What Cruise Lines Leave from New York Top Picks for 2026

Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival, offer exciting departures from New York City in 2024. These top picks provide a range of itineraries—from short getaways to Caribbean voyages and transatlantic crossings—all launching from the convenient Manhattan or Brooklyn terminals. With modern ships, diverse onboard experiences, and easy access, sailing from the Big Apple has never been more appealing.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line: Offers budget-friendly, fun-focused voyages from NYC to the Caribbean and Bahamas.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Flexible itineraries with diverse destinations, including Bermuda and Canada.
• Royal Caribbean: Features innovative ships and longer cruises to Europe and the Southern Caribbean.
• MSC Cruises: Affordable luxury with modern vessels sailing to the Caribbean and Canada.
• Holland America Line: Premium, relaxed cruises ideal for exploring New England and Alaska.
• Disney Cruise Line: Family-friendly magic with seasonal sailings to the Bahamas and Disney’s private island.

What Cruise Lines Leave from New York? Top Picks for 2024

New York City, the vibrant heart of the East Coast, isn’t just a destination for Broadway shows, world-class museums, and iconic skyline views. It’s also a premier departure point for unforgettable cruise adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, setting sail from the Big Apple offers a unique blend of convenience, excitement, and endless possibilities. From luxury liners to family-friendly voyages, cruise lines leaving from New York cater to every traveler’s dream itinerary—be it a quick getaway to Bermuda, a transatlantic journey to Europe, or a multi-week exploration of the Caribbean.

With the 2024 cruise season shaping up to be one of the most dynamic yet, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Cruise lines have expanded their fleets, introduced new itineraries, and enhanced onboard experiences to meet growing demand. Departing from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal or Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, passengers can enjoy seamless access to some of the world’s most sought-after destinations without the hassle of long-haul flights. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the top cruise lines that depart from New York, highlight must-book itineraries, and provide insider tips to help you choose the perfect voyage. Whether you’re chasing sunsets in the tropics or the charm of European port cities, your next adventure begins right here in New York.

Top Cruise Lines Departing from New York in 2024

Several major cruise lines operate regular departures from New York City, offering a diverse range of ships, itineraries, and onboard experiences. Each line brings its own flavor, from all-inclusive luxury to budget-friendly family fun. Below are the leading cruise lines that call New York home in 2024, along with their standout features and popular routes.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising at Its Finest

Norwegian Cruise Line is a top contender for New York departures, known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept—no assigned dining times, flexible schedules, and a wide variety of dining and entertainment options. The Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Breakaway are frequent visitors to the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, offering 7- to 14-night voyages.

• Popular Itineraries: Bermuda (7 nights), Canada & New England (7-10 nights), Caribbean (10-14 nights)
• Onboard Highlights: Broadway-style shows, go-kart racetrack, multiple pools, and over 20 dining venues including specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Teppanyaki
• Best For: Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy flexibility and vibrant nightlife

Pro Tip: Book a Bermuda cruise during peak summer (June–August) for the best weather, or opt for a shoulder season (May or September) to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices.

Royal Caribbean International: Innovation and Adventure

Royal Caribbean consistently ranks among the most innovative cruise lines, and its New York departures are no exception. The Anthem of the Seas, a Quantum-class ship, sails regularly from Manhattan, offering high-tech amenities and thrilling activities.

• Popular Itineraries: 7-night Bermuda, 9-night Canada & New England, 12-night Southern Caribbean
• Onboard Highlights: North Star observation capsule, robotic bartenders, skydiving simulator, FlowRider surf simulator, and a full-size ice rink
• Best For: Active travelers, families with teens, and tech-savvy cruisers

Insider Insight: The Anthem of the Seas features a virtual balcony in interior staterooms—perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want ocean views.

Celebrity Cruises: Upscale and Sophisticated

For travelers seeking a more refined experience, Celebrity Cruises delivers luxury without pretension. The Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Eclipse offer seasonal departures from Brooklyn and Manhattan, focusing on longer, destination-rich itineraries.

