Cruise Ports: New York's cruise ports
Stepping off your cruise ship into the New York City metropolitan area is an exhilarating experience. With so much to see and do across its vibrant boroughs and iconic landmarks, maximising your limited time in this incredible city is crucial. Whether you're drawn to towering skyscrapers, world-class museums, or charming neighborhood gems, New York City offers a whirlwind of possibilities for an unforgettable port day adventure.
know before you go
cruise port locations
New York City and the surrounding New York Harbour area are serviced by three main cruise ports, catering to a wide range of cruise lines and itineraries.
Manhattan Cruise Terminal
- Location: Situated on the Hudson River, on the west side of Manhattan, between West 46th and 54th Streets. This prime location places it just a few blocks west of Times Square, in the heart of Manhattan.
- Facilities: This modern terminal boasts multiple piers (Piers 88 and 90 primarily, with Pier 92 as an overflow), capable of accommodating several large cruise vessels simultaneously. It offers modern amenities including check-in desks, security, restrooms, snack bars, newsstands, and dedicated parking atop the piers. Separate levels for embarking and disembarking passengers help reduce congestion.
- Accessibility: Offers convenient access to Manhattan's attractions via public transport (bus and subway) and readily available taxis/rideshares. It's close to major airports like LaGuardia and Newark.
- Serves: Popular lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America, Cunard, Princess Cruises, and others frequently use this terminal.
Sailing in and out of the Manhattan Cruise Terminal was an absolute bucket-list experience. The views during sail away and upon return were unlike any other, offering breathtaking panoramas of the city that you simply can't get elsewhere. I'd highly recommend choosing this terminal if you ever get the opportunity! Its close proximity and excellent transport links make getting to and from the heart of Manhattan incredibly easy. Plus, we even got a unique view of the Intrepid Museum right next to our ship, as seen in photo three below (right). All other photos on this page were taken during our sunrise sail into NYC from our cruise ship balcony.
Brooklyn Cruise Terminal
- Location: Located in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn, across from Governors Island. It offers iconic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty upon departure and arrival.
- Facilities: This terminal, on Pier 12, was renovated and includes a modern terminal building with check-in, restrooms, and customs facilities. It was the first shore power system for cruise ships on the East Coast of the US. It typically accommodates one large ship at a time.
- Accessibility: Accessible by taxi/rideshare. While not as directly connected to subway lines as Manhattan, public buses serve the area, and taxis are available. It's a convenient option for those wishing to explore Brooklyn's vibrant neighbourhoods before or after their cruise.
- Serves: Frequently hosts lines like Cunard and Princess Cruises.
Cape Liberty Cruise Port (Bayonne, New Jersey)
- Location: Situated in Bayonne, New Jersey, within the Port of New York and New Jersey. While technically not in NYC, it serves the New York metropolitan area and is a major departure point.
- Facilities: A modern facility capable of handling large cruise ships, offering necessary passenger services. It provides stunning views of the New York City skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.
- Accessibility: Primarily accessed by car or taxi/rideshare, as direct public transport links require transfers. However, it's relatively close to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Note that pedestrian access into the port is restricted, only motor vehicles are allowed.
- Serves: Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises are the primary cruise lines operating from Cape Liberty.
Plan Ahead
- Prioritise Your Must-Sees: The New York City metropolitan area offers an overwhelming array of attractions. To maximise your limited time, pre-plan and prioritise 2-3 key experiences that are non-negotiable for your visit.
- Factor in Travel Time: New York City traffic and public transport can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. Always allow ample time for transportation, particularly when planning your return to the ship, regardless of which port you're sailing from.
- Utilise Public Transport: New York's subway and bus systems are extensive. Consider purchasing a MetroCard (available from machines in subway stations) for easy access to public transit. Check the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) website for more details on routes and purchasing locations.
- Explore on Foot: While the city is vast, many neighbourhoods are highly walkable. Areas around the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, for instance, put you within easy walking distance of Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Broadway. From the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, you can explore the vibrant Red Hook neighbourhood.
- Consider a Guided Tour: To cover a lot of ground efficiently and gain valuable insights, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour or a specialised walking tour can be an excellent option. Many 'free' walking tours operate on a tip basis (typically $10-$15 per person), offering a flexible and engaging way to explore different parts of the city.
- Check Attraction Hours and Closures: Always verify the operating hours and any potential closures for museums and attractions you plan to visit, as schedules can vary by day and season.
navigating the city
- Be Aware Persistent Taxi Drivers (around the Cruise Port): We encountered persistent taxi drivers upon disembarking at the NYC cruise ports. If you don't need a taxi, politely decline and continue walking.
- Be Aware of Crowds: Manhattan is always busy. Be patient and prepared for crowds, especially at popular attractions.
- Utilise Apps: Download apps for subway navigation, restaurant recommendations, and city maps.
- Stay Central: If possible, focus your itinerary on a specific area of Manhattan to minimise travel time. If it's your first time in NYC, this area is ideal. Many key tourist attractions are conveniently located here.
