royal caribbean excursions orlando

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• Air-conditioned, fully licensed, and insured transportation!
• Entrance fee to the Wildlife Park!
• Experienced, local airboat captains!
• U.S. Coast Guard-approved airboats!
• Safety equipment including life jackets and ear protection!

• Round-trip transportation from Orlando's ICON 360!
• Air-conditioned, fully licensed and insured transportation!
• Fully guided city excursion!
• See downtown highlights around Lake Eola!
• 1-Hour Scenic boat ride through Chain of Lakes!
• Admission ticket to ride Orlando ICON 360 super observation wheel! 
• Enjoy the magic of shopping at Disney Springs!

• Round trip transportation from several spots in Orlando and the surrounding area!
• Fully guided city sightseeing excursion!
• Get to see Winter Park, Disney Springs and ICON 360!
• 1-Hour Scenic boat ride along the Chain of Lakes!
• Free time at Disney Springs and ICON 360!

• Express, round-trip transportation from your meeting point!
• Free time to enjoy Clearwater Beach town!
• Enjoy a perfect beach day in the Gulf of Mexico!

• Free time to explore the historic city of St. Augustine!
• Learn about the history and embrace the culture of the oldest town in the USA!
• Option to see the city's highlights including the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the USA!
• Choose a ticket for the Hop-On Hop-Off trolley train or the boat cruise!

• Free time to explore the historic town of St. Augustine!
• Revel in the history and embrace the culture of America’s oldest town!
• Visit the oldest schoolhouse in the USA!

• Exclusive greeting from one of the NASA astronauts!
• Kennedy Space Center stop at Saturn V exhibit area!
• Ride the Shuttle Launch Experience!
• Fully narrated orientation tour at the Visitor Complex!
• Time to explore on your own and have unlimited access to the Visitor Complex exhibits!

• Round trip transportation from your Port Canaveral cruise ship terminal!
• Professional surfing instructor!
• All necessary equipment including soft top surfboards, surfboard leashes, rash guards, wetsuits, sunblock, etc!
• A cold bottle of water and coconut water!
• 1-Hour free time in Cocoa Beach!
• Personalized surfing lessons, one instructor per 6 participants!
• Shopping time at the local surf shop, Ron Jon!

• Round trip transportation from your Port Canaveral cruise terminal!
• English speaking host on board of the transportation!
• Free time in Cocoa Village for shopping, sightseeing, people watch, and more!
• Free time in Cocoa Beach to browse Ron Jon's surf shop, hit the beach, and many more options!

• Round trip transportation from Orlando area meeting point!
• Dine with the Astronaut - buffet meal is included!
• Tickets to the Discover NASA Tour!
• Kennedy Space Center NASA Bus -Stop at Saturn V exhibit area!
• Touch a piece of Mars at the New Millennium exhibit!
• Time to explore at your own and unlimited access to the Visitor Complex exhibits

• Hop On/Hop Off privilege options from 1 day up to 1 week on/off bus sightseeing privileges (see price chart)!
• Air-conditioned buses with Wi-Fi and Wheelchair access!
• Easy to use Orlando Sightseeing Excursion map!
• Onboard, local Orlando guide!
• Free Wi-Fi onboard the buses!
• Coupon book for discounts and other savings at select stores, restaurants, and attractions!

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10 BEST CRUISE DESTINATIONS FROM ORLANDO, FLORIDA

Publicado Septiembre 14, 2022

PERFECT DAY

COZUMEL, MEXICO

PUERTO COSTA MAYA, MEXICO

PUERTO RICO

ST. MAARTEN

ROATAN, HONDURAS

For a mix of powdery white sand beaches and verdant jungle canopies, cruise from Orlando to Honduras , where you will not only witness exceptional natural beauty but you’ll also enjoy the country’s vibrant culture. For underwater exploration, catch a snorkelling adventure through the world's second largest barrier reef off the coast of Honduras' Bay Islands. You'll swim with over 500 species of marine wildlife, from stingrays and spotted trunkfish to dolphins and whale sharks. If you're more of a land lover, trek through Gumbalimba Park, where monkeys swing from trees as you zipline on by. To top off your Honduran adventure, hop on a water taxi headed for the West End Village of Roatan. Once you arrive in this bustling area, be sure to grab some local conch soup before shopping for Lenca pottery in the nearby markets.

If you love next-level adventure-hopping, plan a Royal Caribbean cruise from Orlando (Port Canaveral), journeying from thrilling amusement parks to unforgettable jewels of the Caribbean. We hope this has helped you choose your destination, but rest assured, wherever you decide to cruise in the Caribbean you will have the time of your life!

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5 Night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day

Your ship explorer of the seas.

ADVENTURE ON EVERY DECK

FlowRider ®

Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠

Rock Climbing Wall

Flavorful faves.

Chops Grille℠

Giovanni's Table

Johnny Rockets®

Flashback fun & daring dance moves.

