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The Best Luggage Storage Spots Near Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port

by with No Comment Cruise NewsPackingUSA


If you’re taking a cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, you may want to go sightseeing for a few hours before getting on the ship or have a few hours to kill before flying home in the evening. 

Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale Florida

Whether you’ve just arrived and have booked one of the hotels near Fort Lauderdale or are simply making the most of your departure day, you don’t want to be lugging around heavy bags.

But finding somewhere can be challenging, so I’ve read reviews, read forums and researched the top review sites for all the possible places to leave your luggage. From that, I’ve created this list of the best places to store baggage for the day near Fort Lauderdale.

There are several places where you can store luggage near Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port. Staff at the terminal often aren’t aware, but there are several cafes, shops and hotels that will store your suitcases securely for a few hours.

The cruise port in Florida, near Fort Lauderdale, is called ‘Port Everglades’. It’s the third busiest cruise port in the world, so it’s bound to be busy. So if you are planning to store your luggage, it’s a good idea to book online, to see if they have space available. 

The best places to store luggage in Fort Lauderdale

Here’s my list of places to leave bags and suitcases near Fort Lauderdale…

1. Fort Lauderdale Airport Storage

Fort Lauderdale Airport Storage Bags To Go

If you’ve just got off a flight and have a few hours to spare before your cruise, the Fort Lauderdale Airport Storage provides an easy solution to store your luggage. ‘Bags To Go’ offers storage in each terminal. 

The airport is a short taxi ride to Port Everglades, so as soon you drop your bags off, you can go and explore Fort Lauderdale and return later in the day.

To make sure there’s space for your luggage before you arrive, you can book online here.

Address: 100 Terminal Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315

Opening Times: 9am – 5.30pm Monday to Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday

Rates: $10 per bag/day

2. Press and Grind Cafe – Harbordale

Press and Grind Cafe - Harbordale

Press and Grind Cafe offer luggage storage through the Bounce App. It has many happy customer reviews. It’s just under a mile from Port Everglades and has easy access to downtown Fort Lauderdale.

It’s also just a 15 minute walk to the water taxi point 4, where you can hop on and off around the Fort Lauderdale waterways when purchasing a day ticket.

On top of that, customers have reported that the cafe itself is one of the finest coffee shops around Fort Lauderdale. They have a great menu, from pastries to sandwiches, soups, salads, smoothies, and juices. So you could stop for a bite to eat too.

The only negative that a couple of people have reported is that as it’s so popular, there was a bit of a wait to drop the bags off.

You can book this location here.

Address: 1300 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Opening Times: 7am – 6pm, Monday to Sunday

Rates: From $4.10 per bag/day

3. Sebastian Street Beach

Sebastian Street Beach

This location is ideal if you would like to visit Sebastian Street Beach. It has plenty of popular shops, restaurants and bars and is a 20-minute drive north of Port Everglades and the airport.

Some customers have mentioned it can be challenging to find, but I’ve researched the details for you. This storage facility is tucked away in the small Beach Cafe in Beach Place Shopping Centre, next to the ice cream store on the 1st floor.

When arriving, speak to the staff, who will guide you to the storage room, where you will leave your luggage so you can head to the beach. 

You can book this location here. 

Address: 17 S Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd R112, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Opening Times: 24 hours

Rates: From $4.10 per bag/day

4. The UPS Store – Dania Beach Storage Spot

The UPS Store - Dania Beach Storage Spot

The third beach location is UPS Store, located on a main road, which is a 10-minute drive from the port. 

After dropping your bags off, if you want to head onto the beach, it’s less than 2 miles away. It has a long fishing pier and award-winning “Blue Wave Beaches”, which is a very appealing spot to relax for the day.

You can book this storage here.

Address: 398 E Dania Beach Blvd, Dania Beach, FL 33004

Telephone: +1 954-923-9004

Opening Times: 8.30am – 7pm Tuesday – Friday, 9:30am – 3pm Saturday, 10am – 3pm Sunday, closed Monday.

Rates: From $6.90 per bag/day

5. Southwinds Inn – Hollywood Beach Storage

Southwinds Inn - Hollywood Beach Storage

This luggage storage is located in the Southwinds Inn, which is about a 20-minute drive south of the cruise port. Again customers have highlighted the great location. If you store your bags here, you’ll be right on the beach alongside the boardwalk.

Some have mentioned they have also been offered a space to change before leaving to go to the airport or cruise terminal after their day at the beach.

You can book this location here.

Address: 322 Oregon St, Hollywood, FL 33019, United States

Telephone: +1 954-920-0490

Opening Times: 9am – 9pm, Monday to Thursday, 8am – 9pm Friday – Sunday

Rates: From $4.60 per bag/day

6. The UPS Store – SE 17th St Storage

The UPS Store - SE 17th St Storage

Here is another UPS Store, which is about a 10-minute drive from the cruise port. It’s a short distance from South Port Shopping Center with plenty of restaurants too. However, if shopping is not your thing, there is also Lauderdale Harbors, a neighbourhood in Fort Lauderdale with waterfront homes, where you can watch the yachts and other beautiful boats.

Many customers have said this is a convenient and accessible location to store their luggage. Others have said the service was a bit slow, but it did the job.

You can book this luggage storage here.

Address: 757 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, United States

Telephone: +1 954-764-6900

Opening Times: 8am – 7pm Tuesday – Friday, 10am – 1pm Saturday, 9am – 12pm Sunday, closed Monday

Rates: From $6.90 per bag/day

7. UPS Store – Southland Shopping Plaza Storage

UPS Store - Southland Shopping Plaza Storage

Another UPS store is on the list, but this one is located in Southland Shopping Plaza with plenty of outlet stores and restaurants. This location is not as close to the beach as other locations, but you may be ‘beached out’ after your cruise.

Customers have reported that it’s easy to book, drop the luggage off and easy to pick it up.

You can book this luggage storage here.

Address: 1005 W State Rd 84, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315

Telephone: +19543684805

Opening Times: 8:30am – 6:30pm Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 5pm Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday

Rates: From $6.90 per bag/day

8. Mailbox Rentals Las Olas – Beverly Heights Storage

Mailbox Rentals Las Olas - Beverly Heights Storage

This storage facility is a Mailbox rental service, which is about a 15-minute drive from Port Everglades. It has very good reviews saying it was easy to use, convenient, and the employees were friendly and helpful.

