cruise port of jacksonville

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JAXPORT Cruise Service

JAXPORT offers cruise service from two cruise lines: Carnival Cruise Lines, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). Cruises depart from the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal in North Jacksonville.

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines offers year-round service from Jacksonville, Florida. Service includes four-day and five-day cruises to The Bahamas. 

Contact Carnival Cruise Line

For information about an existing cruise or to make a new reservation, contact a travel professional, contact Carnival Cruise Line at 1-305-599-2600 or visit Carnival.com .

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL will offer seasonal service from Jacksonville, Florida, beginning in November 2025.

Service includes three 12-day and two 11-day roundtrip Eastern Caribbean sailings from Jacksonville, and a series of four- and five-day cruises to The Bahamas.

Contact NCL

Sailings will be available to book beginning Feb. 15, 2024. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com .

INFO AND DIRECTIONS

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Reserve convenient, secure parking right next to the terminal.

Stay Awhile

View Jacksonville area hotels in the JAXPORT Directory.

View Jacksonville area hotels listed with Visit Jacksonville.

VISIT JACKSONVILLE

Ranked as one of the nation’s most value-friendly travel destinations, Jacksonville is home to 22 miles of relaxing beaches, unforgettable eco-adventures, world-class public art, deep-rooted history, exciting attractions and the best dining scene in the region.

Go to VisitJacksonville.com to find out just how easy your Jax vacation can be!

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Known to locals as Jax, Jacksonville is Northeast Florida’s hub for culture, music, sports and outdoor activities. The city stretches from the Atlantic Coast to both sides of the St. John River, making it ideal for water-based adventures and scenic vistas. Choose from one of its numerous golden beaches to unwind or explore its idyllic parks — Jacksonville boasts the country’s largest urban park system. Or dive into local culture by touring museums, visiting historic neighborhoods and savoring delicious cuisine. With a wide range of attractions, finding something new and wonderful to do here is a breeze — whether this is your first or fifth visit to Jacksonville.

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What you NEED TO KNOW

Featured Jacksonville CRUISE ITINERARIES

Jacksonville cruise port

Bahamas - caribbean - bermuda.

• Coordinates 30.408, -81.580
• LOCODE USJAX
• Local Time 2024-04-14 04:34

Jacksonville cruise ship schedule

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Jacksonville, FL

Cruises from Jacksonville depart year-round. An active city, Jacksonville, FL offers visitors opportunities to try water sports, fishing, hiking, biking and horseback riding. Visit the headquarters of the Professional Golf Association or the Jacksonville Zoological Gardens, an ecologically aware zoo. The Museum of Science and History has an exhibit for everyone, including a display on manatees and dolphins and an excellent Civil War collection.

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Jacksonville Cruise Port Terminal Information

Last updated on February 1st, 2024 at 04:37 pm

Jacksonville's cruise terminal, located along the scenic St. Johns River, offers a convenient departure point for cruises to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Explore the city's vibrant downtown, visit charming neighborhoods, and enjoy the coastal atmosphere before your voyage.

Jacksonville Cruise Terminal is located at 9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226 and is the take off point for fabulous cruises to a variety of destinations in the Caribbean and across the Atlantic. With its temperate climates throughout the year, Jacksonville serves as the stepping stone to a great adventure for thousands of travelers from around the world.

Carnival Cruise Jacksonville

Carnival Cruise Lines is scheduled to return to sail from Jacksonville on the Carnival Ecstasy in March 2022, heading off to the Bahamas on 4 and 5 day cruises.

Cruise Parking Jacksonville

Hotels Near Jacksonville Cruise Terminal

Jacksonville Park and Cruise

Jacksonville Cruise Port Embarkation Tips:

– the terminal opens at 10:30am for passenger check-in, but it’s advised to follow the embarkation time given by Carnival in your cruise documents – there are no storage lockers available for luggage – there is a small shop onsite at the port that sells drinks, snacks and other miscellaneous items

Check out this video from JAXPORT of the luxury ship Ocean Explorer on their port-of-call visit. In addition to the ship, note the terminal and location of the cruise parking lots adjacent to the terminal.

