FAQ:
Which cruise lines sail out of New York?
Both large cruise ships and a few smaller ships cruise from New York, giving you the option to pick a vessel with lots of restaurants and lounges, or one that’s more intimate and can visit smaller ports. A variety of cruise lines—including Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Holland America, Disney, Cunard, Silversea, Oceania Cruises, and Viking—sail from New York City. This variety caters to all types of traveler budgets, so whether you’re looking to cruise from New York for as little as a few hundred dollars or drop thousands on a bucket list vacation, there’s something for you.
Where do cruises go from New York?
Cruises from New York sail to Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Europe, the United Kingdom, Bermuda, the Caribbean, and beyond. Several world cruises also stop in New York.
The short version of the story is that whether it’s a short island escape or the unforgettable journey of a lifetime you’re after, a cruise from New York will result in PTO well spent. Ahead, we’ve pulled some of the best cruise itineraries that depart from New York City and New Jersey.
Find our round-up of the best river cruises here.
Best overall cruise itinerary from New York
Trade the soaring skyscrapers of New York City for coastal Canada, remote Greenland, and endless Icelandic summer days. This Viking itinerary makes two stops in Canada and two stops in Greenland before circumnavigating Iceland, beginning with the remote Westfjords and ending in Reykjavik. Sail the same seas as legendary Norse explorer Leif Erikkson (on a far more luxurious Viking ship) while learning about the American Revolution and Canadian exploration from the cruise line’s resident historian. Lounge by the pool, visit the spa, or look out for whales and puffins. Viking has several nearly identical ocean ships sailing this itinerary from New York—each can accommodate a maximum of 930 passengers, allowing them to dock in ports larger ships cannot access.
Best family cruise from New York
It’s impossible to get bored on the MSC Meraviglia. This is one of the most family-friendly ships at sea. There’s no minimum age to sail, meaning infants are welcome on board. There are also several kids clubs divided by age, and endless entertainment options for every age group. See Broadway-caliber shows, spend sea days at the thermal spa or lounging by the pool, go bowling, play arcade games, try out an F1 simulator, or work out in a state-of-the-art gym—the opportunities are endless. MSC’s Meraviglia sails from New York to Bermuda, Canada, New England, the Bahamas, and Florida and can accommodate up to 5,642 passengers across 2,214 staterooms. Choose among 23 dining venues and 20 bars and lounges, or try to eat your way through all of them.
Best cruise from New York for solo travelers
Step on board Norwegian’s newest ship, the Norwegian Aqua, for solo sailing in a perfect studio suite for one. Norwegian’s studio suites come with full-sized beds, private en suite bathrooms and vanity tables. And they’re designed to help you make friends. The solo suites are part of a larger private area of common spaces reserved for solo travelers, making it easy to meet fellow passengers (literally) in the same boat. And you’ll find plenty of fun things to do on board with your new best friends. Try the world’s first slide coaster—a thrill ride that’s a combination of water slide and roller coaster. Lounge by the pool. Spend a day at the spa. Eat your way around the world at the ship’s food hall, which includes Indian, vegetarian, pasta and barbecue spots. Or challenge your buddies on the interactive game court.
Best Caribbean luxury cruise from New York
This cruise departs from Manhattan, exchanging the city’s skyscrapers for the turquoise waters and sandy beaches of the Caribbean. Sail the newly revamped Crystal Serenity, a ship that accommodates up to 740 passengers and includes almost everything—beer, wine, spirits, Wi-Fi, soft drinks, fitness classes and specialty coffees—in cruise fares. After an overnight in Boston, this ship heads to cheery Antigua, lush Guadalupe Island, and glamorous St. Bart’s. This is a cruise line that’s known for its top-notch service, elegant interiors, and attention to detail. It pays particular attention to crafting delicious meals for everyone—regardless of gluten intolerances, food allergies or dietary preferences. One onboard restaurant, Umi Uma, was created in partnership with Michelin-star chef Nobu Matsuhisa.
