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Cruises to Nowhere from New York

A cruise to nowhere is a perfect quick vacation. All the fun of cruises without going to another port. Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival offered short cruises to nowhere from New York.

A cruise to nowhere is a 2-night or 3-night cruise out into the ocean and back. It's a great little get-away ... luxury accommodations, all the food you can eat, entertainment, dancing, casinos, swimming pools, and constant activities. Escape on a little cruise to nowhere.

We recommend a cruise to nowhere for anyone who isn't sure they'll like cruises. These trips are short and inexpensive, but you can sample all the fun stuff that cruises have to offer: spas, unlimited dining options, plush cabins, sports, and entertainment.

The shortest cruises currently available from New York are 4-day cruises .

NYC Cruises to Nowhere: The Magical Cruise Program That Lost Its Sea Legs

We're seasick over NYC Cruises to Nowhere getting struck down. But we can still reminisce over the fabulous adventures they once offered.

Once upon a time, in the choppy waters off of New York City, a giant ship set sail for a short cruise to nowhere. Ah, spending time on those aimless adventures around the Hudson was the glory days! Folks found it an affordable way to escape the hellscape that is fall and winter in NYC. Unfortunately, all good things come to an end and a 2016 Homeland Security ruling outlawed these cruise ships' meanderings. But that doesn't mean we can't take a look back at what once was in hopes that it sails back around.  

The Cruises That Once Went Nowhere

New York City used to have a thriving Cruise to Nowhere business until the Department of Homeland Security got their little fingers involved. Specifically,  The Jones Act and The Passenger Vessel Services Act  tightened up security rules surrounding these cruises. Under this 2016 ruling, Cruises to Nowhere are required to have an all-American staff. But that's just not the case for most cruise lines. Any ship without an All-American staff is classified as "foreign-flagged" and therefore can't legally operate within U.S. ports.

I know what you're thinking: Why not just hire an American staff or make sure all employees have proper work visas? From cost issues to internal employment strategies, the list of complications that make this not an easy fix goes on and on. But don't worry, you're not the only one gripped with nostalgia for a cruise you never got the chance to take. Soothe your aching soul with some highlights from the once-great NYC Cruises to Nowhere that helped people sail away from their worries and be back before dinner. 

Circle Line  and Liberty Cruise  both offer a few different sightseeing tours that cruise on the water around Manhattan. Make sure you've got your camera handy because the views are amazing .

Norwegian Gem

Folks loved the price and entertainment for this two-night cruise to nowhere from New York. Typically embarking on the seas in late October or early November, the Norwegian Gem boasted a mood-lit bowling alley and a netted range to practice your golf swing. This ship was built in 2007 and completely refurbished in 2010 with ticket prices ranging from $199 to $1,329 depending on how fancy your cabin was.

Norwegian Breakaway

From December to February, the Breakaway ran a seven-day escape towards Bermuda with no port stops. This ship was the largest class to ever port in New York City and hosted a waterpark along with the most impressive rope course at sea. Iron Chef Geoffrey Zakarian oversaw all the dishes at the three restaurants on board, and you could catch Cirque du Soleil and Broadway-level performances. The cost was exciting, too — ranging from $179 to $1,299 per person.

Related: 9 Family Day Trip Ideas for Close-to-Home Adventure

Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas

While not technically embarking from NYC, the Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas departed from nearby Cape Liberty, New Jersey which was close enough. It had a three-night sampler cruise designed to whet your whistle so you'd grab one of their lengthier stay packages for another time. The big boat had bumper cars, surfing and skydiving simulators, and unrivaled strolling areas so you could get all your steps in while on the sea. Setting you back around $849, it was still kind of a steal. 

If you've got your heart set on a cruise to nowhere, NYC comes through with special Event Cruises  throughout the year that offer dinner, dancing, and other quirky themes. 

We Love to Rock the Boat 

It's a bummer that Homeland Security put an end to Cruises to Nowhere, but what can you do? Maybe someday the regulations will change and these affordable mini-vacations will regain their sea legs. They were glorious and highly coveted excursions, giving folks unforgettable experiences on the high seas. The pirate in you may be sad, but there's still plenty to see and do (even on the water) in and around NYC . 

What are cruises to nowhere, and can you take one?

Would you take a cruise that didn't actually go anywhere?

It might sound odd, but cruises to nowhere — voyages with no ports of call — used to be popular for North American travelers.

Cruises to nowhere from the U.S. were fairly common until U.S. Customs and Border Protection said it would begin cracking down on the enforcement of a longstanding law called the Passenger Vessel Services Act, which has certain limitations that affect cruises to nowhere.

So, what are cruises to nowhere, how does the PVSA affect them and are they still offered? Here's everything you need to know.

What are cruises to nowhere?

Cruises to nowhere are voyages that sail out to sea for a day or two without stopping anywhere before returning to the same port from which they departed.

You might wonder why anyone would want to travel on a cruise without port stops, but some people simply enjoy being on a ship where they can relax, sleep in, have a spa treatment , take in a show, lounge by the pool and have someone cook for them for a couple of days.

Cruises to nowhere also offer a way for first-timers to see whether or not a cruise might be for them . They're great options for people who don't have a ton of time or money to spend on a getaway.

What happened to cruises to nowhere?

