Cruises Close To Home  

We have 24 departure ports in the United States. So, you don't have to go far to feel a million miles away.  

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Over 12,000 pages of dynamic, searchable discount cruise information. The equivalent of the entire rich content of the 2009-2010 brochures from dozens of cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney, Costa, Crystal, Windstar, Oceania, Cunard, Orient, Seabourn, Silversea, Radisson ( now known as Regent ), Princess, and Holland America. One of the largest and most complete web based cruise databases on the Internet.

On a cruise, onboard and shore side activities appeal to everyone from the rock climber, to the sun worshiper. Add some unforgettable destinations, with over a hundred different ports and it all adds up to one cruise vacation you'll be telling your friends about for years.


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CLOSE TO HOME CRUISES

Cruising from the United States to exciting destinations has never been more convenient. In this economy, sailing from a U.S. port is one of the best ways to stretch your vacation dollar. With over 25 departure ports to choose from, your family can find the perfect cruise! Choose from hundreds of voyages to destinations like the Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean, Canada/New England, and Mexico, even Hawaii! All with the convenience of a short drive.

There are 25 departure ports in the United States and Canada that are ready to welcome you.

Just click on a port nearest you to start planning your next cruise getaway.


Cruises Close To Home
We have 24 departure ports in the United States.

 So, you don't have to go far to feel a million miles away.

Cruise Direct Online offer you the greatest selection of close to home sailings making vacation planning more convenient and inexpensive.

The Top Six Hot Deals From Close to Home Departure Ports

  • Fort Lauderdale or Miami Departures From $89

  • Los Angeles or San Diego Departures From $169

  • Galveston Departures From $299

  • Orlando or Tampa Departures From $159

  • Seattle Departures From $349

  • New York Departures From $429

  • Click on the city nearest you to find wave-busting deals on the nation's most popular cruise lines.

     
     

     

     

     

    princess, raddison, royal caribbean, carnival,cunard, norwegian,holland america,disney,windstar,crystal and silversea cruises. Book a discount cruise online or speak to a Cruise Travel Advisor. Up-to-the-moment availability and discount prices from Cruise Direct Online.

     


    Cape Liberty Cruise Port

    This New Jersey port is located in the Northeastern part of the state, and less than 10 miles from both Manhattan and Newark. Don't feel like hopping on the NJ Turnpike to gain easy access to the port? Newark International Airport is just 15 minutes away.


    Cruiseport Boston

    Formerly known as the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal, Cruiseport Boston hosts more than 200,000 cruise passengers who take advantage of the New England port during the cruise season each year.

    Taking up the western extremity located on the Massachusetts Bay, Cruiseport Boston is the largest port in Massachusetts, offering cruises from 16 major cruise lines that sail to such island favorites as Aruba and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and some off-the beaten path ports in Iceland and Holland.


    Port Charleston

    As an origination point, a port-of-call and a destination, Port Charleston has consistently ranked high among cruise passengers. This season, cruises are planned for ports throughout the Bahamas, Key West, and Cozumel, Mexico.

    But historic Charleston is more than just a port to many of its passengers; it's a chance to visit a living museum. With the passenger terminal located in the city's Historic District, dozens of shops, restaurants and attractions all within walking distance.

     

    Jacksonville

    Cruise ships sailing from the Jacksonville, Florida port use the St. John's River as the gateway to the Atlantic Ocean.  Cruise lines from Jacksonville sail to Nassau, Bahamas, Freeport and even Key West.


    The Port of New Orleans

    With two passenger cruise terminals perched on the lower bank of the Mississippi River, the Port of New Orleans serves more than 700,000 passengers each year.

    Several cruise lines offer weekly cruises to places such as the Caribbean or Mexico. Add in the French Quarter, world-renowned restaurants, shopping and an art district, all within walking distance of the terminal complex, and you've got two vacations in one.


    The Port of Norfolk

    Officially known as the Half Moon Cruise and Celebration Center, this sate-of-the-art facility in downtown Norfolk, Virginia is much more than a cruise terminal.

    It's also a museum, where passengers can take a look at 400-year-old Jamestown artifacts before boarding one of many cruises to Freeport, Bahamas and Bar Harbor, Maine, or check out one of the nation's largest privately-owned ocean liner collections.


    The Port of Philadelphia

    Imagine this; one day you're enjoying the historical sights of Philadelphia such as the Liberty Bell, the next you're on a cruise ship on your way to, let's say, Wilmstead, Curacao.

    Sound inviting? Then plan a trip leaving from the Port of Philadelphia, which offers week-long cruises to Nassau, Bermuda, and two-week vacations visiting ports in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Dominican Republic.


