAY ZONE.

CARNIVAL CELEBRATION: GREAT FUN TOGETHER, ALL POWERED BY LNG

You know, it’s hard work making effortlessly-fun vacations. That’s why we’re looking forward to kicking back with you on the new Carnival Celebration as we toast to the last 50 years. So please bring that unique Carnival spirit... and know that this ship’s bringing the fun. Just like sister ship Mardi Gras ® , Carnival Celebration has six Zones — themed areas that bring together incredible experiences and flavor. New flavors you haven’t experienced yet — nobody has! — are heating up at Latitudes™ , The Golden Jubilee™ and Emeril’s Bistro 1397™ . (Mmm, new Emeril.) Carnival Celebration also marks the return of innovations like BOLT ® — our onboard rollercoaster, Bonsai Teppanyaki™ , RedFrog ® Tiki Bar , Family Feud™ Live , Havana Bar™ , Seuss at Sea™ , and Playlist Productions™ . Perhaps best of all, all the fun you’ll have on Carnival Celebration is powered by clean LNG fuel!

MEET THE GODMOTHER

It’s Cassidy Gifford! We all know Cassidy’s mom, Kathie Lee Gifford, from some of the most memorable moments in Carnival’s history. But among Kathie Lee’s proudest accomplishments is definitely her daughter, who’s now serving as godmother to Carnival Celebration. (Just as Kathie Lee did for the original M.S. Celebration!) Cassidy grew up around Carnival, spending countless family vacations at sea, and plenty of time on the set of TV shoots… which she still does today — Cassidy’s an actress. We can’t wait to welcome both daughter and mother aboard this amazing ship!

MEET THE NAMING CEREMONY

New ships usually start sailing with a naming ceremony, to help send the ship on its way with everyone’s best wishes. But you can probably guess that when Carnival does a naming ceremony, it’s all that… plus a show, plus a party! For Carnival Celebration this involved the ship’s godmother Cassidy Gifford and her mom, Carnival legend Kathie Lee. Plenty of other fun folks were on-hand, including Emeril, who was there to cut the ribbon at his new restaurant, Bistro 1397… and the whole event coincided with the big ribbon cutting of the amazing Terminal F at PortMiami. Now that’s what we call a naming! Let’s sail!

LET’S CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF VACATIONING OUR WAY

Carnival Celebration ® has six Zones to explore, and each gets you deep into fun. Stay and play a while, relax with refreshment and more.

Celebration Central

Celebration Central is designed to make an impression… and that’s good because it’s going to be your first one! You can count on Carnival Celebration’s atrium to set the vacay vibes for your whole cruise. Look up and you’re honestly in for an eyeful — floor-to-ceiling windows, 14-foot LED screens, a ceiling of 1,400 color-changing lights… everything points to BIG FUN happening in here. And even if you’re just passing through, know that you’ll definitely be back later. Center Stage features a rotating selection of live entertainment, while Tropicale Bar serves up great drinks with a nostalgia chaser nodding to our first ship to sport the iconic red, white and blue funnel. Aquaria Bar features an ocean-themed glass mural pulled from Carnival Victory that’s now a two-deck high decorative wall. (Also: great drinks here too!) Then there’s fan-faves, from cups of comfort at JavaBlue ™ Café to great eats at Bonsai Sushi ™ and Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ , and some very entertaining reasons to come back, like Piano Bar 88 , The Punchliner Comedy Club ™ and more.

The Gateway

When you’re cruising on Carnival Celebration there’s just so much destination to be found… even right on board. That’s because here, in The Gateway zone, “international flavor” isn’t just an expression, but a way of life! Design, décor, cuisine and even the entertainment is inspired by grand locations, landmarks from around the world. You’ll find a rotating selection of these vistas brilliantly displayed right on the innovative LED windows and ceiling, plus theme nights that match — including Abroad in Europe, Far East Voyage and Mexico Lindo — which each feature food, drink and entertainment to match. But every moment is a special occasion thanks to onboard spots that are proud to import their flavor from all over. We’re talking restaurants and bars like Latitudes ™ with its old-school railway station vibe, The Golden Jubilee ™ featuring a unique mix of great drinks and live music, plus Emeril’s Bistro 1397 ™ , which is deliciously all over the map. And don’t miss your chance to sip a little cocktail magic at returning fan-favorite Alchemy Bar ® .

Summer Landing

Go ahead and call Summer Landing 'the greatest chill spot at sea'... and we'll be right there with you, any time of year! What's three letters long and goes great with chilling outdoors? BBQ, so we're building a Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse into this zone so it always tastes like summer here with freshly-smoked faves designed by Guy Fieri and original Parched Pig ® beers brewed just feet away. If you're wondering where the pool and whirlpool are, we're so alike, you and us... and that's why we're sure you're gonna love The Watering Hole , a poolside bar we're building for aficionados of backyard-style relaxation. And for military folks — or folks who just want to raise a glass to them — please report to Heroes Tribute ™ Lounge for great service. We know you guys like soft serve too, so we're throwing in a Swirls ™ location — one of two! And why wouldn't we? At Summer Landing, fun this cool is literally always in season.

820 Biscayne

We’re at home anywhere we sail… but you can only have one hometown, and for Carnival that is unmistakably Miami. So it’s not hard at all to locate the inspiration for 820 Biscayne on Carnival Celebration. If you’re wondering about the nameplate, that’s the address where it all got started — but nobody has to wonder where all the fun, flavor and good looks you’ll find in this zone were sourced. After all, it’s so authentically Miami… just check out the art deco designs, neon splashes and great flavors! On that note there’s Bar 820 for tropical cocktails and Cuban coffee, plus Deco Deli serving up a selection of classic sandwiches… Cuban faves included. And while Miami isn’t quite known as a pizza town, we don’t think you’ll mind that we’re serving up the cheesy stuff until 4 a.m. at Miami Slice . (Roll up your sleeves and dig in!) And like any cosmopolitan center, dining quality and variety counts big. That’s why you’ll find Cucina del Capitano and Rudi’s Seagrill restaurants in the neighborhood.

If you’ve cruised with us before, you know Lido ... but aboard Carnival Celebration ® this poolside zone features even more delicious and fun experiences among the familiar flavors. Evolving the classic poolside rum-bar was a tall order, but RedFrog Tiki Bar will be serving up the good stuff across two decks’ worth of South Pacific atmosphere. Also first-time-fresh is Street Eats , bringing together highlights from the world’s fast-good cuisine like kebab, bao buns and seriously upgraded fries. Shaq’s latest Big Chicken ™ restaurant is here, and fan-fave spots like Guy’s Burger Joint ™ , the New England-inspired Seafood Shack ™ , and BlueIguana Cantina ™ taco spot aren’t done with your taste buds yet. And for folks hoping we haven’t forgotten: yes, Lido is absolutely home to one of two Swirls ™ locations, the free soft-serve spot!

THE ULTIMATE PLAYGROUND

Don't let the name fool you — this zone is ages everybody and up. Kids, you're going to love this. And adults, the playground has grown up with you. So yay for play! Of course The Ultimate Playground starts with BOLT ® , the first rollercoaster at sea, an all-electric thrill ride that puts the power of speed in your hands. But that's only the beginning — this playground has the largest Carnival WaterWorks ™ ever with three huge spiraling slides, plus SportSquare ™ is here featuring an entire mini-golf course, full-court basketball and a ropes course. And, of course, more. Ultimate enough for you?

LET’S CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF PACKING LOADS OF FUN TO GO

Carnival Celebration ® welcomes back so many fun fan favorites… while inviting hot new innovations along for one spectacular ride.

BOLT: ULTIMATE SEA COASTER

Aboard Carnival Celebration ® you’ll meet BOLT ® : the fastest — and first! — rollercoaster at sea. Strap in and zoom your motorcycle-style speed machine around an open-air course high, high above sea level. You know how on most rollercoasters... actually, never mind. Forget other coasters because this all-electric thrill ride puts you in the driver’s seat. That means you actually get to control how fast you go, so hit the gas and try for the fastest time, go for the biggest thrill — plus some amazing 360° ocean views! And for the folks who choose to chill: go light on the pedal, and this just might be the coaster for you!

Space Cruisers

Exploration is one reason we love Carnival cruises, but why stop at the seas? For cruisers ages 2–11, there’s a new vacation experience introducing kids at Camp Ocean to the wonder of space exploration. Space Cruisers ™ , debuting on Carnival Celebration, was developed in partnership with the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, so budding astronomy fans can enjoy NASA-inspired activities to help them blast off to a love of the cosmos. Activities vary by age group, but some include designing a personal mission patch, building and racing Mars Rovers, designing and testing bridge physics, playing space-themed bingo, plus hands-on learning about how objects orbit in space. 3, 2, 1… FUN!

The classic railway-inspired mechanical flap board is definitely the first thing you’ll notice about Latitudes ™ , but what sticks with you about this bar may just be something else. For instance, the drinks: specialty cocktails crafted not just to refresh, not merely to delight… but to actually match the scenery. What scenery, you’re wondering? At Latitudes no matter where we’re sailing, the views come to you from any corner of the world. Innovative virtual windows invite you to take in some of Earth’s most breathtaking views as you sit back and sip something delicious, whether you’re here for a special event, an occasion celebration… or simply a delicious departure from the ordinary.

Family Feud Live

The show has been delighting viewers at home for generations, but you never had the chance to buzz-in on a cruise ship… until now! Carnival ships are the only place you’ll find Family Feud™ Live, and on every sailing we’ll be hosting games on an authentic Family Feud™ set — right down to the iconic Face-Off podium, plus all the excitement of Fast Money. Family Feud Live will be emceed by none other than your cruise director, so if you’re game, sign up your team of five for an audition… and make sure they bring that Family Feud spirit. And, of course, everybody’s welcome to grab a seat in the audience to catch all the hilarious action!

For those who flock to waterparks just ready to make a splash, we’d suggest sliding on over to WaterWorks ™ aboard Carnival Celebration ® . Three large-scale spiraling slides, a giant dumping bucket, twin racing slides and more — you know, the works — are all practically overflowing for your hydro-delight. When you spot the big slides on board you’ll see that they mean business, splashy business: Blue Lightning ™ is packed with headfirst, high-speed twists and turns, while Orange Thunder ™ starts you off standing before propelling you down into a world of wetness… and of course, our signature Twister ™ slide keeps on thrilling splash-seekers.