Jacksonville Weather

Jacksonville enjoys warm temperatures all year ’round, although it can get hot and humid during the summer months. The weather is warmest from late May to late September 23, when average daily temperatures can go above 86°F. July 29 is usually the hottest day of the year, with high temperatures hitting 91°F on average and lows reaching 70°F. The cold season in Jacksonville is from November 27 to February 21. During these months, the daily high temperature often falls below 68°C. January 17 is typically the coldest day of the year, with average lows of 37°F and high temperatures at 62°C.

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Jacksonville Cruise Terminal

Jacksonville Cruise Terminal is the northernmost in Florida. It is conveniently close to the interstate highway and the airport.

Jaxport constructed the 63,000-square-foot cruise facility at its Dames Point site, bordered by Heckscher Drive and State Road 9-A in Northeast Jacksonville. For a convenient place to stay, see hotels close to the Jacksonville cruise terminal .

Jacksonville International Airport is just 15 minutes from the cruise port. More than a dozen major airlines and a network of regional carriers provide some 200 daily arrivals and departures at JIA.

Parking and Directions

Parking for Jacksonville cruises is located next to the terminal building. The parking lot is well lighted, fenced and patrolled by security 24 hours a day. No reservations are required for parking.

The terminal is located at 9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226. Driving and Parking directions are provided at the Jaxport website and we won't reproduce them here. Jacksonville Cruise Terminal is only a few miles from Interstate I-95. An interactive map of the Jacksonville cruise terminal location.

Cruises from Florida

Embark from Florida: A Gateway to Caribbean Wonders & Beyond

Port Jacksonville (JAXPORT)

Jacksonville’s cruise gateway to the bahamas.

Cruise Terminal at JAXPORT

Overview of the cruise terminal.

Terminal Features

JAXPORT is not just a point of departure but a fully equipped facility designed to cater to the needs of its passengers. From convenient parking to nearby dining and shopping options, the port ensures that your cruise experience begins with ease.

• Passenger Convenience : JAXPORT’s terminal offers spacious lounges, quick check-in services, and clear signage to guide passengers through the embarkation process smoothly.
• Amenities : Inside the terminal, passengers can find basic amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and vending machines for last-minute snacks and drinks.
• Accessibility : The terminal is designed to accommodate all passengers, with accessible facilities and services available for those with special needs.
• Nearby Attractions : While the terminal itself provides essential amenities, Jacksonville’s vibrant dining scene and shopping districts are just a short drive away, perfect for passengers arriving early or staying in Jacksonville post-cruise.

The cruise terminal at JAXPORT ensures a comfortable and efficient beginning to your cruise, allowing you to start your vacation in a relaxed and stress-free manner.

Carnival Cruise Line from JAXPORT

Family-Friendly Bahamian Adventures

Discover Exotic Bahamian Destinations

• Nassau : Dive into the vibrant capital of the Bahamas, with its rich history, bustling markets, and stunning coral reefs.
• Freeport : Explore the natural wonders of Grand Bahama Island, from its expansive national parks to its peaceful sandy shores.
• Bimini : A tranquil island known for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Bimini also hosts several historical sites, offering a glimpse into the island’s intriguing past.
• Princess Cays : Carnival’s private island provides a secluded beach experience with exclusive activities and serene beaches.
• Celebration Key : A picturesque island retreat that epitomizes relaxation and leisure. Celebration Key is renowned for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, providing the perfect backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and reconnecting with nature.

Departing from Jacksonville, the cruise lines offer a more personal and immersive cruising experience, focusing on the beauty of the Bahamas, where each journey is crafted to provide a perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and personalized service.

Preparing for Your Cruise from Jacksonville

Navigating to Port Jacksonville (JAXPORT)

The Jacksonville International Airport

Traveling from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) to the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal offers several transportation options, catering to various preferences and budgets.

Parking Facilities at Port of Jacksonville

JAXPORT offers secure on-site parking close to the terminal , with affordable rates for both short-term and long-term parking.

Enhancing Your Cruise Experience in Jacksonville

Jacksonville’s Delights Unveiled

Opting to arrive in Jacksonville before your cruise departure opens up opportunities to explore this sprawling city , from the picturesque beaches of the Atlantic coast to the cultural vibrancy of its downtown. Jacksonville’s laid-back charm and rich history add depth to your cruising experience.

