bahamas cruise from miami carnival

3 - Day The Bahamas from Miami, FL

Cruise itinerary.

Day 1: Miami

Day 2: Fun Day at Sea

Day 3: nassau, day 4: miami.

Get to Know Carnival Conquest

Cruising aboard Carnival Conquest elevates fun at sea to an art form — the ship demonstrates a true mastery of the craft with an onboard collage of fun spots for you to enjoy, like Guy's Burger Joint ™ , RedFrog Rum Bar ® and SkyBox ™ Sports Bar. There's fun everywhere you look, from the dance club (great for people-watching) to the show lounges (great for show-watching). Alchemy Bar ® serves up not only one-of-a-kind drinks, but a complete experience for your senses. There's even The Punchliner Comedy Club ™ , which gives stand-up comedians a microphone and a place to share their craft for your enjoyment. And let's not forget Seuss at Sea ™ , which turns classic Dr. Seuss stories and characters into big fun for all. You don't need to be able to tell a Monet from a Renoir to dine in our two artful dining rooms, you just need to be hungry. You don't even need to be a critic to enjoy Dive-In Movies, where cinematic favorites are up on the big screen, poolside. With delicious food, bars and entertainment, Carnival Conquest features a scene for everybody.

Onboard Activities

Onboard Dining

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Carnival Cruises from Miami

Departing from Miami, Florida , Carnival Cruise Line offers cruises to some of the world's most exotic locations and ports around the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Embarking on a Carnival Cruise Line voyage from Miami opens a gateway to the bewitching beauty of the Caribbean. Passengers are given an unrivaled chance to immerse themselves in the region's distinctive charm, which extends from the pristine beaches and vibrant marine life to captivating underwater adventures. As the ship sails away from Miami, the picturesque landscapes and azure waters of the Caribbean promise a vacation filled with relaxation and excitement. Carnival Cruise Line ensures that each journey becomes an unforgettable exploration of the Caribbean's hidden treasures. Indeed, the region's captivating culture, coupled with its diverse marine ecosystem, makes for a unique cruise experience.

Carnival Cruise Line is revered as a world-class cruise line with a reputation for providing memorable journeys across the Caribbean. Known for its range of ships, Carnival operates both smaller intimate vessels as well as larger mega-ships for its Caribbean cruises from Miami. This broad selection makes it a popular choice for travelers of all types. Striking a balance between affordability and luxury, Carnival offers an unmatched value proposition for its guests. With a commitment to excellent service and guest satisfaction, the cruise line continually ranks among the top choices for Caribbean voyages.

Carnival Cruise Line Ships

On Carnival Celebration , Carnival Conquest , Carnival Horizon , Carnival Magic , Carnival Sunrise , or any other ship operated by Carnival Cruise Line, there is always something fun to do. Carnival's Caribbean cruises from Miami are renowned for their broad array of onboard amenities and services. Each ship is equipped with state-of-the-art wellness centers, sparkling pools, diverse dining options, and entertaining nightlife venues. Furthermore, guests have the opportunity to participate in a range of onboard activities from cooking classes to dance lessons and even waterslides. For those seeking relaxation, the luxurious onboard spas offer various treatments. Therefore, a Carnival cruise promises not just a voyage, but a journey filled with fun and relaxation.

Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of package options for their Caribbean cruises from Miami, ensuring there's something for everyone. Passengers can choose from a range of accommodation packages, from budget-friendly interior cabins to luxurious suites. The cruise line also provides a selection of dining packages that cater to different culinary preferences. Shore excursions offer a plethora of choices, including guided city tours, water sports, and nature hikes. Hence, every package is designed to enhance the cruise experience, regardless of budget or preference.

Cruises from Miami

Miami, Florida serves as a major departure point for Carnival's Caribbean cruises. Known as the 'Cruise Capital of the World', PortMiami provides a convenient and efficient embarkation process for all guests. The city itself is a vibrant cultural hub, boasting a diverse culinary scene, glamorous nightlife, and a host of attractions for pre or post-cruise exploration. This cosmopolitan city provides the perfect start to the enchanting journey that awaits onboard a Carnival Caribbean cruise.

Carnival Cruise Line from Miami itineraries and cruise ship schedule

Choosing a Caribbean cruise with Carnival Cruise Line from Miami means signing up for an extraordinary adventure. Whether it's the captivating Caribbean destinations, the alluring activities onboard, or the assortment of packages that can be tailored to each guest's needs, a Carnival cruise offers more than just a trip, but a journey filled with lasting memories. Experiencing the magic of the Caribbean while enjoying the amenities and services offered by Carnival Cruise Line truly enhances the overall travel experience. As the Miami skyline recedes and the Caribbean seascape unfurls, guests on a Carnival cruise can look forward to an unforgettable journey of discovery and enjoyment. This blend of enchanting destinations, world-class service, and a multitude of onboard amenities make a Caribbean cruise from Miami with Carnival a remarkable travel choice.

8-day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Carnival magic, carnival cruise line.

Date: April 19, 2025

Ports of Call: Miami, Amber Cove, San Juan, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Miami; View Itinerary

6-day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Date: October 13, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Half Moon Cay, Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Miami; View Itinerary

4-day Bahamas from Miami, Fl

Carnival conquest, carnival cruise line.

Date: August 19, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Princess Cays, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

7-day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Carnival celebration, carnival cruise line.

Date: August 18, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Amber Cove, San Juan, St. Thomas, Miami; View Itinerary

Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Cruise Line

Date: September 12, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Half Moon Cay, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: December 28, 2024

3-day Bahamas from Miami, Fl

Date: October 25, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

8-day Southern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Carnival horizon, carnival cruise line.

Date: February 1, 2025

Ports of Call: Miami, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Miami; View Itinerary

6-day Western Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Date: January 26, 2025

Ports of Call: Miami, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Miami; View Itinerary

Ports of Call: Miami, Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: July 5, 2024

Date: November 17, 2024

5-day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Date: March 8, 2025

Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: June 30, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: October 5, 2024

Date: June 3, 2024

Date: September 29, 2024

Date: February 8, 2025

Date: January 25, 2025

Date: September 15, 2024

Date: July 1, 2024

Date: November 15, 2024

Date: June 15, 2024

Date: December 27, 2024

5-day Western Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Date: April 28, 2025

Ports of Call: Miami, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: October 28, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Grand Cayman, Ocho Rios, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: August 3, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Aruba, Curacao, La Romana, Amber Cove, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: November 1, 2024

Date: March 23, 2025

Date: May 4, 2024

Carnival Cruise Line Cruise Ship Schedule from Miami

Date: September 8, 2024

Date: January 6, 2025

7-day Western Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Date: June 9, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Cozumel, Belize, Mahogany Bay, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: March 9, 2025

Date: March 29, 2025

Date: November 2, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: May 24, 2024

Date: August 25, 2024

Date: June 20, 2024

Date: March 16, 2025

Date: June 24, 2024

Date: October 6, 2024

Date: March 30, 2025

Date: March 1, 2025

Date: May 9, 2024

Date: December 15, 2024

Date: May 6, 2024

Date: July 15, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Aruba, Curacao, Amber Cove, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: June 29, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, San Juan, Amber Cove, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: April 24, 2025

Date: September 26, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Cozumel, Costa Maya, Mahogany Bay, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: January 18, 2025

Date: August 11, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, San Juan, Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Miami; View Itinerary

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Carnival Family Cruising

Carnival Bahamas cruises from $179*

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Carnival Cruise Line Bahamas Cruises

As you sail towards the peace and serenity of Nassau, Freeport and Half Moon Cay, you’ll quickly realize that choosing a Bahamas cruise with Carnival Cruise Lines is the best way to enjoy the perfect vacation. Families, you’ll be delighted with the Pirates and Dungeons tour in Nassau, sure to excite the whole family while educating you on the history of the region. Marine lovers—you can revel with the dolphins during a playful encounter. Whether you’re biking down the coastline, snorkeling in the clear waters, or kicking back with a smoothie, nothing says vacation satisfaction like a Carnival Cruise Lines Bahamas cruise.

Things to Do on a Bahamas Cruise with Carnival Cruise Line

There’s nothing quite like a cruise to the Bahamas with Carnival Cruise Lines. Add some excursions to your vacation to make it the perfect voyage in the tropical sun—whether they are beach days or stingrays. You can learn about the Western Heritage in Freeport, or go Horseback Riding by Land & Sea while at Half Moon Cay. There’s the Atlantis Resort in Nassau and Sanctuary Bay—where you can play with dolphins in Freeport. Spend your every day in the best way possible by speaking with one of our cruise consultants today.

• Sanctuary Bay (Freeport, Bahamas) Swim with the dolphins in the great canal of the Grand Bahama Islands at UNESCO. Interacting with the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins is a great experience for all ages.  

• Atlantis Resort (Nassau, Bahamas) Discover the entertaining Atlantis Resort with the spectacular water park filled with swimming pools of fresh water and seawater, waves and rapids. While you are there, take a chance at the casino or the duty-free shops at Marina Village.  

• Glass Bottom Boat (Half Moon Cay) The natural wildlife of Half Moon Cay is an attraction that sparks interest from all over. From a boat with a glass bottom, tourists can see how the lagoon shines with its stingrays, sea urchins and other fascinating marine life.  

