What Cruise Lines Depart From New York Top Picks Revealed

Several top cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival, regularly depart from New York City, offering voyages to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, and Europe. With convenient access from Manhattan and Brooklyn terminals, these cruise lines provide a seamless start to unforgettable vacations.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises offers modern luxury sailings from NYC to Bermuda and the Caribbean.
• Norwegian Cruise Line provides flexible itineraries, including Bahamas and Canada departures.
• Royal Caribbean features large ships with diverse routes, including transatlantic options.
• Cunard Line delivers classic ocean liner experiences, including iconic NYC to UK voyages.
• MSC Cruises combines affordability with seasonal Caribbean and Canada/New England sailings.
• Book early for best cabin selection and pricing on popular summer and fall departures.

Why Cruising From New York Is a Game-Changer

When most people think of embarking on a cruise, images of sun-drenched ports in Florida or the Caribbean come to mind. But did you know that one of the world’s most iconic cities—New York City—is also a major departure point for luxury cruises, transatlantic voyages, and scenic coastal getaways? Cruising from New York offers a unique blend of urban energy, historic charm, and seamless access to some of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, sailing from the Big Apple means you can start your vacation the moment you board—no need to fly to Florida or California. From the glittering skyline of Manhattan to the open Atlantic, New York serves as a gateway to unforgettable maritime adventures.

With multiple terminals, including the bustling Manhattan Cruise Terminal on the Hudson River and the newer Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, New York City has become a premier cruise hub. These state-of-the-art facilities accommodate some of the world’s most renowned cruise lines, offering everything from 3-day getaways to month-long transatlantic crossings. The convenience of departing from a city known for its culture, cuisine, and connectivity makes New York a top choice for travelers across the U.S. and beyond. In this guide, we’ll explore what cruise lines depart from New York, highlight top picks, compare itineraries, and reveal insider tips to help you plan the perfect voyage—no matter your destination or budget.

Top Cruise Lines Departing from New York City

New York City is home to a diverse range of cruise lines, each offering unique experiences tailored to different travel styles. Whether you’re looking for a luxury ocean liner, a family-friendly mega-ship, or a boutique river-style cruise, there’s a departure option that fits your needs. Below are the top cruise lines that regularly sail from New York, along with their standout features and popular itineraries.

1. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – The Freestyle Choice

Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the most frequent operators from New York, known for its Freestyle Cruising concept that allows passengers to dine when and where they want, with no formal seating requirements. NCL’s Norwegian Breakaway, a massive 4,000-passenger vessel, sails from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal on seasonal itineraries to Bermuda, New England, and Canada. The Breakaway features Broadway-caliber shows, a ropes course, multiple pools, and a vibrant waterfront dining promenade.

• Popular Itineraries: 7-day Bermuda (overnight in King’s Wharf), 7-day Canada & New England (Boston, Portland, Bar Harbor)
• Best For: Families, couples, and first-time cruisers who value flexibility and entertainment
• Tip: Book a balcony stateroom for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline as you depart—especially magical at sunset.

2. Royal Caribbean International – Innovation at Sea

Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas (seasonally) call New York home, offering some of the most technologically advanced ships on the water. These vessels feature robotic bars, skydiving simulators, surf machines, and even indoor skydiving. Royal Caribbean sails from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, which is easily accessible via subway, taxi, or rideshare.

• Popular Itineraries: 7-night Bermuda (with overnight stays), 5-night Canada (Halifax, Saint John), 10-night Transatlantic (to Southampton, England)
• Best For: Adventure seekers, families with teens, and tech enthusiasts
• Tip: Take advantage of the SeaPass app to pre-book shows, dining, and excursions—lines can be long on embarkation day.

3. Carnival Cruise Line – Fun for Everyone

Carnival is known for its fun, casual atmosphere and affordable pricing. The Carnival Venezia, a newer ship designed with Italian flair, sails from New York on 7- to 10-day cruises to Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean. With vibrant deck parties, comedy clubs, and a wide range of dining options, Carnival delivers a high-energy vacation experience.