    The Port of San Francisco
    Stretching more than seven miles along the San Francisco Bay shoreline, the Port of San Francisco hosts as many as 80 cruise ships a year. This year, enjoy trips to ports in Acapulco, as well as Catalina, and even Mazatlan.


    The Port of Seattle

    With new ships and two downtown cruise terminals, boarding a cruise is easier than ever at the Port of Seattle. Passengers are taking note; the port is expecting well over 200 ship visits and more than 754,000 passengers this year alone.

    Whether you choose to spend 3 nights sailing along the Pacific Coast visiting Astoria, Oregon and Vancouver, British Columbia, or spend 18 nights at sea enjoying Acapulco, Mexico, Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala and touring the Panama Canal, you'll love all that the Port of Seattle has to offer.


    The Port of Galveston

    Nestled on the upper Texas coast at the mouth of beautiful Galveston Bay is the Port of Galveston, just 30 minutes away from the open sea.

    This year's cruise schedule includes stops in various ports in Mexico, such as Cozumel, as well as stops at Caribbean ports such as the Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. With more than $35 million invested in the port terminal, passengers can now enjoy a new and improved waiting area, expanded check-in stations with a VIP check-in, making cruising easier than ever.

     

    The Port of Mobile

    As the only deep-water port in Alabama and the 11th largest on the United States, the Port of Mobile has lots to offer when it comes to cruises.

    Located on the Mobile River, the port recently started offering a year-round itinerary to ports in Mexico such as Playa del Carmen, Cozumel and Costa Maya. The port also features a two-story, 66,000 square foot terminal to make getting around easy and convenient.

     

    Following is a description of 25 U.S. departure ports, listed from east to west. Some major lines offer cruises year-round from a particular city, while others have seasonal sailings or just one or two departures.

    Boston

    Massachusetts' capital city is best explored on foot or aboard a trolley. Stroll through 16 historic sites on the Freedom Trail or stop at Cheers Beacon Hill, the restaurant and bar that inspired the television show "Cheers." Across the Charles River, Cambridge is home to Harvard University, the nation's oldest institution of higher education.

    New York City

    Nothing quite compares to sailing into New York Harbor with Lady Liberty standing proudly and the skyscrapers of Manhattan Island filling the horizon. The possibilities are endless in this bustling city, with museums, universities, famous landmarks and world-class entertainment venues. Take in a dazzling Broadway show, experience the energy of Times Square, tour the Metropolitan Museum of Art or visit the Empire State Building.

    Philadelphia

    The birthplace of freedom offers numerous attractions, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Nighttime entertainment abounds on South Street, where intimate jazz, comedy and rock clubs come alive. Clothes and shoes are tax-free here, making shopping another popular activity. .

    Bayonne

    Once home to oil refineries, Bayonne is now a center of business and technology. Highlights include the Bayonne Bridge, more than 15 recreational parks and shopping in the town center. The city is convenient to the amenities of New York City.

    Baltimore


    At Baltimore's Inner Harbor, you can sample fresh seafood from Chesapeake Bay or see underwater creatures up close at the Baltimore Aquarium, home to more than 10,500 sharks, dolphins, stingrays and tropical fish. The Fort McHenry National Monument, birthplace of the national anthem, is open year-round.

    Norfolk

    Discover the city's rich seafaring heritage at Nauticus, the National Maritime Center, which features the Hampton Roads Naval Museum and the USS Wisconsin, the largest and last battleship ever built by the U.S. Navy. Take a walking tour on Cannonball Trail, where 40 historic sites tell the story of Norfolk's past.
    Charleston

    Founded in 1670, Charleston boasts historic churches, forts, homes and estates, including the Boone Hall and Magnolia plantations. Experience this gracious Southern city on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the downtown district or board a tour boat and visit the Fort Sumter National Monument, a Civil War memorial.

    Jacksonville

    Jacksonville's location along the St. Johns River and year-round mild climate provide the ideal setting for outdoor sports like golfing, fishing and kayaking. Shop at Jacksonville Landing, a waterfront marketplace with a variety of shops and restaurants, or visit the city's Zoological Gardens and the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.
    Port Canaveral


    Situated on Florida's Space Coast, this port city is a recreational playground with three waterside parks and miles of fun-filled beaches. The Cove, a retail district on the harbor, offers dining and shopping options. Port Canaveral is within access of Orlando attractions as well as the Kennedy Space Center and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.