• Charm & Beauty of Nassau & Paradise Island (Nassau, Bahamas) Enjoy the most exciting sights of the island of Nassau, including the Prime Minister’s Residence, Bob Marley Resort, Cable Beach and more before stopping at the Atlantis, and lastly the Pirates of Nassau Museum.  

• Western Heritage & Snorkel (Freeport, Bahamas) See the culture and the marine life of the Bahamas with this Carnival excursion. First, tour the western side of the island, visiting fantastic attractions like the Mermaid Pond, Pinder’s Point Lighthouse and Hawksbill Creek. Then you’ll enjoy the delightful beach and will have the opportunity to snorkel in the teeming reef.  

• Horseback Riding by Land & Sea (Half Moon Cay) Enjoy the experience of a lifetime by horse! You’ll swing a leg up and get ready for a view of the islands from one of these graceful creatures. Your horse will take you through the water as well, for what will be a memorable day of riding.  

Top 10 Carnival Cruise Line Bahamas Cruises

• Carnival Conquest 4-day Bahamas Departing From Miami, Florida (May 2024 - Apr 2026)
• Carnival Pride 7-day Eastern Caribbean Departing From Baltimore, Maryland (May 2024 - Apr 2025)
• Carnival Glory 4-day Bahamas Departing From Port Canaveral, Florida (May 2024 - Apr 2026)
• Carnival Conquest 3-day Bahamas Departing From Miami, Florida (May 2024 - Apr 2026)
• Carnival Glory 3-day Bahamas Departing From Port Canaveral, Florida (May 2024 - Apr 2026)
• Carnival Elation 4-day Bahamas Departing From Jacksonville, Florida (May 2024 - Apr 2026)
• Carnival Sunrise 4-day Bahamas Departing From Miami, Florida (May 2024 - Apr 2026)
• Carnival Sunshine 5-day Bahamas Departing From Charleston, South Carolina (May 2024 - Dec 2024)
• Carnival Paradise 5-day Bahamas Departing From Tampa, Florida (May 2024 - Mar 2026)
• Carnival Elation 5-day Bahamas Departing From Jacksonville, Florida (May 2024 - Apr 2026)

Carnival Cruise Line Bahamas Departure Ports

Learn more about the different departure ports for a Bahamas cruise with Carnival Cruise Lines. Your Carnival Cruise Lines Bahamas cruise could depart from any of the following cities:

Explore Baltimore’s rich history and culture as you visit the local neighborhoods which are home to important world changing events. 

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is known for its southern charm, historic buildings and beautiful beaches.

Galveston, Texas

Indulge in the local flavor with fresh Gulf shrimp, Galveston Bay oysters and pristine Gulf coast beaches as you relax in southern comfort in Galveston, Texas.

Jacksonville, Florida

When in Jacksonville, expect diverse itineraries, award-winning ships and top-notch excursions. Favorites include trips to the beach and museums, or just cruise the downtown on your tropical adventure.

In Miami, you’ll enjoy a small taste of the tropical weather many of you will experience during your cruise, and you’ll see why Miami is one of the most popular places to live in America.

Mobile, Alabama

Located on the Gulf Coast of the United States and known as the 12th largest port in the country, the cruise port of Mobile Alabama is definitely one for history buffs.

Take in the incredible art scene of New York City, expand your cultural horizons in the city’s diverse neighborhoods and marvel at the architectural wonders.

Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk is a quaint historically nautical town situated at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, leading to the Atlantic Ocean and many wonderful cruise destinations.

The seafood is fresh, the sun is shining and there’s a whole lot to do, so get out there and explore the city before, during and after your cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Tampa, Florida

Whether it’s a trip to the historical streets of Ybor, a day in the Florida Aquarium or a nice Cuban-infused meal, your time in Tampa will make you consider a longer stay.

Photo Gallery for Carnival Cruise Line Bahamas Cruises

View our photo gallery of Bahamas cruising photos from Carnival Cruise Lines. Best of all, this is merely a sample of the sights waiting for you on a Carnival Cruise Lines Bahamas cruise vacation.

This way to the Queen's Staircase

Carnival Destiny approaches Half Moon Cay

Carnival Destiny sits off the coast of the Bahamas

Guests enjoy a horseback riding excursion

Night skyline of Nassau, Bahamas

View of the Atlantis Resort at night

Family swimming with the dolphins

Men riding horses in the ocean

Private residence on Nassau, Bahamas

Stingray swimming under the water

Women on a boat ready to snorkel

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REAL-LIFE WATER WORLD

Bahamas cruises.

Soak up island views and aquatic adventures with a cruise to the Bahamas.

A respite for sun and sand seekers, the Bahamas is home to light blue beaches, translucent underwater caves, a rich royal heritage and exclusive private isles. These can all be found throughout a beautifully scattered string of 700 islands (most of which are uninhabited). Cruise to the Bahamas to take a dive and witness a majestic coral garden at Orange Bowl reef, hang out at ultra-luxurious resorts like Atlantis, and shop resort fashion in Paradise Island or Nassau. The Bahamas has an island for every taste and style, and it's easy to enjoy its subtropical charm during an overnight stint or a week-long cruise. Discover the magic with a Bahamas cruise.

Save Big With These Bahamas Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Bahamas cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

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FIND YOUR SUN-DRENCHED PLAYGROUND

Home to enchanting shades of blue and deliciously warm breezes, the Bahamas is the ideal place for adventures involving the sea. The best Bahamas cruises will allow you to dive and discover underwater worlds, meet marine animals and shop for island souvenirs by the ocean. 

INTO THE BLUE

Dive and drift through warm waters to reach colorful coral reefs in Bimini like Rainbow Reef. See mysterious shipwrecks like Theo's Wreck and Sea Star Wreck in Grand Bahama. And take part in some thrilling wall diving — where you can explore deep reef edges — in New Providence.

AQUATIC ADRENALINE IN ATLANTIS

For water thrills and close encounters with marine creatures, head to lush and majestic Atlantis, the fantasy resort by the sea that boasts the world's largest open-air marine habitat and what is perhaps the most exhilarating waterpark around: Aquaventure.

SHOP SEASHELLS BY THE SEASHORE

Shop in the Bahamas with an ocean breeze blowing your way as you explore the crafts center in Bimini, the straw market in Grand Bahama and the exclusive hub that is Crystal Court in Atlantis resort.

BEYOND THE BEACH

Beyond the coasts lie more wonderful discoveries. Saunter the lively streets of Nassau, chill by a freshwater pool in Perfect Day at CocoCay, or get a history lesson at the Heritage Museum during your cruise to the Bahamas. 

ROADS LESS TRAVELED

Shake off the sand and delve deep into towns like Nassau and Freeport and the remote island of CocoCay. Take a nature walk or a Jeep adventure through the pine forests, or stretch your legs at the Rand Nature Center, which offers bird-watching and installations by local artists.

THIS IS YOUR PERFECT DAY

To take your vacation experience to an entirely new level, visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, where a perfect day is waiting. Swim in the Bahamas' largest freshwater pool, go down the tallest waterslide in North America, and chill with a book in the only private overwater cabanas in the Bahamas.

PLAY IN PASTIMES

Out of all the towns in the Bahamas, Nassau encapsulates this destination's heritage with many historical landmarks. Stop by Fort Charlotte, the Queen's Staircase, Pompey Square or the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas and get a dose of its past.

WATERSCAPES ON THE BEST BAHAMAS CRUISES

A cruise to the Bahamas is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover the Bahamas onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

DECK DEFYING DAYS

Fill your days on a short escape with Oasis Class thrills — onboard Allure of the Seas ®. Tame waves on two FlowRider® surf simulators. Zipline nine decks up. And catch jaw dropping entertainment, night after night. All while sailing to the picture-perfect shores of The Bahamas and our private destination Perfect Day at CocoCay.

EXPLORE ALLURE OF THE SEAS

EXPLORE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ISLES

If you’re craving crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and island vibes turned way, way up, these getaways check all the boxes. Each week-long sailing onboard Adventure of the Seas includes two thrill- and chill-filled days at our top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay — plus stops in Grand Bahama Island and  Cozumel . 

EXPLORE PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Bahamas Cruises Insider

As a subtropical destination, the Bahamas is blessed with year-long comfortable temperatures that range between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes packing an easy chore, with only spring and summer frocks to carry for your trip.

To get around, take the local jitneys, the buses making the rounds to Nassau and Cable Beach. Visit the Bahamas and hop on the ferry to get to Paradise Island, the home of the Atlantis resort.

For those looking to encounter some of the Bahamas famous aquatic critters, October to January is the best time to see Tiger Sharks, December to March is when Hammerhead Sharks migrate through Bimini, and you can find Oceanic Whitetips April to June.

Top Free Activities and Free Things To Do at Perfect Day at CocoCay

April 12, 2024

The best free activities and free things to do at Perfect Day at CocoCay®, Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas.

What to Eat at Coco Beach Club

April 8, 2024

Perfect Day at CocoCay® is Royal Caribbean's® private island escape. It's best known for its thrilling water park, gorgeous cabanas and beautiful beaches, but it's also a foodie's dream come true.