It is located on a main road, which is on a bus route, which goes to the beach or the city centre. There are also plenty of large restaurant chains nearby.

You can book this luggage storage here.

Address: 1314 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Telephone: +1 954-467-8085

Opening Times: 8.30am – 5.30pm Monday – Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday

Rates: From $4.10 per bag/day

You can’t leave luggage at the port…

There are no luggage storage facilities at Port Everglades. Staff at the terminal may not be able to advise you of nearby places to leave bags either.

Your best option is to leave your luggage at one of these luggage storage facilities or at the airport. To ensure availability, it’s recommended that you book online ahead of time.

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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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What To Do In Miami After A Cruise & Before A Flight

by with No Comment Cruise NewsDestinationsUSA


So you’ve just disembarked from your ship in Miami after a wonderful cruise. Your flight home isn’t until the evening, so you’ve got a day to kill.

Do you spend it sitting and enjoying the sights and sounds of the bustling airport, or do you actually make the most of this opportunity to explore one of the world’s most vibrant cities?

Miami

If you’ve chosen the latter, then this guide will be ideal – here’s a look at some of the best things to do after your cruise in Miami.

There are plenty of options for things to see and do in Miami after your cruise. The city is famous for its beach and shopping, but it also has excellent food options (including food tours), museums, street art and nature excursions you can enjoy.

There’s something for everyone – kid-friendly activities, gentle tours that don’t involve much walking, and stuff for thrill-seekers, with options that last from just an hour or two to longer adventures if you’ve got a whole day to fill.

It’s worth checking out some of these ideas because they all beat sitting at an airport waiting for your flight number to be called.

The best things to do in Miami after a cruise

Cultural ideas

Miami is a city that is packed with cultural attractions – from museums to street art. It’s definitely worth taking the chance to explore the beautiful history and iconic sights of the city while you’re in town.

1. Superblue Miami

Estimated duration: 90 minutes

Superblue Miami is one of the top art museums in the city. An immersive experience, you’ll be able to enjoy a host of amazing installations, including a mirrored labyrinth, digital recreations of worlds that are immersed in amazing waterfalls and flowers, and a stunning representation of your own heartbeat, created from 3,000 lights.

It’s not a huge attraction, so it’s a great size for a quick trip if you’ve an afternoon flight, or when paired with another attraction. It’s suitable for all ages.

2. Perez Art Museum

Estimated duration: 2 hours

The Perez Art Museum is filled with incredible artworks to enjoy, ranging from fine art and modern painting styles to sculptures and walk-through art experiences.

As with many art museums, the exhibitions change throughout the year, so if you enjoy the museum after one visit then it’s one to consider coming back to after your next cruise that ends in Miami – there’ll always be something new to enjoy. The museum takes around two hours to walk through, though you can meander if you have more time to kill.

3. Wynwood Graffiti Golf Cart Tour

Estimated duration: 1 hour

The Wynwood district in Miami is known as the warehouse district – but it’s so much more exciting than that. It has become the home of some of Miami’s finest street art, featuring incredible works from local artists that include smaller graffiti pieces and impressive full-wall murals.

This tour is ideal if you can’t walk far or are just feeling tired after your cruise – you’ll ride in a comfortable golf cart, seeing the art at a leisurely pace while you learn all about the architecture and history of the region.

4. Art Deco Walking Tour

Estimated duration: 2 hours

If you’re feeling active and you’re in the mood for a walking tour of Miami, one of the best options is to tour the Art Deco buildings of South Beach. This guided tour will teach you all about the history of the South Beach region, including the glamour and the seedy mob side.

You’ll learn more about the history of Art Deco in general, see Versace’s mansion, and just get to know the real story of one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods not just in Miami but in the whole of the US.

Relaxing ideas

While a cruise is a wonderful holiday, they can often be action-packed. And maybe, while you have time in Miami, you just want to take things a little easier. These relaxing attractions can help you wind down before you return home.

5. Miami Beach

Estimated duration: As long as you want

Miami is of course home to one of the world’s most famous beaches, and if you’ve never been then you can just head down and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of the sands. Here there will be sunbathers, paddleboarders, jet skiers and more, and yes there will be plenty of people on rollerblades and roller skates along the beach front too.

It’s not a quiet beach, so don’t head there if you want a few hours of peace before you fly, but if you want to soak up the fun ambience of the beautiful sands, and see the local stores and bars while you’re there, then it’s worth spending a few hours exploring.

6. Hotel Resort Pass

Estimated duration: Up to 6 hours

While Miami Beach may not be the place to relax in peace and quiet, you aren’t short of options if that’s what you’re looking for. Miami has a host of beautiful hotels where you can buy a day resort pass to escape the hustle and bustle.

Day passes don’t cost the earth, though you may have to pay extra if you want a bed, a cabana or access to the hotel’s spa. However, if you just want to lounge by the side of the pool, sipping a cocktail and soaking up the Miami sunshine, this is a calm way to chill before dealing with the airport.

Family ideas

Travelling with kids? Miami has some great family attractions that can help stave off that boredom that often comes with tired tykes at the end of a cruise.

7. Miami Children’s Museum

Estimated duration: 3.5 hours

Miami Children’s Museum is a fantastic destination for anyone with younger children. Your ticket gets you a 3.5-hour play session where you can wander the museum and let your kids enjoy a whole host of interactive exhibits.

It’s also situated on Wilson Island, really close to the cruise terminals, so you don’t have to travel far to start enjoying all of the fun activities on offer. And then you’re only an 8-mile cab trip to the airport – making this a fantastic choice for restless kids.

8. Miami Seaquarium

Estimated duration: 4 hours

The Miami Seaquarium is one of the most popular family attractions in all of South Florida. It is home to a wide variety of marine sea life including penguins, sharks, seals, sea lions and all kinds of fish species.

There are dolphins too, and if you’ve got the budget to spare you can arrange to swim with them – or try one of the other close-up interaction experiences. The Seaquarium has all the facilities you need for a full day, including multiple dining options, so this is a great way to spend the time leading up to your flight.

9. Zoo Miami

Estimated duration: Up to 6 hours (including transport)

Another fantastic family-friendly attraction that can keep you busy for the whole day before a night flight is Zoo Miami. Here there are over 3,500 animals to see, with species from across the globe. There are various interactive exhibits and learning opportunities too, as well as a good choice of dining venues.

