Princess Cruises announced it will deploy two ships to sail Antarctica and South America itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The voyages vary in length from 14 to 51 days, visiting some of the world’s most remote destinations.
Two Ships Will Operate 11 Different Itineraries
Adventurous cruisers who dream of visiting the White Continent can choose from four departures of Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess in late 2024 and early 2025. The Gem-class ship also will operate several South American sailings, as will the line’s Royal-class Majestic Princess.
Between the two ships, the line will offer port calls or scenic cruising at 26 destinations in 14 countries. Princess Cruises will feature 11 unique itineraries and 15 total Antarctica and South America departures.
“No other large ship cruise line sails Antarctica like Princess. Our master navigators, unique local relationships and outstanding amenities make accessing these exotic destinations not only immersive but amazingly comfortable,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.
Sapphire Princess to Sail 4 Antarctica Cruises
The 2,670-guest Sapphire Princess, which entered service in 2004, will operate four cruises to the southernmost continent roundtrip from Buenos Aires on December 1 and 18, 2024, and on January 4 and 20, 2025.
Guests will cruise the Antarctica region, sailing around Elephant Island, and through Antarctic Sound and the Gerlache Strait. The 17-day voyages will call at Punta Arenas, Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), the Falkland Islands (Stanley), and Montevideo, Uruguay.
Princess Cruises Antarctica
Additional scenic cruising will feature Deception Island, the Neumayer Channel, South Shetland Islands, and Admiralty Bay.
Both cruise ships will sail 14- or 15-day Cape Horn & Strait of Magellan cruises; 18-day Andes & South America cruises; 18-day Brazilian Adventure itineraries; and 32- to 33-day Andes & Cape Horn Grand Adventure and Brazilian and Cape Horn Grand Adventure voyages.
Majestic Princess to Feature Longest Itinerary
Majestic Princess, with capacity for 3,560 guests, will operate the longest itinerary in the line’s South America cruise roster, with the 51-day South America Grand Adventure.
Departing Los Angeles on December 1, 2024, the Royal-class ship will call at Puerto Vallarta, Fuerte Amador, located at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal; Lima and Pisco, Peru; La Serena, Santiago, and Puerto Montt, Chile; Ushuaia, Argentina; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and other South American destinations. Scenic cruising will feature Cape Horn and the Falkland Islands.
Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises
The ship, which launched in 2017, also visits two Caribbean destinations, Dominica and St. Kitts, before concluding the cruise in Fort Lauderdale.
Princess Cruises is also offering two cruise tours on its South America itineraries. The Iguazú Falls Adventure will bring guests to the world’s largest waterfall system and includes a visit to Rio de Janeiro. The Machu Picchu Explorer cruise tour features rail travel to the ancient Inca compound, Machu Picchu, and a tour of the historic city of Cusco.
The Antarctica and South America cruises and cruise tours are open for booking, and guests who book before August 25, 2023 will receive up to $2,300 in onboard spending and shore excursion credits.
Line Is Poised to Launch 16th Vessel
Princess Cruises, one of Carnival Corporation’s nine cruise brands, currently operates 15 ships, and will soon debut its 16th when the 4,300-guest Sun Princess enters service in early 2024.
Under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, the ship is scheduled to sail her 10-day Inaugural Grand Mediterranean cruise on February 8, 2024, from Barcelona to Rome.
The ship, which will feature a series of new onboard spaces and the fleet’s largest casino, will operate a full season in the Mediterranean from multiple departure ports, including Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and Southampton. The ship is slated to reposition to Fort Lauderdale in November 2024.
Cunard has revealed a new collaboration with the two-Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux. In a bid to elevate the dining experience on their upcoming ship, Queen Anne, they’ve turned to the expertise of Roux to reenvision and enhance the culinary offerings.
Besides revamping the iconic Golden Lion’s pub menu with Michel Roux, Cunard is hard at work creating a new dining experience onboard its newest ship. This includes four new dining establishments that will be featured onboard Queen Anne.
Michel Roux Teams Up with Cunard
Two Michelin star chef Michel Roux has teamed up with Cunard, the cruise line announced today, August 8. Roux is well known for his restaurant Le Gavroche and has worked with several highly acclaimed chefs before becoming a Michelin-starred chef.
The distinguished chef will work closely with Cunard’s culinary development team to devise a unique gala menu exclusively for the Queen Anne‘s Queens Grill restaurant.
Further, Roux is set to revamp the Golden Lion pub’s menu, promising a gastronomic journey that retains the comfort and familiarity of a pub meal but with a refined twist. The Golden Lion is a staple aboard every Cunard ship. Known for its authentic British pub ambiance and specially brewed beers, it offers guests a slice of familiarity.
Chef Michel Roux
These culinary highlights will launch as Queen Anne sets sail in May 2024 and will be rolled out across the fleet following the maiden voyage of Cunard’s newest ship.
Michel Roux said: “It is an absolute privilege to be working with Cunard’s hugely talented and passionate culinary development chefs as we countdown to the launch of their newest ship Queen Anne.
“For me, there is no better recipe than blending high-quality ingredients with elegant execution to create unforgettable experiences for diners, and I am incredibly excited to showcase our elevated, reimagined pub classics to Cunard guests very soon.”