Fast Forward

Invitation to Dance

Pub Performances

Day 1: Orlando, Florida

Trekkie Track

Get In Character

Outside The lines

Local Cuisine

Day 2: Cruising

The Perfect Storm℠

Scuba Certification

Adventure Ocean ®

Spa & Fitness Center

Day 3: puerto plata, dominican republic.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon..

View from the Top

Sosua Beach

Casa de Cultura

Day 4: Cruising

Chef's Table

Main Dining Room

Room Service

Day 5: perfect day at cococay, bahamas.

Thrill Waterpark

Daredevil’s Tower

Splash Summit

Adventure Pool

Coco Beach Club

Overwater Cabanas

Beach Cabanas

The Restaurant

Hideaway Beach

Hideaway Pool and Swim-up Bar

On the Rocks

Slice of Paradise

Hideaway Cabanas

Island Dining

Captain Jack's®

Skipper's Grill

Chill Grill

SNACK SHACK

THRILLS & CHILLS

UP, UP AND AWAY

OASIS LAGOON

South Beach

CAPTAIN JILL’S GALLEON

SPLASHAWAY BAY

CHILL ISLAND

Day 6: orlando, florida.

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Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-05-01 07:47

Port Port Canaveral 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 Port Canaveral, Orlando, Florida. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port Canaveral (cruise port to Orlando City, Florida USA) is currently ranked world's busiest cruise port (4,07 million cruisers/stats 2023) followed by Miami Florida .

As homeport, this is a major turnaround port destination (serving roundtrip itineraries) with annual shipping traffic 4,5+ million cruise ship tourists. Cape Canaveral is a leading USA homeport for all the world's largest cruise companies - CCL-Carnival , RCI-Royal Caribbean , NCL-Norwegian , DCL-Disney .

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 ).

Cape Canaveral Port

Port Cape Canaveral (locode USPCV) is located on Florida's Atlantic coastline, between Miami and Jacksonville . Orlando City is bounded by Port Canaveral (north), Banana River (east), Cocoa Beach (south) and the Atlantic Ocean (west). As a deepwater seaport, Port Canaveral has a very high volume of traffic. From a total of 6 million cargo tons moved through the port annually, 2,7+ million tons (3 million short tons) are bulk cargoes. Common cargo includes petroleum, aggregate and cement. The port features hoppers and conveyors for loading products directly into trucks, as well as bulk cargo container facilities. The channel is about 13 m (44 ft) deep.

There are 70,000 m2 (750,000 ft2) of covered freight storage capacity. In 2004 Port Canaveral handled 3,6 million tons (4M short tons) of cargo. It exports fresh citrus and bulk frozen citrus juice is stored in one of the biggest freezer warehouses in the state. The port also receives salt for water softening, lumber, automobiles, steel sheets and plates. Port Canaveral transships items for sea, air, space and land. Its Foreign Trade Zone is one of the nation's largest general-purpose FTZs, more than 13 km2 (5 mi2). Each year the port boosts the economy by 1/2 billion dollars.

Port's cruise shipping business started in 1964, with SS Yarmouth Castle. The 1927-built steamship (for Chadade Steamship Company) was acquired by Yarmouth Cruise Lines in 1957. The liner was American-owned and Panama- flagged . In 1965, the ship burnt at sea (between Nassau and Miami).

The 1965-opened sea lock (part of Canaveral Barge Canal) is still in use, being maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Shipping and commercial fishing is also served by three 400 ft/120 m-long cargo piers constructed on the Port's north side in 1976. The seaport has supported NASA's space projects from the nearby JF Kennedy Space Center. During NASA's Apollo program, Saturn V rocket's segments transited via the lock. Space Shuttle's external tanks were floated for each mission into Port Canaveral, and the rocket boosters were towed back via the seaport, being fished from the Atlantic after each space launch.

In August 2015, commissioners approved USD 81 million port development project for upgrades of terminals 5 and 10, aimed at handling larger-sized vessels (details in the "terminal" section below). The project's financing was secured through bank loans and bonds.

Following President Donald Trump's executive order on immigration, in late-January 2017 were officially issued reports about cruise passengers being detained by US Customs and Border Protection. All detainees had to provide background info about them, their families and also their past life in their native countries. Trump's executive order was signed on January 27th and includes a 90-day ban on travel to the USA by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen.

In early November 2017, RCI-Royal Caribbean announced the company's decision to homeport here in 2019 the world's largest passenger vessel - Harmony of the Seas (max capacity 6687 passengers plus 2100 crew). Starting May 2019, Harmony OTS offers 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean roundtrip itineraries. Harmony replaced Oasis OTS (redeployed in 2019 to Miami ). Also in 2019, Mariner OTS (max capacity 4200 passengers plus 1180 crew) was homeported here for 3-4-night roundtrips to The Bahamas. The ship first arrived in Port Canaveral in 2003 (inaugural cruise on November 14).