Until 2016, cruise lines offered cruises to nowhere on a fairly regular basis. That changed in 2015 when CBP announced it would begin more strictly enforcing the particulars of the Passenger Vessel Services Act the following year.

Under the act, cruises to nowhere themselves are legal, but because the type of visa many crew members use when working on ships doesn't meet the requirements of the PVSA for cruises to nowhere, cruise lines largely stopped offering them.

What is the PVSA?

At its core, the PVSA — an offshoot of the more well-known Jones Act , which deals with ships that carry cargo instead of passengers — states that foreign-flagged cruise ships sailing from U.S. ports must call on at least one foreign port before returning to the U.S. at the conclusion of a voyage.

However, a lesser-known portion of the act addresses crew visas and what they permit in terms of how long visa holders can remain in the U.S. Many crew members work on ships using D-1 visas, which allow them only to stay in the U.S. for brief periods of time with the intention that they leave again almost immediately.

On cruises to nowhere, because there are no foreign port stops between a ship's departure from a U.S. port and its return to a U.S. port, crew members on those types of voyages essentially remain in the U.S. and don't leave. In those instances, crew members with D-1 visas would be out of compliance — something that cruise lines no longer want to risk due to steep penalties.

Are there exceptions?

Yes. In the event of an emergency, such as a hurricane or other weather-related issue that prevents a ship from calling on the necessary foreign port before returning to the U.S., the U.S. government can issue exemptions. However, that type of situation is rare, and those types of cruises to nowhere are not originally planned to be cruises to nowhere.

Bottom line

Although cruises to nowhere offered inexpensive, short options for cruisers, they are a thing of the past when departing from the U.S. Their extinction is due to conflicts between the requirements outlined in the PVSA and the type of visa crew members often use to work on board cruise ships.

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Cruises to Nowhere

What is "Cruise To Nowhere" and does it mean that a cruise ship is going nowhere? We give you the ultimate list of all cruise ships sailing the always very special "cruises to Nowhere" with departures from ports in the USA, Australia / New Zealand, Europe / England UK, Asia, South America. This review is integrated with Party Cruises .

Here you will find information on Cruise To Nowhere deals as itineraries/departure dates, prices, and ports. Itineraries are always roundtrips, without any call ports on the route. This internal link goes directly to the cruise schedule - if you wanna skip the intro info.

"Cruise to Nowhere" - what is, where to find it, why Nowhere cruise deals

What is a Cruise to Nowhere? Well, strangely enough, by definition, it's a unique itinerary on which a cruise ship is going to absolutely Nowhere! However, it will definitely not stay in the port all the time, instead, it will sail without any destination to a specific point at sea to allow its passengers to experience a very short but most romantic, exciting, and not always cheap cruise vacation on a floating resort at sea.

What are Cruises to Nowhere (the definition)? As a concise overview - it's an always round-trip special cruise itinerary with no other call ports than your disembarkation port, which happens to be the same as your embarkation port (the cruise ship port of departure).

Why take a Cruise to Nowhere? Three very big reasons - and the first one is that it is very short as duration (its cruise length is 1 or 2 night, rarely 3- or 4-night), so by this variable is more like mini cruise deals (but not all of them are round-trips, and they usually visit other ports). Being a short cruise is an important issue, considering your business schedule, right? The second one is it's from the category of very cheap cruise deals - the no-call-ports itinerary and the duration are major determinants of cruise prices - port charges, fuel consumption, etc. The third one is it's one of the very special types of cruises - rare to be found (as a number of sailings per year), offered by a very limited number of passenger ships (excluding trips by smaller boats and floating hotel-casino ship deals), extremely popular, departures only from the world's biggest cruise ports of the world's most developed countries - like USA, UK, Australia.

What is a Cruise to Nowhere as length and prices?

And finally, about the real deals - what is from where, when, and for how much. As to the cost of cruises to Nowhere, the prices are always per person (based on double occupancy), we will give you only the cheapest cruise rates in US dollars on the lowest cabin category by ship (it's usually an Inside stateroom), all prices are indicative and may change due to availability. So, compare sailing dates and prices, pick your port of departure, book it! Be aware, that availability is a strong issue on this one - early booking is a must! It really goes to Nowhere, but it is a so so so special deal - and we all like "special" very much!

It's usually 1- or 2 nights (2-3-day cruise deals), but some lines (like P&O, for example) offer longer itineraries of 3-4-nights, on which you'll have a themed program pre-scheduled for your voyage (more often "Food & Wine", but also "Lifestyle", "Comedy", "Art", etc).

As to the price, one thing is absolutely sure - it's a cheap deal. Nowhere cruises are always cheaper than all other trips with itineraries including stops in ports of call. One of the main reasons for that is the sort length. The price really depends online and ship, but also on the time of booking (availability), cabin grades, departure port, and mostly on how much are you willing to spend while on board. What does the last statement mean? Well, your ship will have - absolutely for sure - a big Casino, a specialty (reservations only) fancy restaurant, lots of bars and lounges to buy expensive drinks and whatnot, and of course - a whole district of pretty lined-up duty-free shopping boutiques, where, as far the money spending is concerned, only the sky is the limit! As to all the rest on-board activities and amenities - they are all included in your rates (remember, all rates are based on double occupancy). But as a general rule, cruise prices on cruises to Nowhere rarely exceed the amount of US $200 per night per person. And this is a great deal, considering the type of your short cruise ship vacation and all that's included (plus the cabin, open-seating dining in the Main Dining Rooms, 24-hour room service, etc, etc).