Dining Onboard Cunard’s Newest Ship, Queen Anne
Beyond collaborating with Chef Roux, Cunard has expanded Queen Anne‘s dining repertoire. Four new restaurants will grace the ship: Aji Wa, Aranya, Sir Samuels, and Tramonto. Each venue presents a distinctive ambiance and menu, ranging from the seasonal flavors of Japan in Aji Wa to lavish steak and seafood offerings in Sir Samuels.
Queen Anne Golden Lion Pub
Aranya promises a multi-sensory exploration through India’s rich spice tapestry. Not to be outdone, Tramonto offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu, where guests can dine al-fresco.
Angus Struthers, Acting Senior Vice President of Cunard:“We’re excited to share a flavor of what will be served on board Queen Anne in 2024. Cunard is renowned for high-quality dining options, and we’re delighted to be working with the very best chefs at the top of their different culinary fields to offer such a wide range of dining options to our guests.”
Queen Anne Sailing 2024
Queen Anne, at 113,000 gross tons, is a Pinnacle-class cruise ship capable of carrying up to 3,000 guests. Scheduled to be primarily homeported from Southampton starting May 2024, Queen Anne will also sail from Hamburg, Kiel, and Civitavecchia next year.
From January 2025 the ship will cruise from Southampton to cities such as New York, San Francisco, Sydney, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Dubai.
Royal Caribbean International has begun reaching out to guests booked on Panama Canal cruises aboard Rhapsody of the Seas to inform them that the sailings have been adjusted to an alternate itinerary.
While the ship will still begin from Colon, Panama, no canal transit is part of what are now Southern Caribbean cruises.
Panama Canal Transits Cancelled
Rhapsody of the Seas will no longer be making a series of shorter Panama Canal sailings during the winter 2023-2024 season, unique itineraries that attracted many guests to this bucket-list experience of transiting one of the world’s greatest engineering wonders.
Instead, Royal Caribbean has been notifying guests that the sailings have been “adjusted” to a new itinerary, with no Panama Canal transit at all.
Photo Credit: TAH Media / Shutterstock
The original 7-night itineraries were to have begun by setting sail from Colon, Panama and visiting Cartagena, Colombia before cruising the complete transit of the Panama Canal. Two ports in Costa Rica followed – Puntarenas and Quepos – before the ship reached Panama City, Panama, for debarkation. Reverse itineraries are also impacted by this change.
Now, the sailings will be roundtrip from Colon, Panama and offered as Southern Caribbean cruises instead. Depending on the sailing date, Rhapsody of the Seas may still visit Cartagena, and visits such as Curacao, Aruba, and Bonaire are part of different itineraries. Exact details vary depending on departure date.
Options to Choose From
Guests on the impacted cruises have three options to choose from for their travel plans. They can opt to stay aboard the adjusted and now Southern Caribbean sailing, which will include price protection with a refund to the new price if the adjusted price is lower than the original fare.
Second, guests may rebook on any other Royal Caribbean sailing, on any ship, and at any date, and the non-refundable deposit change fees will be waived. Travelers will be responsible for any increase in price as well as taxes, fees, and other expenses.
For both options, Royal Caribbean will also reimburse up to $200 USD per passenger ($400 for international guests) for non-refundable travel expenses or change fees, such flights, trains, rental cars, or hotels. Additional travel expenses will be considered for reimbursement with appropriate receipts and explanations, but are not guaranteed.
Rhapsody of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Aerial-motion / Shutterstock)
The third option is an outright cancellation, and guests will receive a full refund of the cruise fare, deposits, and any pre-paid purchases. The refund will be processed back to the original form of payment. If a future cruise credit was used, it will be reinstated at the original terms.
No further compensation is available to guests who choose complete cancellation. The cruise line does ask for patience as rebookings are managed, and notes that it may be necessary to temporarily place guests into “Guarantee” stateroom status (GTY) while details are finalized.
Guests are asked to notify the cruise line or their travel agent no later than August 29, 2023 about their decision, or they will be kept in a like-for-like stateroom on the new adjusted itinerary.
Why Cancel the Canal?
No explanation has been given for why Rhapsody of the Seas will no longer be offering any Panama Canal transits as planned. The email sent to booked guests does note that the change is “to enhance your experience,” but many guests are questioning the enhancement.
Transiting the Panama Canal is a once-in-a-lifetime cruise experience for many travelers, and these shorter cruises offering a full transit rather than a partial one were very popular and unique.
Speculation is that the costs and fees associated with transiting the canal have risen sharply, making the shorter voyages less financially viable for the cruise line.
Photo Credit: LukeandKarla.Travel / Shutterstock
It is also possible that conditions in the canal, including water levels due to ongoing drought conditions, are limiting some transit traffic, and cruise ships would not likely have priority over cargo vessels.
Lower water levels may also be limiting what times ship traffic can move through the canal, which may not align with the cruise line’s schedule.
Authorities have already restricted canal access to ships with a draft of 43 feet or less because of low water levels. The Vision-class Rhapsody of the Seas has a draft of just 25 feet, and therefore is not yet directly impacted by this restriction.
Fewer ships are being permitted through the canal daily, however, and it is possible that the cruise ship has been cut from the transit list by canal administrators.
Several longer, one-way Panama Canal cruises are still available for booking at this time. Radiance of the Seas has three transits planned, starting with a 16-night eastbound transit from San Diego to Tampa, departing on October 7, 2023.
In 2024, the ship is offering a 14-night westbound sailing from Tampa to Los Angeles on April 8, 2024, as well as a 16-night return eastbound voyage on October 5, 2024.