In December 2017, Carnival Cruise Lines announced the homeporting of Carnival Elation in 2019. Starting May 12, 2019, the ship operates year-round scheduled 4-5-day "long weekend" Bahamas cruises. Departures are on Thursdays (4-day itinerary to Freeport and Nassau ) and on Mondays and Saturdays (5-day itinerary to Amber Cove Dominicana and Grand Turk Island ).

In December 2017, Port Canaveral completed the 6-month long West Turning Basin deepening project, now allowing max draft of 45 ft (13,7 m). Port's containership terminal (North Cargo berths 5 and 6) is operated by GT USA. The dredging works removed 22,3+ million ft3 (632,000 m3) of seabed material. For the dredging was contracted Dutra Group (based in San Rafael, California). The project's total cost was USD 7,5 million, with approx 2/3 of the cost covered by FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation). The Port's entry channel was cleared from obstructions (bridges, power lines) and is now without air draft restrictions. West Turning Basin has quay length ~600 m (2000 ft) and draft 13 m/43 ft - making it one of East Coast USA's deepest cargo berths without vessel air draft limits.

In January 2018 was approved the construction of a new multi-purpose cargo ship berth ("North Cargo Berth 8" / NCB8). By the project were also built a seawall (900 ft / 274 m) and a pier extension (100 ft / 31 m) with capacity to handle vessels with max LOA length 850 ft/259 m. At the new berth can be handled various heavy project cargoes (including aerospace). Berth's depth is 35 ft (11 m). The USD 17,9 million berth construction contract was awarded to the Tampa -based company Orion Marine Group. The contract includes building the bulkhead, seawall, relieving platform and dredging. Construction works started in March 2018, with scheduled completion by mid-2019.

In 2018, two port development projects received funding for maintenance works in the seaport. The contractor is USACE (US Army Corps of Engineers). For the projects were allocated USD 14,76 million (Canaveral Harbor Sand Bypass and jetty upgrades) and USD 1,47 million (Harbor and Locks).

On December 5, 2018, Canaveral Port Authority (CPA) approved a series of bonds (up to USD 117 million) for financing "Cruise Terminal 3" (dubbed "Launch Pad") project. In 2021, at the new CT3 Terminal was homeported Carnival's newest and largest ( LNG-powered ) liner Mardi Gras .

• The project's financing package included bonds up to USD 80 million (30-year, Series A and B) and up to USD 37 million (20-year loan, Series C) by SunTrust Bank (specializing in mortgage, personal and small-business banking). The bank is subsidiary of the Atlanta GA-based SunTrust Banks Inc (reported assets in March 2018 USD 199 billion).
• Additionally was approved to increase Port's PNC Bank credit line from USD 25 to 50 million. The port also received from Florida Department of Transportation USD 6 million in grants for the infrastructure works.
• Carnival Cruise Terminal 3 has a dedicated wharf, adjacent parking (6-storey, capacity 1800 vehicles) and a newbuild road. The project's total improvements cost USD 163 million, of which $50 million were contributed by Carnival Corporation . The facility was completed in September 2020, but due to the crisis was inaugurated on June 4, 2021, with the arrival of Mardi Gras.

On May 22, 2019, Disney Cruises signed with CPA a 20-year operating agreement for homeporting two of its three newbuilds . Under the new deal, Disney has 3 boats homeported here (2 new, 1 old) which increased the number of guaranteed roundtrips from 150 per year (2019) to 180 (2023) and 216 (2024 and beyond).

In early March 2020 was launched an RO-RO Division in Port Canaveral - a dedicated vehicle terminal with max annual capacity 240,000 cars. The 16-acres terminal is at South Cargo Pier 4 and serves mainly new import automobiles. The terminal has a large climate-controlled warehouse (sized 20,000 ft2 / 1860 m2). In FY2019, the port handled a total of 12514 vehicles.

Following the port's ban for cruise ship dockings and passenger operations (due to the COVID pandemic), in the period April 3 through May 30, 2020, Canaveral Port Authority furloughed all its employees dedicated to cruise shipping operations.

For a 5-month refurbishment project in 2020 (June through November) was closed CT8 (Disney Cruise Terminal 8).

In April 2023, Port Canaveral officials proposed the construction of a new cruise terminal. The US$175 million facility could be built on the Port's southern side, and completed and opened in 2026-Q4.

In August 2023 was allocated US$68,16 million for two new cruise parking garages (an 8-level near Terminals 5 and 6, and a 6-level near Terminal 10.

Cape Canaveral port statistics

Note: Port's FY (fiscal year) runs from October 1 (current year) through September 30 (next year).

In FY2017, the cruise port handled 4,52+ million passengers (6,4% increase over FY2016). The number of multi-day passengers (4,234+ million) was 7,1% increase over 2016. Statistics showed that just in March 2017, the number of visiting cruiseship tourists was 469,847. This was the Port's 1-month record and a 19% increase over March 2016. Port's FY2017 total revenues were USD 47,4 million (freight and passengers).

