Taking a cruise might be the holiday of a lifetime for many passengers, but for the UK, it’s big business, according to a new report.
An independent June 2025 report by WPI Economics, commissioned by Carnival Corporation, says the company’s cruise activity in the UK has a far-reaching impact.
The findings show that cruising in the UK contributes well beyond the port, from job creation to tourism.
The report, titled More than the Trip of a Lifetime, reveals that each time one of Carnival Corporation’s largest ships “turns around” in Southampton – meaning passengers disembark and new guests begin their cruise – the local economy gains between £1.9 and £2.5 million.
Across all “turnaround” (homeports) in the UK, the annual benefit reaches £505 million.
“As this report demonstrates, Carnival’s UK-based and global portfolio of brands make a significant impact to the economy,” said Paul Ludlow, president, Carnival UK and P&O Cruises.
Carnival UK, headquartered in Southampton, which expects to break cruise passenger records again in 2025, operates P&O Cruises and Cunard. It is the largest private sector employer in the city.
In 2024, the company made 700 UK port calls and supported nearly 1,900 jobs, including 1,650 full-time roles based in Southampton alone.
The report also highlights a ripple effect beyond the docks. International passengers who visit the UK contribute £147 million annually in future tourism spend, returning for land-based trips after experiencing the country by sea.
“I believe it is crucial for policymakers to recognize the value that cruise provides and the potential for this to grow sustainably in the years ahead,”said Ludlow.
Behind the Numbers
While Southampton is the company’s home base, Carnival’s reach spans far beyond the South Coast.
The report identifies consistent port spending in destinations such as Dover, Liverpool. Edinburgh, Invergordon, Greenock, and Belfast. This spending totaled £54 million annually, with £28 million of that spent in Scotland alone.
Each UK port call averages £280,000 in local visitor spend, according to the findings.
And that economic activity isn’t limited to passengers, either.
Carnival UK’s operations support nearly 2,000 seafarers and inject significant spending into the domestic supply chain. In fact, 90 percent of its £200 million in hotel goods spending stays within the UK, according to the report.
Travel agents also benefit, receiving over £112 million in annual commissions across Carnival Corporation’s portfolio of brands, which also includes AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn.
Key Findings
Currently, Princess Cruises’ Emerald Princess, Regal Princess, and Sky Princess; P&O Cruises’ Arcadia, Arvia, Aurora, Britannia, Iona, and Ventura; and Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne are homeporting in Southampton for the summer 2025.
Other impacts are harder to quantify beyond economics, but the WPI Economics review noted that since 2007, Carnival UK has raised £3 million for The King’s Trust. It also hit £1 million in donations to the Teenage Cancer Trust in 2025.
The company also funds a performing arts academy in Southampton that draws thousands of entertainers annually for rehearsals and training.
WPI Economics also calls attention to Carnival Corporation’s role in supporting port infrastructure and workforce development, urging stronger collaboration with the UK government.
Carnival UK has homeports in Southampton, Malta, Tenerife, and Barbados, and a six-month seasonal homeport operation in Malta is now being studied for similar regional impacts.
It is estimated that its ship, Azura, which spends 29 weeks in Valletta, Malta, with 3,500 passengers and 1,200 crew, brought in £188,000 on hotels and £120,000 on transfers in 2022, not including taxes, port fees, and the supply chain.
While the report only reviewed Carnival Corporation, Southampton also serves as a homeport to ships within Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Silversea, which are adding to the economy.
Now that schools are out, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is getting in on the summer action with would-be cruisers with some enticing deals for last-minute summer trips.
Among the incentives are fare sales providing up to $1,000 discounts on all itineraries and enhanced savings of up to $2,000 for guests booking its More at Sea package, which bundles drinks, dining, and excursion deals.
NCL is also reaching out to educators with a valuable 25% savings on Alaska and Europe cruises under its NCL Teacher Cruise Discount program, which typically offers a 5% fare cut. The new discount is valid on sailings with departures through September 30, 2025.
Moreover, Norwegian Cruise Line is featuring special resident rates that take 20% off the cruise fare on select itineraries for guests hailing from Florida, Louisiana, Texas, California, New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey.
For millions of prospective cruisers, these discounts and fare reductions can lead to substantial savings.
“Now is the best time of year to go somewhere new and create unforgettable memories in incredible destinations with the people we love most,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.
“My own family recently got back from a Caribbean cruise and that quality time together means everything. This summer, Norwegian is all about giving guests even MORE value,” added Herrera.
Norwegian Cruise Line is particularly shining a light on its Alaska cruises, suggesting that a “coolcation” is just the ticket for the hot summer temps that are just around the corner.
In fact, it cited findings from the 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report, which found that 76% of travel advisors say their clients are looking for vacation destinations with cooler weather.