Brilliance of the Seas will also be making one eastward Panama Canal transit via a 14-night sailing from Los Angeles to New Orleans, departing September 28, 2024.
Global Ports Holding is expanding its reach in the Caribbean with a new agreement to manage cruise port operations in Saint Lucia. The fast-growing, UK-based company already oversees three busy cruise ports in the region.
UK Firm to Manage Pointe Seraphine Cruise Port
Add Saint Lucia to the growing list of cruise ports operated by Global Ports Holding (GPH), the London-based firm that manages port operations in more than two dozen destinations worldwide and typically invests in its ports with expansions and upgrades to cruise facilities.
On August 9, 2023, the port operator announced it had signed a 30-year concession agreement with the government of Saint Lucia to operate the Pointe Seraphine Cruise Port in Castries, Saint Lucia. The pact carries a 10-year extension option.
Saint Lucia Cruise Port Upgrade Render (Courtesy: Global Ports Holding)
In the Caribbean, the company also operates the ports in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Antigua; and Nassau, the Bahamas.
A frequent port call on Eastern Caribbean cruises, Saint Lucia is in the West Indies, just south of Martinique. The island welcomed 590,000 cruise guests from March 2022 to March 2023; the number is down from about 700,000 pre-pandemic.
Saint Lucia Cruise Port Upgrade Render (Courtesy: Global Ports Holding)
The agreement with Saint Lucia widens GPH’s footprint in the region, where its largest operation is in Nassau, which welcomed more than 2.2 million cruise guests in just the first six months of 2023.
A $300 million investment in Nassau’s berth facilities and cruise guest services was unveiled in May 2023. With the upgrades, the port can accommodate three Oasis-class ships at the same time and a total of six ships docking on the same day.
Pier Expansion, Retail Upgrades Planned
Although Saint Lucia’s port is much smaller than Nassau and the other ports GPH manages in the Caribbean, the company has big plans for the island destination.
While not attaching an investment amount to its announcement, GPH pledged to expand the existing cruise pier at Pointe Seraphine, enabling the largest cruise ships to dock and increasing the port’s capacity.
GPH also plans to invest in upgrading the retail experience at the cruise port, including the redevelopment of the Vendor’s Arcade and the design and development of a new Fishermen’s Village at Bananes Bay, with the goal of providing a new space for local vendors.
Saint Lucia Cruise Port Upgrade Render (Courtesy: Global Ports Holding)
Additionally, the company will invest in upland development at Soufriere Bay, including creating a new amphitheatre and food and beverage area.
“I am delighted that the Government of Saint Lucia has awarded GPH the cruise port concession for Saint Lucia. This concession represents another significant milestone for GPH as we continue successfully growing our global cruise port network,” said Mehmet Kutman, chairman and CEO of GPH.
“The GPH team very much look forward to working with all stakeholders to build further on the success of this wonderful destination,” he added.
Global Ports Holding did not reveal a timetable for the planned improvements, but the completion of the extended pier and other infrastructure projects are expected to eventually increase cruise guest arrivals at the Saint Lucia port to more than 1 million.
GPH Expands Caribbean Port Operations
GPH, already the world’s largest cruise port operator, has expanded its presence globally in the post-pandemic cruise landscape. With most of its operations in Europe, including at the major cruise ports of Barcelona, Venice, and Lisbon, the company appears to have its sights set on further growth in the Americas.
GPH signed its agreement with Antigua in 2019, and in 2021 opened a new, $30 million cruise pier at the island’s St. John’s Port. At the San Juan Cruise Port, a 2022 agreement between Puerto Rico Ports Authority and GPH provides an investment of $100 million towards critical infrastructure projects..
In addition to its Caribbean contracts, GPH operates one other port in the Americas, Prince Rupert Cruise Port, in British Columbia, a growing port of call on Alaska itineraries.
Holland America Line has released details about its upcoming holiday season sailings, covering Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s. Special events, destinations, and activities will make these seasonal cruises a wonderful and memorable experience for guests, no matter what traditions they celebrate.
Celebrate the Holidays With Holland America Line
The holiday season is undeniably stressful, but Holland America Line is seeking to give travelers stress-free options that still preserve treasured traditions even while enjoying new memorable moments. Special seasonal activities, unique destinations, and more will make each of these holiday sailings an amazing way for guests to celebrate the season.
“Travelers are looking for ways to destress around the holidays while also maintaining a sense of tradition, and by cruising with us they’re able to do both,”said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line’s chief commercial officer.
Holland America Line is offering holiday-themed sailings to a wide range of destinations, giving guests plenty of options to meet both their travel preferences as well as their holiday expectations.
Oosterdam in Mexico (Photo Credit: SebZet / Shutterstock)
Global Itineraries
For many people, “holidays” mean “home” rather than travel. Holland America Line is inviting cruisers to enjoy their “home away from home” atmosphere for worry-free celebrations all around the world.
Special holiday-themed sailings are available from US homeports such as Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, as well as in more far-flung destinations for truly unique holidays.
For example, guests could enjoy balmy Caribbean weather rather than icy snow and cold, with sailings aboard Eurodam, Rotterdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam, and Nieuw Statendam. Yet onboard each ship, traditional holiday festivities bring seasonal spirit to life regardless of the temperatures.