What do you do on Cruises to Nowhere?

Remember these six words - "you spend money to have fun"! It could be your special romantic short cruise break or a weekend getaway dinner cruise to dining with your beloved one in a classy restaurant at sea, it could be your "gambling night" at sea, it could be your best "party cruise deal" ever to spend some quality fun time with your friends or colleges, or it could be simply your "me and the sea" special time to relax and enjoy the vastness of the ocean and the beauty of the modern cruise ship man-made miracle.

The long list of onboard activities includes also the trivia of games and contests, both fine and casual dining options (themed buffets), big and top-fun pools and pool contests (including kids-only pools), sports contests, fine art auctions, music and dancing experiences, huge-theatre excitement with nightly grand-style live show productions, movies, revues, comedians and magicians, Casino gambling tournaments and gambling lessons, ship tours (bridge, galley, etc), dance lessons, educational lectures, shopping sales promotions with special offers, and absolutely not the last are the fitness (and Yoga) classes and the Spa treatments in a huge wellness center on board.

Who goes on Nowhere cruises and what the ships look like?

This type of cruise is perfect for first-time cruise travelers to sample the "life on board" - to get a sense of what a cruise and a cruise ship is like avoiding the big-money spending on a long and expensive trip. It's the perfect opportunity to sample new cruise ships (no matter new-built or newly refit/refurbished).

As to the "Nowhere ships" - they all are BIG. All cruise ships for Cruises to Nowhere are from very big to hugely-big - their owners and crew know best how to gather huge crowds and are absolutely the best in keeping these crowds happy. Still, most of the departures are from New York City - with its unlimited capacity to keep the ships full of passengers. Prior to 2017, the major player in the NYC market was NCL - with 2 new ships (launched in 2013 and 2014).

Why cruise ship lines offer Nowhere deals?

The very itinerary explains it all - on its short cruise break itinerary, the cruise ship will leave its port to sails on an ocean (or on a river, by smaller ships and river cruise boats), then will return to the same port. And all this for what reason.

I mentioned earlier something about a special "point at sea". This location allows the boat to open its duty-free stores and casinos for passengers to spend their time and mostly their money enjoying all there is to be enjoyed on a very big ship without being obstructed by the "law of the land" or distracted by ports of call.

At the same time, your ship will sail calmly on a looping course to take you back to your embarkation port, offering you the chance to have an unforgettable night (or two or three or four) of the best fun and special memories from a special vacation.

Cruises to Nowhere 2021-2022 schedule

Most of these special roundtrip itineraries are offered as departures from some of the world's largest cruise ports. Just follow the ship links from the table to see regularly updated indicative prices per person (with double occupancy) to compare. These CruiseMapper links will show you the boat's individual "itinerary-schedule-current position" page, also listing the cheapest rates on the lowest cabin category currently available for booking.

Note: Due to COVID -related international travel restrictions, in 2021 several major companies started their passenger shipping operations with "nowhere cruises" available for booking by the country's residents only. Those included AIDA Cruises ( AIDAsol and AIDAprima from Kiel Germany ), Princess Cruises ( Regal Princess and Sky Princess , from Southampton ), DCL-Disney Cruise Line ( Disney Magic from Southampton, London-Tilbury , Liverpool , Newcastle ), RCI-Royal Caribbean International ( Quantum of the Seas from Singapore , Spectrum of the Seas from Hong Kong China ).

Cruise to Nowhere USA

Cruises to Nowhere from US ports by major cruise companies and on larger ships will not be offered anytime soon. The news became fact in 2016 when the few passenger shipping companies offering such deals canceled all scheduled voyages which itineraries didn't include a foreign port of call. This new policy was implemented after a change made in the enforcement of the US embarkation law.

Under an act passed over 100 years ago, foreign-flagged vessels are not allowed to operate voyages leaving roundtrip from US ports without at least one port call in a foreign country. In a June 2015 statement, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency announced the reasons for the changes. D-1 visa holders (crew visas) were not eligible for working on "Cruises to Nowhere" as they are eligible to serve as crewmembers only if they intend to land in a US port (temporarily) and to depart from a US port with the cruise vessel. Although nowhere cruises do enter international waters, CBP maintains that crewmembers don't actually depart from the USA because "they don't land in a foreign port or territory".

Among the canceled sailings were Carnival's 2-night cruises from Norfolk Virginia (2016, on Carnival Sunshine ) and NCL's 2-night cruises from NYC New York (2017, on Norwegian Breakaway ). Still, the change applies only to foreign-flagged cruise ships, most of which have as flag states countries like Bahamas, Panama, Bermuda. By the new regulations, the only way for "Cruises to Nowhere" to be permitted is for the companies to employ an all-American crew for the vessel. Otherwise, each itinerary (long or short) must include at least 1 foreign port of call before the ship returns to the USA with the crew who are not American citizens. Currently, the only large-sized ocean cruise ship with an entirely American crew is NCL's Pride of America .