Alaska may be the perfect place for cooling off; in Juneau, the state capital and a port call on virtually every Alaska cruise, high temperatures in July — the height of the region’s cruise season — average just 63 degrees Fahrenheit.
Norwegian Cruise Line in Alaska (Photo Credit: Just dance)
Norwegian Cruise Line has four ships sailing Alaska — Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Joy, and Norwegian Bliss, all operating roundtrip from Seattle, and Norwegian Jade, sailing between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Whittier, Alaska.
Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss sail 7-night itineraries calling at Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, Alaska, and Victoria, British Columbia, while Norwegian Joy operates 9- and 10-night cruises that add visits to Sitka and Icy Strait Point, Alaska.
Norwegian Jade is sailing 11-, 12-, and 14-day cruise-tours that combine a cruise with inland tours to destinations such as Denali and Fairbanks, but these are not specifically listed as eligible for the summer savings plans.
Europe Voyages Feature Northern and Southern Destinations
Norwegian Cruise Line’s summer savings offers apply to Europe sailings in summer 2025, including itineraries that span the region from Iceland to the Western and Eastern Mediterranean plus Scandinavia.
Norwegian Prima, for example, is operating 10- and 11-day cruises to Northern Europe with port calls at destinations including Norway and Belgium.
Her summer series features voyages between Southampton, UK, and Reykjavik, Iceland, with calls at Isafjord and Akureyri, Iceland; Alesund and Bergen, Norway; Amsterdam; and Zeebrugge (Bruges), Belgium.
Warmer destinations are featured on Norwegian Viva’s itineraries, offering 7- to 9-day cruises to the Greek Isles. Other ships deployed to Europe in summer 2025 include Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Epic, which was recently renovated to include an expanded Vibe Beach Club, an adult-only venue.
A new residential cruise line has postponed its first around-the-world voyage, leaving an unknown number of booked guests scrambling to change their lifestyle plans just five weeks before they were to embark on a 29-month adventure.
The news, announced by Victoria Cruises Line on June 16, 2025, confirmed that the 1,350-guest Victoria Majestic will not sail from Port Everglades as planned on July 26, 2025, due to a low occupancy level.
Apparently, booking cancellations from an undisclosed number of Canadian passengers are responsible for the voyage being nixed, and the cruise line pointed to issues between Canada and the US as the reason why.
In a statement posted on its website, Victoria Cruises Line, which is based in Hungary, explained that the decision to cancel was not an easy one.
“As a responsible operator, we had set a minimum occupancy threshold of 80% to ensure the quality, stability, and sustainability of life on board. By the end of April, we were very close to meeting this target,” the cruise line’s notice stated.
“However, recent political and economic tensions between the United States and Canada have led to an unexpected wave of cancellations from several Canadian residents, making the current occupancy level (430 cabins) insufficient for a viable launch,” it added.
It seems to indicate that the Canadians who cancelled did so to avoid traveling to the embarkation port in Florida.
“In light of these developments, we have no choice but to postpone the start of our journey. The new departure date will be announced soon, and we will personally notify all affected residents,” Victoria Cruises Line stated.
The line’s statement indicates that booked guests will receive some kind of compensation from the line, apparently in addition to refunds of rental fees already paid, and that details would be sent directly to passengers.
Ship’s Departure Date Had Been Previously Postponed
Victoria Majestic formerly operated as Veendam for Holland America Line, which sold the vessel in 2020. It is not the first delay of the ship’s maiden residential world cruise under its present owner.
When Victoria Cruises Line introduced itself to the cruise industry in 2023 as a cabin-for-rent operation, it had set a May 2023 world cruise launch.
That was later pushed back to September 2023 and then, eventually, rescheduled for September 2025 and finally, the latest launch date, July 26, 2025.
Veendam Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: EQRoy)
The brand offered rental rates based on accommodation chosen, with monthly rental fees that started at $2,399 with a minimum six-month rental contract. The world cruise was to last 886 days — roughly 2.5 years, with 703 days in ports around the globe and 183 days at sea.
Victoria Cruises Line is one of just a few residential cruise lines that have cropped up in recent years. The most well-known is probably Villa Vie Residences, which operates Villa Vie Odyssey, a ship that also experienced a series of delays.
Operating continuous 3.5-year world cruises, the ship departed Belfast, Northern Ireland, in October 2024 following months of postponements tied to engine problems and other operational issues.
Another line, Miray Cruises, introduced a residential option aboard its ship, Lara, in 2023 but soon cancelled the project. The line, based in Turkey, currently sails 3- and 4-day Mediterranean cruises.
A cruise port at maximum capacity and a stormy day is exactly the time when port authorities and cruise lines cross their fingers that nothing will go wrong. But in Juneau, Alaska, these were the perfect ingredients to cause chaos.
On the afternoon of June 16, 2025, Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge broke free from her mooring lines – likely as aresult of inclement weather. Video taken by witnesses shows heavy rain and wind.