Of special note is Rotterdam‘s 19-night “Panama Canal Sunfarer/Eastern Caribbean” sailing departing Fort Lauderdale on December 3. In addition to transiting the canal, the ship will visit Colombia, Costa Rica, and more. Especially notable is the opportunity for guests to visit the oldest continually operating synagogue in the Americas, the Mikve Israel-Emmanuel Synagogue in Curacao, on the first day of Hanukkah.
Mikve Israel-Emmanuel Synagogue (Photo Credit: Carlos Yudica / Shutterstock)
For more far-flung options, Koningsdam and Volendam are offering Hawaii and Mexico cruises through the holiday season, with both ships homeported from San Diego. Koningsdam will be offering Mexican Riviera and “Circle Hawaii” itineraries, while Volendam is sailing “Historical Baja” and “Sea of Cortez” options during the holiday season.
Oosterdam and Noordam will be offering even more unique holiday sailings for truly once-in-a-lifetime celebrations. Oosterdam is sailing a once-in-a-lifetime 22-day “South America and Antarctica Holiday” departing December 16, 2023 from Buenos Aires, with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day cruising in Antarctica (ice, weather, and permissions permitting).
Meanwhile, Noordam will be offering Far East exoticness with a 14-day sailing from Singapore to Hong Kong departing December 23, 2023 with ports of call in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. A special onboard celebration will ring in the new year with dramatic style.
Holiday Events Onboard
While Holland America Line’s different holiday sailings will be visiting unique destinations with memorable ways to celebrate the holidays, the festivities also continue onboard with traditional celebratory elements.
“On a Holland America Line holiday sailing, guests can spend their days exploring exciting destinations, and at night they’ll enjoy traditional meals and other celebrations while surrounded by beautiful holiday décor,”said Bodensteiner.
Holland America Line Christmas Decorations (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock)
Each ship in the Holland America Line fleet will be festively outfitted with classic decorations and holiday lighting and such unique and charming themed displays such as gingerbread villages and more.
Curated holiday menus will be presented on each sailing, from turkey and dressing on Thanksgiving to latkes and Sufganiyot (traditional doughnuts) for Hanukkah. For Christmas meals, festive dishes from around the world will highlight global tastes of the season.
Onboard activities will include tree-lighting ceremonies, dreidel games, holiday movies, caroling parties, and much more, including special activities for younger cruisers with visits from Santa. On New Year’s sailings, a lively ball and midnight countdown will ring in 2024 with outstanding style.
No matter how cruisers choose to celebrate, Holland America Line can help them make amazing, stress-free holiday memories.
Norwegian Viva has debuted in Italy, welcoming her first guests on her maiden voyage, a 9-night sailing from Venice. While the ship has not been officially christened as yet, these early sailings will be exploring various ports of call in Europe before the ship moves briefly to Miami to be named, then on to her first official homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Norwegian Viva Joins the Fleet
The long-awaited and slightly delayed Norwegian Viva has welcomed her first guests aboard on a special preview 4-night sailing from Venice, departing August 10.
The ship will be calling on Split, Croatia and Salerno, Italy before she arrives in Rome on Monday, August 14. This is also part of a longer 9-night sailing that will also include Cannes and Ibiza, taking the ship on to Lisbon.
It is common for cruise lines to offer short media, preview, or “friends and family” sailings before a ship officially debuts. These sailings are often filled with journalists, bloggers, travel agents, or friends and families of onboard crew members, as well as cruise line officials.
Norwegian Viva Deck
From Lisbon, the new ship will begin a series of Mediterranean cruises visiting top port destinations such as Naples, Sicily, Santorini, Istanbul, and more as Norwegian Viva is introduced across Europe.
“This summer, our guests will have the opportunity to explore Europe aboard our newest magnificent vessel, Norwegian Viva, while enjoying its well-appointed spacious design, elevated experiences, expansive culinary offerings and signature Norwegian Cruise Line hospitality provided by the best crew in the industry,”said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.
The 142,500-gross ton ship will enjoy Europe through mid-November, before departing on her first transatlantic cruise November 16 from Lisbon to Miami. The ship will offer two sailings from Miami – along with her official christening on November 28 – before moving to San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she will remain homeported for the winter, offering various Caribbean itineraries.
In April 2024, Norwegian Viva will return to Europe, where she will remain for the summer sailing season. She will return to San Juan in late November 2024.
Norwegian Viva can welcome 3,099 guests onboard, with 1,506 international crew members ready to provide outstanding service as everyone “lives it up” on every sailing.
Second in the Prima Class – First to Live It Up
Norwegian Viva is the first sister ship to the wildly successful Norwegian Prima, which debuted in August 2022. While the two ships share very similar designs and elevated experiences, Norwegian Viva is distinct from her sister.
“Norwegian Viva’s tagline is ‘Live it Up,’ and I have no doubt our guests will be doing just that while they cruise to some of the liveliest cities in Europe and the Caribbean during the ship’s inaugural season,”said Herrera.
Norwegian Viva Cruise Atrium
Onboard the new ship, guests will enjoy amazing dining venues, including the 11-eatery Indulge Food Hall with table service as guests order dishes delivered from different stations. Other dining options include the indoor/outdoor Surfside Cafe, Mexican flavors at Los Lobos, pub favorites at The Local, and much more.
Thrill-seeking guests will want to take on the challenge of the three-deck Viva Speedway go-kart racetrack, or race their friends in a different way on The Drop and The Rush – the fastest slides at sea with 10 stories of free-fall fun. The Wave waterslide is another way to make a thrilling splash onboard, while the Galaxy Pavilion has the first flying theater simulator at sea.