CENTER STAGE + PLAYLIST PRODUCTIONS

They’re not plays, they’re not exactly concerts… these shows are something else entirely. Every performances is built on amazing songs you know and love, presented like you’ve never seen before. Multi-talented performers fill the stage with song, dance... and superstar attitude. Then they sometimes leave the stage behind, like in The Most Magnificent Circus and We Are One where they soar above the audience. Or Color My World , a show where they break into actual live-graffiti painting, right on stage. Carnival Celebration plays host to a lineup of all-new shows, plus fan-favorites Celestial Strings , which reimagines rock and pop favorites as symphonic classical compositions, and Amor Cubano with the rhythmic sounds of today’s Latin hits.

SERENITY ADULT-ONLY RETREAT

Somebody at Carnival knows just what you need, and it's pretty much exactly the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat ™ . Look, you'll still be on the same ship as the kids, the hoopla, and all the Carnival-style excitement... but you could easily forget, because when you're at Serenity you could not be further from it all. The world you'll find yourself in is one of complete peace, sea breezes and, of course, a nearby bar. It's the place to get done the kind of stuff you just can't seem to do anywhere else — reconnect with your partner, finish that book, or do absolutely, blissfully, nothing at all.

The Golden Jubilee

Even when you’re looking to the future, you still think about the past. So that’s why — if you were us — you might pay tribute to 50 years of Carnival fun and history by creating a space like The Golden Jubilee ™ ! The atmosphere makes you want to grab a vintage cocktail (lucky for you, that’s the house specialty) and raise a glass with your neighbor… but this bar is just as much an entertainment spot, helping the good times flow with a stage that puts you up close to live performances. The décor transports you decades back through time, and this aesthetic is made of actual artifacts from Carnival ships of the past, mixed with design elements inspired by our earliest ships. Outside, there’s even a Carnival history exhibit! They built great stuff back then, and we still do! This may just remind you to think about the fun history you’re creating throughout your vacation.

CLOUD 9 SPA

True or false: cruises are a time for relaxation. Our answer: whether you're all action all the time, or chill to the core, everybody needs a chance to take it easy! And nobody will find an easier spot than Cloud 9 Spa ™ aboard Carnival Celebration ® . This is an oasis built from the ground up for relaxation, from a full complement of traditional spa services like massages, facials, body wraps to the carefully-designed climates of Cloud 9's thermal suites... rooms swirling with moist or dry air, each heated very precisely. It turns out it's true: anyone can find a reason to say 'ahhh' at Carnival Celebration's Cloud 9 Spa.

THE PUNCHLINER COMEDY CLUB

Carnival Celebration ® has its own Punchliner Comedy Club in the Celebration Central zone, and up on stage you’ll find some real pros who know how to wedge a little laughter into anyone’s evening. You can count on these comedians to not hold back either. Since some of them get up and say exactly what’s on their mind, we also schedule family-friendly performances… so the only red faces in the audience are from laughing a little too hard.

SO THAT’S ALL THE FUN ON CARNIVAL CELEBRATION ® ?

LET’S CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF PUTTING FLAVOR WHERE IT COUNTS

Carnival Celebration ® connects our chefs’ savvy with your plate at every mealtime, snacktime and pizza-time (that one’s open anytime until 4 a.m.!).

Emeril's Bistro 1397

Emeril’s second restaurant at sea does something a little different. While the heart of Emeril’s Bistro 1397 ™ is in the same delicious place — his hometown Creole dishes from New Orleans — the new restaurant also keeps its passport at the ready, collecting extra flavor inspiration from every corner of the world. Then it serves up international dishes… all with Emeril’s signature culinary flair! From one day to the next you’ll find new stuff on the menu — so make sure to come back and see what surprising specialties are ready to delight you for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Cucina del Capitano

At Cucina del Capitano ® on Carnival Celebration ® , who you’ve got gathered around the table is truly as important as what’s being served there. At our table you’ll enjoy delicious Italian favorites — we serve them family-style because we know that sharing large plates and sharing tales of your day’s adventures goes hand-in-hand. Speaking of which, our walls are adorned with old snapshots from our officers’ family albums, proving that the rustic Italian-farmhouse atmosphere definitely isn’t for show. Tip: Great news! Your first meal at Cucina del Capitano is on the house… and additional visits are just $8.

Big Chicken

When Shaq tells you to build a chicken joint on board, you start warming up immediately. The big guy brings his poultry know-how and good taste to the seas with Big Chicken ™ on Carnival Celebration ® . Just like Shaq’s a multitalented entertainer, his restaurant is no one-trick chick. Step up to the counter for lunch or dinner and walk away with your choice of chicken sandwiches, crispy chicken strips or juicy fried chicken baskets... plus side dishes like potato salad and jalapeño slaw. Early-morning buzzer-beaters are invited to enjoy a breakfast of classics like chicken biscuits, a three-cheese omelet or our biscuit/egg combo featuring bacon or sausage. Snoozers are invited, too — breakfast is served until 3!

Rudi’s Seagrill

Rudi’s Seagrill ™ is the brainchild of cookbook author and master chef Rudi Sodamin. He has years of experience pleasing palates of vacationers… and this guy loves serving up a smile as much as Carnival does! But he’s serious about seafood, and an evening at Rudi’s proves it through the courses. Enjoy selections like seafood bisque and crab-stuffed lobster tail imperial — all served with an elegant flair that pays proper tribute to the beauty of the ocean from which so much fun, and flavor, arises.

Bonsai Teppanyaki

It’s a meal, a performance, and it’s definitely unforgettable. The Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ experience is set to delight guests aboard Carnival Celebration ® . Take a little time out of vacation to sit down to a selection of tempting appetizers, before your chef prepares the main course featuring selections of meats, tofu, fish, shrimp or lobster… right at your table. In the teppanyaki tradition — and Carnival’s tradition of fun — expect an interactive, satisfying meal full of surprise and delicious delight.

Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

With choices like brisket, sausage, baby back ribs and dry-rubbed chicken, our pros do the smoking right there over hickory wood before serving them up at your table. You’re in Guy Fieri’s house — Carnival Celebration ® has Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse. Now about the brews: this house of BBQ tradition doesn’t just satisfy your hunger — you’ll also enjoy our all-new, exclusive line of Parched Pig ™ craft brews. There’s a smoked porter, a farmhouse ale, a hoppy IPA and a toasted amber, all brewed just feet from your table. Tip: Come by and check out the free menu at lunchtime, plus live music and lively atmosphere all day.

Bonsai Sushi

So maybe you’ve had sushi before, but have you tried it at Bonsai Sushi ™ ? This is Carnival’s onboard seafood-and-soy-sauce spot, and we think you’ll enjoy our latest location, aboard Carnival Celebration ® . Dine indoors or out amidst carefully-pruned bonsai trees, while enjoying a delectable menu with sit-down service. Rounding out the meal: soups, sides, sakes and desserts. So the next time you’re taking a stroll down the onboard promenade, stop at Bonsai Sushi for a roll, a box or maybe order a whole sushi ship — seaborne satisfaction for two.

Guy's Burger Joint

We call Carnival Celebration ® 's onboard burger spot Guy’s Burger Joint ™ . We teamed up with Guy Fieri to design not just the burgers and fries, but to help bring in the kind of rustic atmosphere you’d find at a roadside burger shack somewhere off a coastal highway. All signs point to ambiance — and serious flavor — so try a burger dressed up the way Guy likes it, or take it off-roading… to the nearby topping bar, where you can make it your own.

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse

Haute cuisine meets atmosphere at Fahrenheit 555 ™ , a dining experience that stands toe-to-toe with some of the best steakhouses on land. Except this one’s at sea — aboard Carnival Celebration ® . Ours features your choice of steak cuts, lobster, lamb and more… and inside, there’s even a full bar that pours great pairings. These are the building blocks of an amazing experience — delectable elements that combine with great service to offer an evening to remember.

Street Eats

Some of the world’s favorite flavors aren’t found in restaurants, but on the street in trucks, stalls and carts where flavor, convenience... and quality matter. That’s right, when you’re just feet from the chef, you know they’re cooking to impress! Street Eats is Carnival’s tribute to this food phenomenon, with three ever-changing open-air stations. The first, Steam Dream , specializes in the steamiest stuff this side of the spa, featuring favorites like bao buns and pot stickers. Then there’s Mad Sizzle , which puts the “skill” in skillet with the likes of kebab and satay. And we’re definitely not about to forget Time Fries , which serves up every cruiser’s dream: fries loaded up with culinary creations from our chefs, like cheesesteak fries! On Carnival Celebration ® you may be far from the street, but flavor’s right around the corner.

Seafood Shack

A good seafood dish… mmm, quite the catch. However you like yours — roll, bowl or platter — Seafood Shack ™ is Carnival Celebration's place for you to cast your net. Imagine a seaside spot in New England, where the locals gather for great meals served with a bit of a breeze and a lot of a view. (That said, nowhere on land will you get 360-degree ocean views like ours!) Look to Seafood Shack for rustic favorites like Crab Cake Sliders, Lobster BLT, Fried Buffalo Shrimp, Snow Crab and more. Steer a course for Carnival Celebration ® ... that’s where you’ll find this little shack by the sea, wherever in the world you happen to be!

AND THAT WAS JUST THE FIRST COURSE!

LET’S CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF AMAZING HOMES AWAY FROM HOME

Carnival Celebration ® wouldn’t be complete without a place for you to settle in and recharge after a long day’s fun. And we have so many choices to fit you just right.

STATEROOM DESIGN

Design is more than just the way things look — it's as much about how they work. And staterooms aboard Carnival Celebration ® are packed with innovative changes to both. It's the way the ring-lit vanity mirror lights you evenly and shadow-free as you get ready. How the ottoman cushion flips over to serve as an extra table. And even those reading lights, recessed into the wall so you can read in bed without waking anyone! These details are really more than just details. Better comfort, lighting and storage all spring from a deep understanding we've developed around how people actually use their staterooms… and how small changes to the room add up to make the experience that much better. (Enough USB charging ports for everybody’s stuff? Oh yes!) Thoughtful, guest-centric design is how we do it… and all this in-room convenience comes paired with a fresh new look.

Havana Staterooms & Suites

Consider your Havana stateroom or suite your own island resort aboard Carnival Celebration ® . Most important is the exclusive location: near the Havana Bar & Pool. This relaxation pool is your members-only spot, and the bar's a fun-for-all hotspot when the sun goes down. Indoors, all Havana staterooms feature a unique décor, but step up to a Havana Cabana for an extra-large outdoor chill space. Step into a Havana Cabana suite for even more space, plus a luxurious rain shower. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms & Suites

Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms on Carnival Celebration ® feature exclusive décor and in-room amenities to help soothe you after a long day’s fun — spa bathrobes and slippers, plus toiletries by Elemis. Book one of these staterooms and enjoy priority spa reservations, unlimited access to the thermal suites, free fitness classes, exclusive discounts and more! And you can have comfort and value — Carnival Celebration's got a full range of Cloud 9 staterooms in all sizes, from cozy Interiors to stretch-out Suites.