“Ship broke away from [mooring] and supposedly slammed back into the dock. No communications from Celebrity whatsoever,” a current passenger reported.
“Celebrity has an app but is not posting any communications. The bus driver to take us back to the ship has been giving us some updates,” the passenger continued.
However, a Royal Caribbean Group spokesperson stated to Cruise Hive, “The ship drifted from the pier due to a sudden wind squall. Our Captain maneuvered the ship back to the dock where passengers and crew boarded to resume the scheduled itinerary.”
The cruise line was likely focused on managing the situation and making announcements for the guests already onboard before updating the app – as the stormy weather and a ship becoming unexpectedly adrift is very precarious. Thankfully, there were no injuries and no damage.
Four other cruise ships were also docked nearby Celebrity Edge – which could have collided with one of the other vessels – as well as a smaller ship with a capacity for only 62 guests called National Geographic Sea Lion.
Cruise Ships Caught in Sudden Storm in Alaska (Credit: The Undead Kennedy)
The other cruise ships in Juneau included Holland America’s Eurodam and Koningsdam, Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess, and Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Luminosa.
In fact, video footage shows Carnival Luminosa backing up before cruise tracking data shows that the vessel was supposed to depart – which suggests that the Spirit-class ship was trying to get out of the way to avoid a possible crash.
“There was a huge extreme wind storm with hail that came in. We were on the ship next to it as it drifted towards us,”another cruiser stated without specifying their ship.
The crew members onboard were likely doing their best to keep control of Celebrity Edge, but the rough watersand wind can make navigating the port much more risky than normal – especially as they may have had to wait to figure out a contingency plan before re-docking.
Getting Back on Track
By the late afternoon, the up to 2,908 guests onboard were notified of a plan to re-dock the ship for the remainder of the port call.
“I’m on the ship. They are going to redock on the port side. First, they need to remove the snapped ropes from the water. That is what has been reported over the announcements,”said one passenger who was onboard when the cruise ship went adrift.
As this update came at around 4:20 p.m. local time and cruise tracking data shows that the Celebrity ship is expected to be in Juneau at 10 p.m., there is likely plenty of time to re-secure the vessel and allow guests to board and still make a timely departure.
The remainder of the 7-night Alaska itinerary – which embarked from Seattle, Washington, on June 13, 2025, and still has calls to make in Skagway and Victoria, B.C. – is thus far unaffected.
Cruisers who will also be sailing on Celebrity Edge in the near future also likely do not have to worry about having the same experience – as snapping mooring lines are relatively uncommon even though it has happened to multiple ships this year.
Once again, the culprit was high winds – with the Alaskan port experiencing strong wind gusts of 30 to 70 miles per hour that day.
Within the same couple of days, NCL’s Norwegian Epic and MSC Cruises’ MSC Seascape experienced their own mooring line failures in other parts of the world – with all incidents coming as a result of extreme wind.
But all that said, these ships have operated thousands of sailings where their mooring lines have done their job perfectly – making these incidents one-off events.
Every cruise traveler has their own way to really relax on their vacation, from karaoke with their besties to sunbathing on the beach to late-night casino action.
In recent years, however, Carnival Cruise Line has done away with one type of relaxation onboard, much to the chagrin of travelers who want to get away far beyond their cruise ship.
In late 2023, the cruise line confirmed that onboard libraries were being removed from older ships during dry dock visits. Guests had already noted that newer ships, such as Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee never had libraries at all.
Now, however, travelers have noted that a form of library is actually returning to ships and being incorporated into a smaller but easily accessible format.
“My husband and I are cruising on the Miracle right now, and we’re very happy with the changes made during dry dock. I was especially grateful to learn that there is a mini library on board in the game room,”one guest commented.“It’s [just] a cabinet for a book exchange, but I was very happy to see this.”
Carnival Miracle is spending her summer in northern Europe, offering 9- and 12-night British Isles, Scandinavia, Baltic, and Iceland itineraries from Dover through mid-August. She’ll close out the summer season with Greek Isles sailings from Rome from late August through early November.
Along with a new Seaside Theater for Dive-In Movies, the ship received other upgrades such as nightclub, bar, and casino updates, refreshment to the popular Chef’s Table, and cosmetic updates throughout.
The cruise line’s brand ambassador, John Heald, acknowledged the loss of the library but noted that the smaller versions are suitable to these changing times of different reading formats.
“We haven’t put them in [on all ships] and yet these mobile libraries definitely help just a little bit,”Heald said.“On a personal level I’m sad to see them go, they have been a cruising tradition, but times have changed and now people are bringing 50 or more books on their Kindle or phone.”
Carnival Cruise Ship Library
Carnival Miracle‘s original Raven Library was located on the port side of the Atlantic Deck (Deck 3), forward. That space is now the new location of the Warehouse Arcade.