Cruise to Nowhere NYC

Operated as special voyages until 2017, the 1-2 night cruise to Nowhere NYC deals were inclusive of shipboard dining, entertainment, numerous activities, and modern amenities. The "nowhere" ships made their special itinerary out of New York City calling on no other ports. Ships simply sailed far enough from the US shore to start providing duty-free shopping and gambling for their party-loving passengers.

Package deals included pre- and post-cruise hotel stays and airport-ship transportation. These deals were perfect for first-timers to sample the onboard fun, including dining, Spa, Casino, staterooms, lounges and bars, activities, amenities, etc. Most NYC Nowhere cruises were by NCL's Norwegian Gem ship - offered when the liner adjusted its Bermuda schedule for the summer. Then joined Norwegian Breakaway, and just before closing the market - the Royal Caribbean "WOW ship" Quantum of the Seas (leaving from Bayonne NJ). Quantum's prices were comparatively high ($300 pp per day), but the ship is truly unique and new (launched 2014).

China Cruises to Nowhere

On May 8, 2019, China's Ministry of Transport officially approved nowhere cruises leaving roundtrip from homeports Sanya and Haikou (Haidian Island) . The deal allows China-based liners to operate on itineraries not visiting a foreign port.

However, the Ministry imposed as requirements that the cruise company must include a Chinese investor (with majority stake), the vessel to be not older than 30 years, and onboard gambling is forbidden. China-flagged ships are treated on an exclusive basis. Passengers' boarding documents and customs clearance on these voyages are simplified - only national identification cards (or entry/exit documents) are required, and travel agents can submit group customers' documents.

Singapore Cruises to Nowhere

In early-October 2020, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) began to develop new health and safety protocols that are expected to allow cruises to nowhere leaving roundtrip from Singapore.

The new proposal came after Singapore Airlines announced in September that they would offer 3-hour "flights to nowhere" (sightseeing roundtrips) from Singapore's Changi Airport. However, Singapore Airlines later canceled the program due to active criticism from local environmental campaigners.

STB hired DNV-GL (Hovic Norway-based risk management company and accredited registrar and classification society) to create a compliance and certification scheme ("benchmarked against global health, safety and hygiene standards") to help shipping companies who want to restart voyages out of Port Singapore as the country was still in lockdown due to the pandemic/Coronavirus crisis.

STB's Regional Director of the Americas (Rachel Loh) advised that cruise shipping companies would need to pass an audit for certification to return to cruising. His report added that ships would only be allowed to accommodate ~50% of their max passenger capacity for the first 3 months of operation.

There is no official date for when "Singapore cruises to nowhere" will commence but all operators homeporting in Singapore were eager to restart operations after voluntarily ceasing voyages since March 2020.

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The Pros and Cons of a Cruise to Nowhere

See recent posts by Megan Wood

Before cruising regulation laws changed in 2016 , "cruises to nowhere" were a popular and profitable way for cruise lines to offer quickie two-day vacations that led to, well, nowhere. Essentially, these cruises let passengers enjoy everything onboard the ship without docking at a port of call. It was partially a marketing strategy for the cruise line and partially an easy getaway for cruise lovers. Today, some cruise passengers are still taking cruises to nowhere, but they're doing it legally. Passengers simply stay on the cruise ship when it docks. Whether this sounds like a genius workaround or a waste of money depends on who you ask. Take a look at the pros and cons of a cruise to nowhere.

1.  Fewer crowds. While (almost) everyone else is lining up to exit the cruise ship at port, those who stay behind will find themselves with free reign to use the usually overflowing swimming pools, restaurants, fitness center, and bars.

2. Free meals . If you’re on a cruise ship that includes free dining (the vast majority do) then your meals onboard are already covered. Same goes for those who purchased drink packages. Staying onboard saves dollars on food and drinks.

3. Gambling. Many cruise ships have small (or huge) casinos onboard that are only open in international waters and must close at port. The popular exceptions to that rule are ports in Nassau or Bermuda , where it’s legal to stay onboard and gamble.

4. Lectures, shows, and classes. Most cruise ships cater to those who choose to stay onboard with a selection of activities. Norwegian offers a daytime itinerary that includes culinary demonstrations, live game shows, towel animal folding lessons, and dance demonstrations.

5. Mobility restrictions. Not all ports are easy to navigate, especially for senior or disabled passengers. For some, docking at a port and enjoying the view from the cruise ship is much safer than going ashore.

6. Time to relax. Lots of “cruise to nowhere” passengers simply enjoy having a whole stretch of days in front of them without a schedule. For them, sleeping in, ordering room service, and lounging by the pool is the whole point of a vacation. So why not do it on a cruise ship that’s essentially an all-inclusive resort?

1. Not all cruises. A “cruise to nowhere” can be pretty bleak if you’re on a very low cost cruise ship with few amenities or a smaller specialty cruise that’s designed to dock at smaller ports for maximum immersion in a place. For instance, Viking Star includes shore excursions in their base rates and docks in Barcelona and St. Tropez.

2. Not all cabins. Sure, if you splashed out on a spa suite with a private balcony and butler service, you might be tempted to spend more time soaking up every last minute in the lap of luxury. But for budget-conscious cruisers with Inside Cabins, you’re going to be looking for every excuse to get out of your windowless and cramped cabin and out in to the world.

3. You’re missing out. Proponents of “cruises to nowhere” sometimes argue that they take the same cruise every year and have seen everything they want to see at port. But that can’t possibly be true. For those who need some inspiration, check out our Port Guides .