Everything You Need to Plan a Perfect Day at Cococay

March 20, 2024

Planning on maximizing your experience at Perfect Day at CocoCay discover everything you need to know from record-breaking slides and rides, free kid-friendly attractions to delicious restaurants, and chilled out activities.

Take Your Perfect Day at CocoCay® to the Next Level | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 8, 2024

Who said you shouldn't mess with perfection? Visit a thrilling water park or a relaxing lagoon to make your Perfect Day at CocoCay® even better.

[Infographic] Weekend Getaways: Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas gives you the best opportunity to create your own great weekend getaway the way you want to travel!

Traveling With a Toddler to Perfect Day at CocoCay | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Traveling with a toddler is easy when you book a cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Read on for advice and tips for traveling with a toddler.

Best Food in Nassau, Bahamas

A guide to the best food in Nassau, Bahamas. Discover new flavors in restaurants by the water or within the historic city of Nassau.

One Day, Three Ways At Perfect Day At Cococay

Planning your time at the new CocoCay? If you want to unwind, head to Chill Island on the east side of CocoCay. Or visit the Oasis Lagoon or the Thrill Waterpark to get on the side of adventure.

Ultimate Guide To Oasis Lagoon

The best Oasis Lagoon at Perfect Day at CocoCay insider Tips to discovering all the amazing things to do, family-friendly attractions and thrills you don't want to miss. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Best Cruises From Miami

Cruise from Miami and start your vacation in one of the worlds best places to visit, then set sail from the Port of Miami to The Bahamas, Mexico, Puerto Rico and beyond on weekend getaway cruise or a longer Caribbean adventure. Here are the best cruises from Miami

Perfect Day Honeymoon Guide

Celebrate your newly-wedded bliss on a romantic Caribbean honeymoon cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay, the best Caribbean destination for newly married couples. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay

The Ultimate College Spring Break Cruise Vacation

If you are looking for an all-out college spring break vacation filled with beach vibes, thrilling rides and amazing parties it doesn’t get any better than a spring break cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Top 7 Most Thrilling Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Experience the top 7 most thrilling things to do at the Perfect Day at CocoCay from sliding down the tallest waterslide in North America to zip lining across the island and much more.

Top 4 Insider Tips to Thrill Waterpark

Thrill Waterpark at Perfect Day At CocoCay top 4 insider travel tips uncovers free things to do, places to go and thrills you can share with friends. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Best Restaurants at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Explore all the restaurants on the Perfect Day at CocoCay island and discover all the complimentary dining venues that offers loads of food and drink favorites that will fuel you up in between adventures.

Guide To Chill Island at Perfect Day

Discover Chill Island insider tips to all the relaxing things to do from renting overwater cabanas with VIP services, snorkeling with the friendly manta rays to finding the best places to unwind and soak up the island vibes.

The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Vacation to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Set sail to the best kid-friendly destination in the world on a cruise from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to Perfect Day at CocoCay and discover all the amazing family-friendly activities, award-winning shows, and record-breaking attractions.

Amazing Family Friendly Summer Cruise Vacations

Enjoy your family summer vacation on a cruise to Perfect Day CocoCay and discover the private islands beautiful beaches, kid-friendly attractions, great restaurants and record-breaking water rides and activities for all ages. Find summer cruise deals.

The 5 Most Relaxing Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Discover the most relaxing things to do on your luxury getaway to Perfect Day at CocoCay from the luxury CocoCay Overwater Cabanas to the most popular Chill Island Cabanas and much more.

Relaxing Weekend Caribbean Vacation Ideas

Envision your next weekend Caribbean vacation, plan a short cruise or quick getaway to the best travel destinations to visit. Adventure awaits!

Bahamas Travel Hacks for Families

If you're taking the whole family on a Bahamas vacation, we've got some travel hacks for families to make your kid-friendly trip easier.

Quick Bahamas & Key West Vacations

Bahamas & Key West vacation getaways are perfect for travelers looking for pristine beaches, rich history, delicious food, & stunning wildlife encounters.

Look for the "Bahamahost" sticker when getting a taxi — the label identifies those belonging to a program that promotes excellent service to tourists.

If you happen to visit on the second Friday of the month, go find the Government House and witness the Changing of the Guard, a British custom that's been performed since 1958.

The Bahamian dollar is kept at the same value as the U.S. dollar, making it easy to pay, as both are used interchangeably.

LOCAL CUISINE ISLAND TWIST AND TANG 

There's a lot of similarity between the soul food of the southern U.S., and Bahamian cuisine, that blends the Caribbean tang with its very own spice, creating a trademark flavor unique to the region.

FRUITS OF THE SEA

Little-known as a culinary ingredient in the continental U.S., conch is a large mollusk (akin to clams) with a meaty texture. Locals use it to prepare conch salad, conch fritters, conch chowder and more.

PEAS N' RICE

Pigeon peas are mixed with onions, tomatoes and spices, and incorporated into cooking rice. Often simply called Peas n' Rice, but there's a lot of savory flavors thrown in, like tomato paste, fresh thyme and salted pork or bacon.

CITRUS DELIGHT

Switcha, which many locals consider the official Bahamian drink, blends lemons and limes to concoct a powerful accompaniment to dessert or a refreshing beverage on a hot sunny day.

RELATED PORTS

Laze in a beachside hammock or get your thrills at Thrill Waterpark on Perfect Day at CocoCay. Jump onboard a Bahamas cruise to stroll along the waterfront of capital city Nassau and see its distinctive pastel-colored buildings. Or explore waterfalls and botanic gardens on Grand Bahama Island.

Nassau, Bahamas

Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas

Baltimore, Maryland

Charleston, South Carolina

Bimini, Bahamas

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Miami, Florida

Related Destinations

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The 9 best Bahamas cruises for every type of traveler

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Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with the latest information.

The best Bahamas cru ises take you away from the daily grind, transporting you to theme park-like private islands and beach-lined paradises. Cruise choices include new and jazzed-up ships sailing an array of short and weeklong Bahamas itineraries. Cruising to the Bahamas is so easy you may even be able to go without a passport .

Family-friendly lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line, offer cruises focused on the Bahamas all year. So do newcomers Virgin Voyages, with its adults-only sailings, and Margaritaville at Sea, offering short two-night hops and longer cruise-and-stay packages. The winter and early spring seasons bring a handful of itineraries on premium lines like Celebrity Cruises and Holland America.

The only cruise lines that don’t regularly offer Bahamas cruises are the luxury lines. But don’t worry, luxe lovers: Many of the ships we included on our list of the best Bahamas cruises offer suites that come with concierge services, private enclaves or special spa privileges. If a luxury cruise to the Bahamas is your goal, look at the top suite options on a mainstream or premium line.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

Whether you’re looking for a quick and cheap getaway or a week at the beach, here are the best Bahamas cruise itineraries to start your search, in order from shortest to longest.

2-night cruises on Margaritaville at Sea Paradise from Palm Beach, Florida

Though cruising is relatively new to the Margaritaville travel and hospitality franchise, cruise line Margaritaville at Sea is essentially a rebranding of the old Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. Its refurbished ship, Paradise, originally debuted in the 1990s for Costa Cruises.

One Jimmy Buffett-themed makeover later, the ship is a perfect fit for the laid-back vibe of the Bahamas. Grab a drink or a bite to eat from the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill, try your luck at the Par-A-Dice Casino and enjoy plenty of entertainment, including the musical production, “Tales from Margaritaville: Jimmy’s Ship Show.” There’s a kids club, a teen club, a spa and two pools stocked with beach balls and inflatable parrots.

The two-night cruise itinerary includes one day in Freeport, where you can shop, hit the casino, enjoy water sports or chill on the beach. The ship offers shore excursions, or you can explore independently. Margaritaville at Sea also offers cruise-and-stay itineraries of either four or six nights (including the two nights onboard the ship). These packages let you choose between two partner hotels in Freeport, where you’ll stay two or four nights on land, then hop back on the ship for your return night at sea.

Margaritaville at Sea Paradise carries around 1,300 passengers in an assortment of inside and ocean-view cabins, all around 176 square feet, which is larger than the average for those categories on most mainstream ships. Ten suites with balconies are also available, with 524 square feet of space.

Who should go? Obviously, Parrotheads are gonna want to try this ship, with all its Jimmy Buffett-inspired themes and decor, but it’s also a good trial run for anyone on the fence about cruising. Pricing makes this a great cruise to enjoy an escape without spending a fortune. We found weekday sailings that begin at $99 per person based on double occupancy for an inside cabin.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

3- or 4-night cruises on Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas from Miami

This itinerary may be the best overall short Bahamas cruise. Both the three- and four-night cruises have stops at Nassau and Royal Caribbean ‘s massive private island — Perfect Day at CocoCay . Those two stops combined give cruisers the opportunity to enjoy water sports, spend some time at the beach and experience a bit of Bahamian culture.

Freedom of the Seas has plenty of onboard fun to occupy travelers of all ages on sea days. It’s loaded with top-deck slides and water features, specialty restaurant choices and more entertainment options than you can take in on a short cruise. Carrying around 4,000 cruise guests, Freedom of the Seas is big enough to impress without being overwhelming.

Plus, logistics for cruising out of Miami are simple enough for even first-time cruisers. From flight choices to pre- or post-cruise hotels, it’s a city that caters to tourists, especially the cruising ones.