The game room the guest is referring to, actually the Joker Card Room, is on the starboard side of the Promenade Deck (Deck 2), forward. The space is smaller but contains some quiet seating, board games, and a cabinet of books for guests to exchange.
How Else Have Cruises Changed?
The loss of the larger onboard libraries is not the only way that Carnival Cruise Line’s ships have changed over the years.
New specialty dining options are continually being added and activity schedules are revamped to enhance offerings that today’s cruise travelers want.
For example, in the past couple of years, Carnival has ended the once popular Hairy Chest Contest and other Lido Deck games that are no longer considered as family-friendly for today’s cruisers.
I love a good book on a cruise, and I’m one of the old-school types who doesn’t have a tablet or read books electronically (paper pages for me!). Yet I always bring my own books and never have relied on the ship’s library for reading material.
Instead, I welcome the dedicated game room and the chance to make more memories with family and friends onboard – exactly what a cruise vacation is all about.
One woman attempting to enjoy a summer cruise in Alaska was arrested as she attempted to board her cruise ship in Ketchikan on June 12, 2025.
Turns out the woman was wanted in Wyoming for allegedly embezzling money from a local church in Laramie County.
As the crow flies, Laramie is more than 1,500 miles away from Ketchikan, but with local sheriff offices sharing warrants digitally these days, 64-year-old Karen Bryan was flagged by authorities for having an outstanding warrant.
She was arrested on the spot, and is awaiting extradition.
The news has gone viral due to a Facebook post made by Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak, who explained the coordinated efforts between law enforcement agencies in Alaska and Wyoming.
In his statement, Kozak said,“Our deputies are responsible for picking up wanted fugitives throughout the United States. There was one person who was wanted her locally for allegedly embezzling thousands of dollars from a church.”
“She was contacted by law enforcement in Alaska as she was boarding a cruise ship, and has been arrested,” he continued.
Kozak noted the extradition process is underway, and added that “our deputies are currently fighting over who is going to get to go to Alaska to extradite her back here to Laramie County.”
The cruise line and ship Bryan was boarding were not identified by the sheriff’s office, but the port was very busy on June 12, welcoming five massive cruise ships during the height of Alaska’s busy cruise season, which is expected to have 298 sailings in 2025.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bliss had arrived at 6 a.m. local time with up to 4,004 passengers during a 7-night roundtrip voyage from Seattle, while Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess had pulled in at 7 a.m. during its own 7-night roundtrip from Seattle.
That ship’s double capacity maxes out at 3,560 guests – bigger than the 2,670 passengers aboard the cruise line’s Sapphire Princess, which was also enjoying its last day in Alaska on a 7-night one-way segment sailing to Vancouver.
Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship in Ketchikan, Alaska (Photo Credit: Just dance)
It arrived in Ketchikan at 10 a.m., just before Holland America Line’s Konsingdam did the same. The ship sailed in at 11 a.m. with up to 2,560 guests.
It’s sister ship, the 2,104-passenger Eurodam, was also in port, arriving at 6:30 a.m. on its own 7-night roundtrip Seattle cruise.
Despite the crowds of passengers in the area, local sheriffs were able to discover Bryan and make the arrest.
No Escape for Fugitives
Cruise ports are among the busiest in North America, but alongside the flurry of disembarking guests and shore excursion guides, it’s not uncommon for local law enforcement to scan for wanted individuals.
Cruise terminals are legally considered ports of entry, even for US-based cruises, giving authorities to conduct background checks through routine ID verification or when passengers trigger watchlist alerts.
Recently, authorities in Florida arrested a Kentucky man in PortMiami who was wanted for more than $100,000 in back child support in December 2024.
In fact, Houston media reported recently that the Federal Bureau of Investigators’ Texas City office has a dedicated special agent for cruises.
The FBI told reporters it arrests someone from nearly every cruise in Galveston based on outstanding warrants and sites the use of facial-recognition technology for the ability to quickly screen passengers.
It’s more common than you’d think, with records showing arrests made in Baltimore, Jacksonville, and numerous cruise ports across the US.
Guests sailing out of Galveston, Texas, will soon get to enjoy ROBOTRON, the very first and only robotic arm ride at sea.
The ride, which is only available on the 5,877-passenger MSC Seascape, is a customizable experience open to all cruisers of all ages — as long as you are over 34 inches tall!
Suspended roughly 175 feet above the ocean, passengers get to soar, flip, and spin in the three-person gondola. This ride offers a unique, unobstructed 360° view that guests are not able to find on any other ship.
However relaxing a gondola might sound, ROBOTRON is a thrill ride through and through. One of the customizations available is the thrill level, which ranges from family-friendly to high-intensity.
Guests even get to go upside down when the robotic arm is over the edge of the ship’s deck.
Beyond that, passengers will also choose the visual effects, lighting, and even their own favorite music, all of which are incorporated into their unique riding experience.
ROBOTRON connects to all of the provided music and will twist and pulse in sync with the beat to create a multi-sensory experience.
