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What to do before or after your cruise from the port of palm beach.

By Janet K. Keeler

The Port of Palm Beach is Florida’s little cruise port that could. Flanked by much bigger and busier cruise ports, Port Canaveral to the north and Port Everglades to the south, the Port of Palm Beach has found its niche. And close to three-quarters of a million cruisers a year like that niche.

A single cruise line sails from the Port of Palm Beach’s single terminal— Margaritaville at Sea , formerly the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. The cruise line with the Jimmy Buffett vibes offers two- and three-night cruises to Freeport. (A new Margaritaville ship, the Sea Islander , will soon be sailing from Port Tampa Bay on four- and five-night trips to Key West and Western Mexico.)

The cruise port is a roughly 20-minute drive from Palm Beach International Airport but it’s a good bet that many Margaritaville cruisers are driving to the port. A Bahamas cruise is a perfect quick getaway for locals but also for winter visitors or others who are spending an extended time in the Sunshine State. It’s also an activity to entertain visiting relatives and friends.

Because the cruises are short, it makes perfect sense for out-of-towners to extend the trip on one end or the other and explore the Palm Beach County area. This is the playground for the rich and famous (and sometimes notorious) so why not enjoy the things they do.

Here are five things to do near the Port of Palm Beach.

A Round of Golf

Palm Beach County calls itself Florida’s Golf Capital and with 170 courses within its nearly 2,000 square miles, who is anyone to quibble? The golfing (and weather!) is so good in Palm Beach County that renowned pros such as Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have homes there. You may not be ready to take on the courses at the PGA National Resort , which can be played by guests staying there, but there are plenty of other links to choose from. The county maintains five public courses and there are other public courses including Par 3 which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean along the way. Don’t have clubs? Check with the pro shop before you book a tee time because many of them rent them.

Second-hand Treasures

It’s no secret that Palm Beach is loaded with mega-rich residents like Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots, and Stephen Ross, the owner of the Miami Dolphins. The barrier island has a swanky shopping district where designer duds from Jimmy Choo, Carolina Herrera, Louis Vuitton and Chanel, among others, can be found in shops on Worth Avenue . But there are second-hand shops , some of them curated consignment boutiques, in Palm Beach and also across the Intracoastal Waterway in West Palm Beach. Shoppers can find last season’s cast-offs for a fraction of full retail. The Church Mouse in Palm Beach is one of the fanciest church thrift stores you’re likely to step into. It’s open every day except Sunday (of course) but only during the “season” and that means October to June. There you can find clothes and accessories by the likes of Gucci and Kate Spade, among other well-known names. Off the island, drive West Palm Beach’s Antique Row , also known as South Dixie Highway, stopping at whatever stores suit your tastes. There will be clothing consignment and thrift shops along the way.

The Romance of the Lighthouse

About 30 miles north of the Port of Palm Beach is Jupiter Inlet where an 1860 lighthouse stands guard, a beauty made of brick painted red. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is an operating aid to navigation and still has its first-order Fresnel lens , though it converted to electricity in 1928. It is one of 30 lighthouses in the state. Visitors can make the trek up the 105 steps to the top and get an amazing 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean to the interior land of the county. The entry fee is $6 to $18 and the lighthouse grounds are open Tuesday through Sunday, except for some holidays. Once on the grounds, visitors can check out the museum and tour the grounds with an app-based guide. There are also guided tours. The pioneer homestead and keeper’s workshop are on the tour. Close to the lighthouse is a cafe called, not surprisingly, the Lighthouse Diner . It serves typical diner food but the “hard” milkshakes made with rum, kahlua, bourbon or vodka are worth checking out.

The Luxury of the Breakers

The opulent and historic Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean can be experienced in a day by renting one of 25 poolside bungalows. Use the bungalow to get out of the sun and enjoy a cold drink from the stocked fridge. Don’t have all day? Dine at one of several restaurants, including dress-up places ( HMF , Henry’s Palm Beach or Flagler Steakhouse ) or more casual spots ( The Beach Club Restaurant , Ocean House or The Surf Break ). If you happen to be around on Sunday morning, the brunch at The Circle is a favorite for locals especially on holidays. Make a reservation. You might just think you’re in Italy surrounded as you will be by frescoed ceilings and eight murals of Renaissance scenes. It may look Italian but the hotel, built in 1896, celebrities a truly Florida migration story. It’s the legacy of oil baron Henry Morrison Flagler of Standard Oil fame, whose name can be found all over the state, including a coastal county a little farther north.