Who should go? From first-timers to veteran cruisers, anyone looking for a short but fun-filled hop to the Bahamas should give Freedom of the Seas a look. Families looking for a quick escape will find entertainment and activities for toddlers to teens. The ship is also ideal for family reunions, bachelorette parties and birthday cruises. Couples will love the adults-only Solarium with its extra-large hot tubs looking out over the sea.

Related: Bahamas cruise packing list: What to pack for the islands

3- or 4-night cruises on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida

When Royal Caribbean’ s giant Utopia of the Seas debuts in July 2024, it will offer a bevy of short sailings, including three- and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. The 236,860-ton, 5,669-passenger vessel will be the second-largest cruise ship in the world and offer more exciting amenities than any other cruise ship sailing short itineraries in North America.

Why? The newest, biggest ships in the world typically sail longer cruises. Offering short cruises on its humongous Oasis Class ships is new for Royal Caribbean; sister ship Allure of the Seas will test out the concept before Utopia launches.

Families with kids will definitely go bananas over the choices on board the new ship. The top deck alone will feature three separate pool areas, a surfing simulator, a kiddie splash zone, a basketball court, two rock walls, a miniature golf course and even a zip line.

The ship will also boast an extensive selection of restaurants, bars, lounges and shops. Additionally, there will be an indoor skating rink, a spa and a showroom with Broadway-style shows.

Utopia of the Seas’ inaugural voyage is set for July 22, 2024, and will be a four-night cruise to Nassau and the line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. The second sailing will be a three-night cruise to the Bahamas that departs on July 26, 2024.

Who should go?  Short sailings on this new ship will appeal to all sorts of cruisers. Historically, new ships are reserved for longer itineraries, so this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a snack-size sampling of a brand-new ship without spending the money on a longer sailing.

Families craving a quick getaway where the entire brood is satisfied will not be disappointed. In addition to seemingly endless kid-friendly amenities and top-notch children’s programming, Utopia of the Seas will feature a casino and adults-only spaces.

Related: These 2 cruise lines are building new private destinations in the Bahamas

3- or 4-night cruises on Disney Wish from Port Canaveral, Florida

Disney waited a decade to build its next new ship, but Disney dreamers had their wish granted in 2022. Even better, the new Disney Wish cruises to the Bahamas. Designed to be the perfect complement to a visit to Orlando’s Disney theme parks, these short cruises visit Nassau and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The four-night itinerary adds a sea day to enjoy the ship.

Disney Wish is designed to immerse cruisers in the various Disney worlds through technology. An onboard augmented reality game turns the Disney Cruise Line Navigator smartphone app into a virtual spyglass that lets cruisers participate in a fantasy adventure with Disney and Pixar characters. The AquaMouse waterslide combines a splashy tube ride in a two-seater raft with a pre-adventure tale told through screens at the beginning of the ride. Diners at the Worlds of Marvel restaurant take part in an interactive Avengers-themed experience through videos and special effects.

Wish carries 4,000 passengers in cabins and suites designed to simplify cruising with kids. But never fear, adult Disney fans; you’ll also find your spot on board. From the “Star Wars”-themed Hyperspace Lounge to the Quiet Cove adults-only sun deck, Disney manages to cater to grownups as well as kids.

Who should go ? This is obviously the best Bahamas cruise for lovers of all things Disney, including “Star Wars” and Marvel fans.

Related: Best shore excursions for Bahamas cruises

3- or 4-night cruises on Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Beginning in April 2024, Celebrity Cruises will sail three- and four-night voyages round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, year-round.

The 3,046-passenger Celebrity Reflection will offer a consistent rotation of three-night weekend cruises (departing each Friday and returning each Monday morning) and four-night weekday sailings (departing each Monday and returning each Friday morning).

Itineraries will include stops at Key West in Florida and Nassau and Bimini in the Bahamas.

Celebrity appeals mostly to the 40-plus set sans small children. It’s light on the kid-centric attractions (such as waterslides, go-karts and laser tag) that other big-ship lines include. The line offers instead lots of quiet and relaxing pool and lounge areas. (If you do have kids in tow, you can take advantage of the extensive children’s program, Camp at Sea. It provides supervised activities daily for children ages 3-12 in dedicated spaces.)

Celebrity Reflection is the line’s last and largest Solstice Class cruise ship. The Solstice C lass ships feature some of the most stylish outdoor pool decks at sea, with indoor, adults-only pool areas that, notably, are topped with glass panels embedded with solar panels that contribute to the ship’s power grid. You’ll also find large spas, casinos, showrooms and a nice selection of restaurants on board.

This ship also boasts one of the most spectacular suites in the cruising world — the 1,646-square-foot Reflection Suite. It was the first two-bedroom suite on a Celebrity Cruises vessel.

Who should go? This an ideal cruise for older travelers who are new to cruising and want to sample one or frequent cruisers who might prefer a shorter time at sea. Although Celebrity doesn’t draw many families with young children, the shorter Bahamas itineraries are also perfect for multigenerational family groups seeking an affordable cruise that appeals to all ages.

4-night cruises on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady from Miami

Virgin Voyages aimed to be a disrupter in the cruise market from the beginning — creating a product designed to please even those who claim they would never set foot on a cruise ship. Yet the itinerary for this four-night Bahamas cruise on Scarlet Lady is fairly ordinary. Ports of call include Key West and a private beach club on the Bahamian island of Bimini.

It’s the ship itself that sets this cruise apart from the pack. You’ll find unique cabins (with balcony hammocks), brash red livery and one-of-a-kind onboard activities, such as tattoo parlors, drag shows and ‘80s-themed fitness classes, to keep its 2,700 sailors (as Virgin calls its passengers) entertained.

Who should go ? This is the best Bahamas cruise for the non-cruiser who is either young at heart or young and eager to party aboard this glitzy ship. If you’re easily offended by loud music, round-the-clock partying or sexual innuendo, this is not your Bahamas cruise.

4-day cruises on Norwegian Jade from Miami

Norwegian Cruise Line offers four-day sailings from Miami aboard Norwegian Jade. Ports of call include Key West and Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s private island.

Port diversions consist of touring the Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum and the Key West Aquarium, shopping along Nassau’s Bay Street and exploring the white-sand beaches and pristine waters on Great Stirrup Cay.

The 2,402-passenger vessel is part of the line’s Jewel class of ships. Though the ship launched in 2006, it received a substantial refurbishment in 2017 that included a cabin remodel, new and expanded dining and a design overhaul.

Norwegian Jewel might not have the extensive top-deck attractions of newer ships, like Norwegian Prima, or as many restaurants and bars. However, passengers will find plenty to occupy their time onboard with scheduled activities, a casino, spa and pool areas.

Who should go? Families, couples and friend groups will appreciate the unstructured nature of a Norwegian cruise. The line’s “freestyle cruising” mantra — cruising without rigid dining schedules, dress codes and formal nights — is perfectly suited for short sailings. With a wide range of eateries and no assigned seating times, passengers have lots of flexibility for their limited time at sea.

Related: Best time to cruise to the Bahamas

5-night cruises on Carnival Sunshine from South Carolina

I am a huge lover of five-night sailings. They are long enough to scratch the cruise itch and short enough to account for travel time to and from the port without adding any extra vacation days. Plus, the slightly longer itineraries are less popular with hard partiers who can be disruptive on shorter Bahamas cruises.

Carnival Cruise Line offers 10 different five-night sailings from Charleston, South Carolina, aboard the 3,002-passenger Carnival Sunshine. It’s currently Carnival’s oldest ship (it debuted in 1996 under the name Carnival Destiny). However, in 2013, the line gave it a $200 million bow-to-stern glow-up and renamed it Carnival Sunshine. The overhaul produced a new top-deck WaterWorks water park, a comedy club and several bars, lounges and restaurants.

Depending on which itinerary you choose, you can chill out on the beaches of Bimini, shop Nassau’s iconic straw market or go horseback riding by the shore of Carnival’s private island, Half Moon Cay. Consider a pre- or post-cruise stay in Charleston to take in the city’s historic landmarks, epic dining and charming cobblestone streets.

Who should go? These cruises are the best Bahamas sailings for those who prefer the intimacy of an older ship and don’t care about flashy amenities and onboard attractions on newer vessels. Plus, they’re ideal for travelers who live north of Florida and are looking for a more convenient drive-to departure port.

8-night cruises on Carnival Venezia from New York City

The 4,090-passenger Carnival Venezia is a bit of an outlier in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet. Originally built for Italy-based Costa Cruises and launched in 2019, it joined the Carnival family in May 2023. (Carnival Corporation is the parent company of both Costa and Carnival.)

The ship was renovated to add many of Carnival’s signature venues. However, many of its Costa-aligned, Italian-themed designs remain, including a real gondola “sailing” down the middle of its main dining room and a pool deck built to look like a Venetian boulevard.

Guests might feel like they’ve been whisked away to Italy thanks to regional touches like the handmade Italian gelato at JavaBlue Cafe and the Italian liqueur-infused concoctions found at many bars.

Two eight-night voyages out of New York City include stops at Freeport, Nassau and Half Moon Cay.

Who should go? This Bahamas cruise is ideal for anyone looking for a different Carnival experience during a weeklong cruise. It’s almost like traveling to Italy and the Bahamas in one trip.