Just know that if you are seeking a more relaxed experience, go for songs with lower beats per minute (BPM).
“On board MSC Seascape, guests will find that ROBOTRON is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines cutting-edge technology with breathtaking ocean views,” shared Lynn Torrent, President of MSC Cruises North America.
Becoming available for the first time in Texas, ROBOTRON will welcome passengers when MSC Seascape begins sailing out of Galveston on November 9, 2025.
Image Courtesy: MSC Cruises
“Texans love big adventures, and MSC Seascape delivers—with high-tech entertainment, immersive attractions, and unforgettable Caribbean cruises,”Torrentadded.
While the ride comes at an additional cost, it is a unique experience that is perfect for adrenaline-seeking guests.
MSC Seascape had the ROBOTRON installed in 2022, but being the first MSC ship to homeport in Texas, it is bringing some thrilling new experiences to those guests embarking in the Lone Star State.
Why is MSC Seascape’s Arrival in Galveston so Important?
On November 9, 2025, MSC Seascape is set to embark passengers for the very first time out of its new homeport in Galveston, Texas.
Not only does this voyage mark the first time an MSC Cruises’ vessel has homeported in this Gulf Coast facility, but it also marks the first time a ship is set to depart from the port’s fourth cruise terminal.
Construction on the new terminal began on August 20, 2024 — and if you are wondering how a 160,000-square-foot space could be opened just 15 months later, that is because some buildings were already there.
Construction of Galveston’s Cruise Terminal 16 (Credit: Port of Galveston)
Previously, two separate cargo buildings sat at the location of terminal four, and instead of tearing them down, the buildings were connected and are being updated.
MSC Seascape will begin embarking passengers at Terminal 16 this November, allowing passengers to experience features such as custom-built boarding bridges, new check-in and lounge areas, and additional parking.
The voyage departing on November 9, 2025, officially kicks off the vessel’s 7-night Western Caribbean voyages calling on Roatan in Honduras, as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico.
And of course, it will also be the first cruise that the ROBOTRON will be available to guests sailing out of Galveston!
While ROBOTRON is one of the be the newest additions to the 170,400-gross-ton vessel, it has other experiences, including the VR 360° Flight Simulator ride, VR Motorcycles, MSC Formula Racer, and Immersive XD Cinema while onboard.
With a new homeport and the first-ever robotic arm ride at sea, guests sailing on MSC Seascape are in for some fun times later this year!
Ocho Rios sits in the heart of the Caribbean along the north coast of Jamaica. With the port’s two terminals welcoming nearly one million cruise visitors a year, Ocho Rios Cruise Port is one of Jamaica’s most visited ports of call.
The port is less than half a mile from downtown Ocho Rios and less than 3 miles from the world-famous Dunn’s River Falls, so there is plenty to do and see. Let’s discover how you can navigate the port and get the most out of your visit.
Ocho Rios Cruise Port sits on Jamaica’s northern coastline. In a wider Caribbean context, the port lies roughly 62.5 miles east of Montego Bay and 52 miles north of Kingston, the nation’s capital city.
Not only does this location ensure the port is easily accessible for cruise ships voyaging throughout the Caribbean Sea, but it is also ideal for cruise passengers hoping to explore the downtown area of Ocho Rios, as well as must-see tourist attractions, like Dunn’s River Falls.
The port takes its name from Ocho Rios, a former fishing village that has since evolved into a thriving town and tourist destination.
Photo Credit: STUDIO MELANGE / Shutterstock.com
Ocho Rios Cruise Port sits on the western edge of the town, ensuring the town is easily accessible from either of the port’s two cruise ship terminals.
The two terminals, Turtle Bay Pier and the more recently constructed Reynolds Pier, which is also known as James Bond Pier, sit adjacent.
Turtle Bay is slightly closer to the town, making it easy for visitors to walk into Ocho Rios. Reynolds Pier is just a short walk away, so you can still easily explore the many shops and restaurants in the downtown areas.
Port Address
While it is split into two cruise terminals, the port can be found at the following address:
Now that I’ve covered where the port is, let’s get into the more exciting stuff: what awaits you when you arrive.
Turtle Bay Pier
Ocho Rios, Jamaica (Photo Credit: Nazar Skladanyi)
As I mentioned, the port operates as two terminals. Turtle Bay Pier is the main terminal, and it’s also the one most passengers will visit. The pier has a single cruise ship berth, meaning only one ship can dock at a time.
While amenities are fairly bare-bones, the real attraction is just how close you are to the shops and amazing street food stalls in the town itself.
Although the pier is somewhat limited in its offerings, I found it to have a really lively atmosphere. There are a few shops set up by local vendors, as well as a taxi line and booths for some of the tour operators.
There are also basic restroom facilities, as well as a covered waiting area with benches. If you’re looking for directions, there’s an information booth with friendly staff who are happy to assist tourists.