Just be aware that this is one of the furthest attractions from the port – you’ll need to factor in around 35 minutes’ drive from the cruise terminal, and then another 30 minutes to get to the airport, depending on traffic. So if your flight is mid-afternoon, give this one a miss.

Food-themed ideas

Whether you’re a die-hard foodie who loves to explore other cultures and sample their traditional dishes, or you just like the idea of visiting restaurants and snacking on your last day, these tours could be the ideal time-killer.

10. Little Havana Food and Walking Tour

Estimated duration: 2.5 hours

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Miami’s Little Havana neighbourhood and get the chance to try some of the best local delicacies from the Cuban restaurants all around. You’ll be able to try dishes like chicken plantain cups, guava pastries and the delicious flan ice cream, and taste the best empanada in the city.

As well as trying the food, you’ll see how Cuban cigars are rolled, meet the local artists and enjoy Cuban music, all whilst learning about the heritage of the neighbourhood and how the Cubans have lived there.

11. South Beach Cultural Food and Walking Tour

Estimated duration: 2.5 hours

If you like the idea of a walking and eating tour but want to look beyond just Cuban flavours, then this could be the more wide-ranging excursion to suit. South Beach is home to a fantastic variety of restaurants, and you’ll get to sample little bits of them all, including Cuban, Mediterranean, Colombian, Peruvian and Spanish.

The tour includes a look at the heritage of all of Latin America in Miami, and the way that the culture has helped to define the city. It’s quite an active tour, but one that is packed with great content and that will be a highlight of your entire getaway.

12. Traditional Cuban Cooking Class

Estimated duration: 4 hours

If you’ve got a little more time to kill before your flight and you don’t mind spending a little more on your food excursion, why not try a traditional Cuban cooking class before you head for home? This works well with an evening flight since you’ll be making your own dinner.

You’ll have a chef taking you through the lesson, and giving you info on the background of the dishes you prepare and the heritage of Cuban food. When the tour is over, you’ll get to take your recipes home with you so you can recreate the food again for family and friends.

Shopping ideas

Have you forgotten to pick up some souvenirs? Or do you just need a bit of retail therapy that’s different from the onboard luxury stores? There are two malls within easy reach of the cruise port.

13. Sawgrass Mills Mall

Estimated duration: Up to 6 hours

The Sawgrass Mills Mall is actually a little further outside Miami, and is a good option for Fort Lauderdale too. But the sheer volume of stores you can visit does make it worth the trip, provided you have the time to get back to the airport (it’ll take around 40 minutes).

There’s everything from famous department stores to boutique fashion shops and discount outlets too. Just be aware that if you take an organised tour then you may have to cut it short with a taxi to get to the airport, since the organised transport usually leaves the mall later in the day.

14. Dolphin Shopping Mall

Estimated duration: As long as you want

If you want to get your shopping done without being too far from the airport, the Dolphin Shopping Mall is a much better option – it’s just 10 miles from the main entrance to the airport, so you can get there really quickly.

It’s the city’s largest outlet and has over 240 stores, restaurants and more to explore, so you’ll have no trouble finding something to treat yourself to.

Adventure ideas

Still not quite got all that adrenaline-seeking out of your system on your vacation? There are some really exciting things to do in Miami after cruise breaks that can perfectly round off your trip.

15. Jet Ski Rentals

Estimated duration: 75 minutes

A lot of Miami is focussed around South Beach and the connecting islands, so what better way to explore them all than from the water on your own jet ski? You’ll get a boat ride to a launch point and then travel with a guide past Picnic Island to see some of the great views of the city.

It’s a thrilling way to see the sights, and it’s completely safe too. Your instructor will also take some photos of you on the jet ski for you to treasure, or just show off to your friends.

16. Everglades Tours

Estimated duration: 1-5 hours

The Everglades National Park is famous around the world for its unique scenery, and of course its wildlife. There are various tour lengths available, but on all, you’ll get the chance to see alligators, iguanas and other wildlife in their natural habitats.

It’s thrilling and a little nerve-wracking on an airboat, but a really interesting experience. Your guide will give you tons of information about the local creatures and how they live.

17. ATV Rental

Estimated duration: 90 minutes

If you want to get off the beaten track – especially if you’ve seen some of the main Miami sights before – then consider hiring an ATV and taking a tour of the off-road areas around Miami.

You’ll get to see parts of the coast away from the main tourist spots and have a thrill-packed time while you do it.

18. Deep Sea Fishing Trip

Estimated duration: 4 hours

No experience necessary – try your hand at deep-sea fishing and see what species you can catch under the tuition of an expert guide. You’ll get a full tutorial on how to use the equipment, and then head out on the boat to see if you can snare kingfish, grouper and snapper.

The boat trip is a scenic ride itself, so you’ll get to relax too – perfect if your partner is the fishing aficionado and you just want to take it easy for half a day.

Luxury ideas

Got some holiday cash left over that you want to spend, or do you just like living the high life? These luxury Miami excursions after cruise holidays are the cherry on top of your fantastic getaway.

19. Cruise of Millionaire Homes

Estimated duration: 90 minutes

This excursion isn’t really a luxury tour in itself – it’s actually quite cheap – but if you’re interested in the luxury lifestyle then it’s a lot of fun. You’ll go on a boat tour around the city, seeing all the multi-million dollar mansions that celebrities own around the islands.

There’s a cash bar on the boat too, along with snacks, so you can take it easy and see how the high life lives, even just for a short break before you fly home.

20. Private Yacht Cruise with Champagne

Estimated duration: 2 hours

It’s widely accepted that one of the best ways to see Miami is from a boat – so why not hire your own private yacht for a tour and escape the crowded vessels where seats are at a premium?

You’ll be able to take some stunning photos of the Miami skyline, all while sipping on Champagne and playing your favourite songs through the boat’s sound system. A wonderful, peaceful way to soak up the city.

21. Taste of Miami Helicopter Tour

Estimated duration: 20 minutes

If a boat isn’t doing it for you, why not see Miami from the sky? A private helicopter tour gets you right over the best sights, so you’ll be able to tick off Tahiti Beach, Biscayne Bay, Coconut Grove and more.

As well as the city, you’ll be flown over the Matheson County Preserve, where you may get lucky and see manatees and dolphins swimming below you.

Final word

There are so many options in Miami that these are just the best. It’s a fantastic city, with most of the attractions localised close to the centre and all easy to get to with a taxi or an Uber.