Bottom line

The best Bahamas cruises offer something cruisers can’t quite get enough of — whether it’s beach time or party time. While short sailings are still the most popular Bahamas itineraries, you can find options for almost every cruising style. The key is identifying the cruise that fits your style, preferred activities and vacation budget.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Ports
• Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda Cruise Ports

Miami (Florida)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-05-01 03:21

Port Miami cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Miami, Florida. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

PortMiami and Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale are the world's largest/busiest cruise ports and the USA's main turnaround/departure ports for roundtrip Caribbean voyages. Both seaports and their respective airports are relatively nearby to each other. PortMiami's area is sized 518 acres (0,8 mi2 / 2,1 km2). The city has the world's largest number of cruise company headquarters, including Carnival , RCI-Royal Caribbean International , MSC , NCL-Norwegian , Celebrity , Oceania .

Miami Metro is USA's 8th-most populous and 4th-largest, with population around 5,5 million. The city is a leader in international trade, commerce, finance, media, entertainment, arts. In 2010, it was ranked USA's 7th and world's 33rd in terms of human capital, business activities, information exchange, politics and culture. Nicknamed "Capital of Latin America", Miami is USA's largest city with Cuban-American citizens.

The city has USA's 3rd tallest skyline with over 300 skyscrapers. Downtown has USA's largest concentration of international banks, large national and multinational corporations. PortMiami is one of USA's fastest growing containership ports . It contributes annually with around USD 43 billion to the economy and supports over 334,000 jobs countrywide.

Miami cruise port

PortMiami (locode URMIA) is currently ranked the world's second-largest cruise port (after Port Canaveral).

The world's top-10 busiest cruise ports (by annual passengers numbers/stats 2023) are in Florida USA ( Port Canaveral/Orlando (4,07M), Miami (4,02M), Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale ), Mexico ( Cozumel ), Bahamas ( Nassau ), China ( Shanghai ), Spain ( Barcelona ), Bahamas (Out Islands), Texas USA ( Galveston ), Italy ( Civitavecchia-Rome ).

Miami is also among the most fortunate ports where newest cruise ships make show-off visits and many schedule inaugural homeporting seasons. Port's facilities are among the most modern, providing easy processing and boarding. PortMiami serves 20+ cruise companies and 60+ different passenger ships.

On August 3, 2014, was opened Miami Port Tunnel. The tunnel is undersea (beneath Biscayne Bay), with length 4200 ft / 1300 m and consisting of 2 parallel tubes (1 in each direction). It connects MacArthur Causeway (Watson Island) with PortMiami (Dodge Island) removing the heavy traffic to the cruise port from downtown Miami.

In 2016, PortMiami handled nearly 4,98 million cruise passengers and also added new (MSC-exclusive) terminal for year-round homeporting. Also were started projects to enlarge MSC's cruise terminals (AA and AAA) and were added new passenger-boarding bridges.

For FY2017 (fiscal year/season 2016-2017 September 30) the cruise port reported a record year with over 5,3 million cruise passengers - the world's highest-ever number. In 2017 started works on "Terminal A" (completed in November 2018). Viking OCEAN made inaugural visits in November 2017 with Viking Sky (Nov 12) and Viking Sun (Nov 17). Among the Port's most famous newcomers in 2018 were Carnival Horizon, Norwegian Bliss, Symphony OTS. In 2019 here was homeported MSC Meraviglia .

For season 2017-2018, PortMiami expected 5,3+ million passengers (4,9 million in 2016). The 6-million pax threshold was reached during season 2018-2019. Discussions on long-term agreements are ongoing with NCLH and Carnival Corporation . 2017's growth came from RCI-Royal Caribbean (~350,000 more). The number grew further after RCI inaugurated "Terminal A" (and homeported Oasis-class liners) and MSC inaugurated "Terminal F" (for Meraviglia-class and Seaside-class liners).

In 2017 started discussions for turnaround operations by vessels of Virgin Voyages  and NCL-Norwegian . However, Carnival Cruise Line remained the Port’s largest customer (2+ million passengers in 2017).

Various studies on LNG bunkering were conducted, regarding whether these operations (LNG supply to berthed vessels) to be land or water-side. The port expects to receive its first LNG-powered cruise liner in 2022.

On May 4, 2018, from Barcelona to PortMiami were delivered 2x large-sized "Seaport Passenger Boarding Bridges". The tailor-made (fully assembled) bridges were for the renovated "Terminal F’". Each of these 2-ton walkways is 4-sectioned (telescopic) and has length 32 m (105 ft). The bridges were designed by Adelte (Spain) and custom-made for "Terminal F" - to serve large liners with LOA length over 300 m (984 ft).

In late-October 2019 was approved the agreement for Brightline Miami to be rebranded "Virgin Trains" and Virgin Group to build a train station (Virgin Trains PortMiami) at the cruise port. The new station serves high-speed trains and connects PortMiami directly with the USA's intercity railway system (via Aventura, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach ) to Orlando International Airport. Brightline plans to expand the railway to Tampa  and  Jacksonville .

On August 31, 2020, Miami-Dade County' commission authorized the issuance of up to USD 0,5 billion in special obligation bonds, of which USD 335 million was designated for PortMiami and the rest going toward development projects related to the County's general fund.

• The approval came as cruising out of US homeports remained banned through October 1, and all major cruise companies suspended departures through October 31.
• Before the Coronavirus crisis (2020) paralyzed the cruise shipping industry, the County agreed to pay USD 700 million toward 7 projects - 5 new cruise terminals and 2 cruise company headquarters. Five shipowners (Carnival Corporation, NCLH-Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, MSC, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, Virgin Voyages) agreed to repay USD 5,8 billion over the next 20-62 years.
• The biggest part of the USD 335 million in bonds (USD 130 M) was allocated for the building of the Virgin Voyages Terminal.

On November 15, 2022, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group signed a 36-year lease agreement that includes developing and exclusive operation of PortMiami's Terminal G.

• By the deal, RCG will construct a new facility (exclusive passenger terminal for ships of RCI-Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises) and will also redevelop RCI's headquarters (at PortMiami) which lease was extended through 2072.
• By May 2020, RCI spent ~US$70 million to upgrade its headquarters prior to halting construction works to mitigate financial losses during the COVID crisis.
• By the new lease deal (2022), Miami-Dade is now financing the RCI headquarters' completion as well as Terminal G's construction. In turn, Royal Caribbean guarantees a minimum annual passenger movement ~600,000 (during Terminal G's reconstruction), 1,5 million (following the completion/scheduled for 2027) and 2,1 million passengers annually (from 2038 to 2063). RCI also agreed to repay the cost of finishing its headquarters via increased rent and to pay back up to 53% (US$172,5M) of Terminal G's redevelopment costs.
• Terminal G's lease includes 3x 7-year renewal options, while RCI's headquarters lease has 2x 5-year renewal options.
• The deal also provided for RCI's shared use of Berth 10 Terminal (scheduled for completion in October 2028) - together with MSC.
• The 2022-signed agreement replaced the expiring in 2033. Reportedly, the lease will generate ~US$2,5 billion (from Terminal G) and ~US$260 million (from RCI's headquarters) and will create ~12000 permanent jobs, including ~1000 additional positions with RCI (+50% over 2022's staff count).

In Miami is also headquartered CMI-Cruise Management International and its subsidiary CMI Leisure (smaller-sized and expedition cruise ship management company). Since 2022, CMI is owned by Anglo-Eastern (1974-founded company that manages 600+ vessels/crew recruitment and management, technical services).

Since January 2024, in Block 55 at Sawyer's Walk (premium retail shopping and residential area in Downtown Miami) is headquartered MSC Group (the world's second-largest container shipping company/after Maersk).

World's largest cruise ports

Based on 2016 passenger traffic numbers reported by CLIA, Miami cruise port was ranked world's largest (4,898 million pax). Follows the list of world's busiest cruise ports with annual shipping traffic over 1 million passengers.

• Miami FL (4,898 million)
• Port Everglades Fort Lauderdale FL (3,890 million)
• Port Canaveral Fl (3,686 million)
• Cozumel Mexico (3,637 million)
• Shanghai China (2,847 million)
• Barcelona Spain (2,683 million)
• Civitavecchia-Rome Italy (2,340 million)
• Nassau Bahamas (2,035 million)
• Canary Islands Spain (combined 1,981 million)
• Balearic Islands Spain (combined 1,957 million)
• USVI (combined 1,777 million)
• Galveston TX (1,730 million)
• Grand Cayman Island (1,712 million)
• Southampton UK (1,7 million)
• St Maarten Island (1,669 million)
• Jamaica (combined 1,655 million)
• Venice Italy (1,606 million)
• Marseille France (1,597 million)
• Sydney Australia (1,309 million)
• Naples Italy (1,306 million)
• New Orleans NOLA (1,070 million) - excluding USA river cruise passengers.

PortMiami statistics

PortMiami is a major US seaport located on Dodge Island (Biscayne Bay, Florida). It is ranked the world's largest passenger port (serving both cruise and ferry shipping traffic). The port is linked to Watson Island via PortMiami Tunnel (building cost USD 1 billion). Dodge Island combines 3 islands (Dodge, Lummus, Sam's) into one.

