Welcome to MonTataneTour (MTT) and to your page “North America cruise ports excursions.”
I’m Sarah (or Miss Tatane 😛), passionate about cruises and a fellow cruiser like you. I’m here to share my experiences and tips so you can make the most of your stopover or embarkation in North America cruise ports excursions.
Don’t forget to bookmark us if you plan to go on another cruise! Our MTT site (yours!) is constantly updated with new articles every week, as well as new destinations as we travel.
→ On this page, I’m sharing two of our most affordable partners. You can choose to book with Civitatis 🔴 or GetYourGuide 🔵, depending on your preference.
North America cruise ports excursions
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
North America cruise ports excursions
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The Manhattan and Brooklyn cruise terminals are departure points for unforgettable cruises. Discover magnificent landscapes, fascinating cultures and unique experiences.
Embarking or disembarking in New York
What you need to nnow
When arriving in New York for your cruise, or getting ready to board, knowing the steps to follow makes everything much smoother and stress-free. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
| Recommended Arrival Times | Arrive 2 to 3 hours before departure to allow enough time for check-in, security checks, and boarding. |
| Required Documents | Keep your passport, boarding pass, and any other documents required by your cruise line within reach. |
| Security Procedures | Similar to airport procedures: bag screening and passing through the detector. Avoid carrying prohibited items to save time. |
| Boarding | Drop off your checked luggage in the designated area; it will be delivered directly to your cabin. |
| Disembarkation | Follow the instructions to collect your luggage at the terminal, usually organized by the cruise line or port staff. |
How to exit New York cruise port
Whether you’re embarking from New York or just stopping over, Manhattan Cruise Terminal is easily accessible by foot or taxi. Walking out of the port is often the best option: the exit is free, and you can reach Times Square in just 15 minutes on foot. Even with luggage, it’s a convenient and economical solution.
Important: If you’re embarking or disembarking at Brooklyn, it’s very different! Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is more complex for getting around.
New York cruise terminals
Manhattan Terminal: Princess, Celebrity, Norwegian
Brooklyn Terminal: MSC, Costa, Cunard (Queen Mary 2)
Cape Liberty (NJ): Royal Caribbean, Celebrity
Manhattan
| Main Lines | Princess, Celebrity, Norwegian |
| Highlights | 15 min to Times Square, walking distance, convenient location |
| From JFK (Economy) | AirTrain + E Subway ($8, 60 min) |
| From JFK (Comfort) | Uber $80-100 / Taxi $100-120 |
Brooklyn
| Main Lines | MSC, Costa, Cunard (Queen Mary 2) |
| Highlights | Modern terminal, skyline view, no direct public transport |
| From JFK (Economy) | AirTrain + Subway + Taxi ($35, 90+ min) |
| From JFK (Comfort) | Uber $80-100 |
Cape Liberty (NJ)
| Main Lines | Royal Caribbean, Celebrity |
| Highlights | Exclusive terminal, farther from Manhattan |
| From JFK (Economy) | Public transport + Taxi ($60-80, 2+ h) |
| From JFK (Comfort) | Uber $110-140 / Taxi $130-160 |
The ultimate New York guide
Ticket – Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing tour by open-top bus
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 5,329 reviews
Discover New York City’s museums and landmarks from an open-top bus and hop off at any stop to explore. Visit fascinating places like Times Square, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and more.
Price per person → $44
Activities
North America cruise ports excursions
To make the most of your stop in New York, explore the available activities catalog and book your tickets online. You’ll find guided tours, cultural excursions, walks through Manhattan or Brooklyn, as well as unique experiences such as a Statue of Liberty cruise or hop-on-hop-off bus tours. These options will help you make your day unforgettable, comfortable, and stress-free.
BOSTON
North America cruise ports excursions
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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 the city center of Boston, you can go there on foot (allow around thirty minutes). At the exit of the port you will find taxis, buses and the trolley.
Exiting the port is free dear friends! The distance of 30 minutes can be scary for some, but it’s okay if you don’t want to pay or the budget is a little tight!
I can give you some advice if you want. The companies offer return tickets for $22 to reach the city center, but I do not recommend them. We booked the trolley and it’s already great. The drivers are incredibly friendly and, what’s more, you don’t just go to the city center: you really go all around the city. There is so much to see! With the trolley, you go down wherever you want and come back up as many times as you want. Boston will no longer have any secrets for you.