Just make sure you don’t dawdle too much and miss your flight!
You’ll also want to check out my guide to storing your luggage in Miami so that you don’t have to carry it around all day while enjoying your final excursions.

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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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22 Things To Do Near Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal

by with No Comment Cruise NewsDestinationsUSA


Port Canaveral is one of the main cruise ports in Florida, and is a popular choice for anyone looking to combine a cruise and stay vacation with a trip to Orlando for all the theme parks.

However, what if you don’t quite have the time to travel all that way? What if you’ve just got a few hours to kill at the start or end of your cruise, or even in between cruises if you’re on a back-to-back itinerary?

Cape Canaveral, USA

Well, the good news is there’s plenty to enjoy even closer to Port Canaveral, so I’ve pulled together a list of the best.

It’s important to note that some of these are ‘bigger’ experiences than others, and may take up more time or need to be booked in advance – which is totally fine if you’re planning ahead. Others are more casual.

And because there are multiple terminals, the distances may vary by up to a mile from where your ship is docked, but driving times are going to be similar as the major roads lead right into the terminals.

1. Rocket Launch Viewpoint

Rocket Launch Viewpoint

Distance: 1.5 miles
Walking Time: 25 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

You’ll need to be lucky to make the most of this, but the Rocket Launch Viewpoint is within walking distance of the cruise terminals if you happen to be in port on the same day as a launch. It’s definitely an amazing experience, and something more unique than anything else on this list.

So check your dates to see if your visit to Port Canaveral does coincide with a launch and if it does, make sure you follow the crowds to get yourself a good seat.

See the launch schedule

2. Sands Space History Center

Distance: 2.2 miles
Driving Time: 9 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

While not the most famous museum in the region that tells you all about space travel (more on that further down this list), this is a great little spot to visit if you only have an hour or two to kill. 

There’s a lot to see and plenty to educate you, and entry is free too, which is a nice bonus. The gift shop is packed with various space-related souvenirs as well, including those related to NASA, the Air Force and Space X.

Visit the Center’s website

3. Exploration Tower

Exploration Tower

Distance: 2.4 miles
Driving Time: 6 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

The Exploration Tower looks a lot like the super-posh 7-star hotel you’d find in Dubai, although it’s a little smaller.

It’s also not a hotel, but it is a museum, which is dedicated to the history of the Cape Canaveral area. And that’s not just space travel – although it does play a part. You’ll also learn about how the area became such a popular cruise port as well, which is really interesting. Plus, you’ll enjoy some amazing views across the region from the top floor.

Visit the Exploration Tower’s website

4. Canaveral Wildlife Tours

Manatee

Distance: 2.4 miles
Driving Time: 4 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

There are hundreds of interesting wildlife species that call Cape Canaveral home, including manatees, alligators, bald eagles and more. So why not book yourself onto a tour in an executive (air-conditioned, of course) coach to see as many of them as possible, all led by a local expert?

The tours last 4-6 hours so you’ll need to set aside plenty of time, but it’s a nice way to round off your holiday if your flight home is a late one.

See the wildlife tours

5. Canaveral Lighthouse Tour

Distance: 2.6 miles
Driving Time: 7 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse was built in 1848 and is a very impressive structure, painted in striking black and white stripes and standing over 150 feet tall.

You can take an official tour to learn about the history of the lighthouse and of local efforts to preserve the region too, while at the very top you’ll get amazing views across the port and the nearby Cocoa Beach.

Visit the lighthouse’s website

6. Helicopter Tour

Helicopter

Distance: 2.6 miles
Driving Time: 7 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

You know what offers an even better view than climbing a 7-storey tower or a 5-storey lighthouse? Hopping into a helicopter for an epic skyride across the whole of the Cape.

These tours don’t last too long, but they’re able to showcase many of the highlights of the region in their packed flights. And they start from super low prices too – sometimes just $20 per person, which is incredible for a flight.

See helicopter tour options

7. Beer Tasting at Florida Beer Company

Distance: 3 miles
Driving Time: 8 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

There are several breweries around the Port Canaveral area, but the closest to the cruise terminals is the Florida Beer Company. Sample some of the fine ales, lagers and ciders that are brewed here, and enjoy a tour of the facilities while you’re at it.

They aren’t always available, so check and book in advance to secure your place.

Visit the brewery’s website

8. Manatee Sanctuary Park

Manatee

Distance: 3.2 miles
Driving Time: 8 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

One of the most popular attractions in the whole Port Canaveral area is the Manatee Sanctuary Park. Set amongst 10 acres, it’s home to a variety of wildlife including a large number of manatees that will often be basking on the banks, giving visitors a great view of these majestic locals.

You may also spot dolphins in the area too, so it’s well worth a visit, and if you have kids with you, there’s a playground to burn off some energy.

Visit the Manatee Sanctuary Park website

9. Victory Casino Cruises

Victory Casino Cruises
Photo: Victory Casino Cruises

Distance: 3.2 miles
Driving Time: 7 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

What’s the best way to start or end a cruise holiday? Taking another cruise. These aren’t quite what you imagine, though – these are essentially floating casinos that will take you out to sea for a 4-5 hour journey where you can gamble away to your heart’s content.

If you do like to visit the casino on your cruise, this could be a good warm-up, but just make sure not to blow your holiday budget before your proper cruise even begins.

Read more about Victory Casino Cruises

10. Relax On The Beach at Jetty Park

Florida Jetty Park

Distance: 3.9 miles
Driving Time: 11 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

While much of the area around Port Canaveral has been used for ship terminals, you can still find a nice beach area to relax at Jetty Park. It’s not the most stunning beach but there is plenty of space for the kids to run around, or you can just sit back on the sands and relax as you watch the ships of all sizes sailing in and out of port.

Visit the beach’s website

11. Cherie Down Park

Cherie Down Park
Photo: Brevanrd County

Distance: 4 miles
Driving Time: 8 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

Cherie Down Park is one of the lesser-known spots in the region, but it is picturesque and relaxed. It has some great views of the water, as well as a boardwalk over the sand dunes if you want a walk to kill some time. You can also take a quick shower if you want one, or just set up at one of the BBQ and picnic spots for a bite to eat.

Visit the park’s website

12. Wizard of Oz Museum

Wizard of Oz Museum
Photo: Wizard Of Oz Florida

Distance: 4.2 miles
Driving Time: 10 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

This modern museum only opened in 2021, and it is packed with memorability and interactive displays related to the movie and book.