• Popular Itineraries: 7-day Bermuda (with overnight), 8-day Eastern Caribbean (Nassau, San Juan)
• Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, groups of friends, and those seeking a lively onboard vibe
• Tip: Opt for the Cheers! Beverage Package—it includes unlimited soda, beer, wine, and spirits, and pays for itself quickly.

4. Princess Cruises – Elegance and Exploration

Princess Cruises offers a more refined, destination-focused experience. The Regal Princess sails from New York on seasonal transatlantic voyages and repositioning cruises, often en route to or from Europe. Princess is known for its Discovery at SEA program, which includes stargazing, enrichment lectures, and local culinary experiences.

• Popular Itineraries: 10-night Transatlantic to Southampton (with stops in Canada), 12-night British Isles (from Europe, ending in NYC)
• Best For: Mature travelers, couples, and those interested in cultural immersion
• Tip: Book a MedallionClass cruise—the wearable tech enables contactless check-in, room unlocking, and personalized service.

5. Cunard Line – The Transatlantic Icon

For a truly classic ocean liner experience, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is the gold standard. This majestic vessel departs from New York on regular 7-night transatlantic crossings to Southampton, England—the only regularly scheduled transatlantic service in the world. The QM2 offers afternoon tea, formal balls, a planetarium, and a world-class spa.

• Popular Itineraries: 7-night Transatlantic Crossing (NYC to Southampton), 14-night Grand Voyage (with stops in the Azores and Lisbon)
• Best For: History buffs, romantic travelers, and those seeking a traditional cruise experience
• Tip: Pack formal attire—dinner dress codes are strictly enforced, and it’s part of the Cunard charm.

Best Cruise Itineraries from New York

One of the biggest advantages of cruising from New York is the sheer variety of itineraries available—from short getaways to epic ocean crossings. Whether you’re looking for island relaxation, coastal beauty, or European elegance, there’s a route to match your dream vacation.

Bermuda – The Island Getaway

Bermuda is the most popular destination for cruises departing from New York. With its pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and British colonial charm, Bermuda is a perfect 7-day escape. Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival all offer weekly sailings during the spring, summer, and early fall.

• Highlights: Horseshoe Bay Beach, Royal Naval Dockyard, Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, and the Bermuda Aquarium
• Best Time to Go: May–October (peak season), but April and November offer fewer crowds and lower prices
• Insider Tip: Choose an itinerary with an overnight stay in King’s Wharf—you’ll have time to explore beyond the cruise terminal and enjoy the island’s nightlife.

New England & Canada – Coastal Beauty and Fall Foliage

For travelers seeking scenic landscapes and charming coastal towns, the New England & Canada itinerary is a must. These 7- to 10-day cruises typically stop in Boston, Portland, Bar Harbor (Maine), Saint John (New Brunswick), and Halifax (Nova Scotia). The best time to sail is September and October, when the fall foliage is at its peak.

• Highlights: Acadia National Park, Peggy’s Cove, Boston’s Freedom Trail, and the Bay of Fundy
• Best Cruise Lines: Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America (seasonal)
• Insider Tip: Book a shore excursion to a local lobster shack—fresh-caught lobster rolls are a regional specialty you won’t want to miss.

Transatlantic Crossings – The Classic Ocean Voyage

For those with more time and a sense of adventure, transatlantic cruises offer a nostalgic journey across the North Atlantic. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is the only cruise line offering regular 7-night crossings from New York to Southampton, but Royal Caribbean and Princess also offer seasonal repositioning cruises (e.g., from NYC to Europe or vice versa).

• Highlights: Days at sea with enrichment programs, formal nights, and the chance to watch the sunrise over the open ocean
• Best Time to Go: Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–October) for optimal weather and fewer storms
• Insider Tip: Pack layers—temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, and the wind can be strong on deck.

Caribbean & Bahamas – Warm Weather Escapes

While Florida is the usual departure point for Caribbean cruises, several lines now offer seasonal voyages from New York to the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and the Eastern Caribbean. These longer cruises (8–14 days) are ideal for winter getaways when temperatures in NYC drop.