Boston is my favorite. You have the choice: if you take the trolley, know that it is taken at the foot of the boat, on the left when you leave the port. The ticket offered by the company leaves you in the center, but once in the center, you manage. It’s up to you, friends!
The ultimate Boston guide
Ticket – Boston trolley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 1,937 reviews
Hop on a hop-on hop-off trolley and explore the wonders of Boston as you tour the city. Stop at 13 locations across Boston with over 100 points of interest, available with a 1-day or 2-day ticket.
Price per person → $52
PORTLAND
North America cruise ports excursions
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How to get out of Portland cruise port ?
When you arrive at the cruise port of call in Portland, Maine, prepare to be enchanted by the quaint charm of this coastal town. With its bustling wharves, fresh seafood restaurants (I recommend the lobster) and magnificent maritime landscapes, Portland offers an authentic New England experience. The town, located in Casco Bay, is unique 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 fees to be expected. You are about 2 km from the city center, which equates to about a 25-30 minute walk.
When leaving Portland Harbor, I advise you to follow the waterfront on the left as you exit the port. There is the tourist office immediately after leaving the boat, and everything is indicated on the maps. For our visit to Portland, we decided to do everything on foot. We walked 25 km this day, which is to say that Portland is a small city, but it’s a climb if you want to go up to the fire station or to the church. If you are not in great physical condition, you can take a trolley which is located immediately after leaving the boat. You can’t miss them!
Things to do in Portland
Portland, Maine, is a must-visit stop for lovers of the sea, history, and great food. Even with limited time, you can fully enjoy the city thanks to a wide range of activities suited to every taste and budget.
Explore the Old Port
The Old Port of Portland is the historic heart of the city. Its cobblestone streets, restored buildings, and fishing boats create an authentic atmosphere. Walk along the waterfront, admire yachts and sailboats, and stop at one of the many cafés, restaurants, or local shops.
Guided Tours and Cultural Visits
- Walking Tours: Discover the hidden history of the Old Port, its picturesque alleys, and fun local stories. Some tours focus on food or coffee, combining culture with tastings.
- Historic Tours: Explore iconic landmarks and learn more about Portland’s heritage. Small-group tours let you ask questions and enjoy detailed explanations.
- Bike Tours: For active travelers, cycling tours follow the coastline and let you visit several lighthouses in just a few hours.
Cruises and Maritime experiences
Portland is surrounded by a stunning bay, and several cruises give you the chance to explore its highlights:
- Lighthouse Cruises: Admire the famous lighthouses of Casco Bay and learn about the region’s maritime history.
- Schooner or Windjammer Cruises: Sail the bay aboard a traditional vessel, perfect for sailing enthusiasts.
- Seal and Wildlife Watching: A fun and family-friendly activity to see local marine life up close.
Unique and family-friendly activities
- Land & Sea Duck Tours: An amphibious vehicle tour combining land and sea—perfect for families.
- Fire Truck Tour: Discover Portland in a quirky and entertaining way aboard a vintage fire truck.
- Ghost Walks: Explore Portland’s mysterious history and legends on guided night walks.
Food and Culinary Experiences
- Foodie Walking Tours: Taste local specialties such as warm donuts, lobster, or chowder.
- Coffee and Chocolate Tours: Visit local roasters and enjoy handcrafted sweet treats.
Practical Tips
- Most attractions are within walking distance from the port, but taxis and trolleys are available (I recommend the trolley).
- Book activities in advance, especially cruises and popular tours, to secure your spot.
- Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for wind and changing coastal weather.
Portland is a port of call that combines history, culture, food, and scenic coastal views, offering something for every traveler. Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and amazing photos.
Getting to Portland
North America cruise ports excursions
| Travel Options | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Walking | Easy neighborhood exploration, access to local attractions. |
| Trolley | Guided tour, ideal for discovering the city’s points of interest. |
| Fire truck (unusual) | Unique experience, original visit to Portland. |
| Bus | Reliable public transportation service, serving different areas of the city. |
| Bike | Well-designed cycle paths, ideal for discovering the city at your own pace. |
| Taxi/Uber/Lyft | Ease and convenience to move quickly from one point to another. |
Ticket – Tour in vintage fire engine
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 29 reviews
Join a 50 minute fully-narrated tour of Portland while aboard an open air fire engine.