Norwegian Viva Cruise Ship
Even more unique features onboard Norwegian Viva include The Concourse, the outdoor sculpture garden that offers distinct experiences during the day as well as lighted exhibits at night.
Art-enthusiast guests will also want to check out “Every Wing Has a Silver Lining” the exclusive, 52-foot-wide interactive digital art piece on display at the Metropolitan Bar on Deck 7 (try out a sustainable cocktail while you’re there!).
More fun onboard the new ship includes comedy shows at The Improve at Sea, live music at Syd Norman’s Pour House, luxury shopping at The Gateway, and so much more. Viva (Long Live) Norwegian Viva!
Guests returning from recent Royal Caribbean International cruises have reported a concerning question on their post-cruise surveys – whether or not they’d be willing to pay a fee for Sorrento’s Pizza.
While the survey does not indicate that such a charge is imminent, it could be a way the cruise line is feeling out reactions for a possible change to the popular casual dining option.
Is a Fee for Pizza Coming Soon?
Many cruise lines offer post-cruise surveys to guests, gauging their experiences and collecting feedback for continual improvement in operations, itineraries, onboard activities, dining options, and more.
Recent Royal Caribbean International cruisers, however, have noticed one very concerning question on surveys – asking whether or not guests would be willing to eat at Sorrento’s Pizza if a fee were added.
A follow-up question asked for clarification as to whether or not a charge for the pizza would impact travelers’ plans to cruise with Royal Caribbean overall.
No questions about the type of fee – per slice, per pie, per person, per cruise – were included, nor was there any indication that the venue might become part of the cruise line’s specialty dining options to be covered under various dining packages.
At this time, there is no fee for Sorrento’s, and it is possible the survey question has simply been an early way to gauge reaction to the possibility of such a charge.
Guest Reaction
Reactions to the idea of a fee for pizza that has been free ever since it was introduced onboard have been strong and firm. Most guests would refuse to pay even a very small, nominal fee for the pizza.
In some cases, guests don’t care for the pizza and wouldn’t choose to pay for it at any price, while for others, it is the principle of extra charges that is most aggravating.
Many cruise travelers are becoming frustrated with increased prices coupled with a perceived lowering of service or quality, such as when crew gratuities are increased but daily stateroom service is decreased at nearly the same time. Others have speculated that a small fee for pizza may be used as a deterrent for food waste.
At this time, no cruise line charges for pizza, though some lines have implemented delivery fees for whole pizzas to be brought to guests, rather than guests visiting the eatery to pick up the pizza themselves. Pizzas ordered through room service may also have associated fees.
About Sorrento’s Pizza
Sorrento’s is Royal Caribbean International’s casual pizzeria, offering stone-baked slices for lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks.
Always on the menu are classic staples like pepperoni, cheese, and Margherita, and daily specialties offer even more flavor with the “Caribbean Dream” pineapple, bacon, and barbecue pizza; the hearty meat-loaded “Carnivore” slice; or other delicious creations. The slices are generally thin crust and crispy to perfection, with melty cheese pull and rich with flavor.
Sorrento’s – Royal Promenade
While everyone has different opinions on which cruise line has the best pizza, Sorrento’s enjoys a popular following among cruise and pizza enthusiasts alike, especially children and teens, though many adults partake in more than a few slices.
At this time, there is no charge for Sorrento’s pizza, and guests can get just a slice or two or may request an entire pie to enjoy.
Sorrento’s is found on most large Royal Caribbean ships, and on smaller vessels where it is not featured, pizza is typically offered through the Windjammer Cafe during regular operating hours.
Norwegian Cruise Line has begun notifying guests booked on the next three cruises of Pride of America that their itineraries are being adjusted due to the impact of wildfires on the island of Maui.
While the greatest devastation to the island in near the port of Lahaina and Pride of America calls at a different port, the diversion is intended to help avoid stressing local resources for recovery efforts.
Pride of America Cruises Changed
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America sails year-round 7-night Hawaiian cruises roundtrip from Honolulu, but the next three cruises will have altered itineraries due to the wildfires that have devastated Maui. The cruise line has begun reaching out to booked guests and travel agents to notify them of the change.
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the wildfires currently impacting the town of Lahaina in Maui,”the letter begins.“To avoid stressing the local resources, we have replaced our call to Maui with an overnight call to Hilo, Hawaii.”
Photo Credit: Lost Mountain Studio / Shutterstock
On a typical itinerary, Pride of America would call overnight in Kahului, on the northern coast of Maui, while Lahaina is located on the island’s west coast, approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) away by driving distance.
In addition to cancelling the call to Maui and providing an overnight to Hilo (on the Big Island) instead, adjusted Pride of America itineraries will also feature scenic cruising past the stunning Napali Coast of Kauai, plus an extra overnight visit to Nawiliwili on Kauai “to provide the best opportunity to explore the beauty and natural wonder of the Hawaiian Islands.”
The next three cruises of Pride of America are all impacted by these changes – the August 12, August 19, and August 26 departures. It is possible that additional cruises into September may also be adjusted, depending on recovery efforts and when tourists can again be welcomed to Maui without straining local resources.
Photo Credit: A. Michael Brown / Shutterstock
Norwegian Cruise Line is not the only cruise line to adapt sailings to Maui because of the wildfires’ impact. Princess Cruises has cancelled a scheduled call on Maui for Emerald Princess on Monday, August 14, and will instead visit Kona on the Big Island.