4. Tourism dollars.  Cruise ships are allowed to dock in specific destinations because they bring tourists and tourists’ dollars. It’s no secret that cruising (like all travel) has environmental and social impacts that can alter a destination. So it seems a little unfair to not get off the boat and spend some money on the local economy.

The Verdict

Overall, we think it’s a huge mistake to stay onboard a cruise ship (if you’re physically capable) for the entirety of your cruise. You’re missing out on experiencing new cultures and trying something different by remaining on the ship. But we also understand the siren call of free buffet lunches and no lines at the free-fall waterslides. As a compromise, we suggest spending at least the morning in port, and then returning to the ship for a late lunch and onboard activities. After all, if you’re just on the cruise ship for amenities, you may as well book an all-inclusive resort on land. We’ve got a few suggestions for you.

Traveling? Consider the Carry-On from Away

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UPDATE: As of 2016, cruises to nowhere are no longer available from US ports of call. To learn about alternative cruise vacations, please call 1-800-377-9383.

A cruise to nowhere may seem a little crazy, but it’s actually a great opportunity to get away for a quick time and to really experience cruising and all that cruise ships offer. It’s also a chance for first time cruisers to find out what cruising is all about, go to a show and experience the myriad of dining options. And for the more experienced cruisers, a cruise to nowhere is a great opportunity to get a taste of a new ship, or a new cruise brand. Lastly, it gives people with hectic schedules a chance to unplug and make their couple of days really count. It’s a stress free vacation: you’re meals are made for you, you have a fun schedule of activities to choose from and someone is even there to make your bed.   

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• Sleep in and enjoy breakfast in bed. On a cruise ship, most room service is complimentary, and sometimes available 24 hours a day - so you'll always have a plethora of delicious options to choose from.  
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• A cruise to nowhere is short so make sure to try lots of the food onboard – have fun and try a bit of everything. You'll find several specialty restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. And remember, on a cruise, dessert is always included!  
• When on board, make sure to spend some time on you . This is your vacation after all, so be sure to indulge in something like a spa service, sauna cleanse, a gift from the gift shop or a tropical drink (or two).  

• Hit the theater. After dinner you can probably catch a great show featuring Broadway-style performances.  
• Have fun at night by dancing to a live band, gambling at the casino or singing your heart out at the karaoke bar.  

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Cruise to nowhere from NY

By DDL4056 , November 2, 2023 in Ask a Cruise Question

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Is there any cruise line that just spends a couple of days to nowhere out of NY or NJ?  I’ve done some searching and coming up with no info.

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CruiserBruce

I don't believe "cruises to nowhere" are legal anymore. They need to stop at a foreign port.

20 minutes ago, DDL4056 said: Is there any cruise line that just spends a couple of days to nowhere out of NY or NJ?  I’ve done some searching and coming up with no info. TIA Diane

17 minutes ago, CruiserBruce said: I don't believe "cruises to nowhere" are legal anymore. They need to stop at a foreign port.

Cruises to nowhere are still legal under PVSA regulations but they were discontinued by the cruise lines several years ago when DHS ruled that crew would require a different type of US work visa than most held. It would have been too expensive and difficult to meet the new visa requirement.

ColeThornton

Just now, njhorseman said:   Cruises to nowhere are still legal under PVSA regulations but they were discontinued by the cruise lines several years ago when DHS ruled that crew would require a different type of US work visa than most held. It would have been too expensive and difficult to meet the new visa requirement.

^^^^^  Correct answer.

I'd create my own 'cruise to nowhere' ... just book a short cruise to Bermuda or someplace and not get off the ship.

too bad they no longer have them, I did several in 1970’s and early 1980’s , lots of singles and drinking , my very first cruise was to nowhere in 1975 .

11 minutes ago, George C said: too bad they no longer have them, I did several in 1970’s and early 1980’s , lots of singles and drinking , my very first cruise was to nowhere in 1975 .

Our intro to cruising was on a CTN out of Boston. 

While nice, unfortunately the CTN is no more due to the needs of a different type of visa for the crew. This was due to a casino boat in Florida challenging the need for these visas versus using the same visas the cruise ships use. 

navybankerteacher

3 hours ago, jsn55 said: I'd create my own 'cruise to nowhere' ... just book a short cruise to Bermuda or someplace and not get off the ship.

Good idea - although I would greatly prefer to cruise to Nassau and not get off the ship - much easier, as there would be zero temptation to get off.

lenquixote66

You can always do a Gambling cruise from Freeport ,NY which is about 5 hours.You do not have to gamble .Or a cruise around Manhattan from Chelsea Piers or a cruise from Marlboro,NY which is a nice scenic cruise.

Looking for a weekend away with the whole family.  Doesn’t sound like it is doable.

1 hour ago, DDL4056 said: Looking for a weekend away with the whole family.  Doesn’t sound like it is doable.

Looking at 2024, there are plenty of 4 and 5 night cruises out of NYC or Bayonne.  The Carnival Venezia does a series of 4 night that include one day in Kings Wharf, Bermuda.  Kings Wharf has a small beach (within waking distance) as well as some shops, cafe, and eating venues.  If one prefers, they could just use that docked day as a faux sea day and stay on the ship.  Just keep in mind that such a short cruise during the summer school holiday will likely attract a lot of families as well as a party crowd.  It sure would not be my cruise of choice :).

