Florida Cruises

Experience Florida's Allure with Cruise1st

Florida, the Sunshine State, is a vibrant destination famous for its sun-soaked beaches, thrilling theme parks, and rich wildlife. This diverse region offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a sought-after cruising hub. Fun fact: Florida is home to 825 miles of coastline! Whether you want to chill out on South Beach, explore the swamps of the Everglades, or enjoy the magic of Walt Disney World, cruising to Florida serves up a variety of exciting experiences. With Cruise1st, you can embark on an unforgettable journey to this tropical paradise filled with fun and sun!

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Florida

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess offers an impressive 13 that cruise to Florida, including the Caribbean Princess and Enchanted Princess. Known for their outstanding onboard entertainment and wellness facilities, these ships provide unique experiences like movies under the stars and spa treatments. Departure ports are available from Sydney or Brisbane for domestic cruisers, along with a range of international ports, primarily from Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line features a fleet of 11, with 9 ships sailing to Florida, such as Eurodam and Zuiderdam. Guests love the classic elegance and culinary experiences onboard, making every cruise a delight. Holland America sails from domestic ports like Sydney and international ports from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, providing a rich starting point for your Florida adventure.
• MSC Cruises: Boasting a massive fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 8 that visit Florida, including MSC Divina and MSC Seaside. With their distinctive Mediterranean flair, these ships are renowned for their family-friendly amenities and sumptuous dining options. Key departure points include Miami or Port Canaveral, perfect for sun-seekers ready to dive into Floridian fun!
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a fleet of 29, Royal Caribbean has an astonishing 21 ships that visit Florida, including Grandeur of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas. Well known for their adventurous onboard activities like rock climbing and surf simulators, these ships provide thrilling experiences at sea. Departing from Fort Lauderdale or Tampa, cruisers will find plenty of options for an exciting holiday!
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring 20 ships, Norwegian offers 14 that cruise to Florida, including Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Jewel. They are famed for their "Freestyle Cruising" concept, allowing passengers flexibility in dining and entertainment choices. Most cruises depart from Miami or Port Canaveral, making them ideal for a sun-soaked getaway or family adventure.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Florida

• Oceania Cruises: This upscale line has a fleet of 8, with 6 ships sailing to Florida. The Vista and Insignia are popular choices known for their gourmet dining and destination-focused itineraries. Oceania Cruises departs from Miami or Panama City, making it an exquisite choice for a luxurious exploration of Florida's coast.
• Explora Journeys: With a fresh fleet of 2, Explora Journeys features both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, visiting Florida. Renowned for their focus on sustainability and wellness, this cruise line offers a serene and luxurious experience. Most departures are from Miami or San Juan, providing an engaging journey to Florida before setting sail on new adventures.
• Silversea: With 12 ships in their fleet, Silversea has 3 that cruise to Florida, including Silver Ray and Silver Moon. With an emphasis on all-inclusive luxury experiences, their exceptional services and elegant itineraries create an opulent atmosphere. Departing from key ports like Fort Lauderdale or Lisbon, these cruises cater to those looking for a lavish experience in stunning environments.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara’s fleet of 4 includes 3 that visit Florida, with Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward being favorites among guests. Known for their immersive experiences and late-night departures, Azamara allows ample time to explore each port. The cruises typically leave from Miami or Lisbon, creating exciting opportunities for a diverse cultural experience at sea.
• Seabourn: With a luxurious fleet of 6, Seabourn has 3 ships sailing to Florida, including Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Sojourn. Guests enjoy intimate onboard experiences with unparalleled service and exquisite cuisine. Departures often occur from Miami or Long Beach, ensuring travelers commence their journey in style and comfort.

Top Florida Harbours to Explore

• Fort Lauderdale: Known for its stunning canals and waterfront lifestyle, Fort Lauderdale is perfect for sun-soaked beach days. While docked, cruisers can explore Las Olas Boulevard for shopping and dining or take a boat tour through its picturesque waterways. The nearby beaches are ideal for soaking up the sun and taking part in water sports!
• Miami: A vibrant city with a rich fusion of cultures, Miami is a must-visit! Cruise passengers can unwind on South Beach, explore the Art Deco Historic District, or indulge in delicious cuisine from the city's esteemed restaurants. Don’t forget to check out the lively markets and galleries in Wynwood for a taste of local art!
• Port Canaveral: Home to one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, Port Canaveral is the gateway to thrilling attractions like the Kennedy Space Center. While you're here, take a tour of the Space Center for an out-of-this-world experience, or relax on one of the nearby beautiful beaches.
• Tampa: Known for its exciting attractions, Tampa offers beautiful waterfront parks and historic districts. Cruise guests can visit the Florida Aquarium, explore the nearby Busch Gardens, or dine at one of the many waterfront restaurants that offer fresh seafood with views of the bay.
• Key West: This quirky island known for its laid-back vibe is a paradise for cruise passengers. While docked, explore the famous Duval Street, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, or take a snorkelling tour to discover vibrant coral reefs. The sunset celebrations at Mallory Square are a must-see!

Best Times to Cruise to Florida

Florida's mild climate makes it a year-round destination! From January to March, average temperatures hover around a comfortable 15-25°C, making it perfect for exploring tourist attractions and beaches. Spring (April to June) warms up to 20-30°C, creating ideal conditions for outdoor fun. Summer (July to September) can see temperatures rise to 25-35°C, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms but fantastic ocean activities to enjoy. Autumn (October to December) cools down to about 15-25°C, providing pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor events.

Cost Overview for Florida Cruises

Expect to pay around $1,500 to $2,800 AUD for a week-long cruise to Florida, while a two-week journey can range from $3,000 to $5,500 AUD. For more luxurious options, one-week cruises typically start around $4,000 AUD and can exceed $8,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals are generally included aboard most cruise liners, but if you venture out, meals can cost roughly $20-50 AUD, with drinks priced between $8-15 AUD at restaurants and bars.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re looking into a cruise to Florida, don’t overlook these enticing alternatives:

• Caribbean: With idyllic beaches and clear blue waters, the Caribbean offers a stunning mix of relaxation and adventure, perfect for sun-seeking cruisers.
• Bahamas: Close to Florida, the Bahamas is famous for its stunning resorts, beautiful coral reefs, and vibrant culture—ideal for snorkeling and beach hopping.
• Alaska: For those who prefer cooler temperatures, Alaska boasts breathtaking glaciers and incredible wildlife watching opportunities with stunning natural scenery.
• Western Caribbean: This region provides a perfect balance of beautiful scenery, rich culture, and a plethora of activities ranging from watersports to local history tours.
• Baja California, Mexico: This area is known for its stunning coastlines and laid-back vibe, making it a fantastic alternative for those seeking a unique coastal experience.

Ready to set sail on an adventure to Florida? Let Cruise1st be your guide to booking the perfect cruise holiday, where sunny days and exciting experiences await you!