The 80,439-gross ton Pride of America can host 2,186 guests per sailing (based on double occupancy), and is the only US-flagged cruise ship in operation.
Why Avoid Maui?
While emergency personnel on Maui are making all necessary efforts to combat the wildfires, provide shelter for those in need, and begin recovery efforts after the devastating wildfires, the unique geography of Hawaii as an island chain far from the US mainland does present special challenges for receiving additional supplies and supplemental personnel.
The island’s emergency resources are already stretched due to multiple wildfires in addition to the destruction near Lahaina. By diverting to a different island for an adjusted port of call, Norwegian Cruise Line is ensuring that local workers and personnel can focus on recovery efforts rather than tourism for the next few weeks.
New video from Front Street shows virtually all of downtown Lahaina has been burned down. pic.twitter.com/i4ViDhz8K7
Even the state’s acting governor, Sylvia Luke, has asked that tourists not visit Maui for the time being, to permit local resources to focus on emergency efforts. “This is not a safe place to be,”Luke said.
The situation is similar to cruise lines adjusting itineraries and cancelling ports of call after a particular port may be strongly damaged by a tropical storm or hurricane. It could be just a few weeks or may be several months before planned itineraries can resume, depending on the extent of the damage and what services are available for cruise ships and visiting passengers.
While the summer months are the slow season for Hawaii cruises, ship visits do pick up in September and October. Many vessels that spend the summer in Alaska offer Hawaii cruises as part of autumn repositioning.
Ships from Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Seabourn all have ship visits scheduled to either Lahaina or Kahului on Maui in the next two months.
Travelers booked on any Hawaii cruise for the next several months will want to stay in close contact with their cruise line for potential itinerary updates or port cancellations.
Be prepared with our full Miami cruise port parking guide with official and nearby lots, prices, and plenty of tips for getting to the port.
Most cruise passengers require parking for their vehicles so we’re here to provide an up-to-date round-up of cruise parking options near the Port of Miami, including comparative costs, distances, and shuttle information.
According to NAFTA, the top three busiest cruise ports in the world are all in southeast Florida. The busy Port of Miami leads the way, handling over four million cruise passengers in 2022, a figure that is steadily recovering since the Covid lockdown, according to the official website.
No wonder Miami is nicknamed the “Cruise Capital of the World”! Of course, many of these cruisers arrive by car and use the many options available for Miami cruise port parking.
PortMiami currently has nine passenger terminals serving 23 cruise lines, some using Miami as their home port. It has 466 cruises scheduled to depart from the port in 2023.
Exotic destinations include the Eastern and Western Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, as well as West Coast USA, Alaska and South America via the Panama Canal. It all means there’s a high demand for cruise parking space in Miami, especially in the peak winter season.
PortMiami Cruise Ships (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock)
Miami Port is located on Dodge Island, south of Biscayne Bay and Miami Beach and east of Downtown Miami. There is limited cruise parking at the terminal, with further off-site cruise parking lots offered nearby.
The port is connected to the city via a causeway over the Intracoastal Waterway and via the undersea Port of Miami Tunnel to the nearby MacArthur Causeway on Watson Island.
As you can imagine, the logistics of efficiently handling millions of cruise passengers and their vehicles arriving and departing from this island port in Miami are considerable.
Miami Cruise Parking Rates
As with most services, cruise parking rates vary depending upon the convenience to the port and the parking services included. The closer you are to the port, generally, the higher the cost of cruise parking. However, there are several alternative options that you might want to consider.
If you want a parking spot at one of the coveted cruise terminal car parks actually in Miami port, you will pay for the convenience. These cruise parking lots also need to be booked well in advance.
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock
You will generally pay a lower rate if you choose cruise parking in Miami, which is further from the port. You will pay more if the parking is on-site, secure garage parking, or if you have an oversize vehicle. You should expect to pay at least $90 for seven nights cruise parking, including fees and taxes.
If you are planning to spend the night before departing on a cruise out of Miami, you can get low-cost (or even free) cruise parking at a Miami hotel. Stay and Cruise packages usually include a courtesy shuttle to and from the Miami cruise port. To give you some idea of comparative costs of Port of Miami cruise parking lots, the rates below provide a guideline cost per day.
Miami Port Parking at the Cruise Terminal – From $22
Royal Caribbean Terminal A cruise parking – From $25
Premier Cruise Parking (covered) – $13
Cruise Parking Miami Garage (covered) – $15
Safe Cruise Parking – $12.99
WePark – $9.99
Miami hotels – Stay, Park and Cruise packages from $58- $289
NB. Many shuttles are free for up to 4 passengers and their luggage. Extra passengers may be charged each way for the transfer.
Onsite Port of Miami Cruise Parking
The best Miami cruise port parking is actually onsite, and there is parking within easy walking distance of each cruise terminal. The official lots have high security and is in a covered parking garage or on a secure parking lot.
These sought-after Miami cruise port parking spaces need to be booked well in advance. Generally, drivers must pay the attendant on arrival at the Port of Miami car park (except Garage J, which requires pre-payment). Credit cards and checks are accepted, but not debit cards.
On cruise days, these parking garages are staffed with a parking attendant from 6 am to 5 pm. Generally, drivers who have no prebooked can pay on arrival and receive a decal to display in their car window.
