North American Cruises

Set Sail for North America with Cruise1st

North America is a continent bursting with diverse cultures, spectacular landscapes, and an array of thrilling experiences waiting for you to discover. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the sun-soaked beaches of California, there's something for every cruiser. Fun fact: North America is home to three of the world's ten largest cities, including Mexico City, New York, and Los Angeles. Exploring this vibrant continent by cruise allows you to visit multiple destinations, each with its unique offering, all from the comfort of your floating hotel. With exceptional dining, entertainment, and breathtaking views, taking a cruise to North America might just be your next great adventure!

Major Cruise Lines Offering North America Itineraries

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess boasts 16 ships sailing to North America, with Caribbean Princess and Majestic Princess being the front-runners in Alaska itineraries. Known for their engaging onboard activities and diverse dining options that cater to all tastes, they are a solid choice for family cruising. Departures from Australia's ports, such as Sydney or Brisbane, as well as popular international ports like Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles, provide numerous options for cruisers eager to explore North America.
• Holland America Line: This esteemed line has an 11-ship fleet and offers 11 vessels exploring North America. Ships like Eurodam and Zuiderdam focus on cultural enrichment through unique guest programming and culinary experiences. Cruisers can set sail from Sydney for domestic departures or international ports such as Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, connecting guests with exciting North American destinations.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a massive fleet of 29, Royal Caribbean floods North America with itineraries from 28 of their ships. Grandeur of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas are excellent for experiencing family-friendly entertainment and excitement onboard. These cruises primarily leave from ports like Fort Lauderdale and Tampa, making travel to popular destinations hassle-free.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This dynamic cruise line has 20 ships, of which 18 cruise to North America. Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Escape are prime choices for cruisers seeking unforgettable at-sea experiences with ample onboard activities. Departures are abundant from Miami and New York, ensuring easy access to all that North America has to offer.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC offers 8 ships visiting North America, primarily featuring MSC Divina and MSC Seaside. Renowned for their exquisite dining options and luxurious onboard amenities, MSC is perfect for those wanting a taste of opulence on their cruise. Guests can depart from Miami or Port Canaveral, setting sail towards stunning North American landscapes.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to North America

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, all ships offer itineraries to North America, particularly Insignia and Vista, which are known for their exquisite culinary experiences and destination-focused excursions. Domestic departures can be made from Perth (Fremantle), but international ports like Miami or New York are frequent launch points, allowing cruisers to fully immerse themselves in this vibrant continent.
• Explora Journeys: Operating with a fleet of 2, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II cruise to North America, focusing on sustainability and luxury. The ships offer memorable experiences tailored to each destination. Departures are usually from Miami or San Juan, providing excellent access to North America's stunning coastline.
• Seabourn: With 6 ships in their fleet, 3 offer routes to North America including Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn. These ships are ideal for luxury travellers, boasting all-inclusive amenities and intimate onboard experiences. With departure points at Vancouver or Miami, cruising to North America is made luxurious and enjoyable.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara features 4 ships, with 3 sailing to North America—Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey stand out for their immersive destination experiences and late-night port stays. Most departures occur from Miami or Montreal, making it easy to soak in North America's diverse culture.
• Silversea: With a total fleet size of 12, Silversea has 7 ships offering itineraries that include North America, with Silver Moon and Silver Shadow being particularly noteworthy. These ships are known for their all-inclusive luxury experiences and attention to detail. Departures commonly occur from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles, providing access to stunning North American vistas.

Top North American Harbours to Visit

• Miami, Florida: A bustling metropolis famous for its beaches and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the Art Deco District in South Beach or hit up the shops and restaurants in the Bayside Marketplace. Don't miss the unique Little Havana neighborhood for an authentic Cuban experience; the lively atmosphere is a real treat!
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Known as the "Venice of America," Fort Lauderdale offers picturesque canals and stunning waterfront properties. Cruise passengers can enjoy sailing or water taxis, visit the expansive Las Olas Boulevard for shopping and dining, or relax at the beautiful Fort Lauderdale Beach—perfect for soaking up the sun!
• Cozumel, Mexico: A vibrant island that boasts stunning beaches and top-tier snorkeling opportunities. Cruise visitors can explore the lush coral reefs, relax on the sandy shores, or discover the ancient Mayan ruins of San Gervasio. The local markets offer authentic souvenirs and delicious local cuisine, making for a fantastic day ashore!
• Port Canaveral, Florida: This busy port serves as a gateway to exciting attractions such as Walt Disney World and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. While in Port Canaveral, consider booking a day trip to the theme parks or enjoying the beautiful Cocoa Beach nearby, known for its surf and golden sands, ideal for relaxation!
• New York, New York: Known as the "Big Apple," New York is brimming with iconic landmarks, museums, and cultural experiences. Cruise passengers can visit the Statue of Liberty, explore Central Park, or book a Broadway show. With world-class dining experiences and endless shopping options, you’ll find something memorable in the city that never sleeps!

Best Times for Cruising to North America

The best time to cruise to North America varies by region. Generally, January to March offers chilly temperatures ranging from 5-15°C, perfect for winter sports lovers in places like Colorado. From April to June, the weather warms up to 15-30°C, making it a great period for enjoying beaches and landscapes. July to September, particularly warm months ranging from 20-35°C, are perfect for family vacations, as many activities are accessible. October to December brings a cooler spell around 5-25°C, ideal for experiencing autumn foliage and festive celebrations.

Cost Overview for Cruises to North America

A typical cruise to North America costs around $1,500 to $3,000 AUD for a week-long trip and can reach $3,500 to $6,000 AUD for two weeks. For those after a luxury extravaganza, expect prices starting around $4,000 AUD for a week and escalating to $9,000 AUD for two weeks. Most cruises include meals, but when dining ashore, meals can average between $15-$50 AUD, while drinks run about $10-$15 AUD each depending on the venue.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re pondering a cruise to North America, consider these four exciting alternatives:

• Caribbean: With its stunning beaches and warm waters, the Caribbean is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and soak up the sun while exploring vibrant cultures.
• Alaska: For those longing for majestic landscapes and wildlife encounters, Alaska offers dramatic views, glaciers, and opportunities for excursions that immerse visitors in untouched natural beauty.
• Bahamas: An ideal tropical destination featuring crystal-clear waters, beautiful islands, and plenty of water activities, perfect for relaxation or adventure seekers.
• Mexico: Rich in culture and history, Mexico remains a popular cruise destination. For travelers seeking authentic experiences, local cuisines, and archaeological sites, Mexico presents a vibrant escape.
• Pacific Northwest: Known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, the region offers plenty of outdoor activities, charming cities, and incredible dining experiences.

Get ready to make unforgettable memories by cruising to North America. With Cruise1st, your adventure is just a booking away, and the open waters await your arrival!