Jacksonville Cruise Monthly Guide

Perusing the Jacksonville cruise monthly guide is recommended to gain a comprehensive understanding of local events and weather, ensuring you’re fully prepared for both your time in Jacksonville and the cruising adventure that lies ahead.

Embarkation Tips

• Arrival Guidelines : Follow your cruise line’s recommended arrival times to allow for a relaxed check-in process and to take advantage of terminal amenities.
• Travel Documents : Ensure all necessary documents, such as passports and boarding passes, are readily accessible for a smooth check-in experience.

Jacksonville offers a convenient and welcoming gateway for your cruise adventures, blending the ease of embarkation with the charm and attractions of Jacksonville. Whether you’re embarking on a family vacation or a romantic getaway, your journey begins with the promise of an unforgettable experience.

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9810 August Drive • Jacksonville, FL 32226

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Norwegian Cruise Line Is Adding Caribbean, Bahamas Cruises From a New US Homeport

Norwegian Cruise Line is adding a new homeport next year: Jacksonville, Fla, Caribbean Journal has learned. 

The company has signed a three-year agreement to homeport its Norwegian Gem cruise port in Jacksonville, beginning in November 2025. 

The 2,394-guest-capacity ship will be home-porting seasonally in Jacksonville each year from November through April, through at least 2028. 

That will mean a new option for cruises to The Bahamas and the Caribbean — the first time NCL has home-ported in the Florida city. 

So what will the itineraries be like? NCL says Gem will be sailing a mix of 12-day and 11-day cruises to the Eastern Caribbean, with stops in Caribbean ports like San Juan, St Kitts, St Thomas, Puerto Plata and Antigua, among others. 

That’s along with four- and five-day cruises that will be stopping in The Bahamas, with calls on both Nassau, Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay destination and in Grand Bahama. 

Cruises for 2025 are already on sale, the company confirmed. 

For more, visit Norwegian Cruise Line. 

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Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

7 Cruise Ports That are Far From the Airport (and 7 That are a Breeze to Get to)

Taking a cruise doesn’t just mean traveling on a ship. Unless you live within walking distance of your embarkation port, your journey will usually involve one or a series of planes, trains and/or automobiles before and after you set foot on your cruise ship.

And while driving can often be a feasible way to reach your embarkation port from your home, flying is still very much the norm. Identifying the closest airport and the logistics involved in transferring from airport to the cruise port is still an inevitable piece of every cruiser’s journey.

However, not all distances between cruise ports and airports are created equal. Fort Lauderdale’s airport, for example, is a breezy 10 minutes from Port Everglades. Southampton, England is a pain-inducing 90 minute drive that can cost a bundle in a taxi. It’s crucial to factor in these distances and commute times (and, let’s face it, costs) when planning your travel to and from your ship.

The good news is that, even on the worst of cases, the distances between airport and cruise port are not insurmountable. Moreover, cruise lines typically offer transfers to and from your embarkation port. And alternate transportation options (like taxis, rideshare services, shuttles and even trains) are usually readily available.

Here are seven cruise ports that are notoriously distant from the nearest airport, and seven that are remarkably close.

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• Far: Orlando (Port Canaveral)
• Near: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)
• Near: Miami
• Far: Galveston
• Near: San Diego
• Near: Boston
• Far: Ports of Seward and Whittier, Alaska
• Near: Vancouver
• Near: Ushuaia
• Far: Southampton
• Far: Berlin
• Near: Barcelona
• Far: Rome (Civitavecchia)
• Far: Athens (Piraeus)

1. Far: Orlando (Port Canaveral)

As the world’s second-busiest cruise port, Port Canaveral is a popular embarkation hub. This Floridian port is home to seven terminals and the world’s biggest cruise lines, including Carnival , Royal Caribbean , MSC , Norwegian and Disney .

But Floridians and just about anyone who has flown to Orlando International Airport (MCO) know that calling Port Canaveral an Orlando port is a bit of a stretch. The Central Florida city is, perhaps unsurprisingly, located near the middle of the state; a substantial distance from either the Atlantic or Gulf coasts.