• Highlights: Nassau’s Atlantis Resort, San Juan’s Old Town, St. Thomas’ Magens Bay, and private island stops like CocoCay (Royal Caribbean)
• Best Cruise Lines: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian (seasonal)
• Insider Tip: Look for repositioning cruises—they often offer lower prices and unique ports not on standard itineraries.

European Repositioning Cruises – A Grand Adventure

Several cruise lines reposition their ships from the U.S. East Coast to Europe (and vice versa) each spring and fall. These voyages, often 10–14 days long, include stops in Canada, the Azores, and the Iberian Peninsula before ending in cities like Lisbon, Barcelona, or Southampton.

• Highlights: Sailing past the Statue of Liberty, exploring historic ports like Ponta Delgada, and experiencing European culture
• Best Cruise Lines: Princess, Cunard, Holland America
• Insider Tip: These cruises often include overnight stays in European cities, giving you extra time to explore.

New York Cruise Terminals: Where You’ll Embark

Knowing which terminal your cruise departs from is crucial for planning your journey to the ship. New York has two primary cruise terminals, each with its own advantages and access points.

Manhattan Cruise Terminal (Pier 88 & 90)

Located on the Hudson River at West 48th Street, the Manhattan Cruise Terminal is the most iconic departure point. It serves Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, and some seasonal Royal Caribbean sailings. The terminal is within walking distance of Times Square and Central Park, making it ideal for travelers who want to explore the city before or after their cruise.

• Access: Easily reachable via subway (A/C/E to 42nd St-Port Authority), taxi, rideshare, or private car
• Parking: On-site parking is available but expensive (~$50/day); consider off-site lots or drop-off/pick-up only
• Insider Tip: Arrive early (11 AM–1 PM) to avoid long lines. The terminal offers luggage drop-off and check-in starting at 10 AM.

Brooklyn Cruise Terminal (Red Hook)

Located in Red Hook, Brooklyn, this modern terminal is the primary departure point for Royal Caribbean and some Carnival sailings. While less central than Manhattan, it’s spacious, well-organized, and offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan.

• Access: Take the R subway to Bay Ridge-95th St, then a 15-minute bus or taxi ride; or use rideshare (Uber/Lyft) directly to the terminal
• Parking: Ample on-site parking (~$35/day), with shuttle service to the terminal
• Insider Tip: If you’re driving, use the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal app to pre-register your vehicle and streamline check-in.

What to Expect at the Terminal

Regardless of which terminal you use, the embarkation process typically follows these steps:

1. Check-in & Luggage Drop: Present your ID, passport, and cruise documents. Luggage is tagged and taken to your stateroom.
2. Security Screening: Similar to airport security—no liquids over 3.4 oz, no sharp objects.
3. Boarding Pass & Photo: You’ll receive your cruise card and have a security photo taken.
4. Boarding the Ship: You’ll be called by deck or zone. Once onboard, you can explore, enjoy lunch, and attend the safety drill.

Pro Tip: Download your cruise line’s app before arrival. It often includes real-time updates, boarding times, and digital key access.

Insider Tips for a Smooth New York Cruise Departure

Departing from New York can be an unforgettable experience—but a few smart moves can make it even smoother. Here are expert tips to ensure your cruise starts on the right foot.

Plan Your Arrival Like a Pro

New York traffic can be unpredictable. To avoid stress:

• Arrive at least 3 hours before boarding time (especially on weekends or holidays)
• Use Waze or Google Maps to monitor traffic in real time
• Consider a pre-cruise hotel stay in Midtown or Downtown—many offer cruise shuttle services

Pack Smart for New York’s Climate

Even if you’re heading to warm destinations, New York weather can be chilly, especially in spring or fall. Pack:

• A lightweight jacket or windbreaker for embarkation day
• Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be on your feet a lot)
• Layers—temperatures can vary between terminals, ships, and destinations

Maximize Your Pre-Cruise Time

Why rush to the terminal when you can enjoy the city? Consider:

