Cruise stopovers in North America

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

Cruise stopovers in North America

cruise stopovers in North America

Optimize your cruise stopovers in America and Canada with our advice to maximize your time and budget. Discover the essential activities at each stopover, learn tips for efficient disembarkation, and be informed about the costs associated with certain outings.

We list all the stops visited, with new destinations added regularly. Don’t miss anything by keeping an eye on MTT, or add us to your favorites!

For all the stopovers in America and Canada that I have listed, I will give you my opinion on the most beautiful ones. This opinion can be subjective because it is the opinion of a tourist (like you) and of some cruise passengers who also give their valuable opinions.

For all the stops in North America cruise ports of call that I’ve listed, I’ll give you my opinion on the most beautiful ones. This opinion may be subjective as it’s the opinion of a tourist (like you) and some fellow cruisers who provide their valuable feedback as well. I’ve marked them with this symbol 👁 when it’s a must-see stop, 👁👁 when you can’t miss it, and 👁👁👁 when you must see it at least once in your lifetime because it’s a paradise!

→ For activities present on MTT

Each of the activities is carefully selected among tourists’ favorites, rated with this ⭐/5, based on hundreds or even thousands of customer reviews. This allows you to easily navigate the most popular and beloved experiences to make your cruise stopover truly unforgettable.

By following these tips, you can maximize your time during each cruise stopover in Mediterranean ports. 

Have a good cruise and good stopovers! ‍️🥳🛳‍️


North America cruise stopovers

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


NEW YORK

Cruise stopovers in North America – Your gateway to the Caribbean, Bermuda and Canada

👁👁👁

cruise stopovers in North America

The Manhattan Cruise Terminal, the departure point for more than X liners each year, is your gateway to dream destinations like the Caribbean, Bermuda and Canada. Embark on an unforgettable cruise and discover magnificent landscapes, fascinating cultures and unique experiences.


How to exit New York cruise port

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

Where to board a cruise in New York?

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

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

Here are the three main embarkation ports for your cruise!👇

Manhattan cruise terminal

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

Brooklyn cruise terminal

Inaugurated in April 2006, this terminal accommodates the largest ships, including the famous Queen Mary 2. Offering breathtaking views of the New York skyline, it is well connected and you can even take a water bus offering a unique experience with views on the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan.

Cape liberty cruise port

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises exclusively!

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


How to get from JFK to Manhattan cruise terminal

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

By public transport:

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

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

By taxi or Uber:

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

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


How to get from JFK to Brooklyn cruise terminal

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

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

By public transport:

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

→ For the Air Train card at $26

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

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

By taxi or Uber:

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

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


How to get from JFK to Cape liberty cruise port

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

If you opt for a taxi:

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

→ For the Air Train card at $26

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

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


The best things to do

What to do in New York on a cruise?

Cruise stopovers in North America

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

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

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


Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island by ferry

Cruise stopovers in North America – Want an unforgettable historical getaway?

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 7,656 reviews

I was completely won over by this experience! Before boarding my real liner for my cruise, I really wanted to see with my own eyes the beauty of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Boarding the ferry was a truly magical moment. It was such an amazing experience that I highly recommend to anyone visiting New York.


Empire State Building

Cruise stopovers in North America – A marvel 🤪


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

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

How to get there:

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

Empire State Building

North America cruise ports of call

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 13,441 reviews

Go to the 86th floor to admire views of 6 states from New York’s highest open 360° observation deck. Go even higher with the combined ticket to the 102nd floor.


9/11 Memorial & museum ❤

North America cruise ports of call – World Trade Center


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

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

September 11 Memorial

  • Daily: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

9/11 Museum

  • Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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

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

9/11 Memorial & museum – World Trade Center ❤

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 15,603 reviews

Meditate on the tragic events of September 11, 2001 by visiting the September 11 Memorial. Hear the memories and stories of resistance that followed the terrorist attacks.


BOSTON

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cruise stopovers in North America

How to get out of Boston cruise port

When you arrive in Boston, you are faced with a multitude of things to see and do, making this stopover a real gem. Personally, I loved every moment, feeling like a child in wonder. To reach downtown Boston, you can go there on foot. At the exit of the port you will find taxis, buses, as well as restaurants, museums, etc.

Exiting the port is free dear friends! The distance of 30 minutes can scare some people, but it’s okay because there are lots of things to discover and we have plenty of time. For those who are tired (it happens), take means of transport and don’t forget the trolley, it’s definitely worth doing!

How to get around Boston on a cruise stopover?