Family Harbor Staterooms & Suites

Family Harbor staterooms, with their unique nautical décor, can be found near Carnival Celebration’ own Family Harbor Lounge — an exclusive spot with breakfast, snacks during the day, plus board games, family movies, video games and more. The benefits don’t end there — your little girls and boys eat free in most onboard specialty restaurants and get a free evening of Night Owls babysitting service, so you can enjoy a little alone time.

Interior Staterooms

Here’s the most affordable way to experience Carnival Celebration ® , without cutting even a single corner in the comfort department. With an Interior stateroom you’ll get a full private bathroom, your choice of bed size and layout — covered in linens you can feel at home in — all of which make this truly a great spot for curling up after a long day’s fun.

Ocean View Staterooms

These comfy rooms with a view let you take in the scenery as you sail toward your beautiful destinations. And how about those views? Nowhere on land will you find anything like ‘em. But the views aren’t all that matters here — Ocean View staterooms on Carnival Celebration ® are a little bit bigger than Interior rooms and most feature a supremely loungeable couch for those times when neither lying nor standing will do.

Balcony Staterooms

Balcony staterooms are proof that while it’s great to be cruisey… on vacation, breeziness is a virtue too. And any time you’re in your well-appointed Balcony stateroom aboard Carnival Celebration ® , you’re just steps away from the outdoors by way of your private open-air oasis. Designed for kicking back al fresco, you’re in for some amazing ocean views… views so stunning you’ll just have to feel ‘em to believe ‘em.

Get all the comforts of home, and even a few extras. Since your huge Suite on Carnival Celebration ® affords you VIP status, you're in the priority line when getting on and off the ship… plus Suites come with exclusive perks! (Carnival Excel Suites pack even more, like concierge service and access to Loft 19™.) A Suite is the ultimate way to enjoy the ship, and the extra comfort definitely goes a long way, with more room to put your feet up or stretch out on the extra-large balcony.

Loft 19 ™ was designed to afford you a unique opportunity for relaxation and indulgence. This retreat-style space invites you to soak up the sun all day from the comfort of a lounge chair or infinity whirlpool. This pairs so perfectly with Carnival Excel suites that staying in one actually gets you Loft 19 access! Drink service is always close at hand, plus you can even opt for a little private time — renting a cabana gets you more than just a place in the shade, but extras like fresh fruit, chilled towels, lunch delivery and concierge service. (Cabana rentals are open to everyone, though guests in Carnival Excel-level suites enjoy priority reservations.)

LET’S CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF CRAFTING REALLY BIG THINGS

Carnival Celebration has gone from the drawing board to the seas! Explore this a map of the ship, and start fueling your vacation dreams.

LET’S CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF HEADLINES THAT INSPIRE

Carnival Celebration had people talking before they even got their first look. And now that everybody’s sailing? Looking good! Find the latest news and announcements right here.

Miami Cruise Ship Schedule For 2024

Things To Do

Cruising From Miami

Plan Your Dream Cruise PortMiami Cruise-Lines

Plan Your Dream Cruise with these PortMiami Cruise Lines

By Terry Galvin

May 16, 2023

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The Best Spots to Watch Cruise Ships in Miami

Besides the many beaches, Miami is also known for it being a Cruise-Hotspot. Many cruise ships leave from Miami on cruises from far too distant. The Caribbean, Bahamas, and Cuba are just a few destinations you can visit from Miami. These ships are basically a small town floating on water. I have never been on a cruise so far but it is on my bucket list.

If you want to watch the cruise ships in Miami, there are a few spots you could do so. It doesn’t matter if you go on a cruise and just want to watch your ship from the outside before departing or you are just into photographing them. Below a list with my favorite spots to watch cruise ships.

• Museum Park and American Airlines Arena: From the shoreline behind the American Airlines Arena and the Museum Park you get a great view of the Port of Miami Cruise Ship Turning Basin. The cruise ships will turn around here either before or after docking at the terminals at the Port of Miami. It is amazing to see this gigantic ships basically turning on the spot. Definitely fun to watch. You get a few of Port of Miami Cruise Ship Turning Basin also from the Bayside Marketplace. Get upstairs and find a restaurant with a view of the basin. But from Bayside your view won’t be as good as it will be obstructed by the bridge connecting Downtown Miami with Dodge Island (Port of Miami). Besides watching ships, the nearby museums are great to watch some art as well.
• Port Blvd Bridge and MacArthur Causeway Bridge: As mentioned, the Port Blvd Bridge will obstruct your view by watching the ships from Bayside. However, you can just watch the ships turning around from the bridge. Another good bridge to watch the cruise ships turning is the MacArthur Causeway Bridge which is located north of the Port Blvd Bridge. The bridge has a sidewalk as well and you probably can find some free parking on Watson Island next to the stairs leading up to the bridge. Besides watching cruise ships you also get a good view of the Miami Skyline from this bridge .

• MacArthur Causeway: You can walk or bicycle along the causeway all the way to Miami Beach. MacArthur Causeway runs parallel to the Main Channel on which the cruise ships sail in and out from the port. Be aware of the traffic along the causeway.

Peter has a passion for Traveling, Photography, and Geocaching. These are the best ingredients for amazing adventures all over the globe. “Traveling is fun, no matter if you stay in a luxury hotel or travel like a backpacker.” Peter shares his experiences on his Blog www.gatetoadventures.com Some of Peter’s photos are published on corporate websites, in-flight magazines, travel guides, and much more.

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MSC Cruises' Latest Sale Has Voyages Starting at $179 — When to Book

The sale is running until April 18.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is offering monumental savings on sailings to warm weather destinations starting at less than $200 per person.

The sale, which was extended and must be booked by April 18, offers cruises starting at just $179 per person, according to MSC. The sale rate is based on double occupancy and does not include the taxes, fees, or port expenses.

Travelers who take advantage of this deeply-discounted rate can sail on three and four night journeys from Miami for just $179, or from Orlando starting at just $189, MSC shared with Travel + Leisure .

“It’s a great opportunity, whether you’re curious about cruising for the first time or you’re an avid cruiser looking to book your next sailing,” Koreen McNutt, the senior vice president and commercial sales officer for MSC Cruises USA, told T+L. “These quick getaways let guests discover everything we have to offer from world-class onboard entertainment and outstanding family programming to a variety of delicious dining venues and wonderful amenities. Plus, these short cruises all visit our private island in The Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, with beautiful white-sand beaches and pristine water brimming with vibrant marine life.” 

The sale also includes MSC’s cruises from Galveston , which the company plans to introduce as its newest homeport in the United States in 2025. The cruise line expects to sail 7-night trips to Mexico and Central America on the MSC Seascape out of Galveston, which start at just $459 per person during the sale.

In addition, MSC is offering savings on its newest ship, the MSC World America , which the company plans to launch next year complete with a thrilling over-water swing ride, 13 different restaurants, an 11-deck-high dry slide, and more. Cruises on this ship start at just $649 per person as part of the sale.

“Cruising offers an unbeatable value proposition for vacations and we’re offering more itinerary options from a larger selection of embarkation ports than ever before, which makes it even easier for more people to discover what MSC Cruises is all about,” McNutt added.

Beyond the cruise fare, MSC is offering the option for travelers to add a drink package and Wi-FI to their booking starting at just $329.

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's 2 largest cruise ships. They were shockingly similar for the $1,000 difference

• Royal Caribbean operates many of the cruise industry's biggest ships.
• Icon of the Seas  launched in January, dethroning its predecessor, Wonder of the Seas, as the world's largest.
• Here's how the two mega-ships compare in size, neighborhoods, amenities, dining, cabins, and costs.

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's new mega-cruise ship darling, was deemed a success before it was even built.

In January, the highly anticipated vessel — complete with more than 40 bars and restaurants, a six-slide waterpark, and a waterfall — set sail, dethroning its less than two-year-old precursor, the Wonder of the Seas , as the world's largest cruise ship.

Before its debut, Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, had already repeatedly called Icon its "best-selling product" yet. The company experienced its largest booking day ever when reservations opened for Icon of the Seas more than a year before its launch, it said

Despite all of this fanfare, you might be surprised by how similar it is to its predecessor.

I've sailed on both ships. Let's see how Icon and Wonder compare in six categories: size, neighborhoods, amenities, dining, cabins, and costs.

Both ships stunt the size of their competitors.

Wonder of the Seas debuted in 2022 as the then-world's largest cruise liner, measuring 235,600 gross-tons, 1,188 feet-long, and 18 decks-tall. The ship can accommodate up to 9,288 people, including 2,204 crew.

Icon of the Seas is, comparatively, 13,063 gross-tons heavier, eight feet longer, and two decks taller. It can sail up to 9,950 people, including 2,350 crew, although it's 52 feet less wide than its predecessor.

Both vessels feel more like amusement parks than traditional cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean invited me on complimentary, non-revenue sailings on both ships: two nights on Wonder in late 2022 and three nights on Icon in January.

I spent most of my time lost, overwhelmed, and exhausted.

It's no surprise both ships are operating weeklong itineraries this year. Any less, and you might not have time to experience all the activities and restaurants on your list.

Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Wonder and Icon have eight 'neighborhoods' that serve separate purposes.

The new ship shares three of Wonder of the Seas' neighborhoods : Central Park, Royal Promenade, and Suite.

Icon's other five — Thrill Island , Surfside, Hideaway, Chill Island, and AquaDome — are a first for the cruise line.

Many of the ships' amenities overlap, but in differing quantities.

Wonder has three waterslides. Icon has a six-slide waterpark complete with rafting and racing options.

Both have increasingly popular cruise amenities like decks-long dry slides, mini-golf courses, rock climbing walls, and playgrounds.

But instead of Wonder of the Seas' zipline , Icon of the Seas has Crown's Edge, a thrilling agility course with a small zipline that leaves travelers dangling 154 feet above the ocean.

Wonder’s Boardwalk neighborhood was my go-to.

Boardwalk delivered exactly as it had promised: an open-air space grounded by wood-planked floors, a hot dog stand, a sweets store, and kitschy, colorful decor.

Icon of the Seas' Surfside , designed for families with young children, felt like its closest dupe.

Both neighborhoods had a carousel, an outdoor playground, and family-friendly dining. But Surfside was more toddler-friendly, as suggested by the children's water play area and nighttime story readings.

On to entertainment: Both mega-ships have ice skating performances and exciting multi-disciplinary shows at the AquaTheater.

But travelers who enjoy musicals at sea will want to stick to Icon.