For FY2018, the seaport reported a record year with USD 103,75 million in total revenues (218,9% increase over 2017). Cargo and cruise shipping volumes were also an all-time high. The number of handled cruise ship passengers increased by 7,7% - to 4,568431 million. Port's handled cargo tonnage increased by 6,9% - to 6,404944 million tons. Port's total economic output was USD 3,9 billion with around 32650 jobs supported (USD 1,3 billion in wages) including 17200 port workers (USD 0,7294 billion in wages).

For FY2019, the port had ~5% growth (over FY18) in revenues from cruise shipping. By homeporting operations (turnarounds) Port Canaveral is currently ranked the world's 2nd-busiest (after Miami) cruise port with handled in 2019 total 4,634154 million passengers (4,568431 million in 2018).

For season 2019, the cruise port reported a record berth booking with estimated 4,7+ million passengers.

In 2023, Port Canaveral reported a record year with handled 906 cruise ship calls, 13 homeporting ships, ~6,8 million cruise tourists, US$158 million in revenue from cruise shipping operations. For season 2024, the Port had booked 913 ship calls and expected ~7,3M passengers

Port Canaveral cruise terminal

Besides being a large cruise port, Port Canaveral is also among the USA's/and the world's largest naval and cargo ports. On average, each day 10 cruise vessels enter the port.

Port Canaveral's cruise terminals serve several major cruise shipping companies. Terminal 5 is the homeport for ships of RCI-Royal Caribbean , Celebrity , NCL-Norwegian , Marella UK . Terminal 6 serves ships of CCL-Carnival and Princess . Terminal 10 homeports ships of MSC and NCL.

The following cruise port map shows Port Canaveral port's infrastructure, the location of terminal facilities, connecting roads and transportation links to Orlando City.

Port Canaveral is the nearest Disney World city, situated about one hour east of Orlando by car. The Orlando Airport is 45 mi/70 km away. The driving distance to Tampa is 2 hours, to Jacksonville - 2,5 hours.

There are seven cruise terminals, but in regular use are 5 - numbers 3, 5, 6, 8 and 10. They are newer, located on the Port's north side, and serve larger ships. Southside terminals are older. Gambling ships use Terminal 2. Terminal 3 is the new Carnival Cruise Line's terminal.

Currently, Terminal 4 is also used, but rarely. In April 2024 was announced a plan for a new facility at Terminal 4, to be completed in 2026.

The cruise terminal parking rate is USD 15 per day (Port Authority subject to change). There is a parking lot beside each cruise terminal. Port Canaveral offers complimentary cruise parking for disabled Veterans. Approved are waiving cruise parking fees for vehicles with DV (Disabled Veteran) license plates issued under Florida Statutes "s.320.084", "s.320.0842" or "s.320.0845".

In August 2023, Port Canaveral commissioners allocated US$67,46 million for constructing two northside cruise parking garages. For the projects was contracted Ivey's Construction Inc. The larger facility (an 8-level garage with capacity 1940 vehicles) is adjacent to Terminals 5 and 6, while the smaller one (a 6-level garage with capacity 1081 vehicles) is near Terminal 10.

(NEW) Cruise Terminal (2026)

In April 2023 was proposed the construction of a new cruise terminal on the Port's southern side.

The US$175 million facility could be completed and opened in 2026-Q4.

This proposal for a new passenger terminal came after two newbuild large cruise liners were homeported year-round in Cape Canaveral starting in 2024-Q4.

If approved, the proposal will be included in the Port's budget for FY2023 (October 1, 2022, thru September 30, 2023). FY23 was marked by increased cruise shipping traffic and stronger-than-expected, cruise-related revenues (including from parking) estimated at US$150,87 million. The previous estimate was US$124,48M. This represented ~83,7% of Port Canaveral's total projected operating revenue (US$180,35M) including from cargo shipping/handling, recreation, leasing, and other business activities. It was estimated that the Port's FY23 will have US$75,43M profit (including non-operating revenues and expenses) which was US$53,36M before FY23's budget began. The profit was used for port development projects and for reducing debt from previous projects.

In May 2023, were announced plans for a new cruise terminal at the site of the Bluepoints Marina. The facility (projected cost US$175M) could be ready/inaugurated in 2026-Q4.

(NEW) Carnival Cruise Terminal 3 (CT3-Launch Pad)

In late-April 2017, Port Canaveral started construction works on a new cruise terminal.

The facility is on the site of "Cruise Terminal 3" (port's southern / B side), west of Jetty Park and east of The Cove (dining-shopping-attractions complex). On June 7, 2017, engineering and design works for the new terminal were officially approved.

Canaveral Port Authority Commissioners approved US$1,2 million in funding for CH2M Engineering's project management contract. This was Phase I of the 2-year work plan to construct a modern facility with capacity to serve vessels with max capacity 8000 passengers.

At the new passenger terminal can berth even the world's largest cruise vessels of RCI's OASIS-class. CH2M Engineering provided engineering, support services and waterside design for the new Terminal 3.