8 hours ago, njhorseman said: Cruises to nowhere are still legal under PVSA regulations but they were discontinued by the cruise lines several years ago when DHS ruled that crew would require a different type of US work visa than most held. It would have been too expensive and difficult to meet the new visa requirement.

That's an interesting tidbit.   and I believe you.

How do they define "ruled" and do they open it up to 'public comment' so that it can be revisited for time and place as needed,  or is fixed forever?

Just now, JRG said:   That's an interesting tidbit.   and I believe you.   How do they define rule and do they open it up to 'public comment' so that it can be revisited for time and place as needed,  or is fixed forever?      

As stated by  @1025cruise  above, it arose from a court ruling involving a casino boat in Florida. DHS really had no choice in the matter...the courts mandated it.

4 minutes ago, njhorseman said: As stated by  @1025cruise  above, it arose from a court ruling involving a casino boat in Florida. DHS really had no choice in the matter...the courts mandated it.

Ok thanks, for clarifying.  I get that now.   I was thinking of a different ruling that involved PVSA.

My personal thoughts on the Cruise to Nowhere is that they fit a need for a certain type of cruiser,  not me,   those that really just want to get on a ship and taste the fun of it all and then get on back home.

Cruises to Nowhere have become a kind of mariner-urban myth, I suppose. 

Absolutely no help to you, but it's a pity you're not in Australia. We have a plethora of 'sampler' cruises of around 3 days' duration. Definitely not my cup of tea, we prefer a minimum of 7 days and preferably longer. 🤗

Not from New York, but there are dozens of three night cruises from Florida ports to ports in the Bahamas - which is about as nowhere as you can get while still going somewhere.

11 hours ago, JRG said:   Ok thanks, for clarifying.  I get that now.   I was thinking of a different ruling that involved PVSA.   My personal thoughts on the Cruise to Nowhere is that they fit a need for a certain type of cruiser,  not me,   those that really just want to get on a ship and taste the fun of it all and then get on back home.   Cruises to Nowhere have become a kind of mariner-urban myth, I suppose. 

There was one back in the day that they still existed that we almost, or at least thought about,. It wasn't going to be a party or drinking cruise for us, but to listen to John Legend.

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• Cruise From

Manhattan, New York City, NY

• Carnival Venezia

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Start your Carnival cruise from the city that defined 'cosmopolitan': New York City. This urban island overflows with art and architecture, lively ethnic neighborhoods, designer shops... and the best restaurants in the world, from the ultra-high-end to the comfy neighborhood hole-in-the-wall. The top sights are clustered in Midtown Manhattan — you can easily check out Grand Central Terminal, shop on Fifth Avenue, and see the twinkling lights of Broadway ® in Times Square on the same day. As your cruise leaving from New York glides down the Hudson River towards sunny islands or historic New England harbors, you'll pass metropolitan must-sees, world-renowned icons like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty.

• Pause amid the rush of Grand Central Terminal to look up at the starry ceiling.
• Relax on the green lawns of Central Park.
• Walk the mile-long Brooklyn Bridge before you cruise from New York.
• Ascend the Empire State Building for 80-mile vistas.

See it all from Manhattan, New York City.

* Taxes and fees are included.

The Best Cruises Departing From NYC, From Bermuda Getaways to Transatlantic Voyages

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Tourists and residents alike can take advantage of the many cruises that depart from New York City, offering easy access to warm weather getaways, family vacations, expeditions, and more. After all, nothing screams adventure like sailing away from the Big Apple with the Statue of Liberty and iconic city skyline in your wake.

Plus, New York is home to the oldest cruise terminal in the United States. Nowadays, there are two hubs, one in Manhattan and another in Brooklyn . An additional cruise terminal, in Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey, also serves the area.

The Manhattan cruise terminal is located on the edge of Midtown, making it easy to spend port days or pre-cruise time exploring Times Square, Central Park, or the Theater District. The Empire State Building and iconic department stores including Macy’s Herald Square are also within walking distance of the Manhattan cruise port.

The Brooklyn cruise port is a 15-minute drive from Brooklyn Bridge Park , which offers some of the best views of downtown Manhattan. If you're looking to stretch your legs, the walk across the Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan offers just over a mile of picturesque city viewpoints. While Bayonne, New Jersey may not be a huge tourist destination, sailing from Cape Liberty does provide a postcard-perfect look at the Manhattan skyline and its famous neighbor, the Statue of Liberty.

Jump ahead:

Which cruise lines sail out of New York?

Where do cruises go from new york, best overall cruise itinerary from new york, best transatlantic cruise from new york, best family cruise from new york, best cruise from new york for solo travelers, best caribbean luxury cruise from new york, best bermuda cruise from new york, best fall foliage cruise from new york, best mediterranean cruise from new york.

Both large cruise ships and a few smaller ships cruise from New York , giving you the option to pick a vessel with lots of restaurants and lounges, or one that’s cozier with fewer dining options. A variety of cruise lines—including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Holland America, Disney, Cunard, Silversea, Oceania Cruises, and Viking—sail from New York City. This variety caters to all types of traveler budgets, so whether you're looking to cruise from New York for as little as a few hundred dollars or drop thousands on a bucket list vacation, there's something for you.