PortMiami has capacity to handle the world's biggest passenger ships and is homeport (turnaround port) for numerous large-sized vessels. However, port's prime shipping business are container ships , ranking it Florida's largest container cargo port and USA's 9th-largest. Annually, it handles 4+ million cruise ship tourists, around 7,4 million cargo tons and 1+ million TEU-containers.

Currently, PortMiami has 9 passenger terminals, 6 gantry crane-equipped wharves (total 9 gantry cranes serving containerized cargo), 7 Ro-Ro docks (serving ferries and car carriers), 4 reefer yards (for refrigerated containers), breakbulk warehouses. The port has 2 super post-Panamax gantry cranes (among the world's largest) with capacity to handle 22,000-TEU boxships.

In 1997 was started USD 250 million port redevelopment project for facility upgrades and expansion in order to accommodate the industry's demands. PortMiami Tunnel was built 2010-2014, linking (via SR 836) directly the seaport with USA's interstate highway system, thus bypassing downtown's congestion. By this project were also constructed new cruise terminals, roads, terminal parking garages, new lighting, landscaping, signage. Security Gates (opened in 2006) increased the port's processing rate for container trucks.

In 2007, the port served over 3,787 million cruise passengers. In 2010 were handled 4,33 million cruise passengers (1 in 7 in the world). In 2015 were handled nearly 4,9 million cruisers. For FY11 (fiscal year 2011), PortMiami reported an economic impact in Miami-Dade County of USD 18 billion, providing around 176,000 local jobs.

On December 9, 2018 (Sunday), the port reported its ultimate one-day record for cruise shipping traffic - 52,000 passengers. The list of berthed liners included Carnival Horizon , Carnival Magic , Disney Magic , MSC Divina , Norwegian Getaway , Oceania Riviera , Allure of the Seas , Empress of the Seas , and the high-speed catamaran San Gwann (FRS Caribbean - German company serving the ferry route Miami- Bimini Islands ).

Port Boulevard connects PortMiami with Downtown. This link is a causeway over the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway. ICW has length 3000 mi (4800 km) and runs along the USA's Atlantic (Eastern Seaboard) and Gulf of Mexico coasts (from Manasquan River NJ, around Gulf of Mexico to Brownsville TX). According to US federal law, ICW must be maintained at min-depth 3,7 m (12 ft). ICW is toll-free, but since 1978 commercial users (cargo barges) are charged a fuel tax, which is used for facilities maintenance.

PortMiami Deep Dredge project (budget USD 180 million, completed in 2016) increased the harbor's max draft to 15 m (48 ft) allowing access to Super Post Panamax boxships after the Panama Canal expansion completion.

In March 2018, NCLH unveiled details on NCL's exclusive new Cruise Terminal B scheduled for completion in 2019 (read more in the port's "Terminal" section).

In 2018, PortMiami implemented the NOAA agency's (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) PORTS system (Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System). The system is a public-private partnership for reducing in-port ship accidents (by over 50%) and transit delays for commercial shipping traffic. It also improves hazardous spill response. PortMiami's annual benefit from the PORTS system was estimated at around USD 300 million. The system serves a total of 31 US seaports, supporting 85% of the USA's cargo shipping traffic. PORTS provides real-time maritime data to vessel operators and harbor pilots, including information on currents (in and around port), water levels, waves, water salinity, bridge clearances (air gaps), visibility, winds (speed and direction), air and water temperatures.

On May 10, 2018, was officially opened Carnival's "Fleet Operations Center". The 35,000 ft2 facility allows simultaneous real-time monitoring of all ships in the fleet. The main feature is its 74 ft (22,5 m) long video wall composed of 57x LED screens. The data processed here includes itinerary information, current position, weather conditions, logistics, environmental status, guest operations. The interactive world map shows also the current locations of all Carnival Corporation ships (all brands). The center is staffed 24 / 7. The Corporation also owns similar monitoring centers in Seattle and Hamburg.

FY2018 (Sept 2017-Sept 2018) was another (4th consecutive) record year, with 5,8% growth in containerized cargo volumes (total 1,084 million TEUs) and 4,7% increase in cruise shipping (total 5,592 million passengers). Cargo shipping growth was attributed to the seaport's USD 1 billion investments in infrastructure improvements that allowed handling of Post-Panamax ships (with min draft 12 m / 40 ft). In 2018, the port handled over 250 such vessels, following a deep dredging project and the installation of Super Post-Panamax gantry cranes. Cruise shipping growth was attributed to expanded business opportunities (adding 3 new cruise companies - Viking Ocean, Seabourn, Victory Cruise Lines), extended homeport seasons and homeporting larger passenger liners.

In early January 2019, MSC signed with Miami-Dade County a letter of intent for expanding the company's PortMiami operations. The project's approval was received on Sept 19, 2019. By this project (completed in November 2023) MSC increased its annual capacity by building two (exclusive) cruise terminals (AA, AAA). The project included design, construction and management of the buildings (pax capacity 7000/28000 daily movements), berths (2 mega-liners), terminal parking garages, administrative offices, storage facilities plus infrastructure. MSC planned to homeport here several ships, including of the WORLD class (fleet's largest).

FY2019 (Sept 2018-Sept 2019) was again record-breaking for both container shipping (+3,4 % increase, to 1,12 million TEUs) and cruise shipping (+22% increase, to 6,824 million passengers). In 2019 were signed terminal development projects with Carnival Corporation, MSC, NCLH-Norwegian, Virgin UK, CMA-CGM (for Terminal Link Miami). The port generated ~USD 7,8 billion (economic impact) and supported ~27,500 South Florida jobs.

In FY2019, the cruise port handled 6,823816 million passengers, providing 27500 jobs and contributing ~USD 7,8 billion to the state's economy.

In February 2021, Miami-Dade County signed a deal with FPL-Florida Power & Light Company (subsidiary of NextEra Energy Inc) and 6 major cruise companies (Carnival Corporation, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, MSC, NCLH-Norwegian, DCL-Disney, Virgin) for funding the Shore Power Pilot Program ( shoreside power capabilities at cruise berths). In May, the program received USD 2 million funding by DERA Program (Diesel Emissions Reduction Act).

In February 2023  was subcontracted PowerCon AS (Hadsund Denmark-based engineering and manufacturing company specializing in electrical power conversions) to deliver 5x shore power systems for cruise vessels. For this particular project was established the subsidiary PoweCon USA. The cruise shore-power facilities are to be installed at four PortMiami cruise terminals - Terminal A (RCI-Royal Caribbean International), Terminal B (NCL-Norwegian and MSC), Terminal F (CCL-Carnival), and Terminal V (Virgin Voyages). When completed (2023-Q4), the combined shore-power system will be the world's largest.

April 9, 2023, was PortMiami's record-breaking day when were handled a total of 67594 tourists visiting on 8 different ships (Carnival Celebration, Carnival Horizon, Explorer of the Seas, MSC Seascape, Norwegian Encore, Oasis of the Seas, Seabourn Ovation, Scarlet Lady).

FY2023 (October 1st, 2022, through September 30th, 2023) became PortMiami's record year for cruise shipping, with handled a total of 7,299294 million passengers (~7% increase over FY2019).

Cruise itineraries to and from Miami Florida

Follows a list of destinations visited by ships leaving out of Miami:

• World Cruises - around the world voyages from Miami are offered in January, as well as shorter itinerary segments part of the main round-trip itinerary.
• South America itineraries from Miami are operated by luxury lines or by budget lines ships on relocation routes to Brazil ( Santos or Rio de Janeiro ) or Argentina ( Buenos Aires ). Round-trip itineraries usually visit ports in the Southern Caribbean, Brazil (often the Amazon River region), then go back to Florida.
• Bahamas itineraries from Miami visit Nassau (New Providence Island) and Freeport (Grand Bahama Island) , often combined with Florida ports (mainly Key West ). Major lines also include exclusive stops at their Bahamian private islands. These are Coco Cay (Royal Caribbean) , Half Moon Cay (Carnival, Holland America) , Princess Cays (Princess) , Castaway Cay (Disney) , Great Stirrup Cay (NCL Norwegian) .
• Short-break (3-day) cruises to Bahamas stop in Nassau. Some 3-day and most 4-day itineraries additionally include a private island stop, while 5-day itineraries add Freeport.
• Short-break (4-day) roundtrips to Mexico stop in Key West and Cozumel .
• 7-day Western Caribbean itineraries visit ports in Honduras, Belize, Mexico, also Grand Cayman Island (George Town) and Jamaica.
• 7-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries visit ports in BVI, USVI, Dutch Antilles, also Puerto Rico, Bahamas (Nassau) and the lines private islands.
• B2B (back-to-back) cruises combine two 7-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries into a 14-day roundtrip itinerary.
• 8-day Southern Caribbean itineraries visit Grand Turk Island , Dominican Republic, Aruba (Oranjestad) , Curacao (Willemstad) .
• Panama Canal transits  between Miami and California ports ( Los Angeles , San Diego , San Francisco ) are offered with one-way itineraries (up to 16 days in length). They include transition through Panama Canal and usually visit ports in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Mexico (Mexican Riviera).

Seasonal ship relocations (RepositionCruises.com) include Panama Canal transits from Florida to Alaska in late Spring. The itineraries end either in California ports or in the turnaround ports for Alaskan roundtrip from Vancouver BC or Seattle WA . The reverse routes (Alaska to Florida) are in early Fall.