The project's budget is USD 163 million (initially estimated cost was US$150M), of which US$50M contributed by Carnival Corporation . Ranked the USA's largest single building project, it included the demolition of the port's oldest terminal, construction of a brand new 2-story building (sized 17466 m2 / 188,000 ft2), upgrading the existing berth and building a new (adjacent to the terminal) parking garage, roadway and utility improvements.

The 20-month-long, multi-phased project included 5 separate contracts. Demolition works (of the existing Terminal 3 building) started in April 2018, at the cost of US$210,000.

• Following the building demolition, the project's next phases included berth demolition, dredging, dockside construction, building passenger boarding (mobile) bridges and terminal building, site works, building a covered parking garage (6-story building, sized 690,000 ft2 / 64,100 m2, capacity 1800 cars).
• On August 30, 2018, the Canaveral Port Authority (CPA) Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a long-term terminal operation agreement with Carnival Cruise Line, allowing the company to homeport here its newest and biggest liner .
• Beginning September 1, 2018, the new agreement replaced the old (6-year concession) expiring in 2019. The new 25-year primary term has 4 additional 5-year renewal options. The minimum annual revenue from passenger fees (guaranteed by Carnival) was increased from USD 7 million (fixed, per year) to USD 14,5 million (with annual escalators).
• On January 8, 2019, the CPA Board of Commissioners awarded the company Ivey's Construction Inc the USD 79 million contract for building Cruise Terminal 3, plus USD 29,53M contract for building the adjacent parking.
• On April 24, 2019, Canaveral Port Authority commissioners unanimously approved several design changes in the CT3 Project to reduce building costs. Ivey's Construction Inc (Merritt Island-based) won the contract in January with a bid of USD 78,98 million. However, design changes resulted in total savings of USD 4,535 million, bringing the terminal's total cost down to USD 74,45 million. In all, "Cruise Terminal 3" costs USD 163 million when are added the costs of the adjacent parking garage, waterside improvements, two passenger boarding bridges, design services. Plans were redesigned after engineering studies reduced the number of needed piles (also their size and coating) without sacrificing the structural integrity.

The new Carnival Cruise Terminal (CT3) is a 2-story building (sized 187,000 ft2 / 17370 m2) with max passenger capacity 6500 at a time. Among its amenities are electronic systems to facilitate passenger screening, mobile check-in (for expediting boarding), ATMs, restrooms, waiting and baggage halls, retail shopping area, info kiosks.

Construction works officially started on March 18, 2019, and the Terminal was completed in September 2020.

At the new CT3 terminal was homeported Carnival's largest vessel Mardi Gras (GT 180,000 tons, LNG-powered , capacity 5286 berths / max passengers 6500). The new liner's LNG bunkering is dockside (barge-to-ship).

Mardi Gras docked for the first time on June 4, 2021, and was joined later on the same day by the fleetmates Carnival Freedom and Carnival Liberty .

North (A Side) Cruise terminals (5, 6, 8, 10)

They are located on the A dock at the north side. Along is the Charles M Rowland Drive.

All are up to date and can handle the biggest passenger ships. Especially for Disney Cruise Line ships was built Cruise Terminal 8.

For a 5-month refurbishment project in 2020 was closed Disney's Cruise Terminal 8 (June through November). The closure was for installing a new curtainwall-pile (breakwater), removing ticket counters, extending the drop-off canopy, replacing the current seating.

In 2016, about USD 2,3 million were spent at Disney Terminal 8's renovations. This cruise facility is used exclusively by Disney ships. Cruise Terminal 10 was reopened on November 19, 2016, following USD 35 million expansion and upgrade project which took 6 months to complete. Terminal 10 (1994-built) is used by NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line) .

Renovation works included increasing the size of the 2-story terminal building (from 97,050 to 125,825 ft2 / 9016 to 11690 m2). Lower floor's baggage processing area was increased from 42,800 to 64,400 ft2 (3976 to 5983 m2). Upper floor's passengers check-in area was increased from 54,250 to 61,430 ft2 (5040 to 5707 m2).

The development project allowed the terminal to handle larger cruise ships (carrying up to 5,500 passengers). Previously, its max capacity was 3,600 passengers.

Among the major projects of the Cruise Terminal 10 renovations were:

• USD 25,69 million for terminal renovations, with H.J. High of Orlando as contractor. The downstairs area where baggage processing occurs increased from the previous 42,799 ft2 to 64,396 ft2. The upstairs area where passengers check-in increased from the previous 54,249 ft2 to 61,428 ft2.
• USD 4,48 million were invested into new mobile Passenger Boarding Bridges (by the Spanish manufacturer ADELTE). The new mobile bridge systems replaced the old fixed gangways and provide better flexibility when used by differently-sized cruise vessels that have different heights and boarding door locations.
• USD 1,79 million were used for the existing cruise pier strengthening. The contractor (Vortex Marine of Oakland, California) used carbon fiber polymer technology to reinforce and extend the pier's life and structural capacity.

