Port Reports

Find better information on cruise ports, and share your own personal experience with other travellers

USA Port Lowdown USA Port Lowdown

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska is a city of stunning natural beauty, with a dramatic landscape of glaciers, mountains, and a rich history as a gold rush town. As the capital of Alaska, it is a fantastic destination for cruisers who want to experience the state's rugged beauty and a lively, historic downtown. The city is a perfect blend of a bustling port and a gateway to some of the world's most incredible natural wonders, from the majestic Mendenhall Glacier to the magnificent humpback whales that frequent its waters.

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Canada Port Lowdown Canada Port Lowdown

Vancouver

Vancouver, British Columbia, is a stunning city nestled between the snow-capped Coast Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. It is a city of natural beauty and urban sophistication, with a multicultural spirit and a lively arts scene. As a major cruise port, Vancouver is a fantastic gateway to Alaska, with a world-class terminal that is conveniently located in the city center. For a cruiser, Vancouver is a perfect destination for those who want to experience a modern, vibrant city with a deep appreciation for the outdoors. 

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UK and Ireland Port Lowdown UK and Ireland Port Lowdown

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant city on the River Tyne in North East England, famous for its industrial heritage, a lively culture, and a friendly welcome. While the cruise port is located a few miles from the city center, it is an excellent gateway to explore a city that seamlessly blends a rich history with a modern, cosmopolitan energy. From its iconic bridges to its charming streets and world-class museums, Newcastle offers a truly authentic and exciting experience for cruisers.

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Naples

Naples, Italy, is a vibrant and historic port city on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, a place of remarkable energy and a rich cultural heritage. As the birthplace of pizza and a city with a history that dates back to the Greek era, Naples is a fantastic destination for cruisers who want to explore a city that is authentic, chaotic, and full of life. The port is a gateway to the volcanic landscapes of Mount Vesuvius, the ancient city of Pompeii, and the stunning Amalfi Coast.

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Chania, Greece

Chania, Crete is a captivating port of call on the largest island in Greece. Its historic Old Town, a beautiful blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek architecture, is centered around a charming harbor with a Venetian lighthouse. For a cruiser, Chania is an excellent destination for those who want to experience a quintessential Greek island town with a rich history, a vibrant local culture, and a relaxed atmosphere. The port itself is a launching point, but the true magic is found a short distance away in the bustling city center.

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Genoa

Genoa, Italy, is a historic and vibrant port city on the Ligurian Sea. As one of the most important maritime republics in history, Genoa has a rich past as a major trading hub. Today, it is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with a charming Old Town, a unique culinary scene, and a world-class aquarium. For a cruiser, Genoa is an excellent destination for those who want to explore a city that is authentic, lively, and steeped in history. 

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Gibraltar

Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, is a unique and fascinating destination on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. It is famous for the Rock of Gibraltar, a limestone monolith that dominates the landscape, and its unique blend of British and Mediterranean cultures. For a cruiser, Gibraltar is a perfect destination for those who want to experience a slice of Britain in the Mediterranean, with its historic pubs, red phone booths, and a vibrant local culture. 

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Western Europe Port Lowdown Western Europe Port Lowdown

Marseille

Marseille, France, is a vibrant and multicultural port city on the Mediterranean coast. As France's oldest city, it has a rich history that has been shaped by its status as a major trading hub. Today, it is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with a unique character, known for its lively Old Port, the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and a thriving food scene. As a cruise port, Marseille is an excellent destination for those who want to explore a city that is authentic, energetic, and full of life. 

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Messina, Sicily

Messina, Sicily is a vibrant and historic port city on the northeastern tip of the island, a place where the Mediterranean's rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty converge. Messina is a city that has been shaped by a series of earthquakes and wars, but it has always risen from the ashes, and today it is a bustling hub with a unique charm. As a cruise port, Messina is a gateway to the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna and the charming hill towns of Sicily. 

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Corfu, Greece

Corfu, Greece is a captivating island in the Ionian Sea, a place of remarkable beauty and a rich cultural heritage shaped by Venetian, French, and British rule. Its capital, Corfu Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, grand fortresses, and a vibrant atmosphere. For a cruiser, Corfu offers a perfect blend of historic exploration, stunning natural beauty, and a chance to experience the unique charm of Greek island life. 

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Bar, Montenegro

Bar, Montenegro, is a charming and historically rich port on Montenegro's stunning Adriatic coast. Unlike its more bustling neighbors like Kotor, Bar offers a more tranquil and authentic experience. The city is a unique blend of old and new, with the modern, post-World War II city center on the coast and the magnificent ruins of Old Bar (Stari Bar) nestled in the mountains. This fascinating juxtaposition of ancient history, beautiful beaches, and a serene, coastal atmosphere makes Bar a captivating port of call.