• Popular Itineraries: 10-night Canada & New England, 12-night Bermuda & Eastern Caribbean, 14-night transatlantic crossings
• Onboard Highlights: Michelin-inspired dining at Qsine, rooftop terrace with lawn club, spa sanctuary, and modern staterooms with eXhale bedding
• Best For: Couples, foodies, and travelers who appreciate elegant ambiance and curated experiences

Pro Tip: Upgrade to Celebrity’s Retreat for access to a private lounge, priority boarding, and a dedicated concierge.

Cunard Line: Timeless Elegance and Transatlantic Grandeur

For a truly classic cruise experience, Cunard Line stands out with its iconic Queen Mary 2, the only ocean liner offering regular transatlantic crossings from New York to Southampton, England. This 7-night voyage is a bucket-list journey for many.

• Popular Itineraries: 7-night Transatlantic Crossing, 10-night Canada & New England, 14-night Northern Europe

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• Onboard Highlights: Royal Court Theatre, planetarium, afternoon tea, formal nights, and a world-class spa
• Best For: History buffs, luxury travelers, and those seeking a traditional, refined cruise atmosphere

Insider Insight: The Queen Mary 2 sails year-round from New York, with transatlantic voyages typically running from April to October. Book early—these crossings sell out fast.

Holland America Line: Classic Cruising with a Modern Twist

Holland America Line offers a more relaxed, traditional cruise experience with a focus on destination immersion. The Zaandam and Volendam frequently depart from New York for longer itineraries.

• Popular Itineraries: 12-night Canada & New England, 14-night Bermuda & Southern Caribbean, 21-night Grand Atlantic

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• Onboard Highlights: Culinary arts center, BBC Earth in Concert, Explorations Central (destination-focused programming), and spacious staterooms
• Best For: Mature travelers, culture enthusiasts, and cruisers who value enrichment over high-octane entertainment

Pro Tip: Holland America offers excellent shore excursion packages with local guides and exclusive access to cultural sites.

Best Itineraries from New York: Where Can You Sail?

One of the biggest advantages of cruising from New York is the variety of destinations within easy reach. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or an extended journey, there’s an itinerary to match your travel style and schedule. Below are the top cruise routes from New York in 2024, each offering unique experiences and seasonal highlights.

Bermuda: The Perfect 7-Night Getaway

Bermuda is one of the most popular destinations for New York departures, offering turquoise waters, pink-sand beaches, and British colonial charm. Most 7-night itineraries include two full days in Bermuda (typically at Kings Wharf or St. George’s), giving you ample time to explore.

• Best Time to Go: May–September (peak season), with May and September offering fewer crowds and lower prices
• Must-Do Activities: Snorkel at Tobacco Bay, tour the Royal Naval Dockyard, visit the Crystal Caves, and enjoy a rum swizzle at the Swizzle Inn
• Top Ships: Norwegian Escape, Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas, Celebrity Summit

Insider Tip: Pack a light jacket—Bermuda can be windy in the evenings, even in summer.

Canada & New England: Fall Foliage and Coastal Beauty

For nature lovers and photographers, the Canada & New England cruise is a seasonal favorite. These itineraries run from late September to early November, showcasing stunning fall foliage and historic coastal towns.

• Typical Ports: Boston, Bar Harbor, Portland, Saint John (Bay of Fundy), Halifax, Quebec City
• Highlights: Whale watching in Bar Harbor, exploring Acadia National Park, visiting historic lighthouses, and tasting fresh lobster rolls
• Best Time to Go: Late September to mid-October for peak foliage
• Top Ships: Norwegian Breakaway, Celebrity Eclipse, Holland America’s Zaandam

Pro Tip: Book a shore excursion to Quebec City—it feels like a slice of Europe without crossing the Atlantic.

Caribbean: Sun, Sand, and Island Vibes

For a tropical escape, New York offers direct access to the Caribbean via longer cruises (10–14 nights). These voyages often include multiple islands, giving you a diverse taste of the region.

• Typical Ports: San Juan (Puerto Rico), St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Nassau, Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay (private island)
• Highlights: Beach hopping in St. Thomas, snorkeling in St. Maarten, exploring Old San Juan, and relaxing on private island beaches
• Best Time to Go: November–April (dry season), though summer cruises can offer lower prices
• Top Ships: Norwegian Escape, Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas, Celebrity Eclipse

Insider Insight: Cruises from New York to the Caribbean often include a day at sea to cross the Gulf Stream—perfect for enjoying onboard amenities.