In 2016 was completed another (USD 48,4 million) renovation project at Cruise Terminal 5 (used mostly by Carnival Cruise Line ). Among the improvements were terminal expansion, pier elongation (by 120 ft / 37 m), new mobile boarding bridges, new parking garage (capacity 1044 cars). The 1991-built Terminal 5 now allows berthing of larger ships (with up to 3500 passengers / previously up to 2500). For the project were contracted a total of 87 companies.

South (B Side) Cruise Terminals (2, 4)

They are located on the B dock at the southwest side. Along is George King Blvd. They were among the Port's first cruise facilities and can handle not more than 1900 passengers.

(new) Cruise Terminal 1

On November 5, 2016, in Port Canaveral arrived its ever largest passenger ship - Oasis of the Seas . The mega-liner docked at the new "Cruise 1 Terminal" (inaugurated in December 2014). Oasis OTS was homeported here replacing the smaller Freedom OTS .

Facility's main tenant is RCI Royal Caribbean and was designed specifically to handle Oasis-class vessels. The new terminal is sized 188,000 ft2 (17,470 m2) and has a dedicated parking garage with capacity 1007 vehicles. The project cost USD 104,6M.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center: NASA’s base where Apollo missions have been launched. Watch a movie at the center of IMAX, learn the space exploration future at the Exploration Space show, go to the Apollo Center and the LC39 Gantry or try the Shuttle Launch Experience.

US Astronaut Hall of Fame: 5 miles away from the Kennedy Space Center. Honor the American astronauts, watch the Science On A Sphere show, try the Sigma 7 Mercury rocket or a real training for astronauts.

Jetty Park: park at the coastline with a beach, camping and a playground, picnic areas and pavilions. Enjoy the amazing marine traffic view from the pier, favorite place for fishermen and tourists. You can have a coffee, eat or buy something at the Cove Waterfront area, located between the park and the port.

Cocoa Beach Pier: dating since 1962, Space coast best-known landmark located 4 miles away ftom Port Canaveral. It offers bars, souvenir shops, restaurants, live music and lively beach.

Orlando Amusement Parks: enjoy the attractions Walt Disney World , Disney/MGM Studios, Universal Studios, Sea World of Florida and much more.

Port Canaveral tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Port Canaveral - user reviews and comments

Cruises from Florida

Embark from Florida: A Gateway to Caribbean Wonders & Beyond

Category: Royal Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral

Royal caribbean.

On a Royal Caribbean cruise out of Port Canaveral (Orlando), it’s not hard to take it easy. Whether you’re a family of performers, a calm-loving couple, or a bunch of water lovers, on a Royal Caribbean cruise you’ve already arrived at your perfect destination. Royal Caribbean brings you outstanding value for the money in addition to an extraordinary experience.

Find and plan your next Royal Caribbean cruise out of Port Canaveral (Orlando).

Royal Caribbean, Labadee & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, March 31, 2025

5-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 31, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Labadee, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral, March 30, 2025

7-day cruise to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and CocoCay on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 30, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Bimini from Port Canaveral, March 27, 2025

4-day mini cruise to the Bahamas on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 27, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral, March 23, 2025

7-day cruise to CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan and Costa Maya on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 23, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, March 17, 2025

5-day cruise to Mexico on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 17, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral, March 16, 2025

7-day cruise to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and CocoCay on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 16, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral, March 9, 2025

7-day cruise to CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan and Costa Maya on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 9, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, Mexico from Port Canaveral, March 8, 2025

5-day cruise to Cozumel and Costa Maya on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 8, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, March 3, 2025

5-day cruise to Mexico on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 3, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral, March 2, 2025

7-day cruise to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and CocoCay on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: March 2, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Bimini from Port Canaveral, February 27, 2025

4-day mini cruise to the Bahamas on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 27, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral, February 23, 2025

7-day cruise to CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan and Costa Maya on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 23, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, February 17, 2025

5-day cruise to Mexico on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 17, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral, February 16, 2025

7-day cruise to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and CocoCay on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 16, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Port Canaveral, February 13, 2025

4-day mini cruise to the Bahamas on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 13, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral, February 9, 2025

7-day cruise to CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan and Costa Maya on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 9, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, February 8, 2025

5-day cruise to Mexico on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 8, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, February 3, 2025

5-day cruise to Mexico on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 3, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral, February 2, 2025

7-day cruise to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and CocoCay on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: February 2, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Bimini from Port Canaveral, January 30, 2025

4-day mini cruise to the Bahamas on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 30, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral, January 26, 2025

7-day cruise to CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan and Costa Maya on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 26, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, January 20, 2025

5-day cruise to Mexico on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 20, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral, January 19, 2025

7-day cruise to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and CocoCay on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 19, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Bimini from Port Canaveral, January 16, 2025

4-day mini cruise to the Bahamas on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 16, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral, January 12, 2025

7-day cruise to CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan and Costa Maya on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 12, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, January 11, 2025

5-day cruise to Mexico on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 11, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, January 6, 2025