Unlike its predecessor, the new ship shows a rendition of Broadway hit "The Wizard of Oz" — Munchkins, a puppet Toto, and a 16-piece live band included.

The layout of Icon's amenities were better than its cousin.

Some of Wonder of the Seas' enticing outdoor amenities — like the surf simulator, zipline, and mini-golf course — are clustered on the deck above and away from the pools and water slides.

This layout might be difficult for parents with children who bounce from one activity to the next. Wouldn't it be easier to have all of these outdoor extras near each other, or at least on the same deck, for parental supervision purposes?

This is where Icon of the Seas excelled: All its exciting open-air activities were adjacent.

The rows of pools flowed perfectly into Thrill Island's waterpark , rock climbing walls, mini-golf course, and Crown's Edge.

The best part? The adult-only Hideaway — which flexes an infinity pool club with a DJ — is right behind Thrill Island, creating a clear separation between parents and their children without being too far from each other.

'Free' options like the buffet and build-your-own tacos and burritos bar are available on both ships.

But you won't find the larger vessel's five-stall food hall or mini-golf-adjacent finger food stand on Wonder.

As expected, Icon of the Seas has more dining options than its predecessor, although there are some overlaps.

Wonder of the Seas has 11 bars and 21 dining venues (9 complimentary and 12 upcharged).

Icon of the Seas has eight more bars, four more complimentary restaurants, and three more specialty dining choices.

Nor will you find the new ship’s plush $200-a-person Empire Supper Club on any other cruise liner.

The multi-course dinner, paired with cocktails and live music, stunts the cost of either vessel's other dinner options.

But if you love Johnny Rockets, you’ll be disappointed by Icon of the Seas.

Restaurants like the popular burger chain and Southern comfort-inspired Mason Jar are only on Wonder of the Seas. Fine by me: My fried chicken at Mason Jar was as dry as a desert.

The younger ship doesn't have Wonder's robot bartender-armed bar either. It does, however, have new watering holes with dueling pianos and live jazz.

Surprisingly, Wonder of the Seas has 65 more cabins than its new cousin.

But several of Icon's 28 stateroom categories are a first for the cruise line.

This includes the new family infinite balcony cabin, which has a small bunk bed nook for children.

Royal Caribbean assigned me an ocean-view balcony stateroom on both ships.

My Wonder of the Seas' cabin was 20 square-feet smaller than the one on Icon. But my bathroom on the latter was so tiny, I accidentally elbowed the walls at almost every turn.

Sailing on the world's largest cruise ship doesn't mean you'll have the world's largest cabin after all.

Wonder and Icon are both operating seven-night roundtrip itineraries from Florida to the Caribbean.

In 2024, Wonder of the Seas is scheduled for year-round sailings from Port Canaveral to the Caribbean and Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay , starting at $700 per person.

Icon of the Seas is spending its first year in service operating nearly identical itineraries but from Miami instead. The cheapest 2024 option is $1,786 per person.

That's a difference of more than $125 per person per day.

"Bookings and pricing for Icon of the Seas can only be described as 'iconic,'" Naftali Holtz, the CFO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in February.

Icon of the Seas’ name speaks for itself.

If your family is looking for a jam-packed kid-friendly cruise with enough amenities to stay entertained for a week, both ships are a great option.

But if you're a seasoned mega-ship-cruiser looking to experience something new, Icon of the Seas is your best bet.

They may be similar, but no other behemoth cruise liner has a waterpark for children and a pool club for adults just dozens of feet from each other.

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Crying Myself to Sleep on the Biggest Cruise Ship Ever

Seven agonizing nights aboard the Icon of the Seas

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Updated at 2:44 p.m. ET on April 6, 2024.

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MY FIRST GLIMPSE of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, from the window of an approaching Miami cab, brings on a feeling of vertigo, nausea, amazement, and distress. I shut my eyes in defense, as my brain tells my optic nerve to try again.

The ship makes no sense, vertically or horizontally. It makes no sense on sea, or on land, or in outer space. It looks like a hodgepodge of domes and minarets, tubes and canopies, like Istanbul had it been designed by idiots. Vibrant, oversignifying colors are stacked upon other such colors, decks perched over still more decks; the only comfort is a row of lifeboats ringing its perimeter. There is no imposed order, no cogent thought, and, for those who do not harbor a totalitarian sense of gigantomania, no visual mercy. This is the biggest cruise ship ever built, and I have been tasked with witnessing its inaugural voyage.

Explore the May 2024 Issue

Check out more from this issue and find your next story to read.

“Author embarks on their first cruise-ship voyage” has been a staple of American essay writing for almost three decades, beginning with David Foster Wallace’s “A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again,” which was first published in 1996 under the title “Shipping Out.” Since then, many admirable writers have widened and diversified the genre. Usually the essayist commissioned to take to the sea is in their first or second flush of youth and is ready to sharpen their wit against the hull of the offending vessel. I am 51, old and tired, having seen much of the world as a former travel journalist, and mostly what I do in both life and prose is shrug while muttering to my imaginary dachshund, “This too shall pass.” But the Icon of the Seas will not countenance a shrug. The Icon of the Seas is the Linda Loman of cruise ships, exclaiming that attention must be paid. And here I am in late January with my one piece of luggage and useless gray winter jacket and passport, zipping through the Port of Miami en route to the gangway that will separate me from the bulk of North America for more than seven days, ready to pay it in full.

The aforementioned gangway opens up directly onto a thriving mall (I will soon learn it is imperiously called the “Royal Promenade”), presently filled with yapping passengers beneath a ceiling studded with balloons ready to drop. Crew members from every part of the global South, as well as a few Balkans, are shepherding us along while pressing flutes of champagne into our hands. By a humming Starbucks, I drink as many of these as I can and prepare to find my cabin. I show my blue Suite Sky SeaPass Card (more on this later, much more) to a smiling woman from the Philippines, and she tells me to go “aft.” Which is where, now? As someone who has rarely sailed on a vessel grander than the Staten Island Ferry, I am confused. It turns out that the aft is the stern of the ship, or, for those of us who don’t know what a stern or an aft are, its ass. The nose of the ship, responsible for separating the waves before it, is also called a bow, and is marked for passengers as the FWD , or forward. The part of the contemporary sailing vessel where the malls are clustered is called the midship. I trust that you have enjoyed this nautical lesson.

I ascend via elevator to my suite on Deck 11. This is where I encounter my first terrible surprise. My suite windows and balcony do not face the ocean. Instead, they look out onto another shopping mall. This mall is the one that’s called Central Park, perhaps in homage to the Olmsted-designed bit of greenery in the middle of my hometown. Although on land I would be delighted to own a suite with Central Park views, here I am deeply depressed. To sail on a ship and not wake up to a vast blue carpet of ocean? Unthinkable.

Allow me a brief preamble here. The story you are reading was commissioned at a moment when most staterooms on the Icon were sold out. In fact, so enthralled by the prospect of this voyage were hard-core mariners that the ship’s entire inventory of guest rooms (the Icon can accommodate up to 7,600 passengers, but its inaugural journey was reduced to 5,000 or so for a less crowded experience) was almost immediately sold out. Hence, this publication was faced with the shocking prospect of paying nearly $19,000 to procure for this solitary passenger an entire suite—not including drinking expenses—all for the privilege of bringing you this article. But the suite in question doesn’t even have a view of the ocean! I sit down hard on my soft bed. Nineteen thousand dollars for this .

The viewless suite does have its pluses. In addition to all the Malin+Goetz products in my dual bathrooms, I am granted use of a dedicated Suite Deck lounge; access to Coastal Kitchen, a superior restaurant for Suites passengers; complimentary VOOM SM Surf & Stream (“the fastest Internet at Sea”) “for one device per person for the whole cruise duration”; a pair of bathrobes (one of which comes prestained with what looks like a large expectoration by the greenest lizard on Earth); and use of the Grove Suite Sun, an area on Decks 18 and 19 with food and deck chairs reserved exclusively for Suite passengers. I also get reserved seating for a performance of The Wizard of Oz , an ice-skating tribute to the periodic table, and similar provocations. The very color of my Suite Sky SeaPass Card, an oceanic blue as opposed to the cloying royal purple of the standard non-Suite passenger, will soon provoke envy and admiration. But as high as my status may be, there are those on board who have much higher status still, and I will soon learn to bow before them.

In preparation for sailing, I have “priced in,” as they say on Wall Street, the possibility that I may come from a somewhat different monde than many of the other cruisers. Without falling into stereotypes or preconceptions, I prepare myself for a friendly outspokenness on the part of my fellow seafarers that may not comply with modern DEI standards. I believe in meeting people halfway, and so the day before flying down to Miami, I visited what remains of Little Italy to purchase a popular T-shirt that reads DADDY’S LITTLE MEATBALL across the breast in the colors of the Italian flag. My wife recommended that I bring one of my many T-shirts featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, as all Americans love the beagle and his friends. But I naively thought that my meatball T-shirt would be more suitable for conversation-starting. “Oh, and who is your ‘daddy’?” some might ask upon seeing it. “And how long have you been his ‘little meatball’?” And so on.

I put on my meatball T-shirt and head for one of the dining rooms to get a late lunch. In the elevator, I stick out my chest for all to read the funny legend upon it, but soon I realize that despite its burnished tricolor letters, no one takes note. More to the point, no one takes note of me. Despite my attempts at bridge building, the very sight of me (small, ethnic, without a cap bearing the name of a football team) elicits no reaction from other passengers. Most often, they will small-talk over me as if I don’t exist. This brings to mind the travails of David Foster Wallace , who felt so ostracized by his fellow passengers that he retreated to his cabin for much of his voyage. And Wallace was raised primarily in the Midwest and was a much larger, more American-looking meatball than I am. If he couldn’t talk to these people, how will I? What if I leave this ship without making any friends at all, despite my T-shirt? I am a social creature, and the prospect of seven days alone and apart is saddening. Wallace’s stateroom, at least, had a view of the ocean, a kind of cheap eternity.

Worse awaits me in the dining room. This is a large, multichandeliered room where I attended my safety training (I was shown how to put on a flotation vest; it is a very simple procedure). But the maître d’ politely refuses me entry in an English that seems to verge on another language. “I’m sorry, this is only for pendejos ,” he seems to be saying. I push back politely and he repeats himself. Pendejos ? Piranhas? There’s some kind of P-word to which I am not attuned. Meanwhile elderly passengers stream right past, powered by their limbs, walkers, and electric wheelchairs. “It is only pendejo dining today, sir.” “But I have a suite!” I say, already starting to catch on to the ship’s class system. He examines my card again. “But you are not a pendejo ,” he confirms. I am wearing a DADDY’S LITTLE MEATBALL T-shirt, I want to say to him. I am the essence of pendejo .