Transatlantic Crossings: A Journey Across the Pond

For a truly epic adventure, consider a transatlantic crossing from New York to Europe. These 7-night voyages on the Queen Mary 2 offer a nostalgic, elegant experience.

• Route: New York → Southampton (England), with optional stops in Halifax or Boston
• Highlights: Full days at sea with gourmet dining, enrichment lectures, ballroom dancing, and a formal “White Star Service” experience
• Best Time to Go: April–October (avoid winter storms)
• Top Ships: Cunard’s Queen Mary 2

Pro Tip: Use your time at sea to unplug and recharge—bring a good book, attend a lecture, or simply enjoy the vast Atlantic views.

Northern Europe and the British Isles

Longer itineraries (12–14 nights) from New York can reach Northern Europe, including the British Isles, Iceland, and the Norwegian fjords. These voyages are ideal for history and culture lovers.

• Typical Ports: London, Dublin, Edinburgh, Reykjavik, Bergen, Oslo
• Highlights: Visiting castles, exploring Viking history, and experiencing Nordic cuisine
• Best Time to Go: June–August (longer daylight, milder weather)
• Top Ships: Celebrity Eclipse, Holland America’s Volendam, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2

Cruise Terminals in New York: Where to Board

New York City has two primary cruise terminals, each with its own advantages. Knowing which terminal your ship departs from is crucial for planning transportation and arrival logistics.

Manhattan Cruise Terminal (Pier 88 & 90)

Located on the west side of Manhattan at 12th Avenue and West 48th Street, this is the most popular departure point for major cruise lines.

• Access: Easily reachable by taxi, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), subway (A/C/E to 50th St), or car (on-site parking available)
• Terminal Features: Modern check-in areas, baggage handling, security screening, and waiting lounges
• Ships Serving: Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Cunard, Holland America
• Proximity to Attractions: Just minutes from Times Square, Central Park, and Hudson Yards—ideal for a pre-cruise stay

Insider Tip: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure to allow time for check-in, security, and boarding. The terminal can get crowded during peak season.

Brooklyn Cruise Terminal (Pier 12, Red Hook)

Located in Red Hook, Brooklyn, this terminal is used primarily by Celebrity Cruises and some seasonal departures from Cunard and Holland America.

• Access: Accessible by taxi, rideshare, or car (limited public transit options; consider a shuttle or private transfer)
• Terminal Features: Spacious check-in area, ample parking, and scenic views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan
• Ships Serving: Celebrity Summit, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 (select voyages), Holland America’s Zaandam
• Proximity to Attractions: Close to the Brooklyn Waterfront, IKEA, and the historic Red Hook neighborhood

Pro Tip: If you’re staying in Brooklyn, this terminal is convenient. Otherwise, allow extra time for travel from Manhattan (30–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic).

Both terminals offer valet parking and long-term parking options, but rates vary. Consider booking parking in advance through the terminal’s website or third-party services like SpotHero.

Tips for Booking and Preparing for Your New York Cruise

Booking a cruise from New York is exciting, but proper preparation ensures a smooth and stress-free experience. Here are essential tips to help you plan like a pro.

Book Early for Best Deals and Cabin Selection

Cruise lines release itineraries 12–18 months in advance, and the best cabins (balconies, suites, forward/aft views) sell out quickly. Early booking also locks in lower fares and allows you to take advantage of early-bird promotions.

• When to Book: 6–12 months ahead for standard itineraries; 12+ months for transatlantic or holiday cruises
• Look For: “Free at Sea” deals (NCL), “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” (Royal Caribbean), or “All-Inclusive” packages (Celebrity)

Choose the Right Cabin Type

Your cabin can make or break your cruise experience. Consider your budget, needs, and itinerary when selecting.

• Balcony Cabins: Ideal for Bermuda and Caribbean—great for private sunsets and fresh air
• Interior Cabins: Budget-friendly; consider a virtual balcony (Royal Caribbean) for a simulated ocean view
• Suites: Best for longer voyages (e.g., transatlantic), with extra space, perks, and priority services

Packing Smart for a New York Departure

New York’s weather can be unpredictable, and you’ll likely experience multiple climates on your cruise.