    Fort Lauderdale


    Fort Lauderdale's 23 miles of beautiful beaches are perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling and deep-sea fishing. Popular excursions include glass-bottom boat tours over spectacular coral reefs and airboat tours through the Everglades, a subtropical nature preserve.
    Miami

    Sun-kissed beaches, exciting attractions and an array of interesting neighborhoods make Miami a world-class vacation destination. Tour the city's Art Deco Historic District on Rollerblades or shop for the latest fashions on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. The port of Miami is known as the cruise capital of the world, hosting nearly 2 million departing passengers in 2003.

    Tampa

    White-sand beaches and blue-green waters await the thousands of cruise passengers who make their way to Tampa Bay each year. Charter a sunset cruise or experience a heart-pounding thrill ride on one of the many roller coasters at Busch Gardens. Other area favorites include the Florida Aquarium and Ybor City, once known as the cigar capital of the world.

    Mobile

    Situated on Alabama's Gulf Coast, Mobile exudes Southern charm. History buffs will enjoy touring the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park and Fort Conde Museum, a replica of the 18th-century fort, where tour guides fire muskets and cannons. Take a relaxing river cruise through Bellingrath Gardens, a magnificent floral display on more than 65 acres.

    New Orleans

    With its thriving jazz scene and unique Creole heritage, the Big Easy has a culture all its own. New Orleans is well known for its famous hot spots, the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. Feed a hungry alligator on an exciting swamp tour or join other partygoers in celebrating Mardi Gras.

    Galveston

    Surfers, boaters and birders alike are drawn to Galveston's 32 miles of beaches on the Texas Gulf Coast. More than just a resort destination, this city boasts a rich history preserved in hundreds of historic homes and landmarks. Stroll down the Strand, home to quaint shops, restaurants and art galleries, or visit Moody Gardens, where a tropical rain forest is enclosed in a 10-story pyramid.

    Houston

    The fourth-largest city in the nation offers a wealth of cultural and recreational attractions, including NASA's Johnson Space Center and the Houston Zoo. The Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts are among 15 top-notch museums near downtown. Catch performances of the Houston Ballet and the Houston Symphony in the renowned Theater District. The Port of Houston and the Port of Galveston both serve cruise passengers.

    San Diego

    With beautiful weather and 70 miles of coastline along the Pacific Ocean, San Diego draws numerous tourists every year. Check out Balboa Park, America's largest urban cultural park, with 15 museums, spectacular gardens and the famous San Diego Zoo. Watch killer whales perform at SeaWorld or explore Gaslamp Quarter, one of the city's many diverse neighborhoods.
    Long Beach

    Situated about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach is the permanent home of the Queen Mary ocean liner, which transported thousands of passengers in its heyday. The ship retired to Long Beach in 1967 and now serves as a hotel. The Aquarium of the Pacific showcases more than 12,000 underwater creatures from the Pacific Ocean.
    Los Angeles

    The second-largest city in the nation has everything from fascinating cultural attractions and museums to star-studded neighborhoods like Hollywood and Bel Air. Must-sees include Grauman's Chinese Theatre, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios and Chinatown. Don't leave L.A. without shopping on Rodeo Drive or driving down Sunset Strip.

    San Francisco

    Sail under the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge into the sparkling waters of San Francisco Bay. Favorite activities range from touring Alcatraz Island and the lush wine country of nearby Napa Valley to riding a classic cable car through downtown. Home to a playful sea lion population, Fisherman's Wharf is another popular destination.

    Seattle

    Located on Puget Sound in the scenic Pacific Northwest, Seattle is rich with maritime heritage. Shop for fresh fruits and seafood at Pike Place Market or enjoy breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains from the 607-foot Space Needle. Take a whale-watching excursion or sightsee aboard a ferry.
    Fairbanks

    Once a booming mining town, Fairbanks serves as the gateway to Alaska's interior. For a truly Alaskan adventure, go on a dog-sledding expedition or try your luck panning for gold. From late August to April, watch the Northern Lights create a colorful display in the sky.

    Whittier

    About 65 miles from Anchorage, this small port town is accessible by the 2.5-mile Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, North America's longest vehicle tunnel. Enjoy a relaxing wildlife or glacier cruise through the Prince William Sound and watch for humpback whales, sea lions and bald eagles.
    Anchorage

    Vast wilderness expanses and majestic mountains surround Anchorage, Alaska's largest city. Discover the beauty of Chugach State Park and Denali National Park and Preserve, where Mount McKinley dominates the scenic landscape. In Seward, take a day cruise into the Kenai Fjords National Park.
    Honolulu

    As Hawaii's capital city and major port, Honolulu offers the ultimate tropical paradise for cruise passengers. Thrill-seeking surfers can ride the colossal waves of the North Shore or relax on Waikiki Beach. If you prefer to stay dry, you can tour historic sites like Iolani Palace and Pearl Harbor, home of the USS Arizona Memorial.
     


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