ENLeaving New York City is much more than a trip; it's an adventure. It begins with the excitement of entering one of the city's huge cruise ports.
From the iconic Manhattan skyline to Brooklyn's historic docks and Cape Liberty's scenic vistas, every port creates its special pathway to the open seas. Whether you set sail on a grand liner bound for the Caribbean or board a luxury ship bound for Europe, cruise terminals in New York will feel comfortable to a seasoned explorer.
Manhattan Cruise Terminal
The Hub of NYC’s Maritime Marvels
The Manhattan Cruise Terminal is on the Hudson River, 711 12th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, and is the premier ocean cruise gateway of New York City. This historic port has played host to millions of global odysseus throughout history, instantly being elevated to one of the most iconic cruise terminals in the country.
It is an important terminal hub for major cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line. Homeport to some of the biggest and most luxurious vessels in the world, it has played host to many visiting ships—the Norwegian Breakaway, Carnival Magic, and Disney Fantasy.
Terminal Highlights: A $200 Million Transformation
In 2004, the Manhattan Cruise Terminal underwent a $200 million renovation that included modern gangways and larger pier aprons for speedy loading and unloading, besides renovation of the terminal layout that improved comfort and capacity for large ships.
Airport Connections: Distance to NYC Airports
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): 17 miles away, with a drive time of 46 minutes to an hour.
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA): 10 miles away, with a drive time of 30 to 45 minutes.
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): 16 miles away, with a drive time of 35 to 55 minutes.
Getting to Manhattan Cruise Terminal from NYC Airports
Photo by Raul De Los Santos via Unsplash
Whether you're flying into John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, or Newark Liberty International Airport, there are various transfer options available:
- From JFK: Private transfer services are probably the most reliable, and the drive time is approximately 40 minutes to an hour, covering 17 miles. You can use the AirTrain to Jamaica Station to ride the E train, but this isn't exactly the most luggage-friendly road. As opposed to other cities, the taxi fares from JFK are not fixed for airport transfers. The meter is running, and the best you can do is take a rough guess at what you'll finally have to pay at the terminal.
- From LGA: A quick 10-mile ride by private transfer will get you to the terminal in 30 to 45 minutes. You can take the M60 bus to the subway, but again it's best avoided if you have heavy luggage. If you do take a taxi, in addition to peak-hour surcharges, you will also face late-night rides and sometimes even certain days-of-the-week surcharges. The price that you think you are paying is never going to be what you end up paying.
- From Newark: The Newark Liberty International Airport is located 16 miles away and takes anywhere from 35 to 55 minutes by taxi or private car. There's also the AirTrain route to NJ Transit and on to Penn Station, but that seems like more of an urban adventure than a convenient transfer. And concerning taxis, just remember those toll fees aren't quoted up front and get tacked right onto your fare, which might make the ride even more expensive.
Why Choose Manhattan Cruise Terminal?
Set sail from New York City, with Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building nearby, if you're interested in seeing some attractions before your cruise. You'll get views of the Hudson River and the skyline inside the terminal, perfect for urban exploration.
The Manhattan Cruise Terminal combines excitement with convenience. Take a walk in Central Park or catch a Broadway show before your ship departs. As your ship departs, you will get a preview of the skyline, which is certainly one of the highlights whether you are headed to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, or Europe.
Brooklyn Cruise Terminal
Sailing from the Heart of Brooklyn
In the historic Brooklyn neighbourhood of Red Hook, the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal ensures a swaddled departure in the old magic of New York, equipped with all the more contemporary facilities one would expect of a first-class port. Opened in 2006, this terminal rapidly rose through the ranks to become one of the favourites for cruise lines as major as Cunard Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line. Regular visitors include the majestic Queen Mary 2, Regal Princess, and Nieuw Amsterdam, which set sail across the Atlantic and beyond.
Terminal Highlights: Modern Comforts in a Historic Setting
Within the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal are 200,000 square feet of space, gangways, and parking. It was the first along the East Coast to implement shore power—an environmentally friendly feature that helps reduce emissions when docked. Sustainability practices in addition to its modern amenities have earned it good scores from both the industry and cruise guests alike.
Airport Connections: Distance to NYC Airports
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): 23 miles away, with a drive time of 45 minutes to over an hour.
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA): 15 miles away, with a drive time of 35 to 55 minutes.
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): 20 miles away, with a drive time of 40 minutes to over an hour.
Getting to Brooklyn Cruise Terminal from NYC Airports
Photo by Amber Kipp via Unsplash
Whether you’re landing at JFK, LGA, or Newark, your journey to Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is just a private transfer away:
- From JFK: The terminal is located approximately 23 miles from JFK, which takes around 45-50 minutes by private car.It is not particularly convenient to use public transport, especially with luggage. You can't book in advance like you can with a private transfer—it's all about hailing one on the spot.