5-day cruise to Mexico on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 6, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Labadee & CocoCay from Port Canaveral, January 5, 2025

5-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 5, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Labadee, CocoCay,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral, January 5, 2025

7-day cruise to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and CocoCay on board Wonder of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 5, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Wonder of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Bimini from Port Canaveral, January 2, 2025

4-day mini cruise to the Bahamas on board Voyager of the Seas Cruising from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Departure Date: January 2, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Voyager of the Seas; Ports of Call: Port Canaveral,[…]

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Are liquids allowed on River Cruises - Moscow Forum

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Are liquids allowed on River Cruises

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Hello. I was wondering if anyone that has taken a river cruise know if liquids are allowed on board? I'm referring to bottle water, wine, etc. It seems that limited amounts are provided with meals however one needs to purchase additional.

PeterC and Brun066, may I ask what type of liquids you brought onboard your ships? Thanks :-)

@aquablue: shampoo, shower cream (quite large flasks).

There was no issue with bringing liquids on our Gate 1 river cruise, but there were two bottles provided in the cabin every day of water and there were water coolers on board where you could refill bottles as necessary as well as tea and coffee available most of the time. Alcohol was served with meals and there was an excellent bar in the lounge. It really wasn't necessary. Although if we were heavy drinkers, we might have brought a couple of bottles of booze on board with us.

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I stayed in a balcony cabin on Royal Caribbean's 2 newest and largest cruise ships. One was clearly better — and $900 cheaper.

• Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas are Royal Caribbean's newest and largest cruise ships.
• I stayed in both of their balcony staterooms — a $130-per-person-per-day difference.
• Icon's pricier cabin looked more modern but lacked the functionality and comfort of Wonder's.

Do you know what $900 could buy you? More than three years of Netflix's premium plan, a new Gucci purse, or 2,059 spicy chicken McNuggets.

Or, in the case of Royal Caribbean's two largest and newest cruise ships , the cash could mean the difference between a cheap but functional balcony cabin and, ironically, a more expensive but less comfortable one.

Staterooms with balconies are the most popular cruise cabin category. After all, if you're going on a vacation at sea, wouldn't you want to be able to feel its breeze from your room?

But not all cabins with private outdoor spaces are created equal, even on two new mega-ships owned by the same cruise line.

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas in 2022 and its larger successor, Icon of the Seas, in January.

Royal Caribbean assigned me an ocean-view balcony cabin for both complimentary sailings, the longest of which was three nights on Icon.

Both ships are operating seven-night cruises around the Caribbean in 2024.

About 66% of Wonder's cabins fall under the 'balcony' category. On Icon, they make up half of the staterooms.

Wonder of the Seas' balcony cabins start shy of $1,110 per person in 2024.

Even with nearly identical itineraries, the ones on Icon are, at their cheapest, a little more than $2,000 per person this year — or double that for the a New Year's cruise.

Wonder and Icon are the most boisterous, flamboyant, and overwhelming vessels I've ever boarded.

The pool decks were intensely colorful, the crowds were inescapable, and the long lists of activities and dining options were paralyzing.

So imagine my surprise when I unlocked my doors to find surprisingly bland rooms.

The neutral tans, blues, and whites did not scream "we belong on the world's biggest and most colorful cruise ships."

The vessels have an almost two-year age difference, as evidenced by some of their decor (mainly Icon's recessed mood lights and the more chic, darker wood tones).

But besides the light fixtures, rugs, and — frankly negligible — wall art and pillows, both cabins were fairly underwhelming compared to everything outside their front doors .

Aesthetics aside, let’s talk functionality.

Both had furnished 50-square-foot balconies.

Regarding the interior space, my 204-square-foot cabin on Icon of the Seas was 22 square feet larger than mine on Wonder.

In retrospect, I would've thought Icon's was smaller. More on that in a bit.

Both king-sized beds faced a television and some wall storage.

And both were flanked by light fixtures with built-in USB outlets, as is expected on most modern cruise ships.

The cruise line says the ships' balcony cabins use two twin mattresses that have been "converted" to make a king bed. It's a common practice I've never had an issue with — until Icon.

On Wonder, the plush pillows enveloped me the moment I laid down. I slept great. No complaints.

Unfortunately, I can't say the same for the new ship.

I (my back pain) could feel the hard ridge where the two mattresses met, making for a pretty miserable and uncomfortable sleep.

So much for starfishing — I kept to one side of the bed to avoid rolling over the bony bump.

For the most part, the living “rooms” were the same.

Both had the same furniture I see on almost every mass-market ship: a couch that could convert into a bed and a desk that extended into a dresser.

But storage, a high priority for cruisers, was organized differently.

Two thin wardrobes with drawers, hangars, and shelves surrounded either side of my bed on Wonder .

Icon, on the other hand, had one large wardrobe next to the living room.

Unfortunately, it had noticeably less shelving. And the metal bins let out ear-piercing screeches at every move — a lazy and annoying detail that the designers could've easily fixed with cheap felt pads.