Reynolds Pier
Reynolds Pier, Ocho Rios (Photo Credit: byvalet)
The second cruise terminal is known as Reynolds Pier, but the former cargo ship loading dock was also given the name James Bond Pier following its renovations in 2021. This informal name was given to the port because the town was one of the primary filming locations for the first James Bond film, Dr. No.
While it was originally constructed in 1961 for the export of sugar cane and bauxite by the Reynolds Metals Company, it now exclusively serves as a cruise ship berthing facility and terminal.
Like the Turtle Bay Pier, it has a single cruise ship berth, but practically nothing in the way of amenities or tourist facilities. There are benches, and you will find a few taxis waiting to pick up tourists, but that’s about it. Luckily, it’s only about a 15-minute walk from the pier to downtown Ocho Rios.
As for Wi-Fi, neither terminal offers free internet access. Some of the nearby cafés and restaurants offer complimentary Wi-Fi, but you’ll need to use a valid email address and sign a privacy waiver to access it. It’s also worth mentioning that both terminals are fully accessible for those with mobility needs.
Even though I personally find Ocho Rios Cruise Port a bit underwhelming, the real draw is what lies beyond it.
Cruise Lines that Visit Ocho Rios
Photo Credit: Rory Burchenson / Shutterstock
Ocho Rios Cruise Port may be fairly small in comparison to some of the Caribbean’s mega ports, but it is still visited by some of the world’s most famous cruise lines, including:
Carnival Cruise Line
Princess Cruises
MSC Cruises
Holland America
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Margaritaville at Sea
Cunard Line
TUI Cruises
How to Get to Ocho Rios Cruise Port
While most visitors arrive in Ocho Rios by cruise ship, the town is serviced by two international airports, so some travelers will fly to the town and then make their way to the port to board their ship.
To make things simple, I’ll quickly go over just how easy it is to get to the port from downtown, as well as the two main airports most visitors use.
Getting to the Port from Downtown Ocho Rios
View of Ocho Rios (Photo Credit: RAMONE WALKER)
Just like getting from the port into town, getting to the port from downtown Ocho Rios is really straightforward.
The downtown area is barely half a mile from Turtle Bay Pier, so you can easily walk to the port from any of the hotels and resorts that line the waterfront of Ocho Rios. If you have luggage and prefer not to walk, a taxi from almost anywhere in Ocho Rios to either pier will cost approximately 800 JMD, which is roughly $5.
Speaking of taxis, fares are usually payable in either USD or JMD. While any hotel or resort front desk will call you a private taxi, they’re also easy to flag down from Main Street and the Island Village Shopping Center.
Personally, I always walk to and from downtown. Not only is it a short journey, but it’s also a pleasant stroll that allows you to pass by numerous street vendors and shops. Plus, it’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy a cocktail featuring the local rum, or even just a freshly pressed fruit juice or coconut water.
Getting to the Port from the Closest Airports
Montego Bay Airport Arrivals (Photo Credit: Debbie Ann Powell)
The closest airport to Ocho Rios is Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ). Named after the famous author of the James Bond series, it’s a smaller airport that offers daily flights from Miami and various port towns throughout the Caribbean.
It’s only 11 miles east of Ocho Rios Cruise Port, so a taxi ride along the A3 Highway will only take about 25 minutes.
The nearest major airport is Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, which is where most international visitors will arrive. While it’s just shy of 60 miles west of the port, travel between the two is still really easy.
A private taxi will cost between $80 and $120 USD each way, depending on when you arrive. If you’re trying to do things on a budget, I would recommend booking a shared shuttle.
There are a few reputable companies that offer shuttles between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios for around $25, but it’s recommended to book in advance.
Whether you take a shuttle or a taxi, expect the journey to take approximately one and a half hours. I’ve only done it once, but it’s actually a nice drive, as the highway takes you along the coastline, passing by sugarcane fields and Jamaica’s dense forests.
While it’s not exactly convenient, you also have the option to fly into Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston.
It’s 65 miles south of Ocho Rios and will cost approximately $150 to get there by taxi. However, it’s Jamaica’s main airport, serving as an entry point for many cruise passengers hoping to depart from Jamaica.
What You Can Do Near the Port
Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica (Photo Credit: BBaron)
You can’t talk about a visit to Ocho Rios without mentioning the world-famous Dunn’s River Falls, which is conveniently located less than three miles east of the port. These cascading waterfalls almost look like natural stone steps that pour into a stunning lagoon.
It’s one of Jamaica’s most popular tourist attractions, so be sure to carve out some time to visit. In addition to exploring the falls, you can book river rafting and tubing trips, as well as a zip-lining adventure. Trust me, this iconic attraction is well worth visiting. Just make sure you book early!
