Princess-Cays-Vs-Half-Moon-Cay.jpg

Princess Cays Vs Half Moon Cay: 8 Key Differences

by CaribbeanCarnivalCruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsDestinationsPrincess Cruises

Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay might look like tropical twins at first glance – both are private island escapes owned by Carnival Corporation and shared by Princess, Carnival, and Holland America.

But don’t be fooled, these two slices of paradise offer very different experiences.

A split image comparing Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay, showcasing the differences between the two tropical destinations. On the left, Princess Cays is depicted with its vibrant resort layout against the backdrop of lush greenery and turquoise waters, while the right side features the pristine, untouched white sandy beaches and clear blue waters of Half Moon Cay.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences so you’ll know exactly which island is the better fit for your perfect cruise day in the sun.

1. Only One Is an Island

While both Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay are sometimes referred to as cruise line private islands, only Half Moon Cay is actually an island. Princess Cays is a private resort area on the larger island of Eleuthera.

Aerial view of Half Moon Cay, revealing its crescent-shaped shoreline nestled in the heart of a serene blue sea. The lush greenery of the island contrasts with the soft white sands, creating a picturesque and tranquil tropical paradise.
Half Moon Cay
Aerial view of Princess Cays resort showing a bustling beach with rows of blue sun loungers under yellow umbrellas, a small pier, and a protective rocky breakwater creating a calm turquoise lagoon. The resort is a vivid contrast to the surrounding tranquil blue waters and green island vegetation.
Princess Cays

Despite this, Half Moon Cay is actually bigger, much bigger, as it measures around 2,400 acres in total compared to the 40-acre stretch of beach that makes up Princess Cays.

Despite this, most guests visiting Half Moon Cay will stick to the 50 acres that have been developed as a luxury resort.

Guests can explore further afield from Princess Cays if they wish, and visit other parts of the island (provided they make it back to the ship in time, of course). Most people prefer to stick to the area around Princess Cays, though, since there’s more to do.

2. Different Cruise Lines Visit Each Destination

The Carnival Group owns a number of cruise lines, but not every one of them visits each of these destinations.

Princess Cays is primarily visited by Carnival and by Princess Cruises – unsurprisingly, considering the name. More Princess ships visit the resort than Carnival ships.

A couple sits on a sandy beach at Princess Cays, gazing out towards a Princess Cruises ship anchored in the distance. The rocky shoreline and tranquil sea create a serene backdrop, while the ship adds a sense of adventure to the peaceful scene.

Half Moon Cay is mainly visited by Carnival, but some Holland America Line ships also visit the island.

Be aware that prices on the island will vary depending on which cruise line you’re visiting with! Cabana rental will be more expensive with Holland America, for example.

Breathtaking aerial view of a Holland America Line cruise ship floating near the expansive, crescent-shaped Half Moon Cay. The ship's grandeur is juxtaposed against the island's vibrant turquoise waters, white sandy beach filled with visitors, and lush green interior, encapsulating the essence of a luxury tropical getaway.

3. Half Moon Cay’s Sands Are Softer

The quality and style of the beaches on both islands are one of the key differences, and this could be one of the main deciding factors for you.

Half Moon Cay has sandy beaches that are known to be very soft – a lot of people find that the beaches here are some of the most luxurious of any destination, and they’re the perfect spot to relax with a cocktail.

The serene coastline of Half Moon Cay, with its pristine white sand and clear, shallow turquoise waters, extends towards a tranquil horizon under a dramatic sky. The few scattered beachgoers and lush greenery in the distance add to the island's peaceful and untouched atmosphere.

The beaches on Princess Cays are a lot harsher, with rocks and shells making up most of the coastline. If you want to wander around the beach, then it’s recommended you at least wear water shoes to protect your soles from cuts and scrapes.

A lifeguard stands under a blue umbrella on a wooden pier at Princess Cays, vigilantly watching over swimmers in the shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters. In the background, a cruise ship sits majestically on the horizon beneath a vast sky with wispy clouds.

There are different beach areas to explore including an adults-only one, but the coasts are all similar.

4. Excursion Choices Are Different 

A lot of the excursion options across both resorts are very similar. If you’re someone who wants to try snorkelling or see stingrays in their natural environment, then you’ll find a good range of options regardless of the destination.

Half Moon Cay then has a wider range of activities to try on the shore, including horse riding (and the option to ride a horse through the sea), bike tours, and some very scenic hikes into the island.

A group of riders on horseback enjoys a leisurely ride along the sun-drenched, sandy shore of Half Moon Cay. The tranquil turquoise sea stretches into the distance, where a cruise ship lies anchored off the coast, framed by the natural beauty of the island's lush pine trees.

Princess Cays instead has a better range of water-based activities outside those typical excursions. You might want to cruise around the coast on a sailboat, try your hand at fishing with an expert guide’s help, or choose a clear-bottom kayak tour to see the underwater wildlife while staying (mostly) dry.

Transparent kayaks rest on the sandy edge of a calm lagoon at Princess Cays, ready for an adventure. The still waters mirror the sky and clouds above, creating a seamless blend of nature's elements, flanked by green foliage on one side.

5. Princess Cays Has Better Snorkelling

If you love the idea of snorkelling – either as a beginner or a more experienced enthusiast – then choosing a cruise that visits Princess Cays will probably be more rewarding.

There are some wildlife species that you’ll be able to enjoy while snorkelling around Half Moon Cay, but there’s more variety around Princess Cays, despite the resorts only being a few miles apart.

A close-up, split-level view of two kids snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters of Princess Cays, with one child's face partially submerged, looking at the camera through a snorkel mask. The beach resort in the background bustles with activity under a blue sky.

The rockier shoreline is home to coral reefs and mangroves, which are more accommodating to aquatic species, and this is why there’s just more to see when you snorkel at Princess Cays. 

6. Princess Cays Has More Bugs

There are more varieties of wildlife at Princess Cays than there are at Half Moon Cay. Unfortunately, this also extends to the bug species around the resort itself.

One of the bigger drawbacks for people who’ve visited Princess Cays is the number of bugs they sometimes have to deal with. Make sure you have repellent spray packed with you if you want to minimise the disturbances.

7. Drinks Packages Work Differently at Each Resort

Another important difference between these two destinations is how the drinks work once you’re ashore.

On a cruise to Princess Cays, your drinks package from the cruise ship covers you at the island’s bars. You don’t need to pay for the drinks that you would otherwise enjoy on the ship – they’re still included. If you don’t have a drinks package, then you’ll just pay for drinks individually as normal.

George's Bar & Grill, a quaint beachside hut at Princess Cays, welcomes guests with its laid-back ambiance. Patrons can enjoy local flavors under the shade, with a Bahamian flag waving proudly beside a menu board displaying an array of tempting dishes, all against a backdrop of serene lagoon waters.

That’s not true on Half Moon Cay. You’ll need to either buy your drinks separately, or you can pay for a drinks package specifically for the island, although this is only available for Holland America Guests. Carnival guests just have to pay for the drinks individually. 

A bartender at Half Moon Cay pours a vibrant red cocktail with a smile, capturing the joyful spirit of the tropical getaway. The bar’s casual setting is highlighted by the clear turquoise waters in the background, inviting guests to relax and enjoy the island’s festive atmosphere.

Both destinations have a range of bars serving plenty of drink options, so at least getting served and finding a drink that you like won’t be an issue, regardless of your destination.

At both destinations, if you are paying for a drink, you can do so with your room card and the drinks will be charged to your account – no need to carry cash.

8. Princess Cays Has an Adults-Only Area

One feature that Princess Cays has that you won’t find on Half Moon Cay is an adults-only area. The Sanctuary is a little way away from the main beach areas and has its own private beach space.

A couple walks hand in hand towards the Sanctuary Bungalows at Princess Cays, surrounded by lush tropical foliage. The relaxed ambiance is evident in their casual beachwear and the serene setting, promising a private and tranquil retreat.

You’ll also find bungalows here for adults only. Bungalows can be hired elsewhere for families, but if you’re looking to stay away from kids and enjoy some quiet time, then choosing a Sanctuary Bungalow is a better choice.

And Some Key Similarities…

Despite the differences between the islands, there are some important similarities between them, too.

Access

Both Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays are tender ports. This means the ship can’t dock, and instead you’ll have to hop on a tender boat to get to shore, and to get back to the ship later.

An impressive Holland America Line cruise ship anchored off a tropical coast, its multiple decks and rows of balconies gleaming under the sun. Tenders ferry passengers to the lush island, promising a day of exploration amid the stunning backdrop of clear blue waters and verdant landscapes.

This does mean it’s a little less convenient for hopping back and forth – both resorts are designed as places you’ll visit for a few hours without interruption.

Dining Options

There’s a great BBQ buffet provided at both resorts for guests to enjoy at lunchtime. It’s completely free too, but it isn’t available all day, so make sure you don’t miss it. Typical serving times are between 11.30 am and 1.30 pm, but check as it can vary.

A delicious seafood meal is presented in the foreground with a lobster roll, chips, and a creamy shrimp salad, served on a wooden platter. The tropical ambiance is enhanced by the blurred cruise ship in the background, suggesting a luxurious dining experience by the vibrant turquoise waters.

Half Moon Cay does have a Lobster Shack serving seafood options as well, but these are not included – you’ll need to pay extra for these a la carte items.

Cabana Rentals

Half Moon Cay has cabanas that guests can rent for the day, while Princess Cays has bungalows. The number of each is limited and these often sell out far in advance, so if you want your own private space to relax, then make sure you book early.

Colorful bungalows line a sandy path, each with a welcoming front porch and vibrant roofing. Palm trees and lush foliage add to the relaxed atmosphere, while guests unwind and savor the island's serene beauty.

On Half Moon Cay, there are even luxurious options that can accommodate larger groups, which include your own private chef from the ship, a butler, a lifeguard and a bartender. However, prices start at $1,600 for the day, so be prepared to fork out a hefty sum if this sounds appealing.

Free Leisure Facilities

As well as plenty of hammocks and sun loungers, there are various activities and leisure facilities arranged for guests to enjoy on both Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays, without extra charges. 

A vibrant children's playground slide sits on a white sandy beach, with the clear turquoise sea providing a picturesque backdrop. The bright colors of the play structure add a sense of fun and leisure to the tranquil beach setting.

So if you want to try beach volleyball, or just get a cosy spot on a clamshell daybed with a view out to sea, there isn’t a penny extra to pay.

Shopping

You’ll find plenty of shopping opportunities across both resorts, with local vendors selling craft items and trinkets for you to take home. Unlike the other purchases on the island, you’ll need to pay for these with cash.

A bustling souvenir shop under a bright blue sky offers a colorful array of beachwear, hats, and local crafts. The vibrant merchandise reflects the lively spirit of a tropical vacation, inviting tourists to take a piece of paradise home with them.

At both resorts, you might encounter pushy sellers. If you do, just be firm with them and walk away.

Final Word

Half Moon Cay tends to be the more popular of the destinations for a Carnival private resort, thanks to its beautiful sandy beaches (and the lack of annoying bugs), but Princess Cays still has plenty going for it, especially if you like snorkelling.

If you’re cruising with Holland America, then it’s likely to be Half Moon Cay you visit on a Caribbean Cruise, while with Princess, it’ll be Princess Cays anyway. It’s only on Carnival cruises that you might have a choice, so check out the itineraries available and decide which feels like the better fit for you.

I have some more detailed guides to each resort that you may find helpful:

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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How to Plan the Perfect Cruise to Iceland

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsDestinationsEurope

Towering waterfalls, steaming volcanoes, and glaciers that take your breath away – Iceland is like nowhere else on Earth. And the best part? You don’t need to brave the icy roads or hop between hotels to see it all – cruising is one of the easiest and most unforgettable ways to explore this stunning country.

Iceland cruise

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cruising to Iceland – including the best cruise lines, departure ports, must-see sights, and tips to make the most of your adventure.

Cruising to Iceland

Travelling by cruise ship is a popular way to take a holiday to Iceland, particularly for anyone who prefers not to fly. In 2019, 84 different cruise ships visited Iceland on 190 visits, carrying a total of 188,630 passengers.

