North American Cruises

Explore the Diverse Wonders of North America with CruiseAway

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of cultures, stunning landscapes, and endless adventures, a cruise to **North America** should be on your travel agenda. Featuring a blend of bustling cities, breathtaking natural parks, and beautiful coastlines, this region offers a little something for every type of traveller. **Cruisers** often highlight landmarks such as the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the majestic Rocky Mountains, and the vibrant nightlife of Miami. Fun fact: North America is home to **over 50 national parks**, showcasing an amazing variety of ecosystems and wildlife. Cruising through this diverse region allows you to uncover its many treasures while enjoying the comfort and luxury onboard.

Must-See Harbours in North America

As you embark on your North American cruise, you’ll have the chance to explore fantastic ports of call. Here are five harbours you shouldn’t miss:

• Miami, Florida: Known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches, Miami is the perfect Caribbean gateway. While docked, visit the **Art Deco District** for a taste of the city’s architectural charm or indulge in some retail therapy at **Lincoln Road Mall**. Pro tip: Make your way to **Little Havana** to experience the vibrant Cuban culture and savour delicious **café con leche** and authentic Cuban sandwiches!
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Renowned as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is famous for its intricate canal system. Explore the **Las Olas Boulevard** for boutique shopping and unique dining spots. For nature lovers, a visit to the **Everglades National Park** is a must—you may catch a glimpse of alligators in their natural habitat! Insider tip: Take a Water Taxi for a unique view of the city from the water!
• Cozumel, Mexico: A top cruise destination, Cozumel is famous for its stunning coral reefs. Snorkelling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of the **Palancar Reef** is a magical experience. Take some time to explore the local markets and sample delicious **authentic Mexican cuisine**. Pro tip: Rent a scooter to explore the island at your own pace, visiting fascinating spots like the **San Gervasio Ruins**!
• New York, United States: The bustling metropolis awaits you with iconic landmarks such as **Statue of Liberty** and **Times Square**. Don’t miss the chance to visit Central Park or catch a Broadway show. Cash a classic New York slice at a local pizzeria! Insider tip: Use the subway to travel quickly around the city and experience it like a true New Yorker.
• Vancouver, Canada: A city that seamlessly blends nature with urban living, Vancouver boasts stunning mountains and vibrant culinary scenes. Explore **Stanley Park**, visit the **Capilano Suspension Bridge**, or stroll through **Granville Island** for unique artisanal products. Insider tip: Don’t miss the sunset from **Grouse Mountain**—the view is simply breathtaking!

The Best Times to Cruise North America

The cruising season in **North America** varies from region to region. The ideal time to explore the East Coast—think New York and **Canada**—is generally from **May to October**, when temperatures range between **15°C and 30°C**. For the West Coast, late spring to early fall offers perfect conditions with temperatures usually from **20°C to 28°C**. If you’re considering a summer cruise, be prepared for temperatures soaring into the 30s, especially in coastal cities like Miami and Los Angeles!

Costs Involved When Cruising North America

Setting a budget for your trip is crucial. Expect to pay approximately **$1,600 to $3,000** for a one-week cruise to North America, while a two-week cruise can range from **$3,500 to $5,000**. Luxury cruises generally start at around **$5,000** for one week of cruising. The most economical months to cruise typically fall outside the peak summer season, while costs peak in June to August when school holidays kick in. Dining out in North America can cost around **$20 to $50** per meal, depending on the type of restaurant you choose.

Major Cruise Lines Operating in North America

• Princess Cruises: This cruise line operates a fleet of **17 ships**, with **16** travelling to North America. The **Caribbean Princess** and **Majestic Princess** are popular options, departing frequently from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Los Angeles**. Known for their exceptional service and a broad array of onboard activities, Princess Cruises is a fantastic choice for both families and couples looking for a quality experience.
• Carnival Cruise Line: With a fleet size of **26 ships**, **25** sailing to North America, the **Carnival Venezia** and **Carnival Sunrise** are top picks. Departures commonly occur from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Brisbane**, known for their lively atmosphere and an endless array of entertainment options catering to guests of all ages. Carnival is perfect for families or those looking for a fun-filled experience.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line consists of **11 ships**, all of which operate cruises to North America. The **Nieuw Amsterdam** and **Eurodam** often explore this region, departing primarily from **Sydney**. Holland America is known for its fine dining experiences and cultural enrichment programs, making it ideal for guests who appreciate sophistication and tradition.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: Boasting a fleet of **29 ships**, **28** ply the waters of North America. The **Jewel of the Seas** and **Grandeur of the Seas** are well-visited vessels. Departing mainly from **Fort Lauderdale** and **Tampa**, Royal Caribbean is all about thrilling activities—their ships come equipped with rock-climbing walls, surf simulators, and more!
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With **20 ships**, **18** sailing to North America, **Norwegian Jade** and **Norwegian Joy** are popular choices, departing primarily from **Miami**. They offer the “freestyle cruising” concept, which allows you the flexibility to craft your dining and event schedule as you please for a more laid-back vacation experience.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line operates a fleet of **eight ships**, all of which sail to North America. The **Insignia** and **Vista** frequently depart from **Miami** or **Montreal**. Renowned for its culinary excellence, Oceania offers a unique experience where local and seasonal cuisines come to life onboard, providing guests with exquisite dining options.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet of **six ships**, five sail to North America, including the **Seven Seas Grandeur** and **Seven Seas Splendor**. Most frequently departing from **Miami** or **New York**, Regent is all about all-inclusive luxury, offering not just accommodations and meals but also exclusive excursions and onboard entertainment catered to discerning tastes.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Comprising **11 ships**, seven sail to North America, such as **Viking Orion** and **Viking Neptune**. Most cruises depart from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Vancouver**. This line is recognised for its destination-focused itineraries, with a focus on immersive experiences and cultural enrichment designed to deepen the travellers’ knowledge of the local destinations.
• Silversea: Featuring **13 ships**, **nine** of them traverse North America, including the **Silver Shadow** and **Silver Moon**. Departing often from **Fort Lauderdale** or **New York**, Silversea is synonymous with ultra-luxury, providing highly personalised services and diverse itineraries that offer an intimate glimpse into culinary traditions and local lifestyles.
• Explora Journeys: With **two ships**, both heading for North America, the **EXPLORA II** and **EXPLORA I** frequently set sail from **Miami** or **San Juan**. This cruise line focuses on sustainable travel experiences, blending luxury travel with mindful exploration designed to immerse cruisers in the beauty of their surroundings.

Explore Alternative Regions

If North America piques your interest but you’re open to other fascinating regions, here are five alternative options to consider:

• Caribbean: The Caribbean boasts exquisite beaches, colourful island cultures, and a laid-back island atmosphere perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike.
• Western Mediterranean: Offering a blend of stunning coastal scenery, rich history, and delectable cuisine, the western Mediterranean caters to every taste.
• Southern Caribbean: With better summer weather and fewer crowds, the Southern Caribbean offers beautiful shores and unique cultures worth exploring.
• Florida: Famed for its year-round sunshine and theme parks, Florida offers a lively atmosphere filled with numerous activities, making it ideal for families.
• Eastern Caribbean: This vibrant region is known for gorgeous beaches and thrilling activities, offering a spectacular blend of relaxation and adventure.

North America is a treasure trove of experiences, waiting for you to explore them. Whether it’s the natural beauty or the diverse cultures, a cruise here promises unforgettable memories. Don’t wait—book your next adventure with **CruiseAway** and set sail for the journey of a lifetime!