• Booking a pre-cruise package that includes a hotel night and breakfast
• Exploring nearby attractions: Times Square, Rockefeller Center, or a Hudson River cruise
• Dining at a local favorite—try Joe’s Pizza or Levain Bakery for a true NYC treat

Know the Luggage Rules

Most cruise lines allow two checked bags (50 lbs each) and one carry-on. Remember:

• Label all bags with your name, cruise number, and stateroom number
• Carry essentials (meds, swimwear, passport) in your carry-on—bags may not arrive until evening
• Don’t pack prohibited items: irons, candles, or large bottles of alcohol

Use Public Transit Wisely

If you’re staying in NYC, the subway is the most affordable way to reach the terminals. Use the MTA Subway Time app to plan your route. For Brooklyn, the R train is your best bet. For Manhattan, the A/C/E to 42nd St is ideal.

Comparison of Cruise Lines Departing from New York (2024–2025 Season)

Cruise Line	Ship(s)	Terminal	Popular Itineraries	Best For	Price Range (per person, 7-day)
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Breakaway	Manhattan	Bermuda, Canada & New England	Families, flexibility seekers	$1,000–$2,500
Royal Caribbean	Anthem of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas	Brooklyn	Bermuda, Caribbean, Transatlantic	Adventure lovers, teens	$1,200–$3,000
Carnival Cruise Line	Carnival Venezia	Manhattan	Bermuda, Bahamas	Budget travelers, groups	$700–$1,800
Princess Cruises	Regal Princess	Manhattan	Transatlantic, Europe	Mature travelers, culture seekers	$1,500–$4,000
Cunard Line	Queen Mary 2	Manhattan	Transatlantic Crossing	Romantic, classic cruise fans	$1,800–$5,000

Final Thoughts: Why New York Is a Cruise Departure Dream

Choosing to cruise from New York isn’t just about convenience—it’s about experience. From the moment you step into one of the city’s vibrant cruise terminals, you’re immersed in a world of possibilities. Whether you’re sipping coffee at a Midtown café before boarding, watching the Statue of Liberty fade into the distance, or dancing under the stars on a transatlantic crossing, departing from NYC adds a layer of magic that few other ports can match.

With a wide range of cruise lines, itineraries, and price points, there’s truly something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re drawn to the luxury of Cunard, the energy of Royal Caribbean, or the affordability of Carnival, New York serves as the perfect launchpad for your next adventure. By understanding what cruise lines depart from New York, planning your embarkation wisely, and choosing the right itinerary, you’re setting the stage for a vacation that begins the moment you leave the dock.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your New York cruise today—your next great escape is just a sail away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines depart from New York?

Major cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Princess Cruises regularly depart from New York. Smaller luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Oceania also offer seasonal departures from Manhattan or Brooklyn cruise terminals.

Which NYC cruise terminals do these cruise lines use?

Most what cruise lines depart from New York sail from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal (Pier 88/90) or Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Norwegian and Carnival primarily use Manhattan, while Royal Caribbean splits departures between both locations depending on the ship and itinerary.

Are there year-round cruises from New York?

Yes! Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival offer year-round departures from New York, with Caribbean, Bermuda, and Canada/New England itineraries. Other lines like Royal Caribbean operate seasonal routes, typically from late spring to early fall.

What destinations can I cruise to from NYC?

Popular destinations include Bermuda (7-day trips), the Caribbean (10-14 days), Canada/New England (7-10 days), and even transatlantic voyages to Europe. Some luxury lines also offer repositioning cruises to the Mediterranean or Iceland.

Do any cruise lines depart from New York for short trips?

Absolutely. Carnival and Norwegian offer 4- to 7-day cruises from NYC, including weekend getaways to Bermuda or quick Canada/New England coastal tours. These are perfect for first-time cruisers or those with limited vacation time.

What’s the best cruise line for families departing from NYC?

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are top family-friendly picks, with kid-focused activities, waterparks, and Broadway-style shows. Their New York departures include flexible dining and stroller-friendly ships, making them ideal for multigenerational travel.