- Be Mindful of Your Belongings: Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
- Learn Basic New York Etiquette: Be aware of pedestrian traffic flow and avoid blocking sidewalks.
- Be Aware of Sidewalk Scams: When navigating the bustling streets of New York City, it's wise to be aware of common sidewalk scams, such as aggressive CD "giveaways" or "friendship bracelet" offers, which often pressure tourists into paying for unwanted items. We found the best way to handle these situations, is to minimise interaction, politely decline, and continue walking.
NY Neighbourhoods
Manhattan (Lower, Mid, Uptown)
- Financial District (FiDi): Home to Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Bustling by day, quieter at night.
- Greenwich Village: Historic, charming, and bohemian, known for its tree-lined streets, jazz clubs, Off-Broadway theatres, and a relaxed, creative vibe.
- SoHo & TriBeCa: Trendy and upscale, with cobblestone streets, art galleries, high-end boutiques, and loft apartments in converted industrial buildings.
- Midtown: The quintessential NYC, featuring Times Square, Broadway theatres, Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building, and world-class shopping.
- Upper West Side/East Side: Residential and elegant, bordering Central Park. The West Side is known for cultural institutions like the Museum of Natural History, while the East Side is more upscale with boutiques and galleries.
- Harlem: Rich in African-American history and culture, with beautiful brownstones, gospel churches, and the iconic Apollo Theatre.
brooklyn
- DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass): Famous for its stunning waterfront views of Manhattan, converted warehouse buildings, and vibrant arts scene.
- Williamsburg: A trendy, lively neighbourhood known for its independent boutiques, buzzing nightlife, diverse restaurants, and a strong creative community.
- Park Slope: A beautiful, family-friendly area with brownstones, Prospect Park, and a relaxed, neighbourhood feel.
Queens: Long Island City
Once an industrial zone, Long Island City (LIC) in Queens has transformed into a dynamic urban hub. It's now celebrated for its modern art galleries, including MoMA PS1, and vibrant street art. LIC also boasts stunning waterfront parks offering iconic NYC skyline views from places like Gantry Plaza State Park, complete with the famous Pepsi-Cola sign. This artistic and scenic landscape is perfectly complemented by a thriving culinary scene, featuring trendy eateries, craft breweries, and diverse restaurants. This unique blend of industrial heritage, artistic innovation, breathtaking views, and a lively food scene makes LIC a captivating neighbourhood.
The Bronx
Beyond the typical tourist trails, The Bronx proudly hosts what many New Yorkers consider the city's "real Little Italy" on Arthur Avenue. This vibrant enclave offers an incredibly authentic Italian-American experience, rich with generations of family-run businesses. Here, you'll discover a treasure trove of traditional Italian delis overflowing with imported meats and cheeses, aromatic bakeries serving fresh cannoli and pastries, and a wide array of restaurants dishing out classic, hearty Italian fare that tastes like nonna's cooking. What truly sets it apart is its genuine, unpretentious atmosphere, providing a delightful escape from the more commercialised, tourist-heavy versions of Little Italy elsewhere in NYC. It's a place where the community thrives, and visitors can immerse themselves in genuine Italian culture and cuisine.
Staten island
For a cruise stop in New York City, Staten Island offers an easily accessible and highly rewarding experience, primarily centred around its St. George neighbourhood. This area is famously home to the Staten Island Ferry terminal, which provides the quintessential New York experience for free. The iconic ferry ride itself offers unparalleled, sweeping views of the lower Manhattan skyline, Governors Island, Ellis Island, and, most notably, a fantastic close-up perspective of the Statue of Liberty. Once ashore in St. George, visitors can explore attractions such as the Staten Island September 11th Memorial, the Staten Island Greenbelt, or catch a Staten Island Yankees baseball game (if in season), all within easy reach of the terminal, making it a fantastic and cost-effective way to soak in some of New York's most famous sights without venturing deep into the city's bustling core.
Enjoy!
- Embrace the Energy: New York City has a unique and vibrant energy. Soak it in and enjoy the experience.
- Take Advantage of Free Activities: Central Park, Times Square (for people-watching), and walking across the Brooklyn Bridge are free and iconic experiences.
- Find a Rooftop View: Many rooftop bars and restaurants offer stunning views of the city skyline.
- Set a Return Time Alert: Make sure that you are back to your transport with plenty of time to spare, so you don't miss the ship.
- Have a Backup Plan: New York weather can be unpredictable. Have indoor and outdoor options.
- Consider a Water Taxi: A water taxi can offer great views and a different way of getting around.
- Check for Broadway Matinees: If time allows, a matinee Broadway show can be a great use of time.
- Visit a Deli: A New York deli is a must try for a quick meal.
- People Watch: New York is a great place to people watch, find a park bench and enjoy the show.
- Sailing In & Out of NYC: This truly is a bucket list experience. We were genuinely surprised by the breathtaking city views from the water. It offers a unique perspective of this world-famous skyline, complete with a memorable sail past the Statue of Liberty.
Last Updated: 2 June '25
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