Eventually, I give up and head to the plebeian buffet on Deck 15, which has an aquatic-styled name I have now forgotten. Before gaining entry to this endless cornucopia of reheated food, one passes a washing station of many sinks and soap dispensers, and perhaps the most intriguing character on the entire ship. He is Mr. Washy Washy—or, according to his name tag, Nielbert of the Philippines—and he is dressed as a taco (on other occasions, I’ll see him dressed as a burger). Mr. Washy Washy performs an eponymous song in spirited, indeed flamboyant English: “Washy, washy, wash your hands, WASHY WASHY!” The dangers of norovirus and COVID on a cruise ship this size (a giant fellow ship was stricken with the former right after my voyage) makes Mr. Washy Washy an essential member of the crew. The problem lies with the food at the end of Washy’s rainbow. The buffet is groaning with what sounds like sophisticated dishes—marinated octopus, boiled egg with anchovy, chorizo, lobster claws—but every animal tastes tragically the same, as if there was only one creature available at the market, a “cruisipus” bred specifically for Royal Caribbean dining. The “vegetables” are no better. I pick up a tomato slice and look right through it. It tastes like cellophane. I sit alone, apart from the couples and parents with gaggles of children, as “We Are Family” echoes across the buffet space.

I may have failed to mention that all this time, the Icon of the Seas has not left port. As the fiery mango of the subtropical setting sun makes Miami’s condo skyline even more apocalyptic, the ship shoves off beneath a perfunctory display of fireworks. After the sun sets, in the far, dark distance, another circus-lit cruise ship ruptures the waves before us. We glance at it with pity, because it is by definition a smaller ship than our own. I am on Deck 15, outside the buffet and overlooking a bunch of pools (the Icon has seven of them), drinking a frilly drink that I got from one of the bars (the Icon has 15 of them), still too shy to speak to anyone, despite Sister Sledge’s assertion that all on the ship are somehow related.

Kim Brooks: On failing the family vacation

The ship’s passage away from Ron DeSantis’s Florida provides no frisson, no sense of developing “sea legs,” as the ship is too large to register the presence of waves unless a mighty wind adds significant chop. It is time for me to register the presence of the 5,000 passengers around me, even if they refuse to register mine. My fellow travelers have prepared for this trip with personally decorated T-shirts celebrating the importance of this voyage. The simplest ones say ICON INAUGURAL ’24 on the back and the family name on the front. Others attest to an over-the-top love of cruise ships: WARNING! MAY START TALKING ABOUT CRUISING . Still others are artisanally designed and celebrate lifetimes spent married while cruising (on ships, of course). A couple possibly in their 90s are wearing shirts whose backs feature a drawing of a cruise liner, two flamingos with ostensibly male and female characteristics, and the legend “ HUSBAND AND WIFE Cruising Partners FOR LIFE WE MAY NOT HAVE IT All Together BUT TOGETHER WE HAVE IT ALL .” (The words not in all caps have been written in cursive.) A real journalist or a more intrepid conversationalist would have gone up to the couple and asked them to explain the longevity of their marriage vis-à-vis their love of cruising. But instead I head to my mall suite, take off my meatball T-shirt, and allow the first tears of the cruise to roll down my cheeks slowly enough that I briefly fall asleep amid the moisture and salt.

I WAKE UP with a hangover. Oh God. Right. I cannot believe all of that happened last night. A name floats into my cobwebbed, nauseated brain: “Ayn Rand.” Jesus Christ.

I breakfast alone at the Coastal Kitchen. The coffee tastes fine and the eggs came out of a bird. The ship rolls slightly this morning; I can feel it in my thighs and my schlong, the parts of me that are most receptive to danger.

I had a dangerous conversation last night. After the sun set and we were at least 50 miles from shore (most modern cruise ships sail at about 23 miles an hour), I lay in bed softly hiccupping, my arms stretched out exactly like Jesus on the cross, the sound of the distant waves missing from my mall-facing suite, replaced by the hum of air-conditioning and children shouting in Spanish through the vents of my two bathrooms. I decided this passivity was unacceptable. As an immigrant, I feel duty-bound to complete the tasks I am paid for, which means reaching out and trying to understand my fellow cruisers. So I put on a normal James Perse T-shirt and headed for one of the bars on the Royal Promenade—the Schooner Bar, it was called, if memory serves correctly.

I sat at the bar for a martini and two Negronis. An old man with thick, hairy forearms drank next to me, very silent and Hemingwaylike, while a dreadlocked piano player tinkled out a series of excellent Elton John covers. To my right, a young white couple—he in floral shorts, she in a light, summery miniskirt with a fearsome diamond ring, neither of them in football regalia—chatted with an elderly couple. Do it , I commanded myself. Open your mouth. Speak! Speak without being spoken to. Initiate. A sentence fragment caught my ear from the young woman, “Cherry Hill.” This is a suburb of Philadelphia in New Jersey, and I had once been there for a reading at a synagogue. “Excuse me,” I said gently to her. “Did you just mention Cherry Hill? It’s a lovely place.”

As it turned out, the couple now lived in Fort Lauderdale (the number of Floridians on the cruise surprised me, given that Southern Florida is itself a kind of cruise ship, albeit one slowly sinking), but soon they were talking with me exclusively—the man potbellied, with a chin like a hard-boiled egg; the woman as svelte as if she were one of the many Ukrainian members of the crew—the elderly couple next to them forgotten. This felt as groundbreaking as the first time I dared to address an American in his native tongue, as a child on a bus in Queens (“On my foot you are standing, Mister”).

“I don’t want to talk politics,” the man said. “But they’re going to eighty-six Biden and put Michelle in.”

I considered the contradictions of his opening conversational gambit, but decided to play along. “People like Michelle,” I said, testing the waters. The husband sneered, but the wife charitably put forward that the former first lady was “more personable” than Joe Biden. “They’re gonna eighty-six Biden,” the husband repeated. “He can’t put a sentence together.”

After I mentioned that I was a writer—though I presented myself as a writer of teleplays instead of novels and articles such as this one—the husband told me his favorite writer was Ayn Rand. “Ayn Rand, she came here with nothing,” the husband said. “I work with a lot of Cubans, so …” I wondered if I should mention what I usually do to ingratiate myself with Republicans or libertarians: the fact that my finances improved after pass-through corporations were taxed differently under Donald Trump. Instead, I ordered another drink and the couple did the same, and I told him that Rand and I were born in the same city, St. Petersburg/Leningrad, and that my family also came here with nothing. Now the bonding and drinking began in earnest, and several more rounds appeared. Until it all fell apart.

Read: Gary Shteyngart on watching Russian television for five days straight

My new friend, whom I will refer to as Ayn, called out to a buddy of his across the bar, and suddenly a young couple, both covered in tattoos, appeared next to us. “He fucking punked me,” Ayn’s frat-boy-like friend called out as he put his arm around Ayn, while his sizable partner sizzled up to Mrs. Rand. Both of them had a look I have never seen on land—their eyes projecting absence and enmity in equal measure. In the ’90s, I drank with Russian soldiers fresh from Chechnya and wandered the streets of wartime Zagreb, but I have never seen such undisguised hostility toward both me and perhaps the universe at large. I was briefly introduced to this psychopathic pair, but neither of them wanted to have anything to do with me, and the tattooed woman would not even reveal her Christian name to me (she pretended to have the same first name as Mrs. Rand). To impress his tattooed friends, Ayn made fun of the fact that as a television writer, I’d worked on the series Succession (which, it would turn out, practically nobody on the ship had watched), instead of the far more palatable, in his eyes, zombie drama of last year. And then my new friends drifted away from me into an angry private conversation—“He punked me!”—as I ordered another drink for myself, scared of the dead-eyed arrivals whose gaze never registered in the dim wattage of the Schooner Bar, whose terrifying voices and hollow laughs grated like unoiled gears against the crooning of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”

But today is a new day for me and my hangover. After breakfast, I explore the ship’s so-called neighborhoods . There’s the AquaDome, where one can find a food hall and an acrobatic sound-and-light aquatic show. Central Park has a premium steak house, a sushi joint, and a used Rolex that can be bought for $8,000 on land here proudly offered at $17,000. There’s the aforementioned Royal Promenade, where I had drunk with the Rands, and where a pair of dueling pianos duel well into the night. There’s Surfside, a kids’ neighborhood full of sugary garbage, which looks out onto the frothy trail that the behemoth leaves behind itself. Thrill Island refers to the collection of tubes that clutter the ass of the ship and offer passengers six waterslides and a surfing simulation. There’s the Hideaway, an adult zone that plays music from a vomit-slathered, Brit-filled Alicante nightclub circa 1996 and proves a big favorite with groups of young Latin American customers. And, most hurtfully, there’s the Suite Neighborhood.

I say hurtfully because as a Suite passenger I should be here, though my particular suite is far from the others. Whereas I am stuck amid the riffraff of Deck 11, this section is on the highborn Decks 16 and 17, and in passing, I peek into the spacious, tall-ceilinged staterooms from the hallway, dazzled by the glint of the waves and sun. For $75,000, one multifloor suite even comes with its own slide between floors, so that a family may enjoy this particular terror in private. There is a quiet splendor to the Suite Neighborhood. I see fewer stickers and signs and drawings than in my own neighborhood—for example, MIKE AND DIANA PROUDLY SERVED U.S. MARINE CORPS RETIRED . No one here needs to announce their branch of service or rank; they are simply Suites, and this is where they belong. Once again, despite my hard work and perseverance, I have been disallowed from the true American elite. Once again, I am “Not our class, dear.” I am reminded of watching The Love Boat on my grandmother’s Zenith, which either was given to her or we found in the trash (I get our many malfunctioning Zeniths confused) and whose tube got so hot, I would put little chunks of government cheese on a thin tissue atop it to give our welfare treat a pleasant, Reagan-era gooeyness. I could not understand English well enough then to catch the nuances of that seafaring program, but I knew that there were differences in the status of the passengers, and that sometimes those differences made them sad. Still, this ship, this plenty—every few steps, there are complimentary nachos or milkshakes or gyros on offer—was the fatty fuel of my childhood dreams. If only I had remained a child.

I walk around the outdoor decks looking for company. There is a middle-aged African American couple who always seem to be asleep in each other’s arms, probably exhausted from the late capitalism they regularly encounter on land. There is far more diversity on this ship than I expected. Many couples are a testament to Loving v. Virginia , and there is a large group of folks whose T-shirts read MELANIN AT SEA / IT’S THE MELANIN FOR ME . I smile when I see them, but then some young kids from the group makes Mr. Washy Washy do a cruel, caricatured “Burger Dance” (today he is in his burger getup), and I think, Well, so much for intersectionality .