And although MCO lies in the eastern fringes of Orlando and therefore significantly closer to the Atlantic Ocean, it’s still 45 miles away (or a 50-minute drive, on a good day) from the cruise terminals in Port Canaveral. Transportation options are limited to taxis, Uber/Lyft or renting a car, so booking a shuttle with your cruise line is a worthwhile plan. You’ll need to factor that drive time in, too, when you book your return flight home. And pad it a bit – security lines at MCO are notoriously long.

2. Near: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

If Orlando to Port Canaveral represents the farthest airport-to-port distance in Florida, Fort Lauderdale offers the opposite scenario. Less than three miles separate the terminals of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) from the cruise terminals of Port Everglades , making this South Florida city one of the most convenient airport-cruise port combinations in the world. Convenient, as Port Everglades ranks third in the global list of busiest cruise ports, welcoming about 4 million cruise passengers per year.

The port also features a plurality of cruise lines, including Azamara , Celebrity Cruises , Cunard , Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line , Princess Cruises , Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , Royal Caribbean, Silversea and Viking Ocean Cruises . Booking a transfer with your cruise line is a readily available option, but given the short hop to Port Everglades, you can just as easily rely on a taxi or shared ride service.

3. Near: Miami

In 2023, PortMiami regained its crown as the busiest cruise ship in the world, welcoming a record-breaking 7.3 million passengers. And the port keeps growing, with MSC Cruises’ new terminal set to debut in 2024.

While not as close as Fort Lauderdale’s International Airport to Port Everglades, the distance between Miami International Airport (MIA) and PortMiami comes up to about eight miles. Traffic conditions can vary wildly in busy South Florida depending on the time of day, but you can reasonably expect to cover the distance between MIA and PortMiami in anywhere from 20 to 35 minutes.

Despite the airport’s proximity to the port, give yourself a bit more time on the return journey home: check-in and security can really back up at MIA if you’re not carrying status with an airline or have TSA Pre-Check or CLEAR to help you zip through the crowds.

4. Far: Galveston

As the saying goes, everything is bigger in Texas. And that includes distances.

The Port of Galveston is quickly becoming one of the world’s busiest cruise ports outside of Florida, mainly due to its strategic location on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s also part of Greater Houston, one of the largest and most populous metropolitan areas in North America.

The Houston metropolitan area is serviced by two airports: George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) . But neither one is particularly close to Galveston. IAH holds the lion’s share of the traffic, with an annual flow of 45 million passengers. But it’s also the farthest from the Port of Galveston at a distance of 72 miles, due to its location north of Downtown Houston. This translates to a minimum commute of 1.5 hours to Galveston under normal traffic conditions.

Located southeast of Downtown Houston, HOU is closer to Galveston, but still 42 miles away. Driving time between airport and cruise port can easily take an hour or more. The airport is also smaller and mainly offers domestic routes on airlines like Southwest, Frontier, Allegiant, Delta and American Airlines.

To travel to and from either airport, your options are limited to booking a transfer with your cruise line or seeking your own modes of transportation like taxis or rideshare services. Beware: the latter are not cheap.

5. Near: San Diego

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is famous for being the world’s busiest single-runway airport. Welcoming more than 24 million passengers per year, this airport ranks as the third busiest in the state of California.

But here’s another claim to fame for this Southern California airport: it sits only 2.5 miles away from the Port of San Diego , which also happens to be the state’s third busiest cruise port. So getting from SAN to the ports two cruise terminals – B Street Pier and Broadway Pier – will take you less than 10 minutes by car.

6. Near: Boston

As New England’s largest city, Boston is a popular embarkation port for cruises exploring the Canada/New England route or going down to Bermuda or as far as the Caribbean.

And the capital of Massachusetts offers a refreshingly swift connection between its main airport and its cruise port.

Going from Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS) to the city’s Flynn Cruiseport is as easy as crossing the Ted Williams Tunnel, a distance covered in less than four miles. Taxi or rideshare service is your best bet, as public transportation – while available – undergoes a longer and less direct trek.