Travel OptionsBenefits
Metro (T)Fast, efficient, covers many neighborhoods.
TrolleySave time, guided tour, panoramic view, appreciated by cruise passengers.
BusExtensive network, access to areas not served by the metro.
Tram (tram)Serves the city center and historic districts.
WalkingEasy to explore, access to many attractions.
BikeBike sharing system, secure cycle paths.

Visit Boston on a trolley cruise

My ultimate tip for exploring the city? Take a trolley tour with Boston’s charming orange and green Old Town Trolley. You’ll be able to discover over 100 points of interest at your own pace, with the freedom to hop on and off all day long. You can visit iconic places like the Boston Statehouse, Liberty Wharf and the Charlestown Navy Yard.


the best activities

What to do in Boston on a cruise stopover

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

Whale watching catamaran cruise ❤

North America cruise ports of call

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 2,434 reviews

Watching whales swimming in their natural habitat is a fascinating experience that I highly recommend, an experience to have at least once in your life.

In addition, as with all the other activities offered by MTT, the schedules are perfectly adapted to our stopover time, which greatly facilitates the organization of our day and allows us to fully enjoy this unique experience.


PORTLAND

North America cruise ports of call in Maine

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cruise stopovers in North America

How to get out of Portland cruise port

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

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

To leave the port, the exit is free, no costs incurred, you are 2 km from the center. This equates to about a 25-30 minute walk or about 5-10 minutes by car. You can take the bus, the trolley…

Getting to Portland, Maine?

Travel OptionsBenefits
WalkingEasy neighborhood exploration, access to local attractions.
TrolleyGuided tour, ideal for discovering the city’s points of interest.
Fire truck (unusual)Unique experience, original visit to Portland.
BusReliable public transportation service, serving different areas of the city.
BikeWell-designed cycle paths, ideal for discovering the city at your own pace.
Taxi/Uber/LyftEase and convenience to move quickly from one point to another.
the best activities

What to do in Portland on a cruise stopover

Trolley city tour with stop at the Portland Lighthouse

Cruise stopovers in North America

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 128 reviews

Explore Portland in a unique way on a guided trolley tour. From the city to the rocky coast, don’t miss a thing with forward-facing seats and large windows.

Your guide will reveal Portland’s iconic sites and fascinating stories. Make an unforgettable stop at the famous Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse, for a 30-minute exploration. A captivating and memorable experience awaits you in Portland.


Maine Lighthouse scenic cruise

Cruise stopovers in North America

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 277 reviews

Explore the sights and scenes of Casco Bay on a fully narrated scenic cruise. Admire major sights like Portland Head Lighthouse and Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, as well as the bay’s local wildlife. The cruise is next to the cruise port!


Tour aboard a vintage fire truck

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 134 reviews

Take a 50-minute guided tour of Portland aboard an open-air fire truck.


CANADA


SAINT JOHN

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cruise stopovers in North America

How to exit Saint John cruise port

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

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

When you dock in Saint John you will arrive a stone’s throw from the city center, the outing is free, friends!

the best activities

What to do in Saint John on a cruise stopover

Cruise stopovers in North America

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

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

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

Cycling Tour of Highlights and History

North America cruise ports of call

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Discover Saint John, New Brunswick, as you pedal through picturesque landscapes on this guided bike tour. Discover the city’s points of interest and enjoy a mid-journey stop to taste a beer from a local brewery.


HALIFAX

👁👁👁

cruise stopovers in North America

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

How to exit Halifax cruise port

At the Port of Halifax, your cruise ship will dock at Piers 20 and 22, close to the city center, giving you quick and convenient access to the city. You can easily explore the city center on foot or opt for public transport, taxis or even rent bikes at the terminal. If your ship is docked further away in the port, don’t worry, a free shuttle is available to allow you to exit the port with ease.

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

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

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

the best activities

What to do in Halifax on a cruise stopover

From Halifax – Peggy’s Cove in a small group with transfers

Cruise stopovers in North America

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 276 reviews

Enjoy a scenic drive from Halifax to beautiful Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia. Enjoy express entry into the cove, small groups of less than 6 people, and the ocean breeze in your face.


Small-Group Tour with the Citadel and Peggy’s Cove

Cruise stopovers in North America

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 63 reviews

Discover all that’s happening in Halifax by joining one of the city’s best tours. The tour includes a scenic drive to Peggy’s Cove, a tour of Citadel Hill and a detailed tour of downtown Halifax.


MTT cruise lines

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

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


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MTT wishes you the most wonderful of cruises.

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