At the infinity pool on Deck 17, I spot some elderly women who could be ethnic and from my part of the world, and so I jump in. I am proved correct! Many of them seem to be originally from Queens (“Corona was still great when it was all Italian”), though they are now spread across the tristate area. We bond over the way “Ron-kon-koma” sounds when announced in Penn Station.

“Everyone is here for a different reason,” one of them tells me. She and her ex-husband last sailed together four years ago to prove to themselves that their marriage was truly over. Her 15-year-old son lost his virginity to “an Irish young lady” while their ship was moored in Ravenna, Italy. The gaggle of old-timers competes to tell me their favorite cruising stories and tips. “A guy proposed in Central Park a couple of years ago”—many Royal Caribbean ships apparently have this ridiculous communal area—“and she ran away screaming!” “If you’re diamond-class, you get four drinks for free.” “A different kind of passenger sails out of Bayonne.” (This, perhaps, is racially coded.) “Sometimes, if you tip the bartender $5, your next drink will be free.”

“Everyone’s here for a different reason,” the woman whose marriage ended on a cruise tells me again. “Some people are here for bad reasons—the drinkers and the gamblers. Some people are here for medical reasons.” I have seen more than a few oxygen tanks and at least one woman clearly undergoing very serious chemo. Some T-shirts celebrate good news about a cancer diagnosis. This might be someone’s last cruise or week on Earth. For these women, who have spent months, if not years, at sea, cruising is a ritual as well as a life cycle: first love, last love, marriage, divorce, death.

Read: The last place on Earth any tourist should go

I have talked with these women for so long, tonight I promise myself that after a sad solitary dinner I will not try to seek out company at the bars in the mall or the adult-themed Hideaway. I have enough material to fulfill my duties to this publication. As I approach my orphaned suite, I run into the aggro young people who stole Mr. and Mrs. Rand away from me the night before. The tattooed apparitions pass me without a glance. She is singing something violent about “Stuttering Stanley” (a character in a popular horror movie, as I discover with my complimentary VOOM SM Surf & Stream Internet at Sea) and he’s loudly shouting about “all the money I’ve lost,” presumably at the casino in the bowels of the ship.

So these bent psychos out of a Cormac McCarthy novel are angrily inhabiting my deck. As I mewl myself to sleep, I envision a limited series for HBO or some other streamer, a kind of low-rent White Lotus , where several aggressive couples conspire to throw a shy intellectual interloper overboard. I type the scenario into my phone. As I fall asleep, I think of what the woman who recently divorced her husband and whose son became a man through the good offices of the Irish Republic told me while I was hoisting myself out of the infinity pool. “I’m here because I’m an explorer. I’m here because I’m trying something new.” What if I allowed myself to believe in her fantasy?

“YOU REALLY STARTED AT THE TOP,” they tell me. I’m at the Coastal Kitchen for my eggs and corned-beef hash, and the maître d’ has slotted me in between two couples. Fueled by coffee or perhaps intrigued by my relative youth, they strike up a conversation with me. As always, people are shocked that this is my first cruise. They contrast the Icon favorably with all the preceding liners in the Royal Caribbean fleet, usually commenting on the efficiency of the elevators that hurl us from deck to deck (as in many large corporate buildings, the elevators ask you to choose a floor and then direct you to one of many lifts). The couple to my right, from Palo Alto—he refers to his “porn mustache” and calls his wife “my cougar” because she is two years older—tell me they are “Pandemic Pinnacles.”

This is the day that my eyes will be opened. Pinnacles , it is explained to me over translucent cantaloupe, have sailed with Royal Caribbean for 700 ungodly nights. Pandemic Pinnacles took advantage of the two-for-one accrual rate of Pinnacle points during the pandemic, when sailing on a cruise ship was even more ill-advised, to catapult themselves into Pinnacle status.

Because of the importance of the inaugural voyage of the world’s largest cruise liner, more than 200 Pinnacles are on this ship, a startling number, it seems. Mrs. Palo Alto takes out a golden badge that I have seen affixed over many a breast, which reads CROWN AND ANCHOR SOCIETY along with her name. This is the coveted badge of the Pinnacle. “You should hear all the whining in Guest Services,” her husband tells me. Apparently, the Pinnacles who are not also Suites like us are all trying to use their status to get into Coastal Kitchen, our elite restaurant. Even a Pinnacle needs to be a Suite to access this level of corned-beef hash.

“We’re just baby Pinnacles,” Mrs. Palo Alto tells me, describing a kind of internal class struggle among the Pinnacle elite for ever higher status.

And now I understand what the maître d’ was saying to me on the first day of my cruise. He wasn’t saying “ pendejo .” He was saying “Pinnacle.” The dining room was for Pinnacles only, all those older people rolling in like the tide on their motorized scooters.

And now I understand something else: This whole thing is a cult. And like most cults, it can’t help but mirror the endless American fight for status. Like Keith Raniere’s NXIVM, where different-colored sashes were given out to connote rank among Raniere’s branded acolytes, this is an endless competition among Pinnacles, Suites, Diamond-Plusers, and facing-the-mall, no-balcony purple SeaPass Card peasants, not to mention the many distinctions within each category. The more you cruise, the higher your status. No wonder a section of the Royal Promenade is devoted to getting passengers to book their next cruise during the one they should be enjoying now. No wonder desperate Royal Caribbean offers (“FINAL HOURS”) crowded my email account weeks before I set sail. No wonder the ship’s jewelry store, the Royal Bling, is selling a $100,000 golden chalice that will entitle its owner to drink free on Royal Caribbean cruises for life. (One passenger was already gaming out whether her 28-year-old son was young enough to “just about earn out” on the chalice or if that ship had sailed.) No wonder this ship was sold out months before departure , and we had to pay $19,000 for a horrid suite away from the Suite Neighborhood. No wonder the most mythical hero of Royal Caribbean lore is someone named Super Mario, who has cruised so often, he now has his own working desk on many ships. This whole experience is part cult, part nautical pyramid scheme.

From the June 2014 issue: Ship of wonks

“The toilets are amazing,” the Palo Altos are telling me. “One flush and you’re done.” “They don’t understand how energy-efficient these ships are,” the husband of the other couple is telling me. “They got the LNG”—liquefied natural gas, which is supposed to make the Icon a boon to the environment (a concept widely disputed and sometimes ridiculed by environmentalists).

But I’m thinking along a different line of attack as I spear my last pallid slice of melon. For my streaming limited series, a Pinnacle would have to get killed by either an outright peasant or a Suite without an ocean view. I tell my breakfast companions my idea.

“Oh, for sure a Pinnacle would have to be killed,” Mr. Palo Alto, the Pandemic Pinnacle, says, touching his porn mustache thoughtfully as his wife nods.

“THAT’S RIGHT, IT’S your time, buddy!” Hubert, my fun-loving Panamanian cabin attendant, shouts as I step out of my suite in a robe. “Take it easy, buddy!”

I have come up with a new dressing strategy. Instead of trying to impress with my choice of T-shirts, I have decided to start wearing a robe, as one does at a resort property on land, with a proper spa and hammam. The response among my fellow cruisers has been ecstatic. “Look at you in the robe!” Mr. Rand cries out as we pass each other by the Thrill Island aqua park. “You’re living the cruise life! You know, you really drank me under the table that night.” I laugh as we part ways, but my soul cries out, Please spend more time with me, Mr. and Mrs. Rand; I so need the company .

In my white robe, I am a stately presence, a refugee from a better limited series, a one-man crossover episode. (Only Suites are granted these robes to begin with.) Today, I will try many of the activities these ships have on offer to provide their clientele with a sense of never-ceasing motion. Because I am already at Thrill Island, I decide to climb the staircase to what looks like a mast on an old-fashioned ship (terrified, because I am afraid of heights) to try a ride called “Storm Chasers,” which is part of the “Category 6” water park, named in honor of one of the storms that may someday do away with the Port of Miami entirely. Storm Chasers consists of falling from the “mast” down a long, twisting neon tube filled with water, like being the camera inside your own colonoscopy, as you hold on to the handles of a mat, hoping not to die. The tube then flops you down headfirst into a trough of water, a Royal Caribbean baptism. It both knocks my breath out and makes me sad.

In keeping with the aquatic theme, I attend a show at the AquaDome. To the sound of “Live and Let Die,” a man in a harness gyrates to and fro in the sultry air. I saw something very similar in the back rooms of the famed Berghain club in early-aughts Berlin. Soon another harnessed man is gyrating next to the first. Ja , I think to myself, I know how this ends. Now will come the fisting , natürlich . But the show soon devolves into the usual Marvel-film-grade nonsense, with too much light and sound signifying nichts . If any fisting is happening, it is probably in the Suite Neighborhood, inside a cabin marked with an upside-down pineapple, which I understand means a couple are ready to swing, and I will see none of it.

I go to the ice show, which is a kind of homage—if that’s possible—to the periodic table, done with the style and pomp and masterful precision that would please the likes of Kim Jong Un, if only he could afford Royal Caribbean talent. At one point, the dancers skate to the theme song of Succession . “See that!” I want to say to my fellow Suites—at “cultural” events, we have a special section reserved for us away from the commoners—“ Succession ! It’s even better than the zombie show! Open your minds!”

Finally, I visit a comedy revue in an enormous and too brightly lit version of an “intimate,” per Royal Caribbean literature, “Manhattan comedy club.” Many of the jokes are about the cruising life. “I’ve lived on ships for 20 years,” one of the middle-aged comedians says. “I can only see so many Filipino homosexuals dressed as a taco.” He pauses while the audience laughs. “I am so fired tonight,” he says. He segues into a Trump impression and then Biden falling asleep at the microphone, which gets the most laughs. “Anyone here from Fort Leonard Wood?” another comedian asks. Half the crowd seems to cheer. As I fall asleep that night, I realize another connection I have failed to make, and one that may explain some of the diversity on this vessel—many of its passengers have served in the military.

As a coddled passenger with a suite, I feel like I am starting to understand what it means to have a rank and be constantly reminded of it. There are many espresso makers , I think as I look across the expanse of my officer-grade quarters before closing my eyes, but this one is mine .