7. Far: Ports of Seward and Whittier, Alaska

Texas may be big, but Alaska is huge.

The Last Frontier’s vastness is a main component of its charm, with tens of thousands of square miles of natural beauty to discover.

The ports of Seward and Whittier on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula are the state’s two primary points of cruise embarkation and debarkation. Here you’ll find lines like Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruise Line, Holland America, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea and more on one-way itineraries originating from or ending in Vancouver and Seattle.

But neither Seward nor Whittier have large-scale airports. The closest one, which also happens to be Alaska’s busiest, is Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC) all the way in Anchorage.

From Seward, that’s a distance of roughly 125 miles for which you’ll need to devote about 2.5 hours to cover by car. Whittier is closer: some 60 miles or an hour and 15-minute drive. Alternatively, in both cases you can opt for the longer but much more scenic train ride , which can be arranged as a tour through your cruise line.

8. Near: Vancouver

The aptly-named Canada Place in Vancouver is Canada’s busiest cruise port and a major gateway to Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

The city is also home to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) , the country’s second-busiest airport with average annual traffic of 25 million passengers.

While not insignificant, the eight-mile distance that separates Vancouver International Airport (YVR) from Canada Place is fairly benign and manageable in about 30-45 minutes by car, depending on the city’s legendary – and growing – traffic congestion.

A quicker option for those who don’t mind handling their luggage: hop the Canada Line train bound for Waterfront Station. It picks up at YVR just outside the terminal and deposits passengers at Waterfront Station, which offers above-ground and underground connections to Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal.

9. Near: Ushuaia

Cruises to Antarctica have steadily grown in popularity, and the most common way to reach the White Continent on a cruise is from the southern tip of South America.

Ushuaia , Argentina’s southernmost city, is a common gateway to Antarctica. And while crossing the mighty Drake Passage en route to the Last Continent takes an average of two days, commuting from Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH) to the Port of Ushuaia is a much less formidable affair, with a mere 6 km (2.3 miles) separating both transportation hubs.

10. Far: Southampton

The port city of Southampton has long enjoyed a rich seafaring tradition, dating all the way back to the days of the Mayflower’s fateful journey in 1620 – and the Titanic’s ill-fated voyage in 1912. Today, it holds the distinction of being the United Kingdom’s chief port, and one of the UK’s most important cruise ports.

Located only five miles away from the port, the local Southampton Airport (SOU) offers flights to a handful of European destinations. Trouble is, most tourists will never arrive into SOU.

If you’re flying into the U.K. to catch a cruise in Southampton, however, your gateways are likely to be London’s two busiest airports: Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW) . Both lie considerably far from Southampton’s cruise port, the former some 65 miles away and the latter about 90 miles to the northeast.

Worse, for a nation of rail enthusiasts, there aren’t convenient rail connections from either airport – and that means you’re going to have to take a taxi (expensive), rideshare (nearly as expensive) or pre-book a more economical motorcoach. For a few dozen pounds, it’s pleasantly cheap – but beware the Southampton coach station is a decent hike from most hotels.

11. Far: Berlin

A quick glance at a map reveals that Berlin isn’t quite on any coast, yet the German capital is often listed as a port of call or an embarkation port for many a Baltic cruise. That’s because ‘Berlin’s port’ is not actually in Berlin, but in Warnemünde , some 240km (150 miles) to the north – a good two and a half hour drive in most conditions.

And given its location just south of the German capital, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) sits even farther from the shores of the Baltic Sea, adding a handful of miles to your journey.

The local trains are a popular option to cover the distance between Berlin and Warnemünde, and to get from BER to Berlin’s city center. Your cruise line will also very likely offer a transfer option, so be sure to take advantage of this if you’d rather avoid a long and costly taxi ride.

12. Near: Barcelona

As one of the main gateways for Mediterranean cruises , Barcelona stands out as being home to Europe’s biggest and busiest cruise port. Luckily, the city’s Josep Tarradellas-El Prat International Airport sits just south of the city center, some 17 km (10.5 miles) away from Barcelona’s cruise port .