• Essentials: Formal wear (for elegant nights), swimwear, sunscreen, light layers, rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes
• For Canada & New England: Warm sweaters, gloves, and a windproof jacket
• For Transatlantic: Evening gowns, tuxedos, and formal accessories

Pro Tip: Use packing cubes to organize clothes and save space in your suitcase.

Arrival and Embarkation Day Tips

• Check-in Online: Most cruise lines allow online check-in 30 days before departure—do it early to select boarding times
• Arrive Early: Aim to be at the terminal by 11:00 AM to avoid long lines
• Bring Documentation: Passport, cruise documents, boarding pass, and any required health forms
• Use Luggage Tags: Attach your cruise line’s luggage tags before arriving at the terminal

Maximize Your Time in Port

Don’t waste precious port time waiting in lines. Pre-book shore excursions through your cruise line or reputable third-party providers. Alternatively, explore independently with a map or app (e.g., Citymapper, Google Maps).

Comparison Table: Top Cruise Lines from New York (2024)

Cruise Line	Flagship Ship	Best For	Popular Itinerary	Onboard Highlight	Price Range (7-Night, Per Person)
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Escape	Families, nightlife lovers	Bermuda (7 nights)	Go-kart racetrack, Broadway shows	$1,200–$2,000
Royal Caribbean	Anthem of the Seas	Active travelers, teens	Canada & New England (9 nights)	North Star, skydiving simulator	$1,500–$2,500
Celebrity Cruises	Celebrity Summit	Couples, foodies	Caribbean (12 nights)	Qsine dining, rooftop terrace	$1,800–$3,000
Cunard Line	Queen Mary 2	Luxury travelers, history buffs	Transatlantic (7 nights)	Planetarium, formal nights	$2,500–$4,500
Holland America	Zaandam	Mature travelers, culture seekers	Canada & New England (12 nights)	BBC Earth in Concert, culinary classes	$1,600–$2,800

Final Thoughts: Why Cruise from New York?

Cruising from New York City offers a seamless, exciting start to your vacation. With world-class terminals, diverse itineraries, and a wide range of cruise lines to choose from, you can tailor your journey to match your interests, budget, and travel style. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing week in Bermuda, a cultural deep dive in Quebec City, or a once-in-a-lifetime transatlantic crossing, New York provides the perfect launchpad.

As 2024 unfolds, cruise lines are investing in new ships, enhanced amenities, and eco-friendly technologies, making the experience more enjoyable than ever. From the adrenaline-pumping thrills of Royal Caribbean to the timeless elegance of Cunard, there’s a ship and itinerary waiting for you. So pack your bags, book your cabin, and get ready to sail from the city that never sleeps to the vacation of your dreams. Your next adventure is just a boarding pass away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines leave from New York in 2024?

Top cruise lines departing from New York in 2024 include Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Cunard. These operators offer diverse itineraries to the Caribbean, Canada, Bermuda, and Europe from Manhattan or Brooklyn terminals.

Which NYC cruise lines offer the best short getaways?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line are ideal for quick 3-5 day trips from New York, with popular routes to Bermuda and the Bahamas. Both lines feature frequent departures and budget-friendly pricing for weekend escapes.

Do any luxury cruise lines sail from New York?

Yes, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 offers transatlantic luxury voyages from Brooklyn, while Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas provide premium all-inclusive options. These lines cater to travelers seeking high-end amenities and longer itineraries.

What cruise lines leave from New York for European trips?

Royal Caribbean and Cunard operate seasonal Europe cruises from NYC, including transatlantic crossings and Mediterranean repositioning sailings. Norwegian Cruise Line also offers select summer voyages to Iceland and Northern Europe.

Are there family-friendly cruise lines from New York?

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line lead with kid-friendly amenities like water parks, character meetups, and dedicated youth programs. Both lines sail from Manhattan/Brooklyn to destinations like the Caribbean and Bermuda.

Which cruise lines depart from New York during winter?

Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line maintain winter schedules from NYC, focusing on Caribbean and Florida sailings. Royal Caribbean also offers select holiday cruises, avoiding the cold with tropical itineraries.