Iceland is a popular cruise destination for people of all nationalities. In 2019, people from 121 different nations enjoyed cruises to Iceland. Of those passengers, 25% were German, 20% were American and 19% were British. [Source]

What Makes Iceland a Perfect Cruise Destination

There are so many reasons to visit Iceland, as it offers so much to see and do. Here are the top five reasons why you simply must explore Iceland at least once in your lifetime…

  1. See the Midnight Sun in summer or the Northern Lights in Winter
  2. Bathe in Iceland’s hot springs and toasty geothermal pools
  3. See whales, dolphins and puffins in the wild
  4. Experience harmless earthquakes and volcanic eruptions
  5. Go snorkelling between tectonic plates

Cruise Lines That Sail to Iceland

You can cruise to Iceland with most of the mainstream cruise lines including:

  • AIDA
  • Azamara
  • Carnival
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Costa Cruises
  • Cunard
  • Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
  • Hapag-Lloyd
  • MSC Cruises
  • P&O Cruises
  • Princess Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean

As well as the mainstream family-friendly cruise ships, Iceland is a popular port of call for ultra-luxury cruise lines like Crystal Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea and Viking and expedition cruise lines such as HX, Aurora Expeditions and Lindblad.

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Akureyri cruise ship

Where to Start Your Iceland Cruise

Located in the North Atlantic Ocean between the UK, Greenland and Norway, you can reach Iceland on cruises departing from various countries. Many Iceland cruise itineraries will also include stops in Norway, Ireland and Scotland.

Let’s take a look at some of the best Iceland cruise itineraries for 2025…

Cruises to Iceland From the UK

Most Iceland cruises from the UK depart from Southampton, but you may also be able to find occasional regional departures from other UK ports such as Dover and Liverpool.

Cruises to Iceland From Southampton

There are several round-trip no-fly cruises from Southampton to Iceland each year. These last between 12 and 30 nights.

Round-trip cruises to Iceland from Southampton are currently on the following ships:

  • Celebrity Cruises – Celebrity Silhouette & Celebrity Apex
  • Cunard – Queen Victoria & Queen Anne
  • Fred. Olsen – Balmoral
  • NCL – Norwegian Prima
  • P&O Cruises – Aurora & Arcadia (both adults only)
  • Princess Cruises – Caribbean Princess, Island Princess & Sky Princess

Cruises to Iceland from Dover

If you’re aged over 50, you can take a 12-night round-trip cruise from Dover to Iceland with the over-50s cruise line Saga. Family-friendly options will also be available with Carnival.

There are also a series of cruises with Holland America Line, for those who prefer a more upmarket experience, or Seabourn if you want a luxury Iceland cruise.

Cruises to Iceland from Liverpool

You can cruise to Iceland from Liverpool on board Fred Olsen’s ship, Bolette. There are several itineraries available this summer.

Another option would be to cruise from Liverpool on Ambassador Cruise Line’s new ship, Ambition.

Cruises to Iceland From London

You can cruise to Iceland from London Tilbury with Saga and also with Ambassador Cruise Line, depending on your age and budget. The ultra-luxury Silversea ship, Silver Wind, also has a cruise from the London Tower Bridge to Reykjavik.

Cruises to Iceland From Scotland

Departing from Leith, Edinburgh, you can cruise to Iceland on a selection of luxury cruises with Windstar Cruises and also with Oceania Cruises.

Cruises to Iceland from Newcastle

There are several cruises to Iceland from Newcastle that you can book with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

Cruises to Iceland from Hull

The cruise line Cruise & Maritime Voyages used to offer cruises from Hull to Iceland. However, since the company went out of business in 2020, there are no more cruises to Iceland from Hull scheduled at this moment.

Cruises to Iceland from the US

If you live in the United States, it’s possible to cruise to Iceland without flying. However, most cruises to Iceland from the US are one-way trips. It may actually be easier to fly to Europe and cruise from there.

Cruises to Iceland from Boston

There are several cruises to Iceland from Boston, Massachusetts. These are available with Holland America Line onboard their ships, Volendam, Zaandam, and Zuiderdam.

Cruises to Iceland from New York

It’s not possible to take a round-trip cruise from New York to Iceland. However, you can cruise one-way from New York to Iceland as a segment of a world cruise, as part of a transatlantic crossing to Southampton or on a one-way cruise from New York to Reykjavik.

There are several cruise lines to choose from, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea and Oceania Cruises, all cruising one-way from New York to Iceland in 2025.

Cruises to Iceland from Europe

People travel from all over Europe to cruise to Iceland. When choosing a cruise ship that departs for Iceland from mainland Europe, you should take care to ensure that your language will be spoken on board. Although the German cruise lines welcome English speakers, you may struggle to get by if you can’t at least read signs and menus in German.

Cruises to Iceland from Germany

You can cruise to Iceland from the German ports of Hamburg, Kiel and Bremerhaven. These cruises are all with the German cruise line AIDA, so you may need to brush up on your understanding of the German language for this option.

Cruises to Iceland from Holland

There are several cruises to Iceland from Amsterdam available. You can choose from Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line and itineraries between 12 and 21 nights. If you don’t mind flying to Amsterdam to start your cruise, this could be a good option to consider.

Cruise ship in Reykjavik, Iceland

Cruise Ship Ports in Iceland

Iceland has 17 ports, but most of these aren’t big enough for cruise ships to dock. There are just three cruise ports in Iceland where medium and large cruise ships can dock. These are Akureyri, Reykjavik and Isafjord.

Some of the smaller ports in Iceland can be visited by small cruise ships, most of which offer an adults-only ultra-luxury or expedition cruising experience.

A list of the top Icelandic cruise ports and the number ships scheduled to call there in 2025:

  • Reykjavik – 279 cruises
  • Akureyri – 169 cruises
  • Isafjordur – 164 cruises
  • Seydisfjordur – 78 cruises
  • Heimaey – 78 cruises
  • Grundarfjordur – 63 cruises
  • Djupivogur – 55 cruises
  • Husavik – 35 cruises
  • Grimsey – 27 cruises
  • Patreksfjordur – 19 cruises
  • Siglufjorour – 19 cruises
  • Eskifjordur – 10 cruises

Things to See on an Iceland Cruise

Here are some of the top sightseeing attractions to visit in the main ports of call in Iceland…

Top 5 Things To Do in Akureyri on a Cruise

  1. Take an excursion to Lake Myvatn to visit the Nature Baths
  2. See the 12-metre tall Godafoss Waterfall
  3. Take a whale-watching cruise from Downtown Akureyri
  4. Take a horse riding tour of Akureyri
  5. Experience the festival of arts and culture in July and August
The Northern Lights over the Godafoss Waterfall

Top 5 Things To Do in Reykjavik on a Cruise

  1. Ride on the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus
  2. Take a coach tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle sights
  3. See the ‘Game of Thrones’ filming locations
  4. Bathe in Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon
  5. Visit the Thingvellir National Park for a close-up view of a glacier

See all Reykjavik shore excursions

The Blue Lagoon

Top 5 Things To Do in Isafjordur on a Cruise

  1. Take a boat tour to the island of Vigur to see puffins
  2. Take a thrilling 4X4 sightseeing tour of the Svalgovar Circle
  3. See the Duynjandi Waterfall and the stunning landscapes of the Westfjords
  4. Visit the Maritime Museum
  5. Take a whale-watching boat trip around Isafjardardjup Bay
Puffins in Iceland

What to Pack for an Iceland Cruise

Iceland enjoys a milder climate than its name might suggest, with the weather in Iceland averaging 14°C (57°F) in July, although it can be as warm as 25°C (77°F). Almost all Iceland cruises take place between May and September, so there’s really no need to pack snow boots and thermals for your cruise.

When you’re in Iceland, you’ll probably hear the joke ‘If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes’. Iceland’s weather changes many times each day due to the combination of warm air coming in on the Gulf Stream from the Caribbean and cold Arctic air from the north.

Packing light layers is the key to staying comfortable on your Iceland cruise. You’ll also want to make sure that you have a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. Celebrity Cruises has a good packing list for Iceland.

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To Conclude

Iceland is a wonderfully scenic destination to visit on a cruise, so you’ll probably want to upgrade to a balcony cabin if you can afford to. Most cruises to Iceland include two, three or four ports of call in Iceland as well as some other destinations like Norway or the British Isles.

With so much to see and do in Iceland, it’s a good idea to plan your trip in detail before you go, booking guided excursions either with your cruise line or with a trusted company such as Viator.

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The Best Winter Cruises from Southampton (2024 & 2024)

by Choosing a cruiseCruise LinesCruise NewsDestinations

While many cruise ships chase the Caribbean sun in winter, not everyone wants to fly halfway around the world. The good news? You can still enjoy a winter cruise straight from the UK – no airport queues required.

I cruised from Southampton at Christmas on Arvia, and it was pure festive magic.

Cruise Mummy with P&O Arvia

In this guide, I’ll show you the best no-fly winter cruises from Southampton – including top destinations, standout ships, and where you can soak up the sun (or festive vibes) without leaving the country first.

Top 6 Winter Cruise Destinations from Southampton

These are the most popular destinations for cruises from the UK during the winter months, based on the number of cruises that are available to book. Most of the winter cruises from UK ports depart from Southampton since it’s the most popular port in the country.

1. Canary Islands

A popular choice for Brits seeking winter sun and a must for any family holiday bucket list, the Canary Islands belong to Spain but are actually located much further south, off the west coast of Africa.

This southern location means that temperatures rarely drop below 15°C and highs of 20°C are common, even in January.

We’ve cruised to the Canaries from Southampton in December and also in February, and both times, it’s been warm enough to sunbathe in shorts and T-shirts on some days.

Suggested read: The Best Cruises To Take In December

Iona in Puerto Del Rosario, Fuerteventura

Ports of Call

Popular ports of call on a Canary Islands winter cruise from Southampton:

  • Santa Cruz, Tenerife
  • Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
  • Arrecife, Lanzarote
  • Puerto Del Rosario, Fuerteventura
  • Funchal, Madeira
  • Lisbon, Portugal

Length of Cruise

Because the Canary Islands are located over 2,500 miles from the UK, Canary Island cruises typically last 12 to 16 nights, with 14-night cruises being the most common.

You’ll usually spend two or three days at sea at the beginning and end of your cruise before you reach your first port of call. During this time, the weather will become warmer each day as your ship heads further south.

2. Europe

A short winter cruise from the UK is a great way to explore the traditional Christmas Markets of Europe’s cities. You’ll need to wrap up warm, as the weather will be similar to the UK.

But, if you don’t mind packing your hat, scarf and gloves to cruise, then winter can be a great time to explore.

Iona in Rotterdam in December

Ports of Call

Popular ports of call in Northern Europe are:

  • Hamburg, Germany
  • Zeebrugge, Belgium
  • Cherbourg, France
  • Amsterdam, Holland
  • Antwerp, Belgium

Length of Cruise

A cruise ship can cross the channel in just a few hours, which means that you’ll find cruises as short as two nights. Although for the best experience, you’ll probably want to look for something that’s four to seven nights in duration.

3. Mediterranean

If you have two weeks to spare and want a combination of mild weather and city sightseeing, then a winter med cruise could be for you.

Cruise ports in Spain and Italy can be very busy in the summer, but if you don’t care about coming back with a suntan, then visiting in the winter months can be a much more laid-back affair, with shorter queues for tourist attractions and cheaper cruise prices too.

Just be aware that the journey through the Bay of Biscay on December to February cruises can be a little bit choppier, but once you’re past that, you should enjoy smooth sailing.

Gibraltar cruise

Ports of Call

Popular ports of call in the Mediterranean are:

  • Cadiz, Spain
  • Valencia, Spain
  • Cartagena, Spain
  • Gibraltar
  • Genoa, Italy
  • Naples, Italy
  • Rome, Italy
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Vigo, Portugal

Length of Cruise

As your ship will need to sail all the way around Spain to get to the Mediterranean, you’ll need to allow around two weeks for your cruise.

4. Norway

A trip to the Northern Lights is one of the most sought-after travel experiences. A cruise to Norway offers one of the best ways to experience this wonder of Mother Nature, which is also known as the Aurora Borealis.

For your best chance of seeing the spectacular Northern lights, head north on a cruise to Norway between November and March.

However, summer is also a great time to visit Norway. If you head far enough north, you can experience the midnight sun. But even in the summer, a warm coat is still recommended.

Anthem of the Seas in Norway

Ports of Call

Popular ports of call in Norway are:

  • Tromso
  • Alta
  • Stavanger
  • Bergen
  • Alesund
  • Molde
  • Andalsnes

Length of Cruise

Whilst a standard summer cruise to Norway usually lasts seven nights, cruises to the Northern Lights last a little longer, with 12 nights being a common duration.