Price per person → $43
Activities
North America cruise ports excursions
To make the most of your stop in Portland, explore the available activities catalog and book your tickets online. You’ll find guided city tours, historical walks, cultural excursions, and local experiences. These options will help you enjoy your day to the fullest, comfortably, and stress-free.
CANADA
SAINT JOHN
North America cruise ports excursions
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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 I have ever had). Whether you take a guided tour or decide to explore on your own, Saint John promises an unforgettable stop in this charming Canadian city.
When you dock in Saint John, you’ll be just a stone’s throw from downtown. Going out is free, friends!
You can also stroll along the waterfront, where you’ll find local artisans. Stop to chat with them—they are adorable, especially Sallie, the t-shirt seller. Saint John is similar to Portland in size, so everything is walkable. There are plenty of things to see, but mark my words, come back in 2 or 3 years—the city is booming. Something big is being prepared; it could become the “Canadian Saint-Tropez,” I think.
In this city, you can pay in both US and Canadian dollars, as it is the first Canadian gateway when coming from the United States. I recommend trying poutine at the shopping center near the library—it’s excellent and inexpensive.
Things to do in Saint John
North America cruise ports excursions
Saint John, in New Brunswick, is a charming stop on Canada’s east coast. The city combines maritime history, Victorian architecture, and natural landscapes, offering plenty of options for a short but memorable visit.
Historic downtown
The downtown area of Saint John is compact and easy to explore on foot. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire the , and check out the local shops and cafés.
Must-see sights
- Market Square and Saint John City Market: Explore the oldest covered market in the Canadian Atlantic, perfect for tasting local products and discovering regional crafts.
- Historic Loyalist House: Step back into the colonial past and learn about the Loyalists who settled in Saint John in the 18th century.
- New Brunswick Museum: Ideal for discovering the culture and history of the region.
- Nature walks and waterfront strolls: Enjoy scenic trails and green spaces for relaxation.
- Family-friendly tours: Some cruises and excursions are designed for children, combining learning and fun.
Excursions and guided tours
- Walking tours: Discover the hidden history of the city and local anecdotes. Some tours focus on gastronomy or local crafts.
- Bus or trolley tours: Get a full view of the city and its surroundings, including historic neighborhoods and scenic spots along the Bay of Fundy.
- Nature excursions: Explore cliffs, beaches, and coastal trails to admire the natural beauty of New Brunswick.
Local cuisine and specialties
Saint John’s cuisine emphasizes seafood: lobster, scallops, and fresh shellfish. You’ll also find local cafés and bakeries for quick tastings during your stopover.
Tip when leaving the port
When leaving the port, turn left and you’ll see lots of great stalls. At the third stall, a vendor sells Saint John t-shirts with bears and other animals. Say hi to Sally for me and don’t hesitate to buy one—they’re beautiful, typical of the city, and affordable (around $10).
Ticket – From Saint John – Bay of fundy bus trip for cruise passengers
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 29 reviews
See southern New Brunswick on this bus tour for cruise ship passengers from Saint John. Learn about the area at Fort Howe National Historic Site and admire the majestic Reversing Falls Rapids.
Price per person → $86
Activities
North America cruise ports excursions
To make the most of your stop in Saint John, explore the available activities catalog and book your tickets online. You’ll find guided city tours, historical walks, cultural excursions, and local experiences. These options will help you enjoy your day to the fullest, comfortably, and stress-free.
HALIFAX
North America cruise ports excursions
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How to Exit Halifax cruise port?
In my opinion, there’s no need to rent anything unless you want to climb up to the Citadel (an extraordinary viewpoint), as you’ll need to be in good physical shape!
When you’re in Halifax, follow the Waterfront, and that’s when the adventure begins. It’s truly beautiful! You can go shopping, stop for a poutine, a beaver tail, or whatever you like, as there’s something for everyone. Everything is easily walkable.
You’ll notice they have set up colorful chairs where you can sit, watch Peggy’s Cove, enjoy an ice cream, and simply take in the scenery. It’s amazing—clean, beautiful, and the people are incredibly friendly.
Things to do in Halifax
North America cruise ports excursions
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a warm and vibrant maritime city. Known for its historic harbor, green spaces, and friendly atmosphere, Halifax is the perfect stop to explore Canada’s East Coast. For me, Halifax is my favorite city along with Boston, but most importantly, it’s my haven, a place that inspires calm and creativity.