While not a tiny distance, it can be reasonably covered in under 30 minutes. Cruise transfers, taxis and ride share services are a commonly used and easy option to get to and from the airport. Public transportation is also available, but it involves a combination of trains and buses that can effectively double your commute time and will prove difficult to manage with luggage. Our advice: book a transfer, or take a taxi or rideshare.

13. Far: Rome (Civitavecchia)

Cruising or flying to Rome can feel a bit like false advertising. The Italian capital’s cruise port is located in Civitavecchia , a municipality that technically belongs to the wider città metropolitana di Roma Capitale (Metropolitan City of Rome Capital), but it’s actually 70 km (43 miles) northwest of Rome’s city center. Similarly, Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino International Airport (FCO) lies about 30 km (19 miles) from the Eternal City.

What’s more, FCO and Civitavecchia are about 65 km (40 miles) away from each other, translating into an hour commute for cruisers getting to or coming from their ship.

Roma Ciampino , the city’s secondary airport, is only 8 miles away from the Italian capital, but is also a much smaller facility that caters primarily to low-cost carriers within Europe like Ryanair. It’s also farther from Civitavecchia, about 85 km away (53 miles).

Bottom line: budget time to reach FCO when disembarking your cruise ship. The drive is lengthy, the airport chaotic on the best of days. Do yourself a favor and leave lots of time – or better yet, hop the nearby express train in Civitavecchia for a post-cruise stay in Rome.

14. Far: Athens (Piraeus)

Legend has it that back in 490 BC, a herald named Pheidippides ran from the village of Marathon to Athens without stopping to deliver the news of an important victory over a Persian army. The distance covered by the Greek messenger -- 42.195 km or 26 miles and 385 yards – has since become the official definition of the marathon foot race.

What’s no legend is that traveling from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Piraeus Cruise Port is longer than a marathon, as the distance between both transportation hubs edges closer to 50 km (31 miles). Therefore, you’ll need to budget anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour to cover this distance comfortably – more if you’re trying to reach ATH in traffic.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Travel | Carnival doles out more details on new Bahamas…

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Travel | booms, sirens in israel after iran launches ballistic missiles, drones in unprecedented attack, things to do, subscriber only, travel | carnival doles out more details on new bahamas destination.

MIAMI BEACH — Carnival Cruise Line has released another round of updates on what travelers can expect when its new private destination Grand Bahama Celebration Key opens.

Debuting in summer 2025, the port of call will be welcoming ships from Florida ports Port Canaveral, PortMiami, Tampa and Jacksonville as well as six other U.S. ports.

The 369-acre site less than 20 miles east of Freeport will be the first dedicated to Carnival Cruise Line, although Carnival ships have used sister line destinations Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay for years.

The largest port construction project in the line’s history will be carved into five segments the company calls portals, and Carnival released details about the third one tied to retail, an artisan village called Lokono Cove.

Named in deference to the native Lucayan language, “lokono” means “the people.” It was the winning selection from Grand Bahamas resident Deidre Rahming, who was on hand in Miami Beach with an entourage from the Bahamian government on Tuesday at the Seatrade Cruise Global conference.

She received a check for $5,000 from Carnival and a future day pass for the resort, which won’t normally be open to visitors from the island. The line says at least 300 jobs will be generated for locals serving the cruise guests.

Lokono Cove will have kiosks and stores alongside “an authentic Bahamian artisan market” showcasing local craftsmanship, according to Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. Beyond the items for sale, the space will have music and murals to enhance the space, and local food.

“Lokono Cove will be a treasure trove – a place for our guests to immerse themselves in the spirit of the Bahamas and find locally inspired keepsakes, symbols of paradise they can share with loved ones, or cherish for themselves for years to come,” said Duffy said/ “Honoring the beauty and culture of the Bahamas is integral to our plans for Celebration Key, and that will be on display throughout Lokono Cove.”

The space also will be the excursion gateway for visitors to explore Grand Bahama.

It’s the third name drop by Carnival following the reveal of welcome area Paradise Plaza and adult-friendly area Calypso Lagoon. The final two space names and details, which will be a family-friendly area and an adults-only private area, will be revealed later.