This is because the ships sail further north, crossing the Arctic Circle for the best views of the glowing skies.

5. Caribbean

You’d be forgiven for not knowing that you could take a Caribbean cruise departing from the UK, after all, it’s quite the voyage!

You’ll have the option of cruising one way and then flying back. Or, if you prefer not to fly at all and have enough time, you can take a round-trip cruise from Southampton.

Caribbean cruise

Ports of Call

Popular ports of call in the Caribbean are:

  • St Maarten
  • St Thomas
  • Antigua
  • St Kitts
  • Bridgetown, Barbados
  • Grenada

Length of Cruise

For a round-trip cruise from the UK, you’re looking at around four weeks. But if you choose to fly one-way, then you can halve that.

It takes around a week to reach the Caribbean by cruise ship from the UK. To reduce the number of consecutive days at sea, you may call at New York, Lisbon or Tenerife en route.

6. Around The World

For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, a world cruise is definitely something to consider. Although most people have to wait until they’re retired to take such an epic cruise.

Most world cruises tend to depart in January or February, making this the perfect way to escape the post-Christmas blues.

Borealis

Ports of Call

Popular ports of call on a world cruise include:

  • Athens
  • Dubai
  • Singapore
  • Colombo
  • Hong Kong
  • Sydney
  • Auckland
  • Hawaii
  • New York
  • Cape Town

Length of Cruise

Full world cruises typically last for three months for a round trip from Southampton. If that seems too much for your diary or your wallet, then shorter world cruise sectors are also available.

The Best Cruise Lines For Winter Cruises From Southampton With Kids

Many of the best cruise lines for families only cruise from the UK during the summer months. This means that, if you want to cruise from Southampton in the winter, you’ll have to rule out the likes of Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.

The best family-friendly cruise line to choose from winter cruises from the UK is P&O Cruises.

This cruise line offers fantastic family-friendly cruises from the UK all year round. Plus, at certain times of the year, kids sail for a reduced price or even for free.

Be careful though, two of P&O Cruises’ ships, Arcadia and Aurora are exclusively for adults. But that still leaves four family-friendly ships to choose from. Fred. Olsen Cruises are also adults-only and are most popular with retired couples.

Suggested read: P&O Cruise Ships Compared

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Large cruise ship sailing near a glacier and snowy mountains, the kind of scenery the best cruise ships for Alaska offer

Best Cruise Ships for Alaska in 2027: Which Ship Suits You?

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsDestinationsUSA

The best cruise ships for Alaska depend on what kind of trip you want, not just which is newest or biggest. For most first-timers, a mid-size or large ship that includes Glacier Bay National Park, such as Royal Princess or Holland America’s Eurodam, is the safest choice. Luxury travellers should look at Regent Seven Seas Explorer or Seabourn Encore. Families do best on Disney Wonder or Quantum of the Seas, and wildlife-focused travellers should pick an expedition ship like Lindblad’s Greg Mortimer.

Below, we match specific ships to specific types of traveller. Every ship listed is scheduled to sail Alaska in the 2027 season, based on cruise line announcements. If you are still deciding between brands rather than individual ships, start with our guide to choosing the best cruise line to Alaska for you, then come back here to pick the ship.

Which is the best cruise ship to Alaska? The quick answer

If you want one recommendation that suits most people, choose a ship whose itinerary includes Glacier Bay National Park. Access to the park is limited by permit, so only some ships go there, and it is often the highlight of the trip. In 2027, Royal Princess sails 7-day round trips from Seattle with Glacier Bay on Saturday departures, and Holland America’s Eurodam sails 7-day round trips from Seattle that include Glacier Bay. Both are big enough to offer plenty of dining and entertainment without the crowds of the largest megaships.

From there, the “best” ship shifts with your priorities:

  • Best for luxury: Regent Seven Seas Explorer or Seabourn Encore
  • Best for families: Disney Wonder or Quantum of the Seas
  • Best for big-ship fun: Norwegian Encore or Norwegian Bliss
  • Best for scenery and wildlife: Greg Mortimer (Lindblad Expeditions)
  • Best for value: Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Spirit or Serenade of the Seas
  • Best for a modern premium feel: Celebrity Edge or Star Princess

Best cruise ships for Alaska in 2027: comparison table

Passenger figures are approximate, based on standard (double) occupancy, and homeports reflect announced 2027 programs. Itineraries can change, so always check the specific sailing before you book.

Ship Cruise line Approx. guests Best for Typical 2027 Alaska itinerary / homeport
Royal Princess Princess Cruises 3,600 First-timers, Glacier Bay 7-day round trip from Seattle (Glacier Bay on Saturday sailings); some 9- and 10-day trips
Star Princess Princess Cruises 4,300 Newest big ship, modern design 7-day Inside Passage round trip from Seattle (Sundays); some 9- and 10-day trips
Eurodam Holland America Line 2,100 Mid-size comfort, Glacier Bay 7-day Alaska Explorer round trip from Seattle, with Glacier Bay and Sitka
Nieuw Amsterdam Holland America Line 2,100 One-way glacier routes, land tours 7-day Glacier Discovery between Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage)
Seven Seas Explorer Regent Seven Seas Cruises 750 All-inclusive luxury 7-night one-way between Vancouver and Whittier, with Hubbard Glacier
Seabourn Encore Seabourn 600 Intimate luxury, longer voyages 7- to 15-day Alaska and Inside Passage sailings, May to September
Greg Mortimer Lindblad Expeditions Around 150 Wildlife, Zodiacs, kayaking Expedition voyages including Inside Passage, Misty Fjords, Tracy Arm and Hubbard Glacier
Disney Wonder Disney Cruise Line 2,400 Families with young children 7-night round trip from Vancouver (Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan)
Quantum of the Seas Royal Caribbean 4,200 Families with teens, activities 7-night round trip from Seattle
Norwegian Encore / Bliss Norwegian Cruise Line 4,000 each Big-ship fun, freestyle dining Mostly 7-day round trips from Seattle
Celebrity Edge Celebrity Cruises 2,900 Modern premium, couples 7-night sailings from Seattle or Vancouver
Carnival Luminosa Carnival Cruise Line 2,300 Value, longer cruise from California 10-day round trip from San Francisco

Best ships for a luxury Alaska cruise

Regent Seven Seas Explorer

Regent has scheduled Seven Seas Explorer for 16 Alaska sailings in summer 2027, all seven-night one-way trips between Vancouver and Whittier. Calls include Skagway, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and the smaller port of Klawock, with scenic cruising in the Inside Passage and at Hubbard Glacier. With around 750 guests, all-suite accommodation and a fare that includes most drinks, specialty dining and many shore excursions, it is the closest thing to a floating luxury hotel in Alaska. Because it sails one way, it pairs naturally with a pre- or post-cruise land stay in Denali.

Seabourn Encore

Seabourn Encore offers 18 Alaska departures between May and September 2027, ranging from 7 to 15 days. Every voyage includes at least one scenic cruise of Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm, Endicott Arm or Glacier Bay. At roughly 600 guests, it can visit smaller ports and feels far less busy than the big ships. The 14-day combination voyages are worth a look if you want to see more of the coast without changing ships.

On any luxury ship in Alaska, the cabin matters more than usual, because so much of the scenery passes right outside. Our round-up of the best balcony cabins at sea explains what makes a balcony worth paying extra for.

Small expedition boat cruising past a blue tidewater glacier in a narrow fjord
Smaller ships can get closer to glaciers and wildlife in narrow fjords. Photo: Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto on Pexels

Best small ship for an Alaska cruise: scenery and wildlife

Greg Mortimer (Lindblad Expeditions)

Lindblad’s two long-serving Alaska ships, National Geographic Sea Bird and Sea Lion, are retiring after the 2026 season. For 2027, the company has chartered the Greg Mortimer, an expedition ship with a distinctive X-BOW hull, multiple Zodiac platforms and space for about 150 guests. Its Alaska program focuses on places big ships cannot reach easily, with Zodiac cruising, kayaking and wildlife watching in areas such as Misty Fjords, the Inian Islands, Tracy Arm, Endicott Arm and Hubbard Glacier.

This is the right ship if your idea of Alaska is whales, bears and quiet coves rather than shows and casinos. Expect a higher price per day than mainstream lines, fewer formal onboard amenities and a schedule that changes with weather and wildlife.

Best cruise ships for Alaska for families

Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder returns to Alaska in 2027 with 7-night round trips from Vancouver. A typical sailing visits Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, with scenic cruising near the Stikine Icecap. Disney’s kids’ clubs, character experiences and family-friendly entertainment make it the easiest choice for parents of younger children. Fares tend to be higher than mainstream lines, and sailings during school holidays fill early.

Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is sending four ships to Alaska in 2027, and Quantum of the Seas sails 7-night round trips from Seattle. Quantum class ships are known for the North Star observation capsule, the SeaPlex indoor activity area and the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, which are useful on cool or rainy Alaska days. Its sister Anthem of the Seas sails one-way between Seward and Vancouver if you want to add a Denali cruisetour.

Best ships for big-ship fun in Alaska

Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss both sail mostly 7-day round trips from Seattle in 2027. These are large, lively ships with go-kart tracks, a wide range of restaurants and a flexible “freestyle” approach to dining and dress. Their forward-facing observation lounges are a good place to watch the scenery when the weather turns. If you prefer a smaller Norwegian ship with one-way glacier routes, Norwegian Jade sails between Whittier and Vancouver with a scenic day at Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier.

Star Princess

Star Princess, one of Princess’s newest and largest ships, returns for a second Alaska season with 7-day Inside Passage round trips from Seattle. It suits travellers who want the latest design and many dining options while keeping Princess’s long Alaska experience, which includes naturalists and local programming on board.

Snow capped mountains rising above calm ocean water seen from a ship deck in Alaska
Scenic cruising days are when the choice of ship really shows. Photo: Zaval Cristi on Pexels

Best value ships for an Alaska cruise

Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend

Carnival has three ships in Alaska in 2027. Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend sail 7-day trips from Seattle to Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Tracy Arm Fjord and Victoria. Carnival Luminosa sails 10-day cruises from San Francisco, adding Prince Rupert in British Columbia. These are mid-size ships with a relaxed, fun atmosphere and often some of the lowest fares in Alaska. Luminosa is especially handy for Californians who would rather not fly to Seattle.

Serenade of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas sails 7-night round trips from Vancouver. It is one of the smaller ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet and has plenty of glass, which helps with views. It lacks the headline attractions of Quantum class ships, but it often prices lower.

Fares for all of these ships vary widely by date and cabin type. Early and late-season sailings in May and September usually cost less than July. Watch our cruise deals for 2027 for current offers.

Best mid-size ships for classic Alaska cruising

Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam (Holland America Line)

Holland America has six ships in Alaska in 2027, the year it marks 80 years of Alaska travel. Eurodam sails 7-day round trips from Seattle that include Glacier Bay, Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point. Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam sail 7-day one-way Glacier Discovery cruises between Vancouver and Whittier, which include Glacier Bay, and the northbound trip adds College Fjord. These mid-size ships suit travellers who want a calm, traditional cruise with good dining and live music. Read more about Holland America’s Alaska heritage tours if you plan to add a land journey.

Celebrity Edge

Celebrity Edge is one of three Celebrity ships in Alaska for 2027, alongside Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Summit. It has a contemporary design, a large number of balcony cabins and the Magic Carpet, a movable platform on the side of the ship. It suits couples who want a modern premium experience at a price below the luxury lines. If longer cruises with more glacier time appeal, Celebrity Solstice is often a better match.

How to choose the best ship for an Alaska cruise

A few practical points matter more in Alaska than in the Caribbean, and they often decide which ship is best for you:

  1. Check the glacier on the itinerary. Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm (Dawes Glacier) offer different experiences. Glacier Bay requires a permit, so it appears on fewer sailings.
  2. Decide on round trip or one way. Round trips from Seattle or Vancouver are simpler to book. One-way cruises between Vancouver and Whittier or Seward reach farther north and pair well with Denali, but flights cost more.
  3. Look for indoor viewing space. Alaska weather is cool and often wet. Ships with large observation lounges, covered decks or glass-walled areas let you watch the scenery in comfort.
  4. Weigh the balcony. A balcony is more useful in Alaska than almost anywhere else, especially on scenic cruising days.
  5. Consider ship size. Bigger ships offer more to do on board, while smaller ships reach quieter ports and get you on and off faster.