Your experience begins the moment you step off the ship, greeted by a bagpipe musician, setting the tone for a day full of discoveries and local charm.
Downtown
The downtown area of Halifax is compact and pleasant to explore on foot. Stroll along the Waterfront, admire the lively docks and colorful boats, and discover the local shops, cafés, and restaurants typical of the region.
Must-see sites
- Citadel – National Historic Site: A star-shaped fortress offering panoramic views of the city and harbor. Dive into military history and enjoy historical reenactments.
- Halifax Public Gardens: Beautifully maintained Victorian gardens, perfect for a peaceful walk and photos.
- Maritime Museum of the Atlantic: Discover the city’s maritime history, including the Titanic wreck and historic ship architecture.
- Peggy’s Cove: Slightly outside the city, this fishing village and iconic lighthouse are worth visiting for breathtaking scenery.
Excursions and Guided Tours
- Walking Tours: Explore historic neighborhoods and learn local stories and anecdotes, from colonial times to today.
- Harbor Cruises: Admire the waterfront, lighthouses, and Halifax skyline from the water.
- Food Tours: Taste local specialties such as lobster, fresh seafood, and artisanal products.
- Family Activities: Some tours are child-friendly, combining education and fun.
When you arrive in Halifax, get ready to explore a dynamic city rich in history, nestled on Canada’s East Coast. Halifax offers a wide range of exciting activities for cruise passengers, from historic site tours to outdoor excursions.
Ticket – Halifax – Hop-on Hop-Off double decker bus city tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 66 reviews
Hop on and off authentic, vintage Double Decker buses to explore the best of Halifax. Discover the sights at your own pace as your live guide shares stories from Halifax’s rich history.
Price per person → $71
Activities
North America cruise ports excursions
To make the most of your stop in Halifax, explore the available activities catalog and book your tickets online. You’ll find guided city tours, historical walks, cultural excursions, and local experiences. These options will help you enjoy your day to the fullest, comfortably, and stress-free.
Miami
North America cruise ports excursions
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A stopover in Miami is more than just a stopover. It’s an opportunity to discover a vibrant city, full of life and exciting activities. Personally, I had the chance to embark in Miami and spend two nights there before leaving on a cruise. I was captivated by this incredible city, one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. Whether you choose an adventure in the Everglades (I highly recommend this experience!), or you prefer to explore Miami on foot, every moment spent in this magical city promises unforgettable memories.
How to exit the port in Miami?
Once you arrive at Dodge Island , the Port of Miami, you will need transportation to get to downtown or other Miami attractions. Unlike some other ports, it is not possible to leave the port on foot due to its size and infrastructure. Fortunately, there are several options available to you.
- Cruise Line Shuttles . Most cruise lines offer shuttles to major points of interest in Miami.
- Taxi or Uber . Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are easily accessible just outside the terminal. They will quickly take you wherever you want to go.
- Public Transportation . Miami’s bus system, operated by Cruise Connection Florida, is an affordable option for getting to downtown or the beaches.
→ For those who are used to seeing ” free exit ” on Mon Tatane Tour, rest assured, if you opt for the metrorail it will cost you $3 per person, it’s the cheapest.
How to get to Miami cruise terminal
North America cruise ports excursions
Airports serving Miami
Main Airport: Miami International Airport (MIA) – 8 miles from the port
Alternative: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) – 28 miles from the port
Public transportation ($2.25)
From Miami Airport (MIA)
| Public Transport Option 1 | Free MIA Mover → Metrorail Orange Line → Government Center ($2.25) → Metromover → free trolley to port |
| Public Transport Option 2 | Free MIA Mover → Metrorail Orange Line → Brickell Station ($2.25) → free trolley to PortMiami |
| Total Time | 60 to 90 minutes for both options |
| Cruise Line Shuttle | Direct service from airport – booking required 4 days in advance |
| Taxi/Uber | $25-40 (15-20 min depending on traffic) |
| Private Shuttle | $15-25 per person |
From Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
| Distance | 28 miles from Miami cruise port |
| Cruise Line Shuttle | Available by reservation (recommended) |
| Taxi/Uber | $80-120 (45-60 min depending on traffic) |
| Car Rental | Flexible option + port parking available |
| Public Transport | Tri-Rail + Metrobus (complex, 2+ hours, not recommended with luggage) |
The ultimate Miami guide
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MTT wishes you the most wonderful of cruises.