The museum is home to a number of puppets used in the original theatre performances in the 1950s and 1960s too, and if you book in advance, you can have a guided tour with the museum’s owner. Enjoy a stroll around Munchkin Land, visit the Emerald City, and walk the Yellow Brick Road.

Visit the musem’s website

13. Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures

Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures
Photo: Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures

Distance: 4.2 miles
Driving Time: 7 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Recommended

If you like your pre- or post-cruise experiences to be a little more thrilling than sedate, why not check out the high-ropes courses available at Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures?

There are seven different courses to choose from, ranging from those aimed at beginners to ‘extreme’ courses. You’ll enjoy amazing views amongst the trees, hopping across suspension bridges and zooming along zip lines. A great family experience.

Visit the website

14. Beachside Grand Prix Karting

Beachside Grand Prix Karting

Distance: 4.6 miles
Driving Time: 11 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

Karting is something you can do anywhere, but if you’ve never tried it then it’s another option for you while you have a wait in Port Canaveral. The large outdoor track has plenty of twists and turns but is certainly aimed more at families than serious kart enthusiasts, so everyone can have a go, even if you aren’t too much of a speed demon.

It also has its own mini golf course, but there are better choices if that’s what you’re into…

Visit the venue’s website

15. Golf N Gator

Golf N Gator
Photo: Golf N Gator

Distance: 4.7 miles
Driving Time: 11 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

Mini golf is huge in Florida, but one of the best courses can be found just a short drive from the Port Canaveral cruise terminal. This unique center not only has two 18-hole courses, but it also lets you feed actual alligators while you’re there. Challenging obstacles include water features and bridges, while there are wildlife shows with other reptiles, too, once you’ve finished your round.

Visit the venue’s website

16. Escape Cocoa Beach

Escape Cocoa Beach
Photo: Escape Cocoa Beach

Distance: 5 miles
Driving Time: 12 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

A great way to have some fun for an hour in between cruises is to try an escape room, and the Escape Cocoa Beach venue has four different ones that you can choose from.

Don’t worry if you don’t solve the mysteries in time – you’ll be let out so that you can make it to the terminal before your ship sails!

Visit the venue’s website

17. The Dinosaur Store and Museum

The Dinosaur Store and Museum
Photo: The Dinosaur Store & Museum

Distance: 5.8 miles 
Driving Time: 13 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

A quick and easy drive from the cruise ports, the Dinosaur Store offers a good contrast against the modern space-age theming of many of Port Canaveral’s attractions. Step back in time as you learn about different dinosaur species, see actual reconstructed skeletons, and learn a lot more about various ancient civilizations that have existed since the times of the dinosaurs as well. Oh, and this is another chance to feed live alligators too.

Visit the museum’s website

18. Alan Shepard Park Beach

Distance: 5.8 miles
Driving Time: 13 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

Another option if you want a beach, Alan Shepard Park is a little further afield but this will guarantee you a much quieter time. The sands are lovely and white, and there are plenty of restaurants and stores close by so you can enjoy a relaxing day without having to come prepared with a picnic.

Visit the park’s website

19. Dolphin Tours (various operators)

Dolphin

Distance: 6 miles
Driving Time: 14 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

While manatees are the more unique attraction for Port Canaveral and Florida in general, dolphins also call the region home, and there are various tour providers who are able to get you up close to swimming schools. If you’re lucky, some of the friendlier dolphins might even start to follow your boat for a magical experience.

See dolphin tour options

20. Space Coast Slingshots driving experience

Distance: 7.3 miles
Driving Time: 17 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Yes

Another option for the thrillseekers in your travelling party, why not sign up to have an experienced driver whizz you around a racetrack at high speeds while you’re sat in a modern supercar?

This is a little more pricey, so it’s definitely not something you’ll just want to casually try with a spare moment, but if you have a speed demon sailing with you, then this could be a special treat to book in advance.

Visit the company’s website

21. Paddleboard at Cocoa Beach

Paddleboarding

Distance: 9.5 miles
Driving Time: 22 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: No

You’re able to rent paddleboards at Cocoa Beach, and even sign up to some beginner lessons if you’ve no idea what you’re doing. Paddleboarding can be one of the more relaxed watersports to try (once you learn the basics and stop falling in), and a serene hour on the water could be the ideal way to bookend your cruise.

View paddleboard tour options

22. Kennedy Space Center

Rocket Garden at Kennedy Space Center

Distance: 17.6 miles
Driving Time: 28 minutes
Pre-booking Needed: Recommended

It’s impossible to talk about attractions in the Port Canaveral area without namechecking the most famous of all. It’s a little further afield but still within a 30-minute drive, although you’ll want a full day here to really experience everything, especially as half of the centre can only be seen on a tour that lasts around 3-4 hours itself. But as the last thing you do before flying home, this really is a fascinating place to explore.

Visit the Kennedy Space Center website

So there you have a list of the most fun things to do near Port Canaveral cruise terminal. Whether you’re flying into Flordia a day before your cruise, or you have some time in the afternoon before your flight, I hope that this guide helps you to plan a fun day out.

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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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The 7 Worst Cruise Ports in the United States

by with No Comment Cruise LinesCruise NewsDestinationsUSA


Setting sail on a cruise can be an exciting adventure, but your journey begins long before you step onto the ship. 

The cruise port you depart from plays a crucial role in shaping the start and end of your cruise. While many US ports offer smooth sailing, some have gained notoriety for their challenges. 

I looked at real stories from cruise guests on Reddit to see what were the worst ports in the US for cruising, so that you can travel prepared.

1. San Francisco: Beauty marred by logistics

The vibrant Embarcadero waterfront area of San Francisco, showcasing a sweeping view of the cityscape along with the iconic Bay Bridge stretching into the horizon. The Embarcadero is bustling with activity, visible from the cars on the road and people along the sidewalks, adjacent to the historic Ferry Building and various cruise ships docked at the piers. The backdrop features a mix of modern skyscrapers and classic San Francisco architecture, highlighting the dynamic urban landscape. This setting is a popular spot for both tourists and locals, offering scenic views, dining, and shopping opportunities, and acts as a critical transport hub in the city.

San Francisco’s cruise terminal is a sight to behold, with its stunning backdrop of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most impressive bridges you can sail under on a cruise.