A Lesson in Art

You’ve been hanging out in the sun (or will be) a lot on your Bahamian cruise so it might be a good idea to duck inside for a few hours to save your skin. A visit to the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach can provide that respite and a glimpse into a private collection of art that was the seed for this noteworthy Florida museum. The Norton has a permanent collection of 8,200 works that span European, American, Chinese, contemporary and photography departments. Among the collection are Stuart Davis’ New York Mural and Jackson Pollock’s Night Mist . You might recognize others as you wander the galleries—yes, that’s a Georgia O’Keeffe painting and an Alexander Calder mobile. Check out the museum’s schedule of events, which often includes activities for children, and special exhibits for the time you will be there. The onsite restaurant is open for brunch, lunch and dinner. The caramelized Brussels sprouts Caesar salad at lunch is on trend, as are the Florida craft beers.

Places to Remember

West Palm Beach

Palm Beach Gardens

Strategic alliance partners.

Palm Beach, Florida – Cruise Port Guide

Planning a cruise vacation and confused about exploring Palm Beach Cruise Port? Known as a full-service, diversified port in Riviera Beach, Florida, it’s an essential stopover.

This guide will provide all the necessary details, from terminal information to local cuisine, to ensure smooth sailing on your vacation. Let’s dive right in!

About the Port

The Cruise Port of Palm Beach , in Riviera Beach, Florida, is a bustling hub for cruise ship travelers. This full-service port spans only 165 acres but packs plenty of punch within its boundaries.

Despite its modest size, the port can accommodate large vessels up to 750 feet in length.

It’s not just about the size and location that make it unique; this port is an exclusive home base for the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line . It offers a sense of familiarity and comfort to countless cruisers setting sail on their Bahamian adventure.

Cruise Terminal Information

Port Palm Beach provides a well-equipped cruise terminal designed explicitly for cruising convenience. It sprawls across an impressive 40,000 square feet, with ample room to accommodate your every need.

Passengers receive quality service and numerous amenities that enhance their cruising experience.

A unique feature of this port is its docking facilities tailored for enormous vessels. Cruise ships up to 750 feet in length easily sail into port without any hassles due to size restrictions.

Despite being smaller than some larger ports, it ensures efficiency and cordiality towards passengers for a smooth sailing journey.

Overnight parking is never an issue at the cruise terminal, thanks to the dedicated valet parking service offered. This allows you more time to settle in and explore the various offerings before setting off on your voyage.

The comprehensive passenger and exceptional terminal services make this cruise terminal a preferred choice among travelers worldwide.

How to Get Around

Navigating your way around the Port of Palm Beach is relatively straightforward. Cruise passengers can utilize the parking attendant valet service, which costs $19 daily. This hassle-free option lets you enjoy your cruise without worrying about where to park.

Taxi services operate conveniently between Palm Beach and your cruise ship. Also available are various transportation options that deliver passengers directly to the Port of Palm Beach cruise terminal.

While in-port, consider using these affordable means of transport for a stress-free Caribbean beach visit or journey back to your ship.

Things to Do

Visitors to Palm Beach will find plenty of exciting things to do during their cruise stop. Whether you enjoy sightseeing, exploring art galleries, or lounging on pristine beaches, there is something for everyone.

Golf enthusiasts can hit the greens at one of the many world-class golf courses in the area, while shopaholics can indulge in some retail therapy at the local shopping malls. For those seeking a unique experience, equestrian activities such as horseback riding and polo matches are available.

Nature lovers can visit wildlife sanctuaries to observe exotic animals up close or explore museums to learn about local history and culture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing.

For couples looking for a romantic getaway, there are plenty of intimate activities to choose from, such as sunset cruises and beachfront dinners overlooking the breathtaking ocean views of Palm Beach.

Beach Pass Information

The Margaritaville Beach Pass is a fantastic option for unlimited vacations from the Port of Palm Beach to the Bahamas. With this pass, you can relax and enjoy all that the amazing beaches of the Bahamas have to offer.

When it comes to documentation and forms, there’s no need to worry. You can conveniently fill them out inside the Port of Palm Beach cruise terminal before departure. This ensures a smooth process and saves you time for your trip.