FAQs

Which is the best cruise ship to Alaska?

For most people, a ship that includes Glacier Bay National Park is the best choice. In 2027, Royal Princess and Holland America’s Eurodam both offer 7-day Seattle round trips with Glacier Bay. Luxury travellers should consider Regent Seven Seas Explorer, and families should look at Disney Wonder.

Is a big or small ship better for Alaska?

Big ships offer more entertainment, more dining choice and often lower fares. Small and expedition ships, such as Lindblad’s Greg Mortimer, get closer to wildlife and visit remote coves. The right choice depends on whether you value onboard activities or time in nature more.

Which cruise ships go to Glacier Bay?

Only ships with National Park Service permits can enter Glacier Bay, and most of these belong to Princess Cruises and Holland America Line. In 2027, sailings with Glacier Bay include Royal Princess on Saturday departures from Seattle, Eurodam’s Alaska Explorer, Holland America’s Glacier Discovery cruises and Princess’s Voyage of the Glaciers.

What is the best month to cruise Alaska?

June, July and August bring the warmest weather and longest days, but also the highest fares. May and September are usually cheaper and quieter, with a chance of cooler, wetter weather.

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How Long Transatlantic Cruises Really Take

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsDestinationsUSA

Once the height of luxury travel, transatlantic cruises were the only way to cross the ocean in style. These days, most people hop on a plane – but the magic of crossing the Atlantic by ship hasn’t disappeared.

In fact, it’s still one of the most unique and surprisingly affordable cruise experiences you can have – if you know when to go and what to expect.

Cruise Ship sailing in the Sea

Here’s what today’s transatlantic cruises are really like, including how long you’ll be at sea and why this classic voyage still has a place in modern cruising.

What A Transatlantic Cruise Actually Is

A transatlantic cruise is one which sails across the Atlantic Ocean, either from Europe to the Americas or in the other direction. They can be direct between two ports, or they may include a selection of ports on either side of the ocean.

Regardless, you’re still going to spend a series of days at sea in a row, which isn’t for everyone. You need to be comfortable with the fact that you won’t be able to get off the ship for several days. 

On some of the larger ships in the world, this isn’t much of a problem at all – even on a transatlantic sailing, you don’t have time to experience everything that the ship has to offer.

But on smaller ships, you might find yourself with a bit more downtime, where you might need to be comfortable just lounging by the pool during the day. And bear in mind that the weather probably won’t be great, so an indoor pool is a huge bonus here!

That could be your idea of heaven, or you might find yourself with itchy feet wanting to get off and explore on land.

Friends relaxing on a Carnival cruise ship's pool area

Transatlantic Cruises Still Exist

Transatlantic cruises still exist, but aren’t regular sailings that travel back and forth between Europe and the Americas. Instead, they’re usually repositioning cruises, or they form part of a wider world cruise itinerary.

The majority of transatlantic sailings are repositioning cruises. This is quite a dull-sounding word, but it’s pretty self-explanatory – a repositioning cruise is one where the ship is ‘repositioned’ – moved to another area for the next cruise season.

Cruises in Europe are most popular during the summer months, usually from around April until October. This is when the weather is more enjoyable, and more people want to sail around the ports of the Mediterranean or Northern Europe.

Suggested read: The Best Places To Cruise in October

But the other major cruise destination in the world – the Caribbean – has good weather year-round, and the November to March season tends to fall outside the typical hurricane season.

So many cruise ships will split their time between the two regions – sailing around Europe during the summer, and the Caribbean during the winter.

And it’s when the ships are being repositioned that they offer a transatlantic cruise. But it’ll be one-way, and you’ll have to fly either to the ship for embarkation, or on your return home.

At least, that’s normally the case. There is a very small selection of round-trip transatlantic sailings you can book, as we’ll discuss later in this article.

Queen Mary 2 in New York

How Long A Transatlantic Cruise Takes

A transatlantic cruise will typically take between 7 and 16 nights, with some cruise lines averaging 11-12 nights and some offering exclusively 14+ night cruises. Very few cruises take fewer than 11 nights, and some last much longer.

The difference in how long a transatlantic cruise takes depends on the ports that are included. The fastest ones go direct from Southampton to New York with no stops, while others may call at ports further south on the US coastline, or they may travel to/from ports further east in Europe.

A cruise to Rome, for example, is, of course, going to take longer than one that stops at Barcelona – there’s at least another day or two of sailing involved to reach the destination.

And there are some ports along the way that a cruise ship may call at to break up the itinerary. These will extend the length of the cruise as well.

View from the lounge deck of a cruise ship

Where Transatlantic Cruises Go

Transatlantic cruises will sail between the home ports used by the bigger cruise lines – so typically from the ports of Florida or New York on the western side, and from Southampton, Barcelona or Rome on the eastern side. Some cruises will call at Ponta Delgada too.

Ponta Delgada is the largest port in the Azores, a collection of islands belonging to Portugal that are situated approximately a third of the way across the Atlantic if travelling from east to west.

It’s a popular port for transatlantic cruises because not only is the island lively and scenic, but it serves as a good resting port, breaking up the itinerary so that it’s not endless sea days, and giving guests the chance to go ashore and explore outside the confines of the ship.

Scenic view of Azores, Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Another popular port en route, mainly for cruises sailing through the Mediterranean, is Funchal on Madeira. Another Portuguese island, this one is further south, closer to the coastline of Morocco than it is to Portugal itself.

It’s not a port that would likely be included on a transatlantic sailing to or from Southampton, but for sailings to or from Rome or Barcelona, it’s often added to the itinerary.

The Shortest Transatlantic Cruise

The shortest transatlantic cruise is offered by Cunard, one of the only cruise lines that still specialises in this itinerary year-round. It lasts for 7 nights and sails directly between Southampton and New York, with no additional ports of call.

These Cunard transatlantic cruises all take place on the Queen Mary 2. When compared to the family-friendly ships of cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival or NCL, there are not that many different things to see and do on this ship.

But it is a luxury liner – a ship that harks back to the golden age of cruising, but with plenty of modern conveniences.

The appeal of a transatlantic cruise on Queen Mary 2 is the ability to enjoy a classical cruising experience with long days relaxing, excellent service and enrichment through daytime lectures and nighttime live entertainment.

Cunard is the main cruise line for round-trip transatlantic cruises on the same ship. You’re able to sail from Southampton to New York, enjoy a short time exploring the city, and then return on the same ship.

It does mean spending almost two weeks at sea, with only a stop in New York to break it up, but if you want to escape from the world for a little while, then this could be perfect.

Queen Mary 2

The Cruise Lines That Offer Transatlantic Crossings

There are many cruise lines that offer transatlantic sailings as they move ships between Europe and the Caribbean/Americas.

Not all ships are repositioned. Some will stay in Europe year-round, and some will offer year-round Caribbean sailings, or other destinations on either side of the American continents.

But there are some great ships that you can traverse the Atlantic Ocean on, with transatlantic sailings offered by:

  • Azamara Cruises
  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Cunard Line
  • Fred Olsen
  • Holland America Line
  • MSC Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Oceania Cruises
  • P&O Cruises
  • Princess Cruises
  • Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Seabourn
  • Silversea
  • Virgin Voyages

P&O Cruises doesn’t call their cruises transatlantic, so don’t look for those sailings on their website – you won’t find them. Instead, look for Caribbean cruises, and you’ll find sailings that depart from Southampton and cross the Atlantic Ocean.

They’re also one of the other cruise lines that offer round-trip transatlantic sailings, but they are much longer, up to 35 nights in length.

Cunard transatlantic crossing

To Conclude

Transatlantic cruises are still common, but normally during the repositioning times of the year only – so March/April, or October/November. And they’ll usually be one-way, meaning you’ll need to be happy flying either to the start of your cruise or once your cruise has finished.

There are alternatives – Cunard Line’s itineraries run year-round, including round-trips, while P&O do offer some longer round-trip sailings too.

But if you’re travelling with kids, you might want to try a one-way transatlantic cruise on a modern ship packed with fun things to see and do while at sea. 

P&O’s itineraries are long, and while Cunard welcomes families, they aren’t known for their exciting daytime activities for younger cruisers. If you just want to escape and enjoy classic cruising, though, they are perfect.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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This Volcano Is Showing Signs It May Erupt

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsDestinationsNewsUSA

Cruising to Alaska is all about dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and natural wonders. But in 2025, travellers might get more drama than expected.

Anchorage in Alaska

Mount Spurr, an active volcano located around 80 miles west of Anchorage, is showing signs it could erupt in the coming weeks or months. Still, experts and cruise lines agree there’s no reason to panic just yet.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re booked on an Alaskan cruise this year.

Experts Are Closely Watching the Volcano

Back in March, scientists noticed more volcanic activity at Mt. Spurr – including extra gas emissions and minor earthquakes. These signs suggest magma could be rising beneath the surface.

The last two major eruptions in 1953 and 1992 sent ash clouds spreading for hundreds of miles. The Alaska Volcano Observatory says if Mt. Spurr erupts again, it’ll likely resemble those past events.

However, a recent update from the US Geological Survey (USGS) reports that no major changes have been seen since then. According to their 5th May statement, the current signs don’t suggest the volcano is on the verge of erupting.

If a major eruption were on the way, scientists say we’d see stronger earthquakes, ground movement, and more intense gas emissions – all of which would give plenty of warning.

Most Alaska Cruises Don’t Start or End Near the Volcano

The main risk to travellers is volcanic ash, which can affect air quality and disrupt flights.

Cruises that start or finish in Anchorage (through the nearby ports of Seward or Whittier) are the ones most likely to be impacted, since these areas are roughly 125 miles from the volcano.

Seward in Alaska

If you’re flying into or out of Anchorage for your cruise, there’s a chance flights could be delayed or cancelled if ash reaches the area.

That said, many Alaskan cruises sail round-trip from cities much farther away – such as Vancouver, Seattle, or ports in California. These are all over 1,000 miles from Mt. Spurr and are unlikely to be affected by an eruption.

Most travellers are taking a cautious but calm approach.

Cruise Lines Are Prepared to Make Changes If Needed

Even if your cruise begins or ends in Alaska, there’s no need to panic. Cruise lines are keeping a close eye on the situation and are ready to adjust their plans if necessary.

In a joint statement to Cruise Critic, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line said: “We constantly monitor the locations we visit, and the safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority. Most of our itineraries focus on southeast Alaska, which is far from the Mount Spurr area. If any changes are needed, we’ll inform affected guests directly.”

Although several cruise lines operate in Alaska – including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Cunard – Princess and Holland America dominate the region. Both companies also run their own land tours and lodges in areas like Denali National Park.

Most Alaskan cruises visit southeast ports like Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, which are all hundreds of miles from the volcano.

What the Eyjafjallajökull Eruption Taught Us About Travel Disruption

When Iceland’s Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted in April 2010, it caused a major disruption to global air travel.

Volcanic ash cloud

Ash from the eruption spread across much of Europe’s airspace, grounding more than 100,000 flights and leaving millions of travellers stranded.

Despite the chaos in the skies, cruise ships themselves largely unaffected. Since the ash cloud drifted high in the atmosphere, it posed no threat to sea travel, and most cruise itineraries continued as planned.

However, the situation still caused headaches for cruise passengers who had flights cancelled, either on their way to join a cruise or when trying to fly home afterwards.

Cruise lines responded quickly, helping travellers with alternative arrangements and, in some cases, offering extended onboard stays for those unable to disembark. A few lines even adjusted itineraries or used ships to transport stranded guests back to mainland Europe.

The Eyjafjallajökull eruption proved that while volcanoes can severely disrupt air travel, cruises offer a more flexible form of transport. Ships can reroute, stay at sea, or adjust schedules without being grounded, making them a relatively stable option when natural disasters strike.

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Other Active Volcanoes You Can Visit on a Cruise

If the idea of seeing a volcano excites rather than worries you, there are plenty of cruise itineraries around the world that bring passengers up close to active – and often safely monitored – volcanoes. Here are a few notable ones:

Mount Etna, Sicily (Italy)

One of the most active volcanoes in the world, Mount Etna offers unforgettable views from ports like Catania or Messina, which are popular stops on Mediterranean cruises. You can take guided tours to the slopes or even ride a cable car partway up the mountain.