Cruises from New York sail to Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Europe, the United Kingdom, Bermuda, the Caribbean, and beyond. Several world cruises also stop in New York.

The short version of the story is that whether it’s a short island escape or the unforgettable journey of a lifetime you’re after, a cruise from New York will result in PTO well spent. Ahead, we've pulled some of your best options for cruising from New York City.

Viking offers ocean cruises between New York and Reykjavik in June, August, and September.

Trade the soaring skyscrapers of New York City for coastal Canada, remote Greenland, and endless Icelandic summer days. This Viking itinerary makes two stops in Canada and two stops in Greenland before circumnavigating Iceland, beginning with the remote Westfjords and ending in Reykjavik. Sail the same seas as legendary Norse explorer Leif Erikkson (on a far more luxurious Viking ship) while learning about the American Revolution and Canadian exploration from the cruise line’s resident historian. Lounge by the pool, visit the spa, or look out for whales and puffins. Viking has several nearly identical ocean ships sailing this itinerary from New York—each can accommodate a maximum of 930 passengers, allowing them to dock in ports larger ships cannot access.

It’s impossible to get bored on the MSC Meraviglia . See six Broadway-caliber shows over a 7-night cruise, spend sea days at the thermal spa or lounging by the pool, go bowling, play arcade games, try out an F1 simulator, or work out in a state-of-the-art gym—the opportunities are endless. MSC’s Meraviglia sails from New York to Bermuda, Canada, New England, the Bahamas, and Florida and can accommodate up to 5,642 passengers across 2,214 staterooms. Choose among 23 dining venues and 20 bars and lounges, or try to eat your way through all of them.

Norwegian Prima is one of the best cruises for solo travelers departing from New York City.

On most cruise lines, traveling solo means paying up to double the fare for a cabin to yourself, but not on the Norwegian Prima . This ship has a special area set aside for solo travelers with 73 studio suites and a private common area for mingling. Each of the Norwegian Prima’s 95-square-foot studio suites comes with a full-size bed, en suite bathroom, and a vanity table. And while space inside these studios are tight, you’ll likely be so busy go-karting, lounging by the pool, taking in shows, and relaxing in hot tubs, it’s unlikely you’ll find yourself spending much time in the room beyond catching some shut eye. The Norwegian Prima sails to Bermuda and the Caribbean from New York and offers a transatlantic repositioning itinerary.Best transatlantic cruise from New York

On Holland America's Volendam , embark on an unforgettable roundtrip journey from New York that includes a stop in the Azores and overnights in Rome, Cairo, and Istanbul. This 45-day journey on Holland America’s Volendam crosses the iconic Strait of Gibraltar and offers several sea days to enjoy the ship’s onboard amenities, which include a spa, swimming pools, and several restaurants. The Volendam accommodates just over 1,400 guests and is designed around grand public spaces. Dive deeper into destinations with regional cooking demonstrations as well as food and wine tastings. There’s no better way to travel in comfort and see the Statue of Liberty, Colosseum, Pyramids of Giza, and Hagia Sophia on a single trip.

Regent Seven Seas cruises are known for all-inclusive luxury.

Sample the best of the Caribbean in just 15 days on the Seven Seas Grandeur , one of the most luxurious ships at sea. This Regent Seven Seas cruise visits Bermuda, St. Barts, St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, Bonaire, Curacao, and Aruba en route to Miami. This cruise line is a favorite among retired travelers, and the Seven Seas Grandeur is the line’s most luxurious ship. There are 746 suites, a spa, a teaching kitchen, a casino, and Broadway-caliber entertainment onboard. Regent Seven Seas’ specialty is all-inclusive luxury, and it means it. Shore excursions, alcohol, specialty restaurants, and laundry are included in cruise fares, which start at around $8,400 for this itinerary.

Escape New York City and head straight to the pink beaches and turquoise waters of Bermuda on the Celebrity Eclipse . Spend two full nights in Bermuda and several days at sea—plenty of time to enjoy everything the Celebrity Eclipse has to offer. Play basketball, go shopping or spend your time at the casino, pools or spa. Or eat and drink your way across more than a dozen bars and restaurants, including an interactive Le Petit Chef dining experience. These seven-night roundtrip sailings depart from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey, making it especially easy to combine a visit to the Statue of Liberty with your cruise.

Hop on the Seabourn Quest in October for an unforgettable journey through the colors of autumn. Spend a gorgeous fall day in Central Park before setting sail from New York to Montréal by way of Martha's Vineyard, Boston, Halifax, and Prince Edward Island on a 12-day itinerary along the eastern seaboard. This is a small ship that’s especially popular among North Americans, Europeans, and Australians, and a cruise line that’s beloved by foodies. Seabourn is known for its indulgent steaks, endless caviar, and partnership with award-winning chef Thomas Keller, who has a namesake restaurant on board.

In just 16 nights, sail from Manhattan to Bermuda, Portugal, Spain , the south of France, and Italy on the Norwegian Escape , a ship that accommodates just over 4,000 passengers and is sure to offer something for everyone. The Norwegian Escape offers several restaurants and lounges on board as well as Broadway shows, five multistory waterslides, and the largest ropes course at sea. On its Mediterranean sailing, the cruise stops in Lisbon , Malaga, Barcelona, Cannes, and Rome.