- From LGA: The 15-mile journey from LaGuardia takes about 35 to 55 minutes by private transfer. Another alternative would be the M60 bus to the subway. That's a real pain. All New York taxis run on meters, so your fare is going to vary wildly depending on traffic, route and time of day.
- From Newark: That's a journey of 20 miles, an estimated duration of 40 minutes to an hour. Far and away the least painful way to do this is by private transfer. There's nothing quite like watching the meter ticking away while you're stuck in traffic when you know that the fare isn't fixed.
Why Choose Brooklyn Cruise Terminal?
For a taste of Brooklyn culture before casting off, this terminal is the perfect starting point. Red Hook providesrestaurants, boutiques, and art studios that offer a unique backdrop. Looking out from the terminal, one can get a great view of both the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline as the stage becomes set for a beautiful departure.
Sailing from Brooklyn has blended history with modern amenities. The views of such iconic landmarks as the Statue of Liberty and Verrazano-Narrows Bridge are a reminder that you are leaving one of the world's most famous cities.
Cape Liberty Cruise Port (Bayonne, NJ)
A Tranquil Departure from New Jersey
Right across the Hudson River, in Bayonne, New Jersey, is the peaceful and convenient Cape Liberty Cruise Port, an alternative to Manhattan's chaos. This cruise port is mainly used by Royal Caribbean International, and one will find ships such as the 'Anthem of the Seas' and 'Oasis of the Seas' leaving from here. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises is based out of Cape Liberty and offers some classy voyages with vessels like the Celebrity Summit.
Terminal Highlights: A Port with a View
Cape Liberty Cruise Port—easy access, beautiful views. Panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. All services and facilities required for a cruise are in your hands. With a peaceful departure setting minutes from the energy of New York City, Cape Liberty is situated on the New Jersey waterfront—ideal for a peaceful cruise start close to the city.
Airport Connections: Distance to NYC Airports
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): 30 miles away, with a drive time of 50 minutes to an hour and a half.
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA): 21 miles away, with a drive time of 40 minutes to over an hour.
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): 10 miles away, with a drive time of just 20 to 30 minutes.
Photo by John Cameron via Unsplash
Getting to Cape Liberty Cruise Port from NYC Airports
For a smooth ride to Cape Liberty, private transfers are your best bet:
- From JFK: The approximate distance is 30 miles, and it takes you about 50 minutes to an hour and a half to reach the destination. The private transfer is the easiest and most comfortable way to reach the spot, especially with heavy luggage on board. Since taxi prices are not fixed, extra charges might be levied at the end of the ride, which surprises you with a bill much more than expected.
- From LGA: The trip is 21 miles, which could take private car drivers from 40 minutes to more than an hour, depending on the traffic. There is public transportation, but this is not a direct route. The longer you are subjected to New York'sunbearable traffic, the more you pay. There is no escape from the clicking meter of yellow cabs.
- From Newark: The nearest is 10 miles from the terminal, taking 20 to 30 minutes by drive. A private transfer will ensure you arrive quickly and without hassle. At peak hours, the traffic is heavy, and that is what makes your non-fixed taxi rate fare skyrocket when you crawl towards the terminal.
Why Choose Cape Liberty Cruise Port?
Cape Liberty is ideal for a relaxed cruise start: less crowded, with easy access to New Jersey beauty, and stress-free departure. Departing from this port offers a different perspective on NYC and a peaceful beginning to your cruise. Cape Liberty will be the ideal port for either a Caribbean or European cruise and will smoothly get you started on your journey.
Private Cruise Transfer Services From New York Airports
Have you ever arrived at a bustling airport, weary from a long flight, only to face the daunting task of navigating public transportation to reach your cruise ship?
No more dragging bags through subway stations or waiting around for unpredictable shuttles. AirportTransfer.com offers you seamless and luxurious rides from New York's airports—JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark—to any of the city's cruise terminals. Our cruise transfer services put a choice of luxurious sedans and SUVs at your service to ensure you drive in comfort and style.
Private cruise transfer gives you the best driver around the city, avoiding public transport. Pre-booking ensures a seamless passage from flight to cruise ship, fixed prices, and customer service available day and night. Full refund if cancelled up to 48 hours before scheduled pickup.
Group Bus Transfers from New York Airports to Cruise Ports
AirportTransfer.com specialises in providing comfortable and secure coach transfers for groups of all sizes, ensuring a smooth and on-time arrival for your journey from New York airports to cruise ports. Our spacious buses can accommodate large groups, and our experienced drivers will ensure a safe and comfortable ride from the airport to your cruise port destination.For group travel requests & reservations, Contact Us. We offer airport transfers & chauffeured bus hire for all group travels, including multiple stops & days. AT's coach transfer services from New York Airports to Cruise Ports cater to your needs.
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