Another nearby attraction I always recommend is Dolphin Cove Jamaica, which is a marine park located just 2.5 miles west of the port. Visitors can swim with dolphins, feed stingrays, and observe sharks in their natural habitat. There is also a jungle path that’s home to iguanas, snakes, and a vast variety of tropical birds.
If you’re willing to venture a little farther, the Green Grotto Caves are 20 miles east of the port, just outside of Discovery Bay. You can book an excursion that will take you there, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the cave system and view the enormous stalactites and an underground lake.
Since the area really caters to tourists and cruise visitors, there are plenty of other excursions available, like horseback riding and ATV trips, but you don’t have to book anything to enjoy your time in Ocho Rios. Even exploring the town and getting a taste for the local music and food is an amazing way to enjoy a day in Jamaica.
Beaches Near Ocho Rios Cruise Port
Speaking of having a more relaxing time in Ocho, it’s also the ideal destination for beachgoers. Here’s just a quick rundown of your options and some of my favorites:
Turtle Beach
Turtle Beach (Photo Credit: byvalet)
Turtle Beach is just a few hundred yards away from Turtle Bay Pier, so you can’t miss it. It really couldn’t be more convenient, although it’s worth noting that a small entrance fee (200 JMD per adult, 100 JMD per child) is required, which grants access to restrooms and showers.
The beach itself is exactly what I picture when I imagine Jamaica. There’s white and golden sand, turquoise waters, rolling waves, and overhanging palm trees.
If you’re more adventurous, you can also try snorkeling and beginner-friendly surfing lessons. I recommend arriving as early as possible to secure a lounger and umbrella.
Mahogany Beach
Mahogany Beach, Ocho Rios (Photo Credit: Vibeckemarkhus.visit)
About one mile east of the port on the other side of town, you can find Mahogany Beach, which tends to be less crowded and has a more laid-back vibe.
When I last visited Ocho Rios, I wanted to escape the crowds at Turtle Beach, so I made the roughly 25-minute walk along Main Street to Mahogany Beach. There is also an entry fee (500 JMD), but this grants you access to loungers and restroom facilities.
It’s a pristine beach, and the quiet atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for an afternoon nap. However, if you’re looking for more fun, there’s a beachside bar and grill, as well as a small cave system you can explore. You’ll also find local excursion operators offering jet ski rentals and catamaran tours.
Reggae Beach
Reggae Beach (Photo Credit: Mihai-Bogdan Lazar)
Located about 4.5 miles west of Ocho Rios, you’ll find Reggae Beach. It’s a little out of the way, but it has a more secluded feel. It also lives up to the name, with live musicians playing Reggae music near the treeline. Depending on the day, you may also see a few local vendors selling grilled seafood and cold drinks.
Shopping and Dining in Ocho Rios
Island Village Shopping Area (Photo Credit: byvalet)
If you’re hoping to pick up a few souvenirs, you won’t have to travel far. Right at the edge of the dock at the Turtle Bay Terminal, you’ll find Ocho Rios Craft Market. With local vendors selling handmade goods, like wood carvings and jewelry, it makes picking out a memento incredibly easy.
It’s worth mentioning that some of the prices here are inflated, so you’ll have to haggle if you want a good deal. If you want more selection, I’d recommend making your way to the Island Village, which is just half a mile away.
With a vast array of retail outlets, this open-air mall features colorful stores offering a diverse selection of goods, ranging from locally made clothing to iconic Jamaican products, including hot sauces, seasoning rubs, and rum.
Ocean Village (Photo Credit: Ovidiu Curic)
Even if you just want to walk around, it’s totally worth it, as the boardwalk hangs over a natural lagoon that is dotted with flowering trees.
Taj Mahal Shopping Center is another popular choice. Located just half a mile directly inland from the cruise port, it’s a vibrant spot with luxury retailers and plenty of duty-free shopping.
More serious shoppers may want to consider visiting Falmouth or Montego Bay, both of which are accessible by taxi and offer a wider selection of international retailers.
When it comes to dining, there are a few spots I always make sure I recommend:
Margaritaville Ocho Rios
Margaritaville Ocho Rios (Photo Credit: Debbie Ann Powell)
Margaritaville probably doesn’t need an introduction, but the Ocho Rios location is just a short walk from the port. You’ll probably notice the bright colors and iconic Margaritaville sign as soon as you disembark. For picky eaters, the huge outdoor patio is the perfect spot to grab a burger and a cold drink.
Miss T’s Kitchen
If you’re looking for a more authentic experience and the opportunity to try real Jamaican cuisine, Miss T’s Kitchen can’t be beat.
Just under a mile west of the port in downtown Ocho Rios, this open-air restaurant serves up Jamaican favorites, like curried goat, jerk chicken, fried ackee, and, of course, Jamaican patties. They even have a playground if you’re traveling with kids.
With a full bar serving rum cocktails and local beer, it’s one of my favorite spots to visit in all of Jamaica.