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Charges are calculated per night at $22 plus sales tax, so the cost of parking for the duration of your cruise will be at least $162 for a 7-night cruise and $324 for 14 nights. If you are on a shorter cruise of five days or less, the cost is $28 per night.
Cruisers sailing with Royal Caribbean can use their Terminal A car park. However, you will pay a little more for the convenience. Port of Miami cruise parking at Royal Caribbean Terminal A is $25 per night for sailings of six days or more.
There are surcharges for oversize vehicles, including vans, RVs, and vehicles over 20 feet in length at an additional $22 per day. These larger vehicles can only be parked in Lot 2, opposite Terminal E.
Clearance height at garages A, C, D, G, and J varies but can be as low as 6’8″, so if you have an SUV or higher vehicle, you should check the clearance of each garage and level before booking.
Address: 1015 North America Way, Miami (parking lots are available at each cruise terminal)
Distance from cruise port: onsite
Shuttle? No
Cost per day: From $22
Best Cruise Parking Miami for Disabled Passengers
Passengers with limited mobility will find the onsite Port of Miami cruise parking is the easiest and most convenient. Designated parking spaces are available for those with a disabled permit or license tag.
Standard cruise car parking rates apply; however, there are some exceptions. Vehicles with specialized equipment such as lifts, ramps, adapted hand and foot controls, or any vehicle displaying a State of Florida license plate for disabled veterans may park free.
Distance from cruise port: onsite
Shuttle? No
Cost per day: Free with certain conditions
Alternatively, disabled drivers can use one of the off-site or hotel cruise car parking options in Miami and get a taxi to the port.
Electric Vehicle Charging at Miami Cruise Port
There are currently no charging points for electric vehicles at PortMiami. However, some hotels nearby do offer EV charging stations.
Best Miami Cruise Parking Options
Several companies offer a convenient and efficient off-site cruise parking service that includes shuttle transfer to and from the cruise port. These parking options are around half the price of the official Port of Miami cruise parking lots.
Due to the hot sun in Florida, most cruise parking in Miami is in secure covered garages rather than on open lots.
Premier Cruise Parking
If you are taking a longer cruise and want to keep your car out of the searing Florida sunshine, Premier Cruise Parking offers convenient Miami port cruise parking in a new cruise port parking facility at the MET3 parking garage in downtown Miami.
Premier Cruise Parking Lot, Miami
The garage allows cruisers to self-park. Clearance height is just 7 feet, which is unsuitable for RVs and larger vehicles. Premier Cruise parking costs $13 per night plus fees and taxes, so a 7-night cruise will cost $99 total.
The cost includes a continuous complimentary shuttle service to and from Miami Cruise Port in a brand-new fleet of vehicles. The shuttle service runs from 7.30 am to 3.30 pm on cruise days and includes max of four passengers free per vehicle.
Address: Met3 Parking Garage, 250 SE 3rd Ave, Miami
Distance from cruise port: 2.7 miles
Shuttle? Free
Cost per day: $13
The Cruise Parking Miami
The Cruise Parking Miami offers secure cruise parking near the Port of Miami at a fixed price with no hidden extras. The 10-storey parking garage has elevators and security camera monitoring 24/7 for added peace of mind.
The Cruise Parking Miami Lot
However, this company does not run a shuttle service, so you need to book a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to transfer you to the cruise terminal. This cruise parking garage offers valet parking so you drop your car at the entrance, unload your luggage, and wait for your taxi ride.
Address: 252/255 NE 1st St, Miami
Distance from cruise port: 2.4 miles
Shuttle? No
Cost per day: $15
Safe Cruise Parking
Just 5 minutes from the Miami cruise terminal, Safe Cruise Parking offers reasonably priced cruise parking in a secure multi-story garage with a clearance of 7 feet. It is located about 2.5 miles from the port.
The company has a fleet of complimentary shuttle buses to transfer cruisers and their luggage to the ship. Shuttles run every 30 minutes. The service includes luggage assistance if required.
Safe Cruise Parking Lot
Safe Cruise Parking also has onsite restrooms and refreshments. They offer free shuttle transport for up to six cruisers per vehicle.
Pre-booking your Safe Cruise Parking is advisable and can be done by phone or online. On arrival at the gate, you will need to hand over your reservation receipt/email before parking.
Prices are from $12.99 per day plus fees and tax. Remember, you will need to book eight days of cruise parking for a 7-night cruise to cover the part days when you arrive and depart, e.g., Saturday to Saturday, which will cost a total of $117.40.
Customers are given a yellow smiley face badge to keep safe. On your return to Miami, you must wear it so that drivers can easily identify their passengers for pick-up from the cruise terminal.
Address: 189 NE 2nd St, Miami
Distance from cruise port: 2.5 miles
Shuttle? Free
Cost: $12.99
WePark
WePark advertises itself as the “most affordable parking in downtown Miami”. However, it does not have the best feedback from past customers. Just minutes from Miami cruise port, it combines a convenient option with a free shuttle service.
Photo Credit: Den Miami / Shutterstock.com
Parking is in two secure covered garages. You can even book a car wash while you’re away on your cruise! Parking is $9.99 per day. For a 7-day cruise you will be charged $90.67 with additional fees and taxes.
It is advisable to book online ahead of time to secure a cruise parking space.