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Athens

Athens, Greece, is a city where every step is a walk through history. The birthplace of democracy and philosophy, Athens is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends its ancient past with a bustling modern present. For cruisers, the port of Piraeus serves as the gateway to the city’s timeless wonders, including the iconic Acropolis and its magnificent Parthenon. Athens is a destination that is not just to be seen but to be felt, as its ancient ruins provide a powerful backdrop to a lively and captivating city. 

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Caribbean Port Lowdown Caribbean Port Lowdown

St. Thomas, US, Virgin Island

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, is a beautiful and unique Caribbean island that stands out from its neighbors with a cosmopolitan flair and a rich history as a major trading hub. As a U.S. territory, it's a popular destination for cruisers who want to experience the Caribbean's natural beauty with the comfort and convenience of a U.S. port. The island is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, incredible views from its high hillsides, and its capital, Charlotte Amalie, which is a historic and bustling center for duty-free shopping. 

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Caribbean Port Lowdown Caribbean Port Lowdown

Kralendijk, Bonaire

Bonaire, a small island in the southern Caribbean, is a nature lover's paradise. As a Dutch Caribbean island, it has a unique culture and is famous for its commitment to marine conservation. The entire coastline of Bonaire is a marine park, making it one of the world's premier destinations for snorkeling and diving. Its capital, Kralendijk, is a charming and relaxed town with colorful buildings and a laid-back atmosphere. For a cruiser, Bonaire is a fantastic destination for those who want to experience the island's incredible underwater world or simply enjoy a quiet day in a peaceful setting. 

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Caribbean Port Lowdown Caribbean Port Lowdown

Aruba

Aruba is a captivating island in the southern Caribbean, a place where the sun always shines and the trade winds bring a constant, gentle breeze. Its capital, Oranjestad, is a charming city with a unique blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences, evident in its colorful colonial architecture. Known for its pristine beaches, a diverse culinary scene, and a warm, welcoming culture, Aruba is a perfect destination for cruisers. Its port is conveniently located in the city center, making it incredibly easy to explore on your own. 

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Caribbean Port Lowdown Caribbean Port Lowdown

Basseterre, St. Kitts

Basseterre, St. Kitts is a vibrant and historic port city on the island of St. Kitts. It's a fantastic destination for cruisers, with a port that places you right in the heart of a lively waterfront and a short walk from the capital's historic downtown. St. Kitts is known for its lush, volcanic landscape, pristine beaches, and a rich history shaped by its British and French colonial past.

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Mediterranean Port Lowdown Mediterranean Port Lowdown

Mykonos

Mykonos, Greece is an island of captivating beauty and vibrant energy, a true gem of the Aegean Sea. As part of the Cyclades archipelago, it is famous for its iconic windmills, picturesque Little Venice, and a labyrinth of whitewashed, cubic houses with blue shutters and bougainvillea-lined streets. For a cruiser, Mykonos offers a perfect blend of a relaxing beach day and a chance to explore a charming, historic town with a cosmopolitan flair.

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Caribbean Port Lowdown Caribbean Port Lowdown

Roseau, Dominica

Roseau, Dominica is a beautiful and unique Caribbean island that stands out from its neighbors with its lush, rugged volcanic landscape and untouched natural beauty. Often called the "Nature Island," Dominica is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. As a cruise port, Roseau is a bustling hub that connects you to the island's many natural wonders, including rainforests, waterfalls, and hot springs, all of which are a short trip away from the port. 

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Caribbean Port Lowdown Caribbean Port Lowdown

Castries, Saint Lucia

St. Lucia, is a beautiful and unique Caribbean island that stands out from its neighbors with its dramatic, volcanic landscape. The capital, Castries, is a bustling port city with a lively market and a rich cultural heritage.1 However, the true beauty of St. Lucia lies in its majestic twin peaks, the Pitons, and its lush rainforests, which are a short trip away from the port.2 For a cruiser, Castries is a gateway to the island's many natural wonders, with a variety of tours and transportation options available to help you explore.

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Caribbean Port Lowdown Caribbean Port Lowdown

St. John's, Antigua

St. John's, Antigua, is a picturesque and historic port in the heart of the Caribbean. As the capital of Antigua and Barbuda, it is a bustling hub with a vibrant waterfront and a rich colonial history. Antigua is famous for having 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, all with stunning white sand and turquoise water. For a cruiser, St. John's is a fantastic destination, offering everything from a relaxing beach day to a deep dive into the island's history and culture. 

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