A shocking sight greets me beyond the pools of Deck 17 as I saunter over to the Coastal Kitchen for my morning intake of slightly sour Americanos. A tiny city beneath a series of perfectly pressed green mountains. Land! We have docked for a brief respite in Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis. I wolf down my egg scramble to be one of the first passengers off the ship. Once past the gangway, I barely refrain from kissing the ground. I rush into the sights and sounds of this scruffy island city, sampling incredible conch curry and buckets of non-Starbucks coffee. How wonderful it is to be where God intended humans to be: on land. After all, I am neither a fish nor a mall rat. This is my natural environment. Basseterre may not be Havana, but there are signs of human ingenuity and desire everywhere you look. The Black Table Grill Has been Relocated to Soho Village, Market Street, Directly Behind of, Gary’s Fruits and Flower Shop. Signed. THE PORK MAN reads a sign stuck to a wall. Now, that is how you write a sign. A real sign, not the come-ons for overpriced Rolexes that blink across the screens of the Royal Promenade.

“Hey, tie your shoestring!” a pair of laughing ladies shout to me across the street.

“Thank you!” I shout back. Shoestring! “Thank you very much.”

A man in Independence Square Park comes by and asks if I want to play with his monkey. I haven’t heard that pickup line since the Penn Station of the 1980s. But then he pulls a real monkey out of a bag. The monkey is wearing a diaper and looks insane. Wonderful , I think, just wonderful! There is so much life here. I email my editor asking if I can remain on St. Kitts and allow the Icon to sail off into the horizon without me. I have even priced a flight home at less than $300, and I have enough material from the first four days on the cruise to write the entire story. “It would be funny …” my editor replies. “Now get on the boat.”

As I slink back to the ship after my brief jailbreak, the locals stand under umbrellas to gaze at and photograph the boat that towers over their small capital city. The limousines of the prime minister and his lackeys are parked beside the gangway. St. Kitts, I’ve been told, is one of the few islands that would allow a ship of this size to dock.

“We hear about all the waterslides,” a sweet young server in one of the cafés told me. “We wish we could go on the ship, but we have to work.”

“I want to stay on your island,” I replied. “I love it here.”

But she didn’t understand how I could possibly mean that.

“WASHY, WASHY, so you don’t get stinky, stinky!” kids are singing outside the AquaDome, while their adult minders look on in disapproval, perhaps worried that Mr. Washy Washy is grooming them into a life of gayness. I heard a southern couple skip the buffet entirely out of fear of Mr. Washy Washy.

Meanwhile, I have found a new watering hole for myself, the Swim & Tonic, the biggest swim-up bar on any cruise ship in the world. Drinking next to full-size, nearly naked Americans takes away one’s own self-consciousness. The men have curvaceous mom bodies. The women are equally un-shy about their sprawling physiques.

Today I’ve befriended a bald man with many children who tells me that all of the little trinkets that Royal Caribbean has left us in our staterooms and suites are worth a fortune on eBay. “Eighty dollars for the water bottle, 60 for the lanyard,” the man says. “This is a cult.”

“Tell me about it,” I say. There is, however, a clientele for whom this cruise makes perfect sense. For a large middle-class family (he works in “supply chains”), seven days in a lower-tier cabin—which starts at $1,800 a person—allow the parents to drop off their children in Surfside, where I imagine many young Filipina crew members will take care of them, while the parents are free to get drunk at a swim-up bar and maybe even get intimate in their cabin. Cruise ships have become, for a certain kind of hardworking family, a form of subsidized child care.

There is another man I would like to befriend at the Swim & Tonic, a tall, bald fellow who is perpetually inebriated and who wears a necklace studded with little rubber duckies in sunglasses, which, I am told, is a sort of secret handshake for cruise aficionados. Tomorrow, I will spend more time with him, but first the ship docks at St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Charlotte Amalie, the capital, is more charming in name than in presence, but I still all but jump off the ship to score a juicy oxtail and plantains at the well-known Petite Pump Room, overlooking the harbor. From one of the highest points in the small city, the Icon of the Seas appears bigger than the surrounding hills.

I usually tan very evenly, but something about the discombobulation of life at sea makes me forget the regular application of sunscreen. As I walk down the streets of Charlotte Amalie in my fluorescent Icon of the Seas cap, an old Rastafarian stares me down. “Redneck,” he hisses.

“No,” I want to tell him, as I bring a hand up to my red neck, “that’s not who I am at all. On my island, Mannahatta, as Whitman would have it, I am an interesting person living within an engaging artistic milieu. I do not wish to use the Caribbean as a dumping ground for the cruise-ship industry. I love the work of Derek Walcott. You don’t understand. I am not a redneck. And if I am, they did this to me.” They meaning Royal Caribbean? Its passengers? The Rands?

“They did this to me!”

Back on the Icon, some older matrons are muttering about a run-in with passengers from the Celebrity cruise ship docked next to us, the Celebrity Apex. Although Celebrity Cruises is also owned by Royal Caribbean, I am made to understand that there is a deep fratricidal beef between passengers of the two lines. “We met a woman from the Apex,” one matron says, “and she says it was a small ship and there was nothing to do. Her face was as tight as a 19-year-old’s, she had so much surgery.” With those words, and beneath a cloudy sky, humidity shrouding our weathered faces and red necks, we set sail once again, hopefully in the direction of home.

THERE ARE BARELY 48 HOURS LEFT to the cruise, and the Icon of the Seas’ passengers are salty. They know how to work the elevators. They know the Washy Washy song by heart. They understand that the chicken gyro at “Feta Mediterranean,” in the AquaDome Market, is the least problematic form of chicken on the ship.

The passengers have shed their INAUGURAL CRUISE T-shirts and are now starting to evince political opinions. There are caps pledging to make America great again and T-shirts that celebrate words sometimes attributed to Patrick Henry: “The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people; it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government.” With their preponderance of FAMILY FLAG FAITH FRIENDS FIREARMS T-shirts, the tables by the crepe station sometimes resemble the Capitol Rotunda on January 6. The Real Anthony Fauci , by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., appears to be a popular form of literature, especially among young men with very complicated versions of the American flag on their T-shirts. Other opinions blend the personal and the political. “Someone needs to kill Washy guy, right?” a well-dressed man in the elevator tells me, his gray eyes radiating nothing. “Just beat him to death. Am I right?” I overhear the male member of a young couple whisper, “There goes that freak” as I saunter by in my white spa robe, and I decide to retire it for the rest of the cruise.

I visit the Royal Bling to see up close the $100,000 golden chalice that entitles you to free drinks on Royal Caribbean forever. The pleasant Serbian saleslady explains that the chalice is actually gold-plated and covered in white zirconia instead of diamonds, as it would otherwise cost $1 million. “If you already have everything,” she explains, “this is one more thing you can get.”

I believe that anyone who works for Royal Caribbean should be entitled to immediate American citizenship. They already speak English better than most of the passengers and, per the Serbian lady’s sales pitch above, better understand what America is as well. Crew members like my Panamanian cabin attendant seem to work 24 hours a day. A waiter from New Delhi tells me that his contract is six months and three weeks long. After a cruise ends, he says, “in a few hours, we start again for the next cruise.” At the end of the half a year at sea, he is allowed a two-to-three-month stay at home with his family. As of 2019, the median income for crew members was somewhere in the vicinity of $20,000, according to a major business publication. Royal Caribbean would not share the current median salary for its crew members, but I am certain that it amounts to a fraction of the cost of a Royal Bling gold-plated, zirconia-studded chalice.

And because most of the Icon’s hyper-sanitized spaces are just a frittata away from being a Delta lounge, one forgets that there are actual sailors on this ship, charged with the herculean task of docking it in port. “Having driven 100,000-ton aircraft carriers throughout my career,” retired Admiral James G. Stavridis, the former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, writes to me, “I’m not sure I would even know where to begin with trying to control a sea monster like this one nearly three times the size.” (I first met Stavridis while touring Army bases in Germany more than a decade ago.)

Today, I decide to head to the hot tub near Swim & Tonic, where some of the ship’s drunkest reprobates seem to gather (the other tubs are filled with families and couples). The talk here, like everywhere else on the ship, concerns football, a sport about which I know nothing. It is apparent that four teams have recently competed in some kind of finals for the year, and that two of them will now face off in the championship. Often when people on the Icon speak, I will try to repeat the last thing they said with a laugh or a nod of disbelief. “Yes, 20-yard line! Ha!” “Oh my God, of course, scrimmage.”

Soon we are joined in the hot tub by the late-middle-age drunk guy with the duck necklace. He is wearing a bucket hat with the legend HAWKEYES , which, I soon gather, is yet another football team. “All right, who turned me in?” Duck Necklace says as he plops into the tub beside us. “I get a call in the morning,” he says. “It’s security. Can you come down to the dining room by 10 a.m.? You need to stay away from the members of this religious family.” Apparently, the gregarious Duck Necklace had photobombed the wrong people. There are several families who present as evangelical Christians or practicing Muslims on the ship. One man, evidently, was not happy that Duck Necklace had made contact with his relatives. “It’s because of religious stuff; he was offended. I put my arm around 20 people a day.”

Everyone laughs. “They asked me three times if I needed medication,” he says of the security people who apparently interrogated him in full view of others having breakfast.

Another hot-tub denizen suggests that he should have asked for fentanyl. After a few more drinks, Duck Necklace begins to muse about what it would be like to fall off the ship. “I’m 62 and I’m ready to go,” he says. “I just don’t want a shark to eat me. I’m a huge God guy. I’m a Bible guy. There’s some Mayan theory squaring science stuff with religion. There is so much more to life on Earth.” We all nod into our Red Stripes.

“I never get off the ship when we dock,” he says. He tells us he lost $6,000 in the casino the other day. Later, I look him up, and it appears that on land, he’s a financial adviser in a crisp gray suit, probably a pillar of his North Chicago community.

THE OCEAN IS TEEMING with fascinating life, but on the surface it has little to teach us. The waves come and go. The horizon remains ever far away.

I am constantly told by my fellow passengers that “everybody here has a story.” Yes, I want to reply, but everybody everywhere has a story. You, the reader of this essay, have a story, and yet you’re not inclined to jump on a cruise ship and, like Duck Necklace, tell your story to others at great pitch and volume. Maybe what they’re saying is that everybody on this ship wants to have a bigger, more coherent, more interesting story than the one they’ve been given. Maybe that’s why there’s so much signage on the doors around me attesting to marriages spent on the sea. Maybe that’s why the Royal Caribbean newsletter slipped under my door tells me that “this isn’t a vacation day spent—it’s bragging rights earned.” Maybe that’s why I’m so lonely.

Today is a big day for Icon passengers. Today the ship docks at Royal Caribbean’s own Bahamian island, the Perfect Day at CocoCay. (This appears to be the actual name of the island.) A comedian at the nightclub opined on what his perfect day at CocoCay would look like—receiving oral sex while learning that his ex-wife had been killed in a car crash (big laughter). But the reality of the island is far less humorous than that.