However, the beauty of the Bay Area can’t mask the logistical hurdles that cruisers face when departing from this port.

The most significant issue plaguing San Francisco’s cruise port is its awkward traffic access. The city’s infamous congestion often leads to lengthy delays, turning what should be an exciting start to your holiday into a frustrating ordeal.

San Francisco traffic

To avoid the worst of the traffic, consider arriving at the port early in the morning or later in the afternoon, outside of peak hours – as long as you make sure you arrive in time to board, of course!

Once you’ve navigated the traffic, you’ll face another challenge: limited elevator access. With only one elevator for embarkation and another for disembarkation, bottlenecks are common. This setup can lead to long queues and extended wait times, particularly for those with mobility issues or large amounts of luggage.

Recent years have seen an increase in wait times at the San Francisco cruise terminal. To mitigate this, arrive well before your scheduled boarding time and be prepared for a potentially lengthy check-in process. 

Consider packing a small carry-on with essentials, including entertainment and snacks, to make the wait more bearable.

Despite these challenges, the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere of San Francisco are pleasant and there are some excellent itineraries you can enjoy sailing from the port. 

By planning ahead and managing your expectations, you can still begin your voyage on a high note.

2. New York City: The Big Apple’s big cruise challenges

Queen Mary 2 in New York

New York City, the city that never sleeps, offers a thrilling backdrop for the start of a cruise. However, the excitement of departing from this world-famous metropolis comes with its fair share of challenges.

The New York cruise experience is often described as chaotic, reflecting the bustling nature of the city itself. The sheer volume of passengers, combined with the port’s location in one of the busiest cities in the world, can lead to a frenetic embarkation process. 

New York aerial shot

To handle this chaos, arrive early and have all your documents readily accessible to streamline the check-in process. You definitely don’t want to show up to New York without being organised.

While boarding can be hectic, it’s the disembarkation process that truly tests passengers’ patience. Long queues, customs delays, and the challenge of finding transportation in the city can turn the end of your relaxing cruise into a stress-inducing experience. 

I’d recommend booking a private transfer in advance or allowing plenty of time if you’re catching a flight post-cruise.

Many cruisers compare New York unfavourably to ports like Port Canaveral in Florida, which is known for its efficiency and user-friendly layout. However, the unique experience of sailing out of New York harbour, past the Statue of Liberty, can make the hassle worthwhile for many.

cruise ship sailing past statue of liberty

To make the most of your New York cruise departure:

  • Book a pre-cruise hotel stay to avoid day-of travel stress
  • Allow porters to handle your luggage and navigate the terminal more easily (don’t forget to tip them!)
  • Familiarise yourself with the port layout beforehand to reduce confusion

Remember, once you’re on board, the rewards of sailing from New York – including spectacular city views – can help you forget the embarkation challenges.

3. Charleston, South Carolina: A port in transition

Charleston South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, known for its southern charm and historic beauty, has been facing its own set of challenges when it comes to its cruise port. 

The port is currently undergoing significant construction and upgrades, which is great, but it has led to a disorganised and often slow boarding process.

The ongoing construction means that the port’s infrastructure is in flux, leading to confusion among both staff and passengers. 

Signage may be unclear, and temporary measures put in place to deal with the construction can result in longer walking distances and unexpected obstacles.

The slow boarding process is a particular pain point for many cruisers. With limited facilities to handle large numbers of passengers, queues can be long and move at a frustratingly slow pace. 

However, it’s not all bad news. The construction and upgrades are part of a larger plan to improve the cruise experience in Charleston. In the future, passengers can look forward to more modern facilities and a smoother embarkation process. Until then, patience and preparation are key.

It’s all due to be finished by March 2025 too, so not too long to go!

While the current state of Charleston’s cruise port may be challenging, you can start your cruise adventure on the right foot by being prepared in advance for a bit of confusion and stress. Go with the flow if you can!

4. Los Angeles: Distance dilemma at San Pedro

Aerial view of San Pedro cruise port

The ‘City of Angels’ might seem like a dream departure point for a cruise, but the reality can be less than heavenly. The main issue with LA’s cruise port, located in San Pedro, is its distance from the city’s main attractions and airports.

San Pedro port is situated approximately 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles and even further from popular tourist areas like Hollywood or Beverly Hills. 

Map showing the driving distance from Hollywood to Los Angeles Cruise Terminal

This distance can pose significant challenges for travellers, especially those flying in on the day of their cruise. Traffic in Los Angeles notoriously awful, and the journey from the airport to the port can easily take over an hour, even without heavy congestion.

For embarkation, the port works reasonably well. The terminal facilities are modern and can handle large numbers of passengers efficiently. 

However, as a port of call, San Pedro falls short. The immediate area around the port lacks major attractions, and the distance to LA’s famous sights makes short excursions challenging.

While the distance issue is a significant drawback, the allure of Los Angeles still attracts many passengers – and it’s one of the better options for a cruise from the West Coast.

The key is to plan ahead and manage your expectations regarding travel times and accessibility.

5. Miami: Chaos in the cruise capital

Cruise ships in Miami

Miami, often dubbed the “Cruise Capital of the World,” is a major hub for cruise ships. However, its popularity comes at a price, with passengers often facing a chaotic and stressful embarkation experience.

One of the biggest challenges at Miami’s cruise port is the constant construction. The port is frequently undergoing upgrades and expansions to accommodate the ever-growing cruise industry. 

While these improvements are necessary, they can lead to confusion, detours, and delays for passengers trying to navigate the port. It’d be nice if it was ever just ‘done’, even if only for a few months!

The sheer volume of cruise traffic in Miami also contributes to the chaos. On busy days, multiple ships may be embarking and disembarking simultaneously, leading to congested roads, crowded terminals, and long queues. 

Miami

This can be overwhelming, especially for first-time cruisers or those unfamiliar with the port layout.

Many cruisers prefer nearby Port Canaveral for its more relaxed atmosphere and easier navigation, even though it’s often actually busier in terms of cruise ships. However, Miami’s position as a major cruise hub means it often offers a wider variety of itineraries.

To navigate Miami’s bustling cruise port efficiently:

  • Arrive early to beat the worst of the crowds
  • Use official port shuttles or taxis to avoid parking hassles
  • Consider staying at a nearby hotel that offers cruise parking packages

Miami will always be one of the world’s most popular ports for cruise departures but that doesn’t mean you should take it lightly. Do your research on where you need to go before you travel, and don’t leave your arrival to the last minute.