Transatlantic crossings from Florida to Europe are offered in Spring. Relocation routes from Miami usually include the Canary Islands and Mediterranean ports, and often Bermuda (stopping at King's Wharf ). The longest relocation itineraries end in Baltic Sea turnaround ports ( Amsterdam , Copenhagen , Hamburg ).

Transatlantic crossings from Europe to Florida usually depart from the UK (Southampton, Dover, Harwich) or Mediterranean (Barcelona, Civitavecchia-Rome, Piraeus-Athens) and often stop in Bermuda (Kings Wharf).

Miami cruise terminal

Port Miami has been the "Cruise Capital of the World" and also "Cargo Gateway of the Americas" for many years. It kept that title for more than two decades and accommodated world's biggest cruise ships of all major passenger shipping companies. PortMiami lost the title in late-2000 to Port Everglades .

The port is situated in Biscayne Bay, Miami, FL on Dodge Island. There the Sam's Islands, the Lummus and the Dodge (famous historic islands) combine in one. The Port of Miami is related to four important projects &ndash: the Panama Canal expansion, the Port of Miami Tunnel, the bridge and rail line restoration and the Port of Miami Deep Dredge Project. The ship schedule offers voyages all the year. The Miami International Airport is 8 mi/13 km away, the Fort Lauderdale International Airport - 25 mi/40 km.

Port Miami has 9 terminals. Located at the Dodge Island north part are terminals B/C, D, E , F, G, on the west is terminal H (V) and on the south – terminal J. The most modern cruise terminals are D and E. They started to operate in 2007 and host mega-liners. The luxury market is operated by cruise terminal J - facility made to look like a boutique. All passenger terminals offer cafes, check-in, shops, bars and cab ranks. Multi-Agency Facility is available at terminals D and E.

Miami cruise terminals B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J

• port address - "1741,1751 Africa Way, Dodge Island, Miami Florida 33132"
• location (on Dodge Island) - 8 mi / 13 km (25-min drive distance) from Miami International Airport, 25 mi / 40 km (45 min drive distance) from Fort Lauderdale International Airport
• Port entrance is via Biscayne Blvd (Port Bridge).
• Terminal address - "zzz Cruise Boulevard, Port of Miami, Miami, FL 33132"
• In the above address replace "zzz" with the corresponding address (by terminal) listed below:
• (new) "Terminal A" (address "1015 North") - here dock Royal Caribbean ships only. Berth length is 1300 ft (396 m).
• Terminal B (address "1751 North") - here dock NCLH-Norwegian ships only
• Terminal C (address "1741 North")
• Terminal D (address "1435 North") - here dock Carnival ships only.
• Terminal E (address "1265 North") - here dock Carnival ships only.
• Terminal F (address "1103 North")
• Terminal G (address "909/1055 North") - here dock Royal Caribbean ships only (berth length 1000 ft / 305 m)
• (west, Bimini Tent) Terminal H (address "897 South") - for Resorts World Bimini (Bimini SuperFast).
• Terminal J (address "1120 Caribbean Way") Terminal J is primarily for docking luxury cruise ships from the fleets of Azamara, Crystal, Oceania, Regent. This terminal underwent a USD 3 million refurbishment which upgraded the furniture, more lounge seating was added, along with new check-in counters.

Terminals D and E are the newest (both open in 2007) and can berth the world's largest cruise ships with capacity up to 5000 passengers. Their buildings are 3-story facilities (sized 105,000 ft2 / 9750 m2. Each terminal has a VIP lounge, separate security screening facility (embarkation), airline counters, conveyor baggage system.

(expanded) MSC Terminal F

In December 2016 started construction works for renovating and expanding "Terminal F" to be able to homeport MSC Seaside in December 2017.

Miami-Dade funded the USD 38 million reconstruction project, which increased the terminal's capacity up to 6000 passengers. MSC Seaside has max capacity of 5179 passengers. Planned terminal enhancements included an expanded waiting area (1500 seats), larger VIP waiting area (exclusive lounge for "MSC Yacht Club" VIP passengers), new "group passengers" dedicated lounge, improved baggage-claim area, 60 ticket counters, also implementing the latest technology for faster passenger embarkation/debarkation process.

The 2-story terminal covers a total area of 3557 m2 (38280 ft2). The new terminal was officially opened/inaugurated on December 7, 2017, MSC Seaside's scheduled dock in PortMiami was on December 21, 2017.

On May 4, 2018, from Barcelona were delivered two large passenger boarding bridges. Tailor-made for "Terminal F’", each bridge is 2-ton and 4-sectioned (telescopic), with length 32 m (105 ft). They serve ships with LOA length over 300 m (984 ft).

(NEW) Carnival Terminal F

In September 2019, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line received approval for major expansion and renovation of "Terminal F". The upgraded (471000-ft2 / 43760-m2 sized) facility can handle the Excel-class vessel Carnival Celebration (homeported since November 2022).

The 2019-signed Carnival-PortMiami agreement included the company's commitment to homeport at Terminal F ships for 20 years, with the option of two additional 7-year lease extensions.

Carnival Terminal F's renovations officially started on January 29, 2021 (with the groundbreaking ceremony) and are scheduled for completion by October 2022. Terminal F's groundbreaking was attended by Christine Duffy (CCL's President) and Daniella Levine Cava (Miami-Dade Mayor), along with construction companies representatives and county commissioners.

Terminal F is PortMiami's 3rd cruise terminal dedicated to Carnival ships as well as currently the largest in North America.

(NEW) MSC Cruise Terminal (AA, AAA)

In July 2018, Miami-Dade County and MSC signed an agreement for extended preferential berthing rights and MoU for building a new "Cruise Terminal AAA" at PortMiami (company's exclusive homeport in the USA).

The new agreement extended the old (Saturdays) preferential berthing rights to Sundays as well.

MSC Terminal AAA (completed in October 2022) has capacity to handle MSC WORLD-Class liners (fleet's ever-largest, with passenger capacity 7000).

The 2018-signed MoU agreement received approval from Miami-Dade's Commissioners on April 9, 2019 and the deal was officially signed on September 19, 2019. MSC designed and started construction works on a large building (to serve its two cruise terminals - AA, AAA) plus two new berths. For the terminal's design was contracted Arquitectonica (global architecture, landscape and interior design company).

PortMiami's MSC terminals AA and AAA can serve 2 turnarounds/homeported ships simultaneously and have max capacity 28000 passengers daily.

On July 8, 2021, MSC and Fincantieri signed a contract for the construction of PortMiami's newest MSC Cruise Terminal. The project (valued ~EUR 350 million/~USD 414M) was signed by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri).

The new MSC Terminal can handle three large vessels simultaneously (max daily passenger capacity 36000) and is fitted with shorepower connectivity .

The 4-story building houses office areas and has multi-level parking (min capacity 2400 vehicles), 4 passenger boarding decks, a new road connection, two new docks (berths with total length 750 m / 2460 ft) plus a 3rd berth (built/financed by Miami-Dade County).

The new facility was designed by Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure. It is adjacent to Royal Caribbean's Terminal A. Construction works started on March 10, 2022, with scheduled completion and inauguration in December 2023.

Starting in 2025, MSC World America will be also homeported at the new terminal.

(NEW) Royal Caribbean Miami Terminal A

In September 2015, the world's second-largest cruise ship company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd/RCCL announced its plans to build a US$100 million terminal at PortMiami.

In June 2016, PortMiami leased 10 acres (0,04 km2) of land to RCCL to build and exclusively operate a dedicated terminal. Here are also homeported two of RCI's largest liners - Allure of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas .

The new "Terminal A" facility is sized 170,000 ft2 (15,800 m2) and is able to handle the world's largest passenger ships of the OASIS-class. According to the MoU (memorandum of understanding) between Royal Caribbean and Miami-Dade County, the Terminal's completion date was July 31, 2018. By the deal, RCCL leased the land and financed the whole project. RCCL was responsible for the Terminal's design and construction of the facilities (including parking garages with combined capacity 1000 vehicles).

The plans for the new Royal Caribbean terminal were approved by Miami's Board of County Commissioners on July 7, 2016. Under the agreement, RCCL fully financed the construction, except US$15M that PortMiami paid for infrastructure/road works.

Annually, Royal Caribbean pays Miami-Dade County US$7,5M in rent.

The project's value was estimated at USD 247 million for PortMiami - after taking into consideration up-front costs and annual rent for current cargo shipping purposes. For comparison, the Port's annual revenues are US$1,2M (from cargo activities) and US$9,5M (from cruise shipping).

Royal Caribbean is leasing the land for an initial 20-year period (until 2048) at base rent US$9,5 million per year (annual increase 1,5%). In addition to the base rent, Miami-Dade County receives US$5,50 per cruise passenger in excess of 1,55 million pax.

The new terminal building (nicknamed 'Crown of Miami') serves exclusively RCCL/RCG-Royal Caribbean Group-owned ships.

As of 2016, PortMiami handled ~750,000 Royal Caribbean passengers (per year) or ~15% of the Port's entire cruise traffic. The new terminal generates at least 1,8 million cruisers (or ~30% of the projected traffic) with estimated economic impact ~USD 0,5 billion. The facility generated ~4000 new local jobs.