Address: 850 NE 2nd Ave, Miami
Distance from cruise port: 1.8 miles
Tel: 1-786-749-1227
Shuttle? Free
Cost per day: From $9.99
Best Miami Hotels with Cruise Parking and Shuttle
Many hotels in Miami offer Park and Sail Packages for Miami cruises. These can save you a fortune in cruise parking fees, especially if you arrive the day before your cruise departs and stay overnight. You might also want to extend your cruise by staying a few days and seeing the sights of Miami before heading home.
Some hotels include a shuttle service with their Port of Miami cruise parking packages while others require you to take a short taxi ride. It’s worth comparing prices to see whether this could be the cheapest cruise parking in Miami.
Downtown Miami
We have listed some of the most convenient hotels near Miami cruise port that offer Park and Sail cruise parking packages.
However, you can contact any hotel in downtown Miami and ask about the cost of leaving your car on their lot for the duration of your cruise. It’s advisable to have your cruise parking arrangements confirmed before your arrival.
Doubletree Hilton offers luxury rooms with bay and marina views along with secure parking and shuttle transport to the cruise port. Prices vary according to rooms selected and seasonal demand.
Address: 1717 N. Bayshore Dr, Miami
Distance from cruise port: 1.9 miles
Tel: 1-855-605-0318
Shuttle? Yes
Cost: From $281
Runway Inn is 9 miles from the port, near Miami Airport. Updated rooms are from $58 per night plus a fee per day for cruise parking by prior arrangement. This budget hotel includes Wi-Fi and free breakfast. Transport to the port can be booked for a fee.
Address: 656 East Dr, Miami Springs
Distance from cruise port: 9.1 miles
Tel: (305) 888-6411
Shuttle? No
Cost: From $58
Hyatt Place, Doral is close to the airport and about 13 miles from PortMiami. Look for special cruise parking packages which may include up to 14 nights parking and a night in a luxury hotel for around $287.
Address: 3655 NW 82nd Ave, Doral
Distance from cruise port: 13.2 miles
Tel: (305) 718-8292
Shuttle? Yes
Cost: From $287
Hilton Garden Inn Miami Airport West is about 12 miles from Miami cruise port. However, its Park and Sail packages start at $249 for a one night stay and up to 7 nights parking.
Address: 3550 NW 74th Ave, Miami,
Distance from cruise port: 12.3 miles
Tel: (305) 629-7701
Shuttle? Transfers by arrangement
Cost per day: $249
Quality Inn Miami Airport is close to Miami Airport and 13 miles from the cruise port. This 2-star hotel charges around $92 for a night’s stay which includes breakfast. Ask about their Cruise and Stay package deals, including transport to the port and cruise parking for up to 7 nights.
Address: 3959 NW 79th Ave, Miami
Distance from cruise port: 13 miles
Tel: 786-533-3636
Shuttle? Yes
Cost per day: From $92
Cheapest Miami Cruise Parking at the Airport
If you are driving to Miami and need convenient cruise parking, one of the best places to find secure parking is at Miami International Airport, just 7 miles from the Port of Miami.
What’s more, most cruise lines run regular shuttle services between the airport and the cruise port so it pays to think outside the box. Even if you’re arriving by car, you can still make use of these cruise parking services!
Getting to the Port of Miami Cruise Terminals
If you are driving to Miami from north/central Florida or from out of state, use the I-95 S, which runs down the east coast of Florida.
You can also opt for the Florida Turnpike which is a quieter option with regular tolls. It runs for 340 miles from Ocala in North Central Florida to Miami before dividing.
Ignore the Homestead Extension Florida Turnpike (HEFT) and join the I-95 at Golden Glades for the most direct route. Follow signs for the Port Miami Tunnel and continue to your designated Port of Miami cruise parking.
Cruise Ships in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock)
When arranging your Miami cruise port parking, make sure you know which terminal you will be sailing from and choose parking that is convenient to that location.
The Port of Miami has nine cruise terminals, with two more planned for completion in 2024. Terminals A-G are all located along North Cruise Boulevard, Miami, FL 33132. Once at the port, follow the local signs to your cruise terminal or onsite cruise parking lot.
How to Get to the Cruise Terminal from the Parking Lot
Most hotels and cruise parking lots serving the Port of Miami have their own cruise shuttle service. Taxis are widely available in Miami, but they can be expensive. Taxi fares between the Port of Miami and Bay Harbor Islands (14 miles) can cost around $100 in slow traffic conditions.
Photo Credit: pisaphotography / Shutterstock.com
Express Shuttle could be a better solution. For one fixed price they offer private shuttle vans and share-ride services between the port, hotels and Miami Airport (where long-term cruise parking can be found at affordable rates).
Using a private vehicle service could work out cheaper and faster for groups than paying a per-head fee for a shuttle bus.
You can even book a private shuttle service to provide a shore-side Meet and Greet service. Call for a personal quote for this private transfer option to and from your cruise parking in Miami.
FAQs
How much is parking at the Miami cruise port?
Onsite Miami port cruise parking costs from $22 per night ($25 at Terminal A) with surcharges for oversize vehicles at an additional $22 per day. Veterans and some disabled drivers that meet certain conditions can park free.
What’s the closest parking lot to PortMiami?
The closest cruise parking at PortMiami is onsite. There are cruise parking garages serving all terminals.
Where to park for a Carnival cruise in Miami?
Carnival Cruise Line currently uses Miami cruise terminals D and E. There are onsite parking lots close to both these terminals. Book online via the official Port Miami website.
Is it safe to park near the Port of Miami?
The area around the Miami cruise port is generally safe for parking. The official Miami cruise port parking is secure.