This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Norfolk Visitor > Cruises > Cruise to Nowhere

Cruises to Nowhere

Where's the best place to spend a short vacation? Nowhere! A Cruise-To-Nowhere is the perfect getaway for a couple of days. The ships sail out into the ocean and back without stopping at any other ports. A cruise to nowhere is an excellent introduction to cruising for first-time cruise passengers.

Cruises to nowhere include all the fun of a cruise without big expense or a long time commitment. Pools, a spa, casino, bars, lounges and more food than you can imagine are available on-board.

Some cruise lines have "weekend cruises" that are two-night trips.

Read cruise to nowhere reviews . Find out what other passengers thought of these voyages.

All ships have programs and activities for different age groups of kids. Now the whole family is going nowhere!

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Cruises from San Francisco

From the golden gate bridge to the painted ladies, sail on the best sf cruises with princess®.

Best Cruises From the West Coast

Cruise Critic

Start your cruise from San Francisco by sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge and into a sea of opportunity. Venture north to relive Alaska’s gold rush history, or head south to bask in the beauty of the Mexican Riviera. Tour the California Coast on a 4-day cruise from San Francisco, or explore the Hawaiian islands on a 15-day cruise. Arrive in Northern California and embark on your dream vacation with Princess.

Find the Best Cruises from San Francisco

Alaska Cruises

Glaciers, wildlife and mountains await you on a cruise from San Francisco to Alaska. Our roundtrip voyages bring you up close to untouched landmarks, including Glacier Bay National Park or Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier. Fish for salmon in Ketchikan, meet sled dogs in Juneau and pan for gold in Skagway. Experience it all with Princess, the #1 cruise line in Alaska*.

*More guests choose Princess in Alaska than any other cruise line

California Coast Cruises

From Northern California to the Southern cities, The Golden State is brimming with breathtaking coast lines, creative cuisine and iconic marine life. On cruises out of San Francisco, visit the San Diego Zoo, California’s very own living sanctuary. Explore Catalina Island’s underwater oasis where kelp forests dance to the rhythm of the ocean. Or enjoy crisp wines amidst the Sonoma Wine Country.

Hawaii Cruises

On a cruise from San Francisco, unpack once and visit multiple Hawaiian Islands. Drive through Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Then enjoy an evening in Honolulu with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays – included in every itinerary. With the sunset as your backdrop, conclude your trip with a traditional luau. Island hop with ease in a way that only Princess can offer.

Mexico Cruises

For a taste of fun, flavor and fiesta, sail to Mexico with Princess. On a cruise from San Francisco, dive into adventure in Cabo while snorkeling beside sea turtles and kayaking along the Sea of Cortez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Puerto Vallarta, zipline over vast jungle canopies. Or take the day to relax on one of the unspoiled beaches where sun-kissed sand and crystalline waters leave you feeling recharged.

Panama Canal Cruises

The Panama Canal is a true engineering wonder, but even more spectacles lie ahead when you cruise from San Francisco aboard the #1 cruise line in the Canal. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary in Limon. Stroll along the colorful streets of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore Spanish fortresses nearby. Or zipline through Nicaragua’s lush jungles and relish in sweeping views of the region’s untouched landscapes.

Getaway Cruises

Enjoy convenient departures and itineraries with Getaway Cruises out of San Francisco. Sail down the coast to meet San Diego’s famous seals, and sip fine wines in Ensenada’s Guadalupe Valley. Or head North to Astoria to experience the iconic beauty of the Pacific Northwest while sampling ales at local breweries. Choose from a four-day cruise from San Francisco to Vancouver or a five-day voyage through the Golden State.

What to Know About Cruises from San Francisco

Make the most of your cruise out of San Francisco by taking in the flavor, beauty and history that lies before you. Here’s everything you should know before arriving in the Golden Gate City.

San Francisco at a glance

• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. dollar
• Time Zone: Pacific Time (PT)
• Docking: Your Princess ship docks at Pier 27, San Francisco Cruise Terminal.
• Attire: Light jackets, sweaters or blazers are recommended, especially for the mornings and evenings.
• Transportation: Taxis or rideshare vehicles can get you to and from the ship and are available pier side for all guests.

Things to do in San Francisco

Visit Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and Muir Woods National Monument. In the birthplace of blue jeans, shop boutiques on Market Street, or find the perfect souvenir at Pier 39. Then savor Italian seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, and try the city’s signature dish — clam chowder in a bread bowl. Or spend time in Sonoma or Napa sipping locally grown wines before your cruise from San Francisco.

Ships That Cruise from San Francisco

Our Princess fleet includes some of the best cruises from San Francisco. Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board any of our ships. Discover what makes our fleet so unique.

Ruby Princess®

Grand Princess®

Sapphire Princess®

Crown Princess®

Coral Princess®

Island Princess®

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the representative’s services.

Cruise deals & promotions

Start planning the vacation of your dreams with a cruise you'll love at a price you can't beat. Explore our latest featured deals, snag some last-minute savings and see how our all-inclusive packages can make your getaway even better.

The Princess® Rewards Visa® Card Earn 20,000 Bonus Points

Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $500 in the first 90 days. That’s worth $200 in onboard credit. Plus, enjoy 2X points per $1 spent on all Princess purchases including onboard purchases. Terms apply.

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