Instead, I recommend arriving a day or two before, and taking advantage of the many things to do in Miami.

6. Galveston, Texas: Time-consuming Texan terminal

The Carnival Jubilee cruise ship majestically sails near Galveston, Texas, highlighted by the warm glow of sunset, with the island's waterfront and marinas creating a picturesque backdrop.

Galveston, Texas, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of cruise departures, but it’s a significant port for many Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean itineraries. 

Unfortunately, it’s also gained a reputation as one of the worst cruise ports in the US, primarily due to its notoriously long boarding times.

Many cruisers report that the embarkation process in Galveston can take upwards of three hours, significantly longer than at other major ports. This extended wait time can be attributed to several factors, including limited terminal space, inefficient processing systems, and occasional staff shortages.

The port’s location on an island connected to the mainland by a causeway can also lead to traffic congestion, particularly on busy cruise days. This can further extend travel times and add to the stress of embarkation.

Galveston cruise port map

While the long wait times can be frustrating, Galveston does offer some unique charms. The historic downtown area is worth exploring if you have time before or after your cruise, and the laid-back Texas atmosphere can be a pleasant start or end to your vacation.

7. New Orleans: The Big Easy’s not-so-easy port

A Carnival cruise ship glimpsed beyond the Erato Street Cruise Terminal parking garage in New Orleans, showcasing the contrast between the bustling city infrastructure and the leisurely world of cruise travel.

New Orleans, famous for its vibrant culture and lively atmosphere, unfortunately doesn’t always live up to its “Big Easy” nickname when it comes to its cruise port.

Many cruisers describe the experience as more akin to a crowded bus terminal than a gateway to a luxurious vacation.

The main issues at the New Orleans cruise port revolve around congestion and organisation. The terminal can feel cramped and overcrowded, especially during peak times when multiple ships are in port. 

This congestion can lead to long queues for check-in, security, and boarding, testing the patience of even the most easy-going travellers.

Organisation is another pain point, with some passengers reporting confusion about where to go and what to do. This can be particularly challenging for first-time cruisers or those unfamiliar with the port layout.

Having said that, the opportunity to spend time in this culturally rich city before or after your cruise can add significant value to your overall vacation experience.

Final word

While these seven ports may present challenges, it’s important to remember that with proper preparation and a positive attitude, you can still have a fantastic cruise experience. 

The key takeaways for dealing with these challenging US cruise ports are:

  1. Plan ahead: Research your departure port and arrive prepared for potential issues.
  2. Allow extra time: Whether it’s for traffic, long queues, or confusing layouts, extra time can reduce stress significantly.
  3. Pack smart: Keep essential documents easily accessible and consider a small carry-on with entertainment and snacks for long waits.
  4. Stay positive: Remember, once you’re on board, the cruise experience itself often makes up for any embarkation hassles.
  5. Consider pre-cruise stays: Arriving a day early can eliminate much of the day-of travel stress.

By understanding what to expect at these ports and preparing accordingly, you can set yourself up for a smoother start to your cruise holiday. 

After all, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your vacation begins the moment you step out of your front door, not just when you board the ship. Happy cruising!

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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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What Is The Best Side Of The Ship For An Alaska Cruise? Will You Miss The View?

by with No Comment Cruise LinesCruise NewsDestinationsUSA


Alaskan cruises are really spectacular – the dramatic scenery, the wildlife, the quaint towns – it’s a breathtaking part of the world. And not just because the cold air takes your breath away!

Celebrity - Millennium in Alaska

But which side of the ship should you be looking to book for your Alaska cruise? Is the port side or the starboard side better?

In this guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know.

It all depends on your sailing…

The side of the ship that’s best for an Alaska cruise depends on your itinerary and sailing direction. If travelling northbound, a starboard-side cabin will give you more views of the glaciers and ports. For southbound cruises, a portside cabin would be preferred.

Suggested read: Port & Starboard – Which is which?

Alaska is a gorgeous part of the world for the three things I mentioned in the intro – the towns, the glaciers and the wildlife. The view of the towns doesn’t matter too much, because you’ll get a much better look at them when you visit the port. It’s nice to have a view across the town as you approach, but it’s not essential.

With the wildlife, you never know from which side of the ship you might see a pod of dolphins or a whale, so again it doesn’t really matter too much either way.

Princess Cruises - Whale in Alaska

But the glaciers and the natural scenery are a major reason people love to cruise to Alaska, and for that you’ll only get a good view from your cabin if you’re on the correct side of the ship as you sail past.

Princess cruise ship in glacier Alaska

This means you want land to be outside your cabin, with the Gulf of Alaska – the ocean – on the opposite side.

And for northbound cruises that’ll mean a cruise on the starboard side of the ship, whereas for southbound cruises you should aim for a portside cabin.

Having trouble remembering which side of the ship is starboard or port side? You’re not the only one, don’t worry.

Here’s my guide to 9 easy ways to remember port and starboard so that you don’t get confused when booking your Alaskan cruise holiday.

Check your departure port

There are four main departure ports for cruises to Alaska – Seattle in mainland US, Vancouver in Canada, and then Seward and Whittier in Alaska itself.

Cruises from Seattle and Vancouver are northbound, or may be a round-trip. Cruises from Seward and Whittier are almost always southbound.

You can see these ports on the map below…

A lot of the cruises from Seattle are shorter trips – 7-night cruises that are round-trips that don’t make it as far as Anchorage and Seward. Instead, they focus on the Alaska cruise ports nearer the Canadian border, such as Juneau, but will typically include seeing at least once glacier.

On these cruises, it doesn’t particularly matter which side of the ship you’re on because you’ll usually get a good view on both legs of the journey.

Cruises from Vancouver are more likely to be a one-way trip to Seward or to Whittier, although there are some longer itineraries that are round-trips. And then the cruises from Seward and Whittier are almost always exclusively one-way, southbound cruises to Seattle or Vancouver.

HAL in Whittier port

It’s important to know all this so that you can understand your itinerary easier and plan whether you want to book a specific side of the ship or not.

For northbound cruises…

A northbound Alaska cruise would be best experienced from the starboard side of the ship. This keeps the land and glaciers of Alaska on the same side as your cabin, meaning you can enjoy the stunning scenery from the comfort of your room or balcony.