Best Panama Canal cruise from New York
Spend 19 nights on the Viking Polaris, a luxurious expedition ship that splits its time between the Great Lakes and Antarctica. This sailing includes a full transit of the Panama Canal—a 50-mile waterway that connects the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Transiting this engineering marvel takes between eight and 10 hours, allowing for a close-up look at the lock system that lifts and lowers ships to help them pass through the artificial waterway. Expert guides will walk you through the mechanics and help you recognize the geographical features and wildlife you pass along the way. This ship accommodates just under 380 passengers, making it cozy enough to make new friends but spacious enough not to feel crowded. There are four restaurants onboard as well as a fitness center and Nordic spa that’s free to access. This itinerary also visits the Bahamas, Jamaica, Peru, and Chile.
Best cruise deal from New York
Iceland and Greenland are two bucket-list travel destinations that are hard to reach, and pricey. Fret not: The Celebrity Silhouette makes the journey accessible and affordable. This cruise sails from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, stopping in charming Eastern Canadian towns, a town in Greenland, and three fascinating Icelandic destinations. Wander the colorful streets of Reykjavik, look for whales or puffins in Isafjordur, or seek out waterfalls, lava fields, and fjords from Akureyri. Prices start at around $1,500, not including alcohol or Wi-Fi. The ship has space for about 2,900 passengers. On board, there’s a spa, fitness center, casino, and kids camp. Many of the ship’s cabins have balconies perfect for taking in the views.
People may think they’re not cruisers, but Virgin Voyages has a way of changing minds. And you don’t have to fly to Miami to try it for yourself. Virgin Voyages’ newest ship, Brilliant Lady, will sail roundtrip from New York City to Bermuda in September and October. The five- to eight-night itineraries include two full sea days—plenty of time to experience an immersive Scarlet Night party, live music, sunset cocktails, Virgin’s highly lauded dining options, and maybe even a spin class. Cruise fares include Wi-Fi, food, non-alcoholic beverages, and fitness classes, making it easy to relax without needing to worry about signing constant checks. Best of all, cocktails on board can be had for around $11, including tip. Good luck finding that in New York.
Best Canadian cruise from New York
Set sail for Canada on board the Seven Seas Splendor. This luxurious journey from Regent Seven Seas Cruises sails from Manhattan, trading the city’s bustle for the serenity of the Halifax waterfront, the European charm of Quebec City, and stylish Montreal. Everything from soft drinks and water to alcohol, specialty coffee drinks, and Wi-Fi are included so you’ll never have to worry about getting a bill at the end of your vacation. There’s also at least one included shore excursion in every port. The Seven Seas Splendor accommodates up to 740 passengers on an elegant ship where every cabin is a suite.
Best Caribbean cruise from New York
This trip is a one-way ticket to several paradises on a classic luxury cruise ship that accommodates fewer than 1,000 passengers. Head from Manhattan to the pink sand beaches of Bermuda, vibrant Barbados, remote Tobago, and the stunning Virgin Islands. This 16-night itinerary onboard the Azamara Journey combines ample beach time with long port days and an overnight stop in Bermuda. Enjoy the perks of sailing on a smaller ship, including not having to wait in lines, make restaurant reservations before your vacation, or fight for appointments at the spa. And don’t worry about paying extra for drinks, fitness classes, or gratuities. It’s all included.
Best Eastern Seaboard cruise from New York
Step on board the Norwegian Getaway for a weeklong voyage to the best beach towns in the Northeast. Check out the grand mansions in gilded Newport, Rhode Island. See Maine’s famous lighthouses and scenic coastlines. Visit Acadia National Park, and enjoy the small-town charm of Bar Harbor, Maine, before making your way to Halifax where lobster dinners and scenic waterfront strolls await. This ship was remodeled in 2024, giving it an updated look and feel. It spends just one day at sea on this itinerary, but don’t worry. That’s plenty of time to enjoy the ship’s mini golf, adventure ropes course, and zipline, casino, and live entertainment.
Best wellness cruise from New York
This is a cruise that’s about the journey as much as it is the destination. Spend seven days on the Star Pride focused on your own growth and transformation during a sailing with Debbie Dixon, a yoga teacher, life coach, and inspirational speaker. Multiple days at sea offer Windstar Cruises guests access to yoga, breathwork, and meditation sessions and plenty of time for uninterrupted relaxation. The ship can accommodate just 312 people across its 156 suites, each of which is 277 square feet or larger, making them about the size of a spacious hotel room. There’s also a fitness center, spa, and library on board. This itinerary makes an overnight stop in Bermuda before concluding in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