Mount Etna

Stromboli, Aeolian Islands (Italy)

Known as the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,” Stromboli has been erupting continuously for over 2,000 years. Some smaller cruise lines and luxury yachts include Stromboli on itineraries, where passengers can watch its frequent eruptions – especially dramatic at night – from the sea.

Kilauea, Big Island (Hawaii)

Hawaiian cruises often include a stop at Hilo, from where you can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, has erupted frequently in recent years. Lava flows, steam vents, and craters create a surreal, otherworldly landscape.

Mount Yasur, Vanuatu

This lesser-known gem in the South Pacific offers one of the most accessible active volcano experiences on Earth. Expedition and adventure cruise lines that call at Tanna Island often include evening visits to watch the spectacular lava eruptions up close.

White Island (Whakaari), New Zealand

Although currently closed to visitors due to a tragic eruption in 2019, White Island was once a popular cruise excursion from Tauranga. It’s a reminder that volcano tourism requires careful monitoring and respect for local safety guidance.

Sakurajima, Japan

Cruises to southern Japan sometimes stop in Kagoshima, where you can see the constantly smoking Sakurajima volcano. Ferries take visitors close to the volcano, and observation points around the city offer safe viewing spots.

How to Be Ready – Just in Case

It’s always wise to get travel insurance when booking a cruise, but be aware that coverage for natural disasters can vary.

If you’re worried about the risk of cancellation, look for a policy with a “cancel for any reason” option. This can offer more flexibility, even if you simply change your mind before travelling.

It’s also a good idea to pack a couple of N95 masks, just in case ash affects the air during your cruise.

If you’re flying to your departure port, consider arriving a few days early.

Booking your flight and hotel in advance gives you a buffer if anything changes. It’s also smart to make backup plans for your return – like childcare or pet sitters – in case your journey home is delayed.

Final Word

While the idea of a volcanic eruption near Anchorage may sound alarming, there’s little cause for concern if you’re heading to Alaska by cruise ship.

The chances of an eruption disrupting your plans are relatively low, and cruise lines are well-equipped to handle changes if needed.

With most Alaskan itineraries far from Mount Spurr, and ample warning likely before any major activity, you can look forward to your scenic voyage with confidence.

As always, a bit of preparation goes a long way – and who knows, a volcano sighting might even become the most unforgettable part of your adventure.

My Recommendation

My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.

These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.

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11 Secrets To Know About Harvest Caye

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsDestinationsNorwegian Cruise Line

You might think you’ve got cruise private islands all worked out, but Harvest Caye is a little different…

Harvest Caye is a destination that crops up on a number of itineraries for Norwegian Cruise Line, and occasionally other cruise lines too. It’s located in southern Belize, meaning it’s typically included on cruises that travel more to ports around the Central America region.

Aerial view of NCL Harvest Caye

And sure – it offers plenty of things you’d expect from a private destination like this, but there are some really important differences, especially regarding food and drink – you’ll want to make sure you know these before you visit.

1. It’s a Private Island

Harvest Caye is a private island, owned by Norwegian Cruise Line. This means that the only way to visit the island is if you book a cruise on an NCL ship, or one of the two luxury cruise lines owned by the same company – Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Because it’s a private island, this means you won’t be sharing the space with other tourists – the only people on the island will be your other cruise ship guests, and the staff employed by Norwegian Cruise Line, either from the ship or those who work on the island itself.

This means you’ll be able to enjoy a little more of a tranquil space, with only your fellow ship guests taking up loungers on the beach. It’s a fun-packed location too though, so you’ll still want to book any excursions early to avoid disappointment.

Aerial view of Harvest Caye private island

2. A Lot of People Mispronounce the Island’s Name

The word ‘Caye’ is used throughout Central America, and it is pronounced “key”. Harvest is pronounced normally, as you’d expect. A lot of guests still refer to the island as “Harvest Kay” without realising the correct pronunciation.

That’s likely because it can be pronounced as “kay” in parts of the Bahamas, so you end up with the same word being said differently in regions which are relatively close to each other. Don’t worry about it too much though, because no locals are going to be offended if you say it wrong.

It does cause confusion though – so if you’re looking for Harvest Key Belize, you actually want Harvest Caye.

3. There’s a Pier – No Need to Tender!

There is a pier terminal at Harvest Caye where your ship will dock – you don’t have to worry about taking a tender boat from the ship to shore. The pier is quite long, but it is covered to provide shade during the hotter, sunnier days – of which there are many.

Because the ship docks at the pier, you don’t need to worry about queuing to get back onto the ship. You can return and go back and forth between ship and the island as many times as you want before the final departure time, which is usually around 3 pm.

Aerial view of Harvest Caye private island

4. It’s Safe – So Relax!

While Belize itself has had some issues with high crime rates, the island of Harvest Caye is comparatively very safe, since it is a private destination where there is always a presence of staff employed by the cruise line.

There are some locals from Belize who work on the island. They aren’t employed by the cruise line, but they are given permission to work there in partnership with the government. They are generally friendly and shouldn’t try to scam you – the people who work here understand that their repeat business depends on offering good service.

5. Only Cruise Guests Can Visit

Permanent residents of Belize are not permitted to visit Harvest Caye of their own volition. They would have to book a cruise just like any other guests. There will be some Belizeans on the island, who are employed by the cruise line.

There are around 400 people who work on the island that are not part of the ship’s crew, but some members of the crew will also likely have work to do on the island during port days as well.

6. Food Isn’t Included – Unlike Other Private Destinations

Unlike most other private islands owned by cruise lines, food is not included on Harvest Caye – you will need to either buy your own from one of the local businesses or return to the ship where you can enjoy the restaurants as normal.

Usually, with a private island, the cruise line will bring food ashore and set up a buffet restaurant, but that’s not the case on Harvest Caye.

Part of the agreement that NCL has with Belize is to run the island in a way that benefits local businesses, and so guests will need to pay to eat at one of the restaurants on the island.

There are various restaurants to choose from to suit different budgets, and you can pay with a credit card or using US dollars. Bear in mind that a lot of people may return to the ship to eat in order to save money, so the restaurants might not be as busy as you would expect them to be on a regular port day.

7. Drunks Also Aren’t Free

Drinks are not included when you travel to Harvest Caye – you’ll need to pay for them. Unlike some other private islands, the bars aren’t owned by the cruise line, so you’ll need to pay by cash or credit card, instead of being able to use your cruise card.

The drinks prices are similar to those on the ship, so if you’re paying for your drinks anyway then you may as well enjoy them on the island.

Couple having a drink and enjoying at Harvest Caye Pool Bar

8. Your Drink Package Won’t Work Here

The NCL drinks package won’t work on Harvest Caye, because the bars are not owned by the cruise line. If you have a drinks package, then you can save money by returning to the ship to grab a drink, but it’s quite a walk if you’re just feeling thirsty.

You won’t be able to bring drinks ashore with you, so you’ll either need to decide whether to take some cash or your credit card with you for drinks, or if you’ll cut short your visit to come back aboard in order to make use of your drinks package.

Woman enjoying her drink at Harvest Caye beach

9. There’s So Much to Do!

There is a huge amount that you can see and do during your trip to Harvest Caye – including a selection of things that are free. Many of the most exciting activities are paid excursions, but you don’t need to spend extra if you don’t want to.

You might just want to head straight to the beach – there are some really nice ones on the island after all, overlooking the beautiful azure waters. There’s no cost for a lounger, but the beaches can get a little busier so you might want to get there early if you want to nab a shaded spot.

Otherwise, you may want to head to the swimming pool. Not many private islands have a pool, since guests are comfortable swimming in the ocean, but there’s a huge pool with loungers and cabanas for hire if you want a fresh-water dip instead.

Couple realaxing at the pool cabana area in Harvest Caye

And just a little further away from the pier there’s a splash pad that is great for kids. If you have younger children with you, they’ll have a great time splashing each other, tipping out water buckets and more.

One of the famous attractions of Harvest Caye is the Blue Morpho Butterfly Sanctuary. You can explore this area for free, along with the wider wildlife sanctuary, which is home to toucans, macaws, snakes, and other animals, with lots of educational material to support your tour. The butterfly sanctuary has large glass spaces where you can get very close to the creatures flying around.

Mother and daughter looking at a blue butterfly

Shopping is another option as well – there’s a market area populated with stalls and stores owned by local business owners and selling a wide selection of gifts, handmade crafts, perfumes, rum and more. Just be wary of what you buy and what you take back onto the ship – rum bottles will be taken from you and returned at the end of your cruise.

If you want to try a paid-for excursion, why not explore the Mayan ruins of Nim Li Punit? A guided tour will get you close to these fascinating ruins, with your expert guide explaining more of the history during your ride.

Looking for something a little more action-oriented? The island has a zip line running across the bay, or you can try one of the many water sports offered on the island, including paddle boarding and snorkeling. You don’t have to be an expert – there are plenty of excursions aimed at novices or children too.

Kid enjoying the zip line at Harvest Caye

There are also WaveRunner tours – essentially jetskis where a tour guide will train you on riding one before leading you around the island to some unique sights of interest.

And because the island is not far from the coast of Belize, there are a selection of excursions that take you off the island to explore some of the nearby sights. Journeys are short, so you can still explore the island itself, too, when you return.

Staying on the island, you’ll be able to try river rafting or take things a little easier with a fishing excursion – master fishermen will help you learn how to bait for the local fish on a catch-and-release trip.

10. Cabana Rental is Available (But Not Cheap)

And if you really want to enjoy a quieter day, book a cabana either on the beach or by the pool. These private spaces are the ideal place to unwind with a cold drink and some shade.

Family relaxing at the beach front cabana in Harvest Caye

The cost of these paid-for excursions varies, but expect to pay in the region of $80-100 for most of them, per person, with some minor discounts for children. If you don’t want to pay this extra amount, then stick to the wildlife sanctuary, the swimming pool, the beach or the splash pad as these are all free.

Cabana rental costs a little more – expect to pay $450 to $500 for a cabana for the day for up to 6 people. The cabanas do have a lot of extras to make your island visit more comfortable, including air conditioning, a TV, a mini fridge, a private bathroom and a golf cart that you can use for the day to get around the island.

11. Snorkeling is an Option

Snorkeling is an excursion option at Harvest Caye. Belize is home to the world’s largest living barrier reef, so snorkeling excursions offer plenty of incredible sights to enjoy. The excursions last for around 2.5 hours in total, so you’ll still have time to explore the rest of the island.

The water entry is shallow, which means these snorkeling excursions are suitable for beginners and veterans alike. Some of the common creatures you’ll encounter include larger fish schools, eagle rays, large starfish and queen conchs.

12. You Can Take a Ferry To Placencia

The boats that take you from Harvest Caye to Placencia take around 15-20 minutes. Excursions to the lagoon give guests the chance to see the mangroves and the wildlife that inhabits them, including manatees.

These tours are fully guided, meaning guests will be able to learn about the wildlife from an expert. A complimentary drink is also served during excursions to Placencia – either a rum punch or a water.

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Final Word

There are loads of things to do in Havest Caye Belize, so you’ll want to head to the island as early as possible – and because you don’t need to tender, you should be able to walk straight off the ship.

Excited family entering Harvest Caye front gate

Just be prepared for the day, and how you’ll need to pay for your food and drink – it might save you money if you plan to return to the ship for lunch and then head back ashore for a couple of hours, if it doesn’t cost you too much time out of your day.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Outdoor hotel pool with palm trees and loungers, typical of hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port

13 Hotels Near Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port and Airport (2026 Guide)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsDestinationsMoney saving tipsUSA

The hotels nearest Fort Lauderdale cruise port cluster along SE 17th Street, within about a mile of the Port Everglades terminals, and around Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), roughly 3 to 6 miles away. The 17th Street hotels (Omni, Hilton Marina, Renaissance, Embassy Suites, Hyatt Place) are the closest, while the airport hotels are usually cheaper and more likely to offer free airport shuttles and park-and-cruise deals.

Below you will find 13 hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port and the airport, grouped by location, with a comparison table covering distance, shuttles and price tier, plus practical details on taxis, Uber and cruise parking at Port Everglades.

Hotels Near Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port: Quick Comparison

Shuttle details change often, and many hotels that once ran free cruise shuttles now charge per person or use a third-party company. Information below comes from hotel websites where available and from recent cruise-port guides where not (“reported”). Price tiers are a rough guide only: $ is usually budget, $$ mid-range and $$$ upscale, and rates swing widely in peak winter cruise season.