Holland America Line in Glacier Bay National Park

Obviously it depends on which cabin type you book as to whether it matters – I’ll cover that more below. But remember that if you end up with a port side room then it’s not the end of the world. It’s never a far walk from a lounge or an open deck that offers the same stunning views.

Inside Passage? Doesn’t matter

It doesn’t matter which side of the ship you’re on for a cruise through the Inside Passage. As the name suggests it’s a passage where you’re surrounded by land on the starboard side and islands on the port side – the scenery on both sides is equally stunning.

HAL on side deck

There are some key ports in the Inside Passage, including Wrangell, Petersburg and Juneau, so if you’re travelling northbound you’ll get a better view of those from the starboard side. But the towns can be enjoyed as you wander through them on the port day – so the port side will be just as good in terms of the actual scenery.

The only difference is when cruising past Glacier Bay at the northern end of the Inside Passage. Here you might want to be on the starboard side as you’ll get more of a view, though the ship will often circle the area to give everyone a great photo opportunity.

Cruising from Seattle? Starboard’s probably best

Alaska cruises from Seattle will either be northbound one-way, or round-trip cruises. For one-way northbound cruises, you should book a starboard cabin, to make sure you get the best views of the land. For roundtrip cruises, it won’t matter as the port side gets great views on the return leg.

Passengers in HAL ship

It’s always important to review your itinerary and trace the route that your ship will be sailing so that you know for sure which side of the ship you want to book on.

In most cases it’s pretty straightforward – the ship will travel northbound in a fairly straight line from Seattle, so you know you should be on the starboard side for the best views.

But check whether it is only going through the Inside Passage on the return leg – if that’s the case then the port side may be marginally better, although you’ll be surrounded by scenery on both sides of the ship.

Best cabin choice

The best cabin types for an Alaska cruise are those with a balcony since you’ll get a completely unspoiled view of the amazing scenery around you. Ocean-view cabins are good but aim for a cabin with a large window so you can properly soak in the view.

Large Ocean View cabin window

The whole discussion of which side of the ship is better for an Alaska cruise is moot if you are on a budget and plan on booking an inside cabin. Those cabins don’t have any kind of view at all so the side of the ship doesn’t make a difference.

Depending on the ship, there may be ocean view cabins you can book but check what kind of view they offer. Some of the cheapest cabins might only have a porthole which offers a terrible view. Some will have a picture window and some may have a full floor-to-ceiling window – those would be the best cabins to really soak up the scenery if you’re set on an ocean view.

small porthole window

But a balcony will always be the best choice – either a balcony cabin or a suite with a balcony. Your view is unspoiled, and you can look down over the railing if there are any swimming creatures along the sides of the ship, something you might struggle with from a window.

Just brace yourself for the weather though – you won’t be sitting on your balcony in a bikini like you would be in the Caribbean or Mediterranean. You’ll want to keep warmer clothes near the sliding balcony door if you want to slip out and enjoy the view, especially early in the morning or late at night.

cruise mummy and husband sitting in balcony

Suites will have larger balconies, but on an Alaska cruise, this might not be important to you. A smaller balcony where you can stand and take in the glaciers and mountains may be all that you need, so weigh that up when deciding how much you want to spend.

But what about ship location? It’s not just about port and starboard side. A forward cabin – one near the front of the ship – might limit you to only accessing your balcony when the ship is in port and not moving, due to the winds. Whereas an aft cabin with a view to the rear of the ship is often the most treasured.

If you book an aft-facing balcony, you don’t need to worry about port or starboard side. You’ll get an amazing view regardless. And the same can be said of some forward-facing cabins. There are some ships which have ocean view cabins right at the front of the ship with huge windows – they’d be a good choice too.

In terms of deck, you’ll want a higher deck, provided you aren’t prone to seasickness. This will offer the longest-reaching views, and in Alaska that’s well worth it. Lower decks are still good choices, but you won’t get the same kind of view.

Hubbard Glacier side deck

The must-see ports

The key ports of call for an Alaska cruise – in terms of the natural scenery – tend to be Juneau, Glacier Bay, the Hubbard Glacier, Seward and Anchorage

Map of Alaska Cruise Ports

This is important if you’re on a round-trip cruise that travels both north and south. You might think that it doesn’t matter which side of the ship you book in that case, but it may do.

You’ll want to check which ports you’ll visit when travelling north, and which you’ll visit on the return leg. If most of the best ports are on one leg of the journey then you’ll want to book a cabin on the side of the ship that’ll give you the best view of those.

With some of these ports, it doesn’t actually matter. Ships that visit the Hubbard Glacier tend to do a 360-degree sail around, so you’ll get a view of the glacier from all angles. And with Anchorage, the port is surrounded by amazing scenery on all sides.

Hubbard Glacier tour

But for Juneau – which includes the Mendenhall Glacier – Glacier Bay and Seward, plus the sailings in between them, you’ll want to make sure you are on the right side of the ship as you cruise to them, ideally.

Suggested read: Guide to Alaska Cruise Ports

Should you pay extra for the ‘right’ side?

Whether it’s worth paying the extra to choose your cabin on the ‘right’ side of the ship for an Alaska cruise depends entirely on you and what’s important to you.

If you’re on a tight budget, it might be better to book on the ‘wrong’ side of the ship, since you can save money and still have a lovely sea view, and the chance of seeing swimming dolphins or a whale.

Dolphin in Alaska

And remember it’s not like you’re missing the view on the ‘right’ side of the ship – you just need to leave your cabin to enjoy it, and find a lounge or deck space on the opposite side.

Couple in HAL ship - Glacier Bay

But if you have the budget for a ‘right’ side room then it is pretty special – having the curtains open and waking to views of white glaciers is a magical experience.

There’s no single right answer, because it also depends on whether you’re someone who likes to spend time relaxing in their cabin, or if you’re only in there to sleep, shower and change. If most of your time is spent relaxing elsewhere on the ship then there’s no reason to pay more for a better view.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss these hot cruise offers…

Final word

Ultimately, you just need to remember that if you want a cabin facing the Alaskan scenery, then get a starboard side one for northbound itineraries, and a port side one for southbound itineraries.

Cabins on the ‘right’ side may be more expensive though, so if you’re happy walking a short distance to a deck or lounge, then you can save by choosing one on the ‘wrong’ side.

But if you’re dead set on getting the full Alaska experience from your balcony, just make sure you check the itinerary to know which side of the ship is right for you.

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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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