Are you planning a trip? Consider a $99 Bahamas cruise from West Palm Beach as one of your options. It’s affordable to experience a tropical paradise without breaking the bank. So grab your beach pass and prepare for an unforgettable vacation filled with fun in the sun!

Local Cuisine & Best Places to Eat

Indulge your taste buds in the delicious local cuisine of Palm Beach. Whether you’re a fan of Southern flavors, seafood specialties, or tropical dishes, this vibrant coastal destination has something for everyone.

For an authentic dining experience, head to Proper Grit , which is highly recommended as one of the top restaurants in Palm Beach. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and tasty pub food, Spruzzo is the perfect spot.

And if you want to enjoy American and seafood dishes with breathtaking ocean views, The Circle at The Breakers is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Try local favorites like grouper, mahi mahi, coconut shrimp, and South Florida spiny lobster.

Shopping Opportunities

The Port of Palm Beach in Riviera Beach, FL, presents various shopping opportunities for cruise passengers. You’ll discover a variety of retail stores, duty-free shops, and vendors within walking distance from the port.

These options offer everything from arts and crafts to jewelry, liquor, china, and crystal. Consider visiting Fort Lauderdale or Miami for even more diverse shopping experiences.

Miami is renowned for its famous malls like Aventura , Sawgrass , Dolphin Mall , and numerous other shops that cater to the tastes of cruise travelers seeking unique souvenirs or fashionable finds.

Local Currency

The US dollar is the local currency at the Port of Palm Beach. That means you will need US dollars to make purchases and transactions at the cruise port. 

Understanding the exchange rate and knowing how much your money is worth when converting it into local currency at a currency exchange booth or through other money exchange services is essential.

Safety Tips

Ensure a smooth and worry-free cruise vacation by following these essential safety tips. First and foremost, be aware that there may be restrictions on what items you can bring onto the cruise ship.

Remember to comply with all safety regulations and guidelines when going through security measures at the port. This includes removing any restricted objects from your luggage and placing them in designated bins for inspection.

During your time onboard, familiarize yourself with the cruise ship’s safety measures and emergency procedures. Pay attention to safety announcements and participate in mandatory drills to ensure you’re prepared in an emergency.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Palm Beach Cruise Port and other Caribbean cruise destinations depends on your preferences and the time of year. Fort Lauderdale, near the port, has its peak tourism season from December to April when the weather is pleasant and there are plenty of activities to enjoy.

This time also coincides with many popular cruises departing from the area. If you want to avoid crowds and are looking for more affordable cruise deals, consider visiting during shoulder seasons like May or November.

Popular Cruise Lines that visit Palm Beach Cruise Port

The Port of Palm Beach is a popular destination for cruise ship travelers, offering two well-known cruise lines: The Grand Celebration and Blue Horizon Casino . While the port may have limited options, these cruise lines provide relaxing vacation opportunities.

Suppose you want to explore beautiful destinations like the Bahamas, Bermuda, or the Caribbean. With convenient ship terminals and a range of hotels, tours, and shore excursions available, this port is an excellent choice for your next cruising adventure.

Find the answers to commonly asked questions below:

What do you do on port days on a cruise?

During port days on a cruise, plenty of activities and attractions keep you entertained. Explore the local area by taking a guided tour or venturing out on your own to discover hidden gems.

What is the cruise line that goes out in Palm Beach, Florida?

The cruise line that goes out in Palm Beach, Florida, is the Grand Celebration. This cruise ship offers trips to the beautiful Bahamas, where you can experience white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

Booking Information – With Links

To book your cruise from the Port of Palm Beach, visit the official website for all the necessary information and links. The port offers a variety of cruise options, including year-round 2-night cruises aboard the Grand Celebration and Grand Classica ships.

As the exclusive home port of the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, this is your chance to set sail on an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re interested in booking a cruise or looking for cargo shipping services, the Port of Palm Beach covers you.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Explore the Port of Palm Beach, a full-service port located in Riviera Beach, Florida. Its convenient location and diverse range of services, including cruise and cargo options, make it the perfect destination for your next cruise vacation.

Take advantage of the opportunity to experience the exclusive offerings of Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line or indulge in local cuisine and shopping opportunities. Plan your trip today and sail from the beautiful Palm Beach Cruise Port!

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About Fred Dean

I've been cruising for 15 years, and I can't get enough.

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