Hotel To Port Everglades Cruise shuttle Airport shuttle Parking / packages Price
Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel Adjacent Complimentary for eligible cruise guests and select packages No hotel shuttle (about 3.5 miles) Valet only; no park-and-cruise listed $$$
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina 0.5 miles Yes, about $15 per person Yes, about $15 per person On-site parking at a daily rate $$$
Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Marina Hotel About 0.5 miles Reported, fee applies Check with hotel Ask about packages $$-$$$
Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale 17th Street About 1 mile Reported, fee applies Reported, fee applies Ask about packages $$
Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port & Convention Center About 1 mile Reported, fee applies Reported, fee applies Ask about packages $$
Crowne Plaza Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise About 1-2 miles Reported (third-party, fee) Reported free Ask about packages $-$$
Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port About 1.5 miles Reported, fee applies Reported free Park and cruise package reported $-$$
Hampton Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport North Cruise Port About 3 miles Reported, fee applies Free (6am-11pm) Park, Stay & Go: up to 7 nights $-$$
Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port About 5-6 miles Check with hotel Free Self-parking about $10/day $-$$
Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port About 5 miles Daily port transportation listed Reported free Ask about Cruise & Play package $-$$
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise About 3 miles Reported (third-party, fee) Reported free Parking for a daily fee reported $
Wyndham Garden Ft. Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port About 3 miles Reported, fee applies Reported free Ask about packages $
Courtyard Oceanside Fort Lauderdale Beach Short drive (check map) Included in Snooze then Cruise package No Long-term cruise parking offered $$-$$$

Always confirm shuttle fees, times and whether you need to sign up in advance, especially on busy Saturdays and Sundays when several ships turn around at once.

Hotels Near Port Everglades on 17th Street

If you want the shortest possible trip to the ship, look at hotels near Port Everglades on or just off SE 17th Street. They put you close to the Convention Center, restaurants and the Intracoastal Waterway, and some are within a few minutes’ drive of the terminals.

1. Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel

The newest big hotel in the area, the Omni sits beside the Broward County Convention Center, right next to the port. Its website says it offers a complimentary shuttle to the Port Everglades cruise terminals for eligible cruise guests and select packages, plus free luggage storage before check-in and after check-out. There is no hotel airport shuttle, but FLL is about 3.5 miles away. Parking is valet only and expensive, so it suits fly-in cruisers rather than drivers.

2. Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina

On the Intracoastal Waterway about half a mile from the port, the Hilton Marina is a long-time pre-cruise favorite and a Disney Cruise Line partner hotel. Hilton lists shuttles to both Port Everglades and FLL at around $15 per person each way. On-site parking is charged daily, so it is better for a one-night stay than for leaving a car for a week.

3. Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Marina Hotel

Formerly marketed as the Renaissance Cruise Port Hotel, this Marriott property sits on 17th Street close to the port entrance, with a marina-view pool. A paid cruise shuttle has been reported; check current terms when you book.

4. Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale 17th Street

A good pick for families, since every room is a suite and Embassy Suites hotels typically include breakfast. It is about a mile from the port, and cruise-port guides report paid shuttles to both the port and the airport.

5. Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port & Convention Center

A mid-range option about a mile from the terminals, with the usual Hyatt Place breakfast. Recent guides report paid shuttles to the port and the airport.

Yachts moored at a sunny marina along a waterway lined with palm trees
Several hotels near Port Everglades sit on the Intracoastal Waterway. Photo: gang liang on Pexels

Fort Lauderdale Hotels With Cruise Shuttle Near the Airport

The airport hotels are typically 3 to 6 miles from the port, which is still only a 10- to 15-minute drive. In return, rates are often lower, most run a free airport shuttle, and several offer parking deals.

6. Crowne Plaza Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise

Located between the airport and the port, this upscale-casual IHG hotel is one of the closest of the airport group. Guides report a free airport shuttle and a third-party cruise shuttle for a fee.

7. Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port

About 1.5 miles from the port near US-1. A park-and-cruise package has been reported, along with a paid cruise shuttle and a free airport shuttle.

8. Hampton Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport North Cruise Port

Hilton lists a free FLL shuttle (6am to 11pm), self-parking at about $10 per day and free breakfast. It also takes part in Hilton’s Park, Stay & Go offer, which includes up to seven nights of parking with a one-night stay; Hilton notes that cruise port service varies by hotel, so check before booking.

9. Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port

Hilton lists this hotel as about a mile from FLL, with a complimentary airport shuttle and self-parking for around $10 per day. The website does not mention a cruise shuttle, so plan on a taxi or rideshare to the port.

10. Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port

Set beside lagoons in the Dania Beach area, this Courtyard says it provides daily transportation to the port, without stating a fee. Ask about its Cruise & Play package when booking.

11. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise

A budget-friendly option with breakfast included as standard for the brand. Guides report a free airport shuttle and a third-party cruise shuttle for a fee.

12. Wyndham Garden Ft. Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port

Another value pick near the airport with a pool and on-site dining. Guides report a paid cruise shuttle and a free airport shuttle.

13. Courtyard Oceanside Fort Lauderdale Beach

If you would rather wake up by the ocean, this Courtyard sits on Seabreeze Boulevard near Fort Lauderdale Beach. Marriott’s Snooze then Cruise package includes port transfers for two and luggage holding, and the hotel advertises long-term cruise parking. It is farther from the port than the 17th Street hotels, so allow extra time on embarkation day.

Fort Lauderdale Park and Cruise Hotels vs Port Parking

If you are driving, compare a park-and-cruise hotel package with parking at the port itself.

  • Port Everglades parking: the port runs the Heron Garage (serving Terminals 2 and 4) and the Palm Garage (serving Terminals 19, 21, 25, 26 and 29), plus several surface lots. At the time of writing, the maximum daily rate is $25. Reservations and pre-payment are not accepted, and garage clearance is 7 feet, so taller vans may need a lot. A seven-night cruise works out at roughly $175 to $200 in parking.
  • Park-and-cruise hotel packages: these bundle one night’s stay with several days of parking, sometimes with a shuttle. They can save money, but read the small print: some packages cap the number of nights, charge per day beyond that, or exclude the shuttle.
  • Off-site lots: independent parking companies near the airport offer cheaper daily rates with shuttles, but check reviews and shuttle frequency.
Traveler pulling a suitcase through a bright airport terminal
Fort Lauderdale airport is only a short drive from the cruise terminals. Photo: Bingqian Li on Pexels

Getting From FLL to Port Everglades

FLL is right next to Port Everglades, roughly 3 miles by road, so the transfer is short and simple.

  • Taxi: taxis to and from the port are metered. Port Everglades estimates about $18 to $21 between the port and FLL, regardless of passenger numbers.
  • Uber and Lyft: usually similar to a taxi, but expect surge pricing at peak disembarkation times. Use the designated rideshare pick-up areas at your terminal.
  • Van on Demand: the port lists a shared van service at about $11 per person to FLL for groups of three or more, though it does not operate on every sailing day.
  • Cruise line transfers: convenient but usually more expensive than a taxi for two or more people.

If you are comparing Florida departure ports, our guide to the cruise lines with the cheapest 7-day cruises out of Florida shows average prices by line.

Which Cruise Lines Sail From Port Everglades?

Port Everglades is one of the world’s busiest cruise ports. Its official list currently includes Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Disney Cruise Line, Cunard, Viking, Crystal, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Orient Express, plus the Balearia ferry to the Bahamas. Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas is among the ships scheduled from Port Everglades in winter 2026-27; if you are booked on her, read our guide to Brilliance of the Seas cabins to avoid.

Tips for Choosing a Pre-Cruise Hotel

  • Arrive the day before. Flight delays are common, and a hotel night is cheap insurance against missing the ship.
  • Check the shuttle time against your boarding window. Hotel shuttles may run on a fixed schedule that does not match your check-in time.
  • Know your terminal. Port Everglades has several terminals, and your cruise line’s documents will say which one to use.
  • Keep essentials in your carry-on. Our embarkation day mistakes to avoid and ultimate cruise checklist cover what to pack for the first day on board.

If you would rather drive yourself to the port but only carry a debit card, read our guide on how to rent a car without a credit card before you book.

Not sure where to sail from? Our guide to the cruise ports in Florida compares passenger numbers, airports, parking and cruise lines at each port.

If you end up sailing from Miami instead, it is worth comparing the garages and lots at PortMiami before you decide where to leave the car.

FAQs

How far is Fort Lauderdale airport from the cruise port?

Very close. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) sits right next to Port Everglades, roughly 3 miles by road, and the drive usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic and your terminal.

Do hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port offer free shuttles?

Some do, but many now charge a per-person fee for the cruise shuttle, while the airport shuttle is more often free. Packages such as park-and-cruise or sail-and-stay deals sometimes include the port transfer. Always confirm the fee and timetable directly with the hotel.

How much does it cost to park at Port Everglades?

Port Everglades lists a maximum daily rate of $25 for its garages and lots at the time of writing. The port does not take reservations or pre-payment for parking, so it is first come, first served.

How much is a taxi from FLL to Port Everglades?

Port Everglades estimates a metered taxi fare of roughly $18 to $21 from FLL, regardless of the number of passengers. Uber and Lyft are often in a similar range, but prices surge at busy times.

Which cruise lines sail from Port Everglades?

The port lists Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line, Cunard, Viking, Crystal and several yacht-style lines among its cruise lines. Line-ups change by season, so check your cruise documents for your terminal.

Cruise ships docked at a pier in Cozumel beside turquoise Caribbean water

15 Restaurants in Cozumel Cruise Port Areas, Pier by Pier

by CaribbeanCruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsDestinationsFood and drink

The best restaurants in Cozumel cruise port areas depend on which pier your ship uses. At Puerta Maya and the International Pier you can walk to casual, cruise-friendly spots such as Three Amigos, Pancho’s Backyard, Margaritaville and Señor Frog’s within minutes. From Punta Langosta you can walk into downtown San Miguel, where the island’s more local and more varied places to eat are clustered.

This guide groups 15 restaurants by pier, with rough walking or taxi distances. Every place listed showed an active Google Maps listing in late 2026 and was cross-checked against at least one other source. Opening hours change, though, so check the restaurant’s latest listing on the morning of your port day.

Which Cozumel cruise pier will you dock at?

Cozumel has three cruise piers on the island’s west coast. Your cruise line usually decides which one you get, and your ship’s daily planner will confirm it.

  • Puerta Maya: the southernmost pier, used mainly by Carnival Corporation brands. It has its own shopping and dining complex at the foot of the pier.
  • International Pier (SSA Mexico): just north of Puerta Maya along the coast road. Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships often dock here. Puerta Maya and the International Pier are separate terminals, and you can’t walk directly between them inside the port areas.
  • Punta Langosta: at the southern edge of downtown San Miguel, used by lines such as Disney and MSC. It’s the pier closest to the town’s restaurants.

If you’ve read about a fourth cruise pier: Mexico’s environment ministry (Semarnat) denied SSA Mexico’s latest application for it in April 2026, citing risks to the Villa Blanca reef system. For now, Cozumel still has three cruise piers.

Restaurants near the Cozumel cruise port: distances at a glance

The distances below are approximate, measured on the map from the pier entrance. Allow longer in the heat.

Restaurant Nearest pier Food How to get there
Three Amigos Puerta Maya Tex-Mex, bar food Walk, inside the pier complex
Pancho’s Backyard (Puerta Maya) Puerta Maya Mexican Walk, at the pier
Alberto’s Puerta Maya Puerta Maya Seafood Walk, a few minutes
Chi Asian Cuisine Puerta Maya Asian Walk, just outside the port
Margaritaville Cozumel International (SSA) American, bar food Walk, at the pier
Señor Frog’s International and Punta Langosta Mexican party food Walk from either pier
Ix Kool International (SSA) Mayan, Yucatecan Walk, across the road
La Mission Punta Langosta Mexican grill Walk, roughly 10 to 15 minutes
El Foco Punta Langosta Tacos Walk, roughly 10 minutes
La Choza Punta Langosta Yucatecan, Mexican Walk, roughly 15 minutes
Pancho’s Backyard (downtown) Punta Langosta Mexican Walk, roughly 20 minutes, or a short taxi
Guido’s Punta Langosta Italian, seafood Walk, roughly 20 minutes, or a short taxi
Bajau Steakhouse & Seafood Grill Punta Langosta Steak, seafood Walk, roughly 20 minutes, or a short taxi
Fuego Punta Langosta Mexican-Caribbean fusion Walk, roughly 20 minutes, or a short taxi
Casa Mission Punta Langosta Mexican, hacienda setting Taxi recommended

From Puerta Maya or the International Pier, downtown San Miguel is roughly 4 to 5 km (about 2.5 to 3 miles) away. That’s a taxi ride of around 10 to 15 minutes, not a sensible walk in the midday heat.