One of the ethnic tristate ladies in the infinity pool told me that she loved CocoCay because it had exactly the same things that could be found on the ship itself. This proves to be correct. It is like the Icon, but with sand. The same tired burgers, the same colorful tubes conveying children and water from Point A to B. The same swim-up bar at its Hideaway ($140 for admittance, no children allowed; Royal Caribbean must be printing money off its clientele). “There was almost a fight at The Wizard of Oz ,” I overhear an elderly woman tell her companion on a chaise lounge. Apparently one of the passengers began recording Royal Caribbean’s intellectual property and “three guys came after him.”

I walk down a pathway to the center of the island, where a sign reads DO NOT ENTER: YOU HAVE REACHED THE BOUNDARY OF ADVENTURE . I hear an animal scampering in the bushes. A Royal Caribbean worker in an enormous golf cart soon chases me down and takes me back to the Hideaway, where I run into Mrs. Rand in a bikini. She becomes livid telling me about an altercation she had the other day with a woman over a towel and a deck chair. We Suites have special towel privileges; we do not have to hand over our SeaPass Card to score a towel. But the Rands are not Suites. “People are so entitled here,” Mrs. Rand says. “It’s like the airport with all its classes.” “You see,” I want to say, “this is where your husband’s love of Ayn Rand runs into the cruelties and arbitrary indignities of unbridled capitalism.” Instead we make plans to meet for a final drink in the Schooner Bar tonight (the Rands will stand me up).

Back on the ship, I try to do laps, but the pool (the largest on any cruise ship, naturally) is fully trashed with the detritus of American life: candy wrappers, a slowly dissolving tortilla chip, napkins. I take an extra-long shower in my suite, then walk around the perimeter of the ship on a kind of exercise track, past all the alluring lifeboats in their yellow-and-white livery. Maybe there is a dystopian angle to the HBO series that I will surely end up pitching, one with shades of WALL-E or Snowpiercer . In a collapsed world, a Royal Caribbean–like cruise liner sails from port to port, collecting new shipmates and supplies in exchange for the precious energy it has on board. (The actual Icon features a new technology that converts passengers’ poop into enough energy to power the waterslides . In the series, this shitty technology would be greatly expanded.) A very young woman (18? 19?), smart and lonely, who has only known life on the ship, walks along the same track as I do now, contemplating jumping off into the surf left by its wake. I picture reusing Duck Necklace’s words in the opening shot of the pilot. The girl is walking around the track, her eyes on the horizon; maybe she’s highborn—a Suite—and we hear the voice-over: “I’m 19 and I’m ready to go. I just don’t want a shark to eat me.”

Before the cruise is finished, I talk to Mr. Washy Washy, or Nielbert of the Philippines. He is a sweet, gentle man, and I thank him for the earworm of a song he has given me and for keeping us safe from the dreaded norovirus. “This is very important to me, getting people to wash their hands,” he tells me in his burger getup. He has dreams, as an artist and a performer, but they are limited in scope. One day he wants to dress up as a piece of bacon for the morning shift.

THE MAIDEN VOYAGE OF THE TITANIC (the Icon of the Seas is five times as large as that doomed vessel) at least offered its passengers an exciting ending to their cruise, but when I wake up on the eighth day, all I see are the gray ghosts that populate Miami’s condo skyline. Throughout my voyage, my writer friends wrote in to commiserate with me. Sloane Crosley, who once covered a three-day spa mini-cruise for Vogue , tells me she felt “so very alone … I found it very untethering.” Gideon Lewis-Kraus writes in an Instagram comment: “When Gary is done I think it’s time this genre was taken out back and shot.” And he is right. To badly paraphrase Adorno: After this, no more cruise stories. It is unfair to put a thinking person on a cruise ship. Writers typically have difficult childhoods, and it is cruel to remind them of the inherent loneliness that drove them to writing in the first place. It is also unseemly to write about the kind of people who go on cruises. Our country does not provide the education and upbringing that allow its citizens an interior life. For the creative class to point fingers at the large, breasty gentlemen adrift in tortilla-chip-laden pools of water is to gather a sour harvest of low-hanging fruit.

A day or two before I got off the ship, I decided to make use of my balcony, which I had avoided because I thought the view would only depress me further. What I found shocked me. My suite did not look out on Central Park after all. This entire time, I had been living in the ship’s Disneyland, Surfside, the neighborhood full of screaming toddlers consuming milkshakes and candy. And as I leaned out over my balcony, I beheld a slight vista of the sea and surf that I thought I had been missing. It had been there all along. The sea was frothy and infinite and blue-green beneath the span of a seagull’s wing. And though it had been trod hard by the world’s largest cruise ship, it remained.

This article appears in the May 2024 print edition with the headline “A Meatball at Sea.” When you buy a book using a link on this page, we receive a commission. Thank you for supporting The Atlantic.

Swing ride 160 feet above the water coming to MSC Cruises' new ship in 2025

MSC Cruises’ new ship will have a swing set on board – but not the kind you’d find on a playground.

Cliffhanger, a new ride launching on forthcoming U.S. flagship MSC World America next year, will allow guests to swing out over the ocean 160 feet above the water, the cruise line revealed Tuesday. The four-seat ride uses mechanical arms to lift guests beyond the 22-deck ship’s edge, where they are propelled back and forth.

The line is billing the attraction as the only over-water swing ride at sea. MSC Cruises USA President Rubén A. Rodríguez said Cliffhanger is a “natural next step,” following attractions on its other ships like Seascape’s Robotron .

“It’s the first time we’re taking thrill-seekers out past the deck and over the water, and we know they’ll love it,” he told USA TODAY in an email. There will be an added charge for the ride, but pricing details were not yet available.

Cliffhanger will be part of Family Aventura, one of seven districts on the 2,614-stateroom ship. The area also features The Harbor, an outdoor park area with a high ropes course, a playground inspired by the lighthouse at the line’s private Bahamas destination Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and more.

Other districts on the ship include Galleria, home to dining venues, shopping and games “at the heart of the ship,” and Zen Area, an adults-only zone at the vessel’s stern where guests can enjoy music, catch some sun and take a dip in twin pools, according to an earlier news release .

Short vs. long cruises: Which one is right for you?

World America will debut in April 2025 and spend its inaugural season sailing Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Cruise demand leaves pandemic in rearview with record passengers, more construction on tap

M IAMI BEACH — The COVID pandemic drove the cruise industry to a standstill, but numbers released Tuesday signal the years of comeback are officially over with more expansion on tap.

More than 31.7 million passengers took cruises worldwide in 2023, said Kelly Craighead, Cruise Line International Association president and CEO, speaking at the annual Seatrade Cruise Global conference at Miami Beach Convention Center.

CLIA is the lobbying group for member cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Norwegian, MSC and most other major brands.

The pandemic shut down sailing from March 2020 with only a small number of ships coming back online 18 months later in summer 2021. Cruise lines didn’t return to full strength until partially through 2022, so it wasn’t until a full year of sailing in 2023 that the industry could get a real handle on just what the demand had grown to as people returned to vacation travel.

“We are an industry that’s resilient and thriving all around the world, breaking records in ways we might never have imagined,” she said.

The 2023 total is 2 million more than the industry had in 2019. CLIA projects 34.1 million in 2024 growing to 34.6 million in 2025. It’s still a miniscule chunk of the overall travel pie of more than 1.3 billion, but cruise’s share is growing.

She noted that surveys of travelers who would consider a cruise for a vacation are at an all-time high, noting that 82% who had previously cruised said they would cruise again, but more importantly, among those who had never sailed, 71% would consider it.

The youngest generations — Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z — are the biggest drivers.

The fleet for the growing demand continues as well, including the introduction this year of the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas.

She said CLIA member lines had more than 300 ships sailing globally for the first time in 2023, with 14 new ships that began sailing in 2023 and another eight expected before the end of the year. They have 88 new ships on order through 2028.

Already this year, both Royal Caribbean Group and Carnival Corp. announced major new ship construction deals, and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings added to that this week with its order of eight more vessels across its three brands.

The heads of those groups were on stage to discuss where the industry is headed and enjoy their recent success.

Carnival Corp.’s president and CEO Josh Weinstein put it in a way that gained plaudits from fellow panelists and others at the conference.

“The concept of pent-up demand for cruising is gone,” he said. “We have been cruising for three years, right? It’s over. This is natural demand because we all provide amazing experiences. We delivered happiness to literally 31 million guests last year. And people see it, they feel it.”

A big part of what cruising missed during the pandemic he said was that word-of-mouth promotion that is needed to convince people to try their product.

“We now have 31 million people getting off our ships and going home and telling their friends and family who have never cruised before, ‘You don’t know what you’re missing.’ ‘This is amazing.’”

All of the leaders echoed the industry line that they offer a much better value than land-based vacations, but that the experience gap between the two has now shifted in their favor coming out of the pandemic.

“The appreciation for building memories with your friends and family coming out of COVID is at extraordinarily high levels,” said Jason Liberty, president & CEO at Royal Caribbean Group. “Also wealth transfer, right? Grandparents wanting to see that wealth transfer live, watching their kids and their grandkids experience that is also at an all-time high. … We have the secular trends of people buying less stuff, they want experiences. We’re in the experience business.”

Another bright aspect to the industry has been the spillover effect of all of the new ships since the pandemic, said Harry Sommer, president & CEO at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

“Their new products are so extraordinary, and so much better than what was delivered back in ’15, ’16 and ’17, that it’s driving additional excitement for the entire industry,” Somer said. “When any new ship is delivered, no matter whether it’s part of our portfolio or the other portfolios, demand improves for all of us because it adds excitement to the industry.”

©2024 Orlando Sentinel. Visit orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Watch CBS News

Holland America crewmember missing after going overboard before vessel docks at Port Everglades

By Hunter Geisel

Updated on: April 13, 2024 / 4:52 PM EDT / CBS Miami

FORT LAUDERDALE  — A search is underway for a cruise ship crewmember who went overboard while the vessel was still at sea before docking in South Florida this weekend.

Around 11:18 a.m. Saturday, deputies with the Broward County Sheriff's Office Port Everglades District responded to a report of a missing crewmember on a Holland America cruise ship.

According to Holland America, the crew member was reported missing when the Rotterdam vessel docked in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday. After reviewing the security camera video, the crew member went "purposefully overboard" around 9:45 p.m. Friday while the vessel was still en route between Cuba and Key West, the cruise line told CBS News Miami.

BSO's Homicide and Crime Scene units have responded to Port Everglades to investigate, while the U.S. Coast has been notified and is currently searching the sea for the crew member.

"All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with the team member's family at this difficult time," the cruise line shared in a statement with CBS News Miami.

This is a developing story. Tune into CBS News Miami on-air and online for the latest updates.

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