Florida Cruises

Florida—it’s the Sunshine State, renowned for its stunning beaches, thrilling theme parks, and diverse landscapes. Did you know Florida is home to the Everglades, the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Cruising to Florida offers the perfect opportunity to experience everything from iconic attractions like Walt Disney World to the natural beauty of its wetlands and beaches. With easy access to various cities and ports, cruisers can indulge in the rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning coastlines that this magical state has to offer!

Major Cruise Lines to Florida

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess has 13 that frequently visit Florida. The Caribbean Princess and Enchanted Princess are standout ships celebrated for their range of entertainment options and culinary experiences tailored to all ages. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere, these ships offer everything from relaxing spas to engaging shows. Departures are common from popular international ports like Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral, while Australian cruisers can depart from Sydney or Brisbane.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Operating a fleet of 27 ships, Carnival has 20 that provide itineraries to Florida. The Carnival Venezia and Carnival Sunrise are popular choices for their lively ambiance and plethora of onboard activities, including water parks and engaging live performances. Cruises typically depart from Miami or Port Canaveral, creating ample opportunities for cruise passengers to enjoy the thrills of Florida.
• Holland America Line: Holland America has 11 ships, with 9 devoted to Florida itineraries. The Eurodam and Zuiderdam are well-known for their refined service, delicious dining, and focus on enriching cultural programming onboard. Departures occur from international ports, primarily Fort Lauderdale or Miami, giving Australian travellers flexibility in embarking on their cruise.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a fleet size of 28, Royal Caribbean has 27 ships sailing to Florida. The Grandeur of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas are particularly popular for their innovative onboard activities, featuring rock climbing walls, surf simulators, and dynamic dining options. Departures are primarily from major ports such as Fort Lauderdale and Tampa, ensuring a variety of choices for setting sail.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian has 18 that offer itineraries to Florida. The Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Jewel are favoured for their flexibility and “freestyle cruising” concept, allowing passengers to dine when and where they wish. Most cruises typically depart from Miami or New York, providing perfect kick-off points for your Floridian adventure.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Florida

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 offering itineraries to Florida. The Vista and Insignia are known for their premium dining options and attention to detail, ensuring a luxurious experience that spoils guests with exquisite flavours. Departures are most common from Miami or Bridgetown, making it convenient for travelers wanting to indulge in Florida’s coastal allure.
• Silversea: With a luxurious fleet of 12 ships, Silversea features 4 that sail to Florida. The Silver Ray and Silver Moon are known for their all-inclusive luxury, featuring spacious suites and gourmet dining options. Departures typically occur from ports including Fort Lauderdale or Lisbon, providing an upscale launchpad for exploring Florida’s delights.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara operates a fleet of 4, with 3 dedicated to itineraries in Florida. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward focus on immersive experiences, allowing longer stays at ports to dive deeper into local culture. Departures are primarily found in Miami and San Juan, offering seamless transitions into the Floridian escapade.
• Seabourn: This upscale cruise line features a fleet of 6 ships, with 3 that provide itineraries to Florida. The Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Sojourn deliver intimate environments and personalized service, ensuring passengers enjoy a treasured onboard experience. Cruises primarily depart from Miami, providing a fantastic start to your journey.

Exciting Harbours to Discover in Florida

• Miami, Florida: Known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, Miami is a fantastic port of entry. While docked, enjoy strolling along South Beach, visiting the Art Deco Historic District, or sampling authentic Cuban cuisine in Little Havana. Miami also offers a variety of galleries and boutiques waiting to be explored!
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Often referred to as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale boasts beautiful beaches and an intricate canal system. Explore the rivers by taking a scenic boat tour or enjoy shopping and dining along Las Olas Boulevard. Nearby beaches are perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze.
• Port Canaveral, Florida: The primary cruise terminal located near Cape Canaveral, this port is also close to the iconic Kennedy Space Center. Depending on the time you have, visit the banana river wildlife refuge, sunbathe on the local beaches, or take a thrilling airboat ride through the nearby wetlands.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico: A captivating blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty awaits you in San Juan. Roam through the historic streets of Old San Juan, exploring its vibrant buildings and quaint shops. Make sure to visit the impressive El Morro fortress and indulge in the delicious local cuisine!
• Cozumel, Mexico: Just a boat ride away from Florida, Cozumel offers beautiful beaches and a world-class barrier reef for snorkelling and diving. While docked, explore the ancient Mayan ruins of San Gervasio or treat yourself to some local tequila tasting tours for an enjoyable experience!

The Best Times to Cruise to Florida

When planning a cruise to Florida, consider the seasonal weather. Between January and March, you can expect mild temperatures averaging from 17°C to 25°C, providing ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The warmer summer months of June to August bring temperatures up to 30°C, perfect for beach activities but be prepared for larger tourist crowds. The comfortable autumn months of September to November average between 20°C and 27°C, providing pleasant weather for exploring local attractions without the summer rush.

Cost Overview for a Cruise in Florida

For those budgeting for a cruise to Florida, expect a 1-week trip to range from around $1,200 to $2,500 AUD for standard options, while luxury cruises typically start at around $4,000 AUD and increase based on the itinerary. Dining costs can vary significantly; restaurant meals usually range from $20 to $50 AUD, while drinks can be found for about $5 to $12 AUD each. Choosing a cruise allows you to enjoy exquisite dining experiences without the worry of overspending!

Alternative Regions to Consider

If a cruise to Florida doesn’t quite excite you, consider these alternative regions that promise unique experiences:

• The Bahamas: A collection of stunning islands boasting pristine beaches, clear waters, and exciting watersports. The Bahamas is perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike!
• Caribbean: Known for its tropical atmosphere, beautiful islands, and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean promises relaxation, exciting excursions, and delightful cuisines that will leave you wanting more.
• Western Mediterranean: Experience iconic destinations in the Mediterranean, combining cultural richness with stunning coastlines for an unforgettable voyage across Southern Europe.
• Mexico: With its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, a cruise to Mexico offers fantastic opportunities for local cuisine and rich heritage experiences.
• North America: Experience the diverse landscapes and lively cultures of nearby cities while exploring stunning natural wonders and unforgettable attractions!

Are you ready to dive into all that Florida has to offer? Book your next cruise holiday with Cruise1st today, and create memories that will last a lifetime as you explore the beauty and charm of this vibrant region!