Restaurants at Puerta Maya

Puerta Maya’s pier-side complex is built for cruise passengers. Prices are usually higher than in town, but you’re never more than a few minutes from the gangway, which suits a short port call.

1. Three Amigos

A lively open-air bar and grill inside Puerta Maya serving Tex-Mex staples such as tacos, quesadillas, burritos and nachos, along with burgers, wings and frozen drinks. Listings show daytime hours that follow the ship schedule, and some show it closed on Sundays.

2. Pancho’s Backyard (Puerta Maya)

Pancho’s Backyard is a long-running downtown favourite known for Mexican classics and margaritas, and it now has a second location at the Puerta Maya pier. According to its website, you don’t need a reservation at the pier branch, but you do downtown. Choose this one if you want proper Mexican cooking without leaving the port.

3. Alberto’s Puerta Maya

A seafood-focused restaurant in the Puerta Maya area, worth trying for ceviche, fish tacos or grilled shrimp.

4. Chi Asian Cuisine

If you’ve had enough tacos, Chi serves Asian dishes in the small Plaza i95 shopping strip just outside Puerta Maya on the coast road.

Plate of Mexican tacos with lime and salsa on a restaurant table near the sea
Tacos and fresh salsa are on almost every menu near Cozumel's cruise piers. Photo: ROMAN ODINTSOV on Pexels

Restaurants at the International Pier (SSA)

The International Pier sits just north of Puerta Maya. Its own bars and restaurants are on the waterfront, and a strip of smaller local places runs along the coast road across from the terminal.

5. Margaritaville Cozumel

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville sits right by the pier with views of the ships and the channel. The menu is mostly American bar food, including burgers, wings and fish tacos, plus the frozen drinks the brand is known for. Convenient, but not local cooking.

6. Señor Frog’s (two locations)

Señor Frog’s runs two Cozumel restaurants. One is at the International SSA pier and the other is at Punta Langosta on Avenida Rafael Melgar. Both serve Mexican party food such as nachos, quesabirria tacos, carne asada and burritos, with loud music and yard-glass drinks. It’s best for groups who want a party. Look elsewhere if you’d like a quiet lunch.

7. Ix Kool

Ix Kool is across the road from the International Pier in the Royal Village Shopping Center. It focuses on Mayan and Yucatecan cuisine and is one of the best-reviewed places on this stretch. Try regional dishes such as cochinita pibil (slow-cooked achiote pork) and sopa de lima. It’s usually cheaper and more local than the pier-side bars.

Cozumel restaurants downtown, near Punta Langosta

If your ship docks at Punta Langosta, or you take a taxi into town from the southern piers, downtown San Miguel has the island’s widest choice of restaurants. Most are on or near the waterfront Avenida Rafael Melgar and Avenida 5 (La Quinta), a few blocks inland.

8. La Mission

A busy Mexican grill on Calle Rosado Salas between the waterfront and Avenida 5, an easy walk from Punta Langosta. Fajitas and grilled seafood are the mainstays. Its sister restaurant Casa Mission is further inland (see below).

9. El Foco

A no-frills taquería on Avenida 5 between Calles 5 and 7, popular for tacos al pastor and grilled meats. Fodor’s notes that it doesn’t take reservations and is closed on Wednesdays.

10. La Choza

A downtown institution on Avenida 10 Sur serving Mexican and Yucatecan home-style dishes. It has a strong following for breakfast and a set lunch menu, which suits a daytime port call.

11. Pancho’s Backyard (downtown)

The original Pancho’s is set in a leafy courtyard behind a folk-art shop on Avenida Rafael Melgar at Calle 8. Its menu covers Mexican dishes with vegetarian options, and the restaurant lists reservations as required at this location. It’s a good pick if you want a relaxed, sit-down lunch away from the pier crowds.

12. Guido’s

Guido’s has been on the waterfront at Avenida Rafael Melgar for decades. It’s known for wood-fired pizza, pasta and fresh fish served in a shaded courtyard. It’s best known as a dinner spot, so check its current hours if you’re planning a daytime visit.

13. Bajau Steakhouse & Seafood Grill

A few doors from Guido’s on Avenida Rafael Melgar, Bajau serves steaks and seafood and has strong recent reviews. It’s one of the more upscale choices you can walk to from downtown. Check its hours before you go, as many restaurants on this stretch are geared toward evening service.

14. Fuego

Fuego is on Avenida Rafael Melgar between Calles 2 and 4, near the ferry terminal. Its menu is international fusion with Mexican-Caribbean influences, and the restaurant’s website says it operates as a kosher restaurant, which is rare on the island. Its website lists hours from 11:00 Sunday to Thursday and a shorter day on Friday, so check before you go.

15. Casa Mission

Casa Mission is on Avenida Benito Juárez, about 1 km inland from the main square, so take a taxi. It serves Mexican grill dishes in a hacienda-style garden setting. It’s a good choice if you want a leisurely meal and have plenty of time before all aboard.

Mexican peso banknotes and coins on a cafe table ready to pay a bill
Carrying small bills and some pesos makes paying in Cozumel easier. Photo: Sebastian PH on Pexels

Tips for eating out in Cozumel on a cruise

Pesos or US dollars?

US dollars are widely accepted near the piers, and most tourist restaurants take cards. Downtown you’ll often get a better deal paying in pesos, because the exchange rate a restaurant applies to dollars is rarely in your favour. Carry small bills, as change is usually given in pesos. Check whether your card charges foreign transaction fees.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Mexico, and 10 to 15 percent of the bill is the usual range for table service. Check the bill first, because some tourist restaurants add a service charge (“servicio”) automatically.

Taxis

Cozumel taxis use fixed fares, posted at the taxi stands by each pier, rather than meters. Fares depend on your destination and the number of passengers. Confirm the price before you get in, and photograph the fare board if you’d like a reference. Some ships also arrange shuttles into town, so check your daily planner.

Watch the all-aboard time

Plan to be back at the pier at least 30 to 45 minutes before all aboard, and allow extra time if you’re coming from downtown to Puerta Maya or the International Pier. Lunchtime service can be slow when several ships are in port, so ask for the bill early. Set your watch to ship time, which may differ from local time.

Food and water safety

Drink bottled or purified water. Restaurants that cater to visitors generally use purified water and ice, but ask if you’re unsure. Busy places with high turnover are usually the safest bet for street-style food. If you have a sensitive stomach, keep raw seafood and salads to restaurants with strong recent reviews.

Eating on the ship or ashore?

If your cruise line’s food is a highlight of your trip (see our guide to the cruise lines with the best food), you might keep it to a light lunch ashore. Even so, a plate of cochinita pibil or fresh ceviche in Cozumel is hard to replicate on board. For ideas on filling the rest of your day, from beaches to snorkelling, see our list of the best things to do in Cozumel cruise port.

Cozumel is just one stop, so see our full guide to cruise ports in Mexico on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

FAQs

Can you walk from the Cozumel cruise port to restaurants downtown?

From Punta Langosta, yes. Downtown San Miguel starts right outside the pier, and most restaurants in this guide are 10 to 20 minutes’ walk away. From Puerta Maya or the International Pier, downtown is roughly 4 to 5 km away, so take a taxi or eat at the restaurants by the pier.

What are the best restaurants in Cozumel near the cruise port?

For the closest options, try Three Amigos and Pancho’s Backyard at Puerta Maya, or Margaritaville, Señor Frog’s and Ix Kool at the International Pier. For more local food, head downtown to places like La Choza, El Foco, Guido’s or the original Pancho’s Backyard.

Do restaurants in Cozumel accept US dollars?

Most restaurants near the piers and downtown accept US dollars and major cards. Paying in pesos is often cheaper, and change is usually given in pesos, so bring small bills.

Is it safe to eat in Cozumel on a cruise?

Generally yes, at established restaurants. Drink bottled or purified water, choose busy places with good recent reviews, and take extra care with raw seafood if you have a sensitive stomach.

What is there to do in Cozumel cruise port besides eating?

Snorkelling, beach clubs, Chankanaab park, Mayan ruins at San Gervasio and shopping in San Miguel are all popular. Our guide to the best things to do in Cozumel cruise port covers them in detail.

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Guests Share Their Worst Cruise Shore Excursion Experiences Ever!

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsDestinations

For a lot of people, shore excursions can make or break their cruise. If you’re someone who sees their ship as a means to exploring the world, then you want to make sure you’re getting the most out of each destination you visit.

Worst cruise excursions

Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or indulging in a cultural experience, these tours can turn a great cruise into an unforgettable adventure. Most of the time.

But every now and then, an excursion doesn’t just miss the mark – it crashes, burns, and leaves passengers questioning their decisions over how they’ve spent their hard-earned money.

From near-disasters to laughably bad planning, these are some of the worst cruise shore excursions people have ever experienced. If you’ve ever had a bad tour, take comfort in knowing you’re not alone.

1. Beach day turns into a crime scene

Progreso Beach

Progreso served up the ultimate nightmare for this guest’s wife and kids. What was meant to be a relaxing beach day quickly turned into a forensic investigation when the kids started digging in the sand – only to unearth human remains.

Not mine, but my wife and kids went on a cruise without me and did a beach excursion that was under construction in Progreso (which is a wholly made up place btw, even the dolphins avoid the place because it's so sketchy), which ended with the kids digging in the beach sand and finding human remains. Wife's a nurse, she realized it pretty quick and they noped right the f**k out of there.

Imagine expecting seashells and finding skull fragments instead. The guest’s wife was at least able to clock the situation instantly, and they wisely fled before things got even grimmer.

A holiday memory? Absolutely. Just not the kind anyone wants.

2. When “you’ll get your feet wet” actually means “prepare to be swept away”

Fast flowing river

There’s underselling something, and then there’s this. A gentle hike through the hills? More like an impromptu survival course.

Hip-deep rapids, unexpected horseback rides, and a second river crossing that turned into a near-drowning experience for a non-swimmer…

We booked a hike in the hills through Princess. In the info, it said "you'll get your feet wet." Monumental understatement! They'd had rain. We have to cross a river twice, first time in hip-high, extremely fast moving water. One of the gals nearly got swept downstream. Another gal and I staged a mutiny and they took us across on a horse that just happened to be in the area on another excursion. Second crossing, and I'm no exaggerating this at all, we had to wade across water that was up to my neck. My feet started to float out from under me. You'll wonder why I didn't just swim at that point. I can't swim. To my mind, it was reasonable for me to book an excursion where I'd "get my feet wet" even if I couldn't swim. Obvious mistake.

The sheer audacity of describing this as merely “getting your feet wet” is almost impressive. Almost.

3. Snorkelling, starvation and a stare-down in the outhouse

Image of worst excursion ever - a snorkelling trip

Nothing screams “organised excursion” like a snorkel gear free-for-all, right?

Our worst excursion was a snorkeling trip in Loreto, Mexico. Our group had ~40 people, but there were other groups using the same area. For those of us who didn't have our own snorkeling gear, they dumped some boxes on the ground and everyone got to scramble for equipment. I ended up with flippers and a mask, but no snorkel (probably just as well; I doubt they do any kind of sanitizing between trips). There were no instructions on how to use the equipment.The lunch they served us was pre-packaged sandwiches and bags of chips. There were dozens of bees flying around the picnic area, and one little girl got stung.The worst part was the 'outhouse'. There were 2 'seats' facing each other, with no door in between. The seats were disgusting, and there was no toilet paper. I was forced to wait until we returned to port.

Between the questionable hygiene practices, the underwhelming lunch (bees included, free of charge), and the absolute horror show of a bathroom setup – facing seats with no door – this was less a day of adventure and more a test of human endurance.

Honestly, I’d have held it in until back at the port, too.

4. When your excursion turns into a runaway bus nightmare

We booked an excursion in Roatan (coxen hole dock). Our bus went up a steep winding hill, not far from port. On the left side was cliff and ocean, on the right, houses with kids in the yards. At the top of the hill there was a stop sign and the bus stalled (standard). The driver couldn't get it started and then we start rolling backward down the hill. The driver was trying to steer the bus as it rolled down the hill picking up speed. I thought for sure we were going to hit one of the kids, of go over the cliff.