Ocean’s 11 Restaurant
Ocean’s 11 Restaurant
If you don’t want to travel far, Ocean’s 11 Restaurant is a bar and grill located less than a 2-minute walk from the port. With fresh fish, jerk chicken, stewed peas, and some international favorites, it’s a nice spot to grab a bite before boarding at the end of your visit to Ocho Rios.
Plus, the outdoor patio has a perfect view of the port, so you can even view your cruise ship as you enjoy a meal and a cold drink.
Best Time to Visit Ocho Rios
Cruise Ships in Ocho Rios, Jamaica (Photo Credit: AlvinMina)
Like the rest of Jamaica, Ocho Rios enjoys warm weather year-round; however, it’s essential to plan your visit to avoid the crowds and minimize your risk of encountering tropical storms.
As with most Caribbean port towns, the peak of cruise season runs from December to mid-April, as this is when the weather is both dry and sunny. Daytime highs typically range from 80°F to 85°F, and rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for shore excursions and exploring the town.
If you dislike crowds, consider avoiding the Jamaica Carnival celebrations, which take place in February. The town gets a little crazy during these festivities.
Hurricane season runs from June to October, with August and September being the peak. While it’s quiet during these months, you always run the risk of bad weather. It’s always a risk, but visiting during June means you might have the chance to visit during the Ocho Rios Jazz Festival.
When it comes down to it, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Ocho Rios!
Everyone hopes for lovely weather – blue skies, smooth waves, perfect temperatures – for their cruise vacation. But when you’re setting sail for someplace you’ve never been, should the cruise line offer pre-cruise weather tips to help you pack appropriately?
Carnival Cruise Line will not be doing so, despite the frustration of a guest who reached out to John Heald, the cruise line’s brand ambassador, about their upcoming Alaskan cruise.
“I spoke with a good friend yesterday who just returned from an Alaskan cruise on the Spirit and he told me they had rain and sleet and freezing temperatures. There was no prior information from Carnival about the weather,”the guest explained.
“They did not proper warm clothes so they had to spend money to by fleeces from the ship shops. Temps were in the 50s.”
According to the website Climates to Travel, the average temperature in Alaska in June is 50.5, with lows in the upper 40s and highs in the upper 50s.
“We are going to be in Alaska on Luminosa [in July],”the guest continued.“Will Carnival send us the projected weather? … We have limited packing space. It would be nice to be informed so we could pack properly.”
Carnival Luminosa is offering 7-night Alaska sailings roundtrip from Seattle, including stops to Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria, as well as scenic cruising in the iconic Tracy Arm Fjord.
Carnival Cruise Line does not, however, provide pre-cruise weather reports for guests except in very special circumstances.
“I wish you a brilliant time in Alaska. I know temperatures vary and while we do not send out pre-cruise weather updates (unless it is storm-related), you can of course ask Uncle Google for a forecast,”Heald responded.
Heald is correct that a very simple Google search – or even searching on one’s favorite weather website or app – will reveal projected information about temperatures, precipitation, and other weather information.
In July, for example, Alaska’s average temperature is 55 degrees Fahrenheit, with lows recorded in the upper 40s and highs in the low 60s.
The original poster notes that they are from Tennessee, where temperatures and weather patterns are significantly different than in the Last Frontier.
In Tennessee (depending on where in the state), the July average temperature is 80, with lows at about 70 and highs in the low 90s.
This would certainly be different than cruise ports more than 2,500 miles away in Alaska.
Many commenters noted that looking up temperatures is not difficult, though if the guest isn’t as comfortable with technology they may feel intimidated by so many different websites and apps offering the information.
Cruise Lines and Weather Reports
Heald did note that Carnival would reach out to guests in the event of a major storm. As hurricane season is now underway, that information can be crucial – albeit not for Alaska.
Itineraries in the Caribbean, as well as the Mexican Riviera, can be impacted by tropical storms and hurricanes. In fact, Carnival Panorama has already had one such change due to Hurricane Barbara last week. The season is just barely two weeks old, however, and the peak of hurricane season isn’t until September and October.
Carnival Miracle in Alaska (Photo Credit: Ken Schulze)
As for Alaska, I know very well how dramatic the temperature changes can be! When I sailed to the Last Frontier at the end of April several years ago, average temperatures were just 30 degrees – and it certainly felt like it!
Even more chilling, I was coming from Florida where, at the same time, our average temperature was closer to 70 – more than double what we experienced for an Alaskan spring.
Whether from Tennessee or Florida, dressing in layers is key for Alaskan cruises. Bringing along a lightweight jacket, sweater, or sweatshirt, as well as long pants or sweats, can help ensure one is comfortable no matter what the conditions.
A few extra outer layers – in my case, a soft scarf and a pair of gloves – are also helpful and don’t take up much room in the luggage, but can make all the difference in staying warm and enjoying all that Alaska has to offer.