The site will also have a south-facing mile-long beachfront expanse and massive freshwater inland lagoon the line says is the largest in the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Paradise Plaza features a rainbow-colored walkway through a sunshine entranceway with a 10-story “Suncastle” as a centerpiece. The welcome area is the place to book the day’s activities including cabanas, water sports and shore excursions. The area will also feature a Bahamian-themed fountain and ice cream shop.

Calypso Cove is the name of an adult-friendly area coming to Carnival's Celebration Key on Grand Bahama island when it opens in summer 2026. (Carnival Cruise Line)

This image shows cabanas within Calypso Cove, an adult-friendly area coming to Carnival's Celebration Key on Grand Bahama island when it opens in summer 2026. (Carnival Cruise Line)

Calypso Lagoon falls just to the west, home to the sport court and freshwater lagoon and lounging options galore. It’s home to a bar with 50 swings that let visitors dip their feet into the water, and just one of many bars serving the space and two full-service restaurants and other casual snack shacks. And adults-only area of the portal will feature a swim-up bar with a DJ, food trucks and more lounging options.

Future expansion will build beyond the five portals including the construction of a water park.

The port of call will open with one dock capable of handling its largest ships, the 6,000-passenger Excel class, including Port Canaveral-based Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration out of Miami.

The line announced this year a $100 million plan to expand that with a second dock so that it could handle up to four such ships beginning in 2026. That expansion, which grows the line’s investment to $600 million so far, means it expects nearly 4 million passengers to visit the site annually by 2028, an average of 11,000 visitors every day. For now, it has more than 500 itineraries planned among 18 ships available to book.

Other U.S. ports visiting the new site are Galveston, Texas; Baltimore; Norfolk, Virginia; Mobile, Alabama, Charleston, S.C. and New Orleans.

“As is fitting for our plans for Grand Bahama island, our vision for Celebration Key is quite grand, and we’re already thinking about the next phase of expansion and development,” said Duffy when the pier expansion was announced. “Building the second pier now allows us to implement growth plans and build itineraries with certainty, and signals to the local community just how important this development is to Carnival Cruise Line and the future of the island.”

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1 dead, several injured in Honolulu after shuttle bus crashes outside cruise terminal

One person has died and multiple people were injured in a shuttle bus crash in Honolulu , Hawaii on Friday.

"Nine Carnival Miracle guests were hit by a shuttle bus in the transportation area outside the Honolulu cruise terminal on Friday morning," Matt Lupoli, senior manager of the Carnival Cruise Line , told USA TODAY. "Sadly, one guest has died from her injuries. She was traveling with her husband, who was also injured and is expected to recover."

The shuttle bus crashed into pedestrians and two concrete barriers at the terminal. The shuttle bus driver mistakenly stepped on the gas pedal instead of the break when they attempted to stop the bus from moving, Hawaii News Now reported.

All of the victims were taken to local hospitals and are being treated for their injuries. The victims are in different conditions ranging from serious to stable, the news outlet said.

"Members of the Carnival Care Team are assisting the guests. Our thoughts are with the guests affected and their loved ones," Lupoli said.

USA TODAY has reached out to the  Honolulu Police Department and the Honolulu Emergency Medical Services for comment.

1 dead, 13 injured: After man crashes truck into Texas Department of Public Safety building

Eyewitnesses share their experience after the Honolulu shuttle bus crash, reports state

Eyewitness told KITV Island News that the relaxing Friday morning turned deadly after the shuttle bus crash.

"We heard the tire of a vehicle screeching," Lillian Le, a visitor from Denver told the broadcast station. "We looked and it was a bus running over people and hit against a wall."

An employee at the complex said he has never experienced this before.

"We saw the first responders coming, it was substantial, probably about 10 a.m., four or five ambulances, two fire trucks, ten cop cars, looked pretty bad - it's really distressing," Mark Elwell, an employee at the complex wher the accident occurred. "I've worked here 21 years, I've never seen anything to this magnitude, really sad to see, obviously people were hurt pretty bad to be taken away by ambulance."

Jessica Lani Rich, a visitor at the Aloha Society of Hawaii told KITV Island News that the woman who died was celebrating her 46th wedding anniversary with her husband.

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X @forbesfineest.