There’s a fine line between thrilling and absolutely terrifying, and this excursion obliterated it.

My first cruise was in 2003 on Carnival with my the 16 yr daughter. We booked an excursion in Roatan (coxen hole dock), I think it was glass bottom boat but not sure.Our bus went up a steep winding hill, not far from port. On the left side was cliff and ocean, on the right, houses with kids in the yards. At the top of the hill there was a stop sign and the bus stalled (standard). The driver couldn't get it started and then we start rolling backward down the hill. The driver was trying to steer the bus as it rolled down the hill picking up speed. I thought for sure we were going to hit one of the kids, of go over the cliff.We finally stopped by slamming into a garbage truck that was stopped on the road.The girl in the last seat took the worst of it, she was caught between the seat in front of her and her seat.She kept screaming Oh My God, over and over till they got her out. I never heard afterwards how badly she was hurt. Everyone was very shaken up.When everyone was off the bus, the guide said they would send another bus and continue the excursion but we all refused and walked back to port.My DH and I spent the rest of the day in the market near the port and she got her hair braided. When we got back to the ship we went to the excursion desk and asked for a refund. We were told because they offered another bus and we refused that they would not refund.They eventually changed their minds and gave refunds after everyone on the bus complained.

Rolling backwards down a steep hill, narrowly avoiding children and cliffs, and ultimately crashing into a garbage truck? That’s not sightseeing – that’s a near-death experience.

And the real kicker? The tour company thought a simple bus swap would make everything fine. I admire the collective refusal to continue, but the fact that a refund wasn’t immediately offered is almost as appalling as the trip itself.

5. Who doesn’t love an excursion that ends with emergency orthopaedics?

one of the ladies on our excursion ended up diving headfirst into a cenote with a life jacket on

Cenotes are meant to be magical, not medically disastrous.

One ill-advised dive turned this trip into a full-scale rescue operation, complete with multiple shoulder fractures, dislocations, and a rotator cuff tear.

I went on one where one of the ladies on our excursion ended up diving headfirst into a cenote with a life jacket on (apparently this is a no no) - well, the sudden shift in buoyancy as she hit the water resulted in bilateral shoulder joint fractures, dislocations, and rotator cuff tearing. She had to be dragged from the water as she obviously couldn’t swim after that. While she wasn’t a member of our party, it certainly messed up the whole day and the excursion was pretty much toast after that.Coolest part though, we ended up finding out that we lived fairly close to one another, and I am a physical therapist, and helped get her better over the 6-8 months following the cruise.

Needless to say, the excursion was effectively over at that point. On the bright side, at least there was a conveniently placed physical therapist in the group. Nothing says holiday bonding like months of rehab.

6. Beach day? Try human storage unit

Chairs crammed together, zero view of the water, and barely enough space to exist, let alone enjoy the sand in St Lucia

A relaxing day by the sea? Not quite. This was less “beach paradise” and more “Tetris with humans.”

Mine wasn't through Carnival, but NCL. It was to St. Lucia and it was a simple beach day ship excursion. When we got to the beach, rows and rows of lounge chairs were lined up touching one another. They also had umbrellas at every second chair. They only left enough room to walk in front of your chair. The only way to get into the chair was to sit on the bottom and shimmy up...not so pretty in a lot of cases. We were in the third row. We couldn't see the water, only umbrellas and backs of chairs. A little girl who was sitting by us couldn't play in the sand because if she did, people couldn't walk by. It was awful and a wasted day. We took lots of pictures and got our money back. We have never complained in the 20 cruises we've taken, but we felt as if we wasted a whole day and shouldn't have had to pay do do so.

Chairs crammed together, zero view of the water, and barely enough space to exist, let alone enjoy the sand.

The only activity available was an awkward shimmy into the lounge chair, which, let’s be honest, is not the beach aesthetic anyone hopes for.

The real win here? Getting a refund.

7. A Segway tour… and an unexpected front-row seat to chaos

Segway excursion in Nassau , our tour guide was arrested in the middle of the tour followed by a riot then breaking out near the straw market after a vendor punched the police officer arresting her.

Nothing spices up a cruise excursion quite like your tour guide getting arrested mid-tour.

There was the time in Nassau our tour guide was arrested in the middle of the tour followed by a riot then breaking out near the straw market after a vendor punched the police officer arresting her. This was a Carnival ship sponsored Segway excursion.

But why stop there? Throw in a full-blown riot at the straw market, sparked by a vendor punching a police officer, and you’ve got an experience that no one signed up for.

A leisurely Segway ride quickly turned into an action movie, just without the stunt doubles.

8. Another Segway tour disaster – this time, with an inside job twist

a Segway tour on an island. I think it was Jamaica. Partway through the tour they got held up at gun point by what seemed to be a militia. They beat the crap out of the tour guide and tied him up. Made everyone lie down face first on the ground. Stole everything they had on their person. Told them to lie there for an hour and not get up.

If the last story sounded chaotic, this one takes it to a whole new level.

Someone I knew took a Segway tour on an island. I think it was Jamaica. Partway through the tour they got held up at gun point by what seemed to be a militia. They beat the crap out of the tour guide and tied him up. Made everyone lie down face first on the ground. Stole everything they had on their person. Told them to lie there for an hour and not get up. All is fine, they make it back to the shop sans money and many passports unfortunately. Ends up being an inside job by the tour company! That experience traumatized my friend who was probably 30 and all alone on the excursion.

A scenic Segway tour turned full-blown hostage situation, complete with armed men, a beaten and tied-up guide (who was apparently in on it), and a mass robbery.

Passports, cash, dignity – gone.

And the cherry on top? It was all orchestrated by the tour company itself. Imagine signing up for an excursion only to star in your own personal crime thriller. Absolutely horrifying.

9. A semi-submarine tour with fully non-functional windows

A semi-submarine tour with fully non-functional windows

The warning signs were there – starting with the suspiciously sketchy transport boat – but the real disappointment came once inside the semi-submersible.

First, the boat that we took to get from the cruise terminal to where the semi sub was looked like something that had a previous life either to transport rafters or to smuggle drugs. But we didn’t care that much since that wasn’t the actual tour, just transportation to get there.once we got inside the semi-submersible, the windows were so scratched and hazed over that you couldn’t see a darn thing. It was like wearing glasses that were completely fogged. A lot of fellow cruisers were angry, complaining and demanding a refund. Still, the semi-sub Crew had the audacity to ask for a tip at the end of the tour.

Turns out, when your main selling point is underwater views, it helps if the windows aren’t completely fogged and scratched to oblivion. There are enough complaints from guests on cruises with an obstructed view cabin – never mind when you get obstructed view tours as well.

Guests paid to see marine life, not vague smudges. The best part? The crew still had the nerve to ask for tips. Bold move.

10. The hop-on, stay-on, get-dumped-back-at-port tour

The hop-on, stay-on, get-dumped-back-at-port tour in Colombia

A hop-on/hop-off bus is supposed to let you explore, not hold you hostage on a high-speed sightseeing blur.

We did a hop-on/off bus tour in Colombia only it was hop-on and no getting off.Like people were pushing the button to be let off and the driver just sat in the high speed lane and said "nope not here".It then dumped us back at the pier.We went to the desk and said we wanted our money back because it was literally just a high speed tour of the town on a double decker bus. They kept trying to argue with us that we should have hit the button to get off. Eventually the people in line waiting to also complain chimed in and just yelled "they didn't stop when ANY of us hit the button".What was supposed to allow us 6 hours to explore was literally a 45 drive.

Passengers dutifully pressed the stop button, only for the driver to channel their inner Formula 1 racer and refuse to pull over.

The grand finale? A straight shot back to the pier, leaving everyone dazed, confused, and absolutely not refunded – at least until a chorus of angry tourists set the record straight.

What should have been six hours of adventure turned into a 45-minute drive-by disappointment.

11. The chain-reaction vomit cruise back to the ship

The chain-reaction vomit cruise back to the ship

Nothing says welcome back to your cruise ship like a front-row seat (and feet) in a full-scale puke disaster.

For me it was just after my excursion ended in Cabo on the tender ride back to the ship. My first cruise after a 20 year break in fact.Tender boat is packed and I'm sitting in the second bench from the front. Family consisting of dad and 2 kids around 4-5 are sitting on the bench in front of me facing a very young couple on their honeymoon seemingly. They were cuddled up on the rear-facing bench, laughing and acting totally in love.I'm looking at our ship as we head out of port when I hear a loud spilling noise like someone dropped a full soda or something in front of me. I see the end of a vomit eruption from this poor 5 year old boy. I then look down to see my feet 100% covered in puke.I'm not the squeamish type and so while annoyed I kind of chuckled as the kid's dad started wiping his child down but then I looked in horror at the young couple sitting there covered in vomit, staring bewildered at the kid.The next 10 mins were spent listening to a chain reaction of people vomiting (maybe 5-6 people) as the wind blew the smell and the vomit from the front of the boat to everyone sitting downwind.Sea wasn't even that rough that day...

What started with one unfortunate child turned into a biohazard event as the smell and splatter drifted downwind, triggering a domino effect of seasick passengers.

Special sympathy goes to the honeymooning couple, who likely imagined a far more romantic boat ride than being drenched in a stranger’s child’s lunch.

And the worst part? The sea wasn’t even rough. Just pure, unfiltered chaos.

12. Ephesus: breathtaking ruins, basement rug hostage situation optional

basement rug hostage situation

Ephesus is an absolute must-see – ancient marvels, rich history, and jaw-dropping sights.

But apparently, no tour is complete without an unexpected detour into a high-pressure rug-selling dungeon.

Ha, mine is one of my favorite and the "worst". Ephesus in Turkey is absolutely stunning. The Terrace Houses and Library of Celsus are bucket list items people need to see.On the flipside, while the tour of Ephesus was amazing, our guide taking us into a basement for a "rug tour" at the end was a lowlight. Very scamming, very pushy, and our guide went from "everyone's friend" to "why aren't you buying from my 'friends'?"He, and the store, went out of their way to "trap" us into that basement. The rugs were fine, definitely mass produced, and way overpriced. I had to go into full on "aggressive mode" and muscle my way out. Went to customer service on the ship afterwards because it was a paid RCI excursion. Apparently our experience wasn't unique.Still, would do it all again to experience Ephesus.

And to be clear – maybe not every tour, but when researching this article I found a lot of stories about the famous rug stores…

The transformation from friendly guide to pushy salesman’s accomplice was swift, and the “optional” shopping stop quickly felt like a you’re-not-leaving-until-you-buy-something scenario.

Mass-produced, overpriced rugs and a borderline hostage situation? Not quite the historical experience anyone signed up for. At least the ruins made it worth the escape.

13. Sun, sand, and… armed security? Welcome to Roatán

Nothing sets the mood for a relaxing beach day quite like the presence of armed guards. Add in an endless stream of pushy vendors, and suddenly, the idea of unwinding by the water feels more like a test of patience and personal boundaries.

Nothing sets the mood for a relaxing beach day quite like the presence of armed guards. Add in an endless stream of pushy vendors, and suddenly, the idea of unwinding by the water feels more like a test of patience and personal boundaries.

Roatan ranks right up there with us , spending a day on the beach with armed guards and relentless vendors isn’t something we’d sign up for again

When you need both security detail and sheer willpower to enjoy the beach, it’s probably not the paradise you were hoping for.

14. Mayan ruins or just a really long bus ride?

Mayan Ruins

Spending six hours crammed on a bus for just 45 minutes of actual sightseeing is the definition of a terrible excursion-to-transit ratio.

If you go on the Mayan ruins excursion from Cozumel, you're gonna have a bad time. Tour says it's 7-8 hours. What u find out is its 3 hour drive there and a 3 hour drive back with 45 minutes at the ruins. This excursion shouldn't exist

The ruins may be spectacular, but blinking twice and then immediately boarding the bus back hardly makes the journey worth it.

If the highlight of your tour is the legroom on the ride back, something has gone very wrong.

Final word

For every nightmare excursion, there are countless incredible ones that make cruising so special. But as these stories prove, even official, cruise-sponsored tours can sometimes go spectacularly wrong.

The key? Research, reading reviews, and trusting your gut if something seems off. And if you do end up in an excursion disaster… at least you’ll have a wild story to tell.

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Cruise Mummy

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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