Construction works started on March 8, 2017. RCCL later added to the project another building (named "Innovation Lab") that serves as the corporation's headquarters. Innovation Lab is sized 1860 m2 (20,000 ft2) and also hosts the company's ship design studio.

"Terminal A" was officially inaugurated on November 2, 2018. The opening ceremony was attended by Richard Fain (RCCL's CEO), Michael Bayley (RCI's CEO), Carlos Gimenez (Miami City Mayor), and Rebecca Sosa (Port Commissioner).

Until 2018, RCI represented annual capacity 0,8 million passengers (~15% of the Port's overall traffic). With the new terminal, this capacity was expected to increase to ~2 million.

(NEW) NCL-Norwegian Cruise Terminal B

On May 2, 2017, was announced that Miami-Dade County commissioners approved the agreement with NCLH/Norwegian Cruise Line Holding for a new terminal at PortMiami.

The facility has berthing capacity of two vessels (simultaneously), having 2 berths for large-sized vessels (up to 5000 passengers each). The facility was inaugurated in February 2020, with the arrival of Norwegian Encore (homeported here for winter 2019-2020 season).

NCL terminal's construction officially started on April 26, 2018 (ground-breaking ceremony). The project was officially approved on April 10th, and works started on May 1st, with planned completion in Fall 2019.

The new Terminal B's cost was estimated at ~USD 100 million. The facility incorporates PortMiami's existing terminals B and C into a single/new "Terminal B". 

Miami-Dade shares the county's parking and marketing revenues. The expected numbers for fiscal 2018 were ~US$180,000 (parking) and US$210,000 (marketing).

NCLH's new terminal was expected to generate ~US$24 million in gross revenue (starting FY2018), with an estimated increase of 3% each year. By the April 2018-signed agreement, NCLH guarantees Miami-Dade a minimum of 1,3 million passengers annually. The deal created ~160 new full-time jobs.

By the agreement, NCLH received preferential berthing rights at the new Terminal B. This means priority docking of vessels from the fleets of NCL , Oceania  and RSSC-Regent . The required minimum number of ship calls (per fiscal year) is 45, which is 15 more than the previous agreement.

The building's design is inspired by nautilus (marine mollusks of the cephalopod family Nautilidae). It features a spiraled, multi-level facade and open-floor interior.

The building is sized approx 166,500 ft2 (15,500 m2) and implements all modern technologies that support faster and more efficient passenger processing, as well as expedited security screening and luggage check-in.

The new Terminal B has a dedicated waiting hall, separate bar lounge, service area, new parking garage, valet parking area (accessing the building directly).

(NEW) Virgin Voyages "Terminal V"

On November 28, 2018, Richard Branson (Virgin Group's Founder) and Tom McAlpin ( Virgin Voyages ' President and CEO) officially announced the plans for a new/exclusive cruise terminal in PortMiami.

"Virgin Voyages Terminal" is a 3-story building (sized 100,000 ft2 / 9300 m2) located on PortMiami's northwestern side (address "718 N Cruise Blvd"). Approval for the project was given on September 20, 2019, with a subsequent berthing agreement deal.

Construction works started in October 2019, with scheduled completion in November 2021. The USD 150 million (~EUR 137 million) facility was officially renamed from "Terminal H" to "Terminal V". Virgin Voyages has brand's name on a for-profit train connecting Miami with West Palm Beach (via Aventura and Boca Raton). Virgin's cruise operations from PortMiami were planned to start in April 2020 with Scarlet Lady .

In late-October 2019 was approved the agreement for Brightline Miami to be rebranded "Virgin Trains" and Virgin Group to build a train station (Virgin Trains PortMiami) at the cruise port. The new station serves high-speed trains and connects PortMiami directly with the USA's intercity railway system and Orlando International Airport. Construction works on Virgin Trains PortMiami are scheduled for completion in 2022.

PortMiami's "Terminal V" was officially opened/inaugurated on February 13, 2022. The ceremony was attended by Richard Branson, Tom McAlpin and Daniella Levine Cava (Miami-Dade County Mayor).

Cruise ship terminal directions and parking

• From North - take I-95 South, drive eastbound I-395 (Miami Beach). Continue driving on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway). The entrance of Port Miami Tunnel (Road 887) is on the left. Follow the signs to your Cruise Terminal.
• From North (via Downtown Miami / Port Bridge) - take I-95 South. Exit 3B-Bayside. Drive south to Northeast 5th Street, turn left. 5th Str leads onto PortMiami Bridge. Continue over the bridge and follow the signs to your terminal.
• From South - take SR-826 North to SR-836 East. Drive eastbound on SR-836 to I-395 East (Miami Beach). Continue driving on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway). The entrance of Port Miami Tunnel is on the left. Follow the signs to your Cruise Terminal. You can also take I-95 North and drive eastbound I-395 (Miami Beach).
• From South (via Downtown Miami / Port Bridge) - take I-95 North. Exit at Northwest 2nd Street. Drive straight to NW 5th Street, make a right. 5th Str leads onto PortMiami Bridge. Continue over the bridge and follow the signs to your terminal.
• From Miami Beach - take I-395 (MacArthur Causeway), drive westbound, exit on Biscayne Blvd ramp and make U-turn on North Bayshore Drive to enter MacArthur Causeway eastbound. Then continue on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway).
• Parking rates (subject to change) - USD 20.00 per day. All parking lots are outdoor and located in front their corresponding terminals. Special arrangements are offered for cruise passengers with disabilities.

Miami port, besides its 9 cruise terminals also has facilities to handle cargo ships (bulk carriers and container vessels) and dry dock facilities for marine vessel refurbishments and repairs.

• UN-LOCODE (United Nations location code) - USMIA
• eight dedicated cruise terminals
• supported by excellent road, rail and air infrastructure
• deep water channel - North Ship Channel has 2 turning basins - west (Fisher Island) and east (Main).
• deep water berths
• sheltered harbor area
• access unrestricted by tides
• no restrictions on length and GT tonnage of cruise ships
• The cruise port is accessible the whole year round – 24/7, 365 days a tear.
• Cruise ships usually arrive in Miami in early morning (7 or 8 am) and depart from Miami in late afternoon (at 4, 4:30 or 5 pm) and in the evenings (at 7 pm).

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Carnival Cruise Line sets its sights on new Bahamas port of call

Carnival to open grand bahama celebration key in summer of 2025.

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Carnival Cruise Line has released another round of updates on what travelers can expect when its new private destination Grand Bahama Celebration Key opens.

Debuting in summer 2025, the port of call will welcome ships from Florida ports Port Canaveral, PortMiami, Tampa and Jacksonville, as well as six other U.S. ports.

The 369-acre site less than 20 miles east of Freeport will be the first dedicated to Carnival Cruise Line, although Carnival ships have used sister line destinations Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay for years.

The largest port construction project in the line’s history will be carved into five segments the company calls portals. Carnival released details about the third one tied to retail, an artisan village called Lokono Cove. (“Lokono” means “the people” in the native Lucayan language.)

The name was the winning selection from Grand Bahamas resident Deidre Rahming, who was on hand in Miami Beach with an entourage from the Bahamian government on Tuesday at the Seatrade Cruise Global conference.

She received a check for $5,000 from Carnival and a future day pass for the resort, which won’t normally be open to visitors from the island. The line says at least 300 jobs will be generated for locals serving the cruise guests.

Lokono Cove will have kiosks and stores alongside “an authentic Bahamian artisan market” showcasing local craftsmanship, according to Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. Beyond the items for sale, the space will have music and murals to enhance the space, and local food.

“Lokono Cove will be a treasure trove — a place for our guests to immerse themselves in the spirit of the Bahamas and find locally inspired keepsakes, symbols of paradise they can share with loved ones or cherish for themselves for years to come,” Duffy said. “Honoring the beauty and culture of the Bahamas is integral to our plans for Celebration Key, and that will be on display throughout Lokono Cove.”

The space also will be the gateway for visitors to explore Grand Bahama.

It’s the third name drop by Carnival following the reveal of welcome area Paradise Plaza and adult-friendly area Calypso Lagoon. The final two space names and details, which will be a family-friendly area and an adults-only private area, will be revealed later.

The site will also have a south-facing, mile-long beachfront expanse and a massive freshwater inland lagoon that the line says is the largest in the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Paradise Plaza features a rainbow-colored walkway through a sunshine entranceway with a 10-story “Suncastle” as a centerpiece. The welcome area is the place to book the day’s activities, including cabanas, water sports and shore excursions. The area will also feature a Bahamian-themed fountain and ice cream shop.

Calypso Cove is the name of an adult-friendly area coming to Carnival’s Celebration Key on Grand Bahama island when it opens in summer 2026.

Calypso Lagoon, just to the west, is home to the sport court, the freshwater lagoon and lounging options galore. It’s home to a bar with 50 swings that let visitors dip their feet into the water, and just one of many bars serving the space and two full-service restaurants and other casual snack shacks. The adults-only area of the portal will feature a swim-up bar with a DJ, food trucks and more lounging options.

Future expansion will build beyond the five portals, including the construction of a water park.

The port of call will open with one dock capable of handling Carnival’s largest ships, the 6,000-passenger Excel class.

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