So far, the differences have been small. But not for long.

I had two gripes with my Wonder bathroom: the lack of hair conditioner and the ill-positioned faucet that flooded the counter whenever I washed my hands.

I had the same issues on Icon. But that was the least of my concerns.

My bathroom on the older ship was well-sized for 1 person, but maybe too small for 2.

On Icon — the world's largest cruise ship — my bathroom was too compact for even one body.

Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told reporters in January that 80% of Icon's 2,805 cabins were designed for families, a sharp increase from previous vessels like Wonder.

I'm not sure a family of four could coexist in Icon's balcony cabin — solely because of the bathroom size. There's no way two people could fit in there simultaneously. A fight over who gets priority access to the toilet could ruin a peaceful family vacation! (Which is to say, I'm glad I was traveling alone.)

With the bathroom door closed, I accidentally elbowed the walls more times than I could count.

The spare towels had to be stored on a shelf inside the shower. Because the counter was so small, I had to keep most of my toiletries and products on the shelves or in the drawer.

Surprisingly, that's where Icon excelled. Its bathroom had more storage options than its older counterpart, which didn't even have a drawer.

However, the older ship's shower had a clothesline perfect for drying swimwear. It's a small but crucial amenity, especially on a vessel with so many pools and waterslides.

Unfortunately, both were stocked with two-in-one body wash and shampoo — and no hair conditioner

Let’s go through our checklist.

My balcony cabin on Wonder looked less modern than its successor (the TV on Icon had Chromecast, after all).

But it was significantly more functional and comfortable. The bed was incomparably more pleasant, the closets had more defined storage components, and the bathroom was considerably larger, even if it lacked additional shelving and drawers.

The question is: Which one is more worth its price?

Icon's cheapest balcony cabins are currently $900 more than the most affordable ones on Wonder — an almost $130 per person and day difference.

Based on the quality of the staterooms alone, if you prioritize functionality, comfort, and affordability over modern decor, consider saving money and going with the two-year-old ship .

But let’s not forget that cruise fares include unlimited food, on board activities, and nighttime entertainment.

Both ships have a fairly similar list of amenities. But only the newer one has a waterpark , an adult-only infinity pool club, and a swim-up bar, to name a few unique amenities.

So yes, Icon's balcony cabins are more costly. But the staggering price difference — and tiny bathroom — could be worth it if you think the its surplus of additional amenities is worth paying for.

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Travel | Celebrity Cruises joins the party at private…

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Subscriber only, travel | celebrity cruises joins the party at private bahamas island cococay.

Celebrity Cruises made its first trip to sister cruise line Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamas island CocoCay this week.

The popular destination is rife with bells and whistles that cater to the adventuresome set that frequent Royal Caribbean ships, but the island is filled with tastes for all, including a new adults-only beachfront area called Hideaway Beach.

Celebrity Reflection was the first ship to visit on April 22 followed by Celebrity Beyond on April 23, both part of five-night western Caribbean sailings departing from Port Everglades, part of new shorter itineraries being offered by the premium cruise brand. Sailings also visit Bimini, Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Key West.

“Guest feedback inspired the new shorter Caribbean itineraries, designed to offer year-round opportunities to unwind with loved ones,” said Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge in a press release. “Introducing Perfect Day at CocoCay presents new experiences for Celebrity guests seeking quick beach getaway escapes close to home.”

Once known as just Little Stirrup Cay, Royal Caribbean now calls it Perfect Day at CocoCay, which received a $250 million overhaul first in 2019 adding a 13-slide water park including the 135-foot-tall Devil’s Peak that is one of seven slides on the castle-like tower that acts as an icon that can be seen from around the 125-acre resort.

It also added a dock that allows for two ships to come alongside instead of having to take day visitors with tender vessels. Nearby Great Stirrup Cay, which is used primarily by Norwegian Cruise Line, still relies on tenders, but recently announced it too would build a ship dock.

It also features a colorful helium balloon ride called Up, Up and Away that takes passengers up 450 feet on the rare calm days it’s not too windy, a 1,600-foot zip line and the largest wave pool in the Caribbean.

Those fall under the “Thrill” side of the island, but there’s plenty on the “Chill” side as well, including the Coco Beach Club, which includes a series of over-water cabanas with hammocks and personal slides plus more beachside cabanas, an infinity pool and a higher-end Mediterranean dining venue.

The newest feature on the island, though, opened in January. Hideaway Beach is the first part of the island to be kid-free. It has its own private beach and lagoon, two pools, seven food and drink locations and 20 cabanas.

Spending time at Hideaway Beach is designed to be an all-day experience at an extra charge for those 18 and older. Prices start at $39-$89 per person depending on sail date with the 20 cabanas available for an additional rate.

The space includes the al fresco On the Rocks bar with live musicians, live sports on TV and even a pool table and shuffleboard with great views of the dock along the island’s rocky shore.

The lagoon is surrounded by loungers, hammocks and in-water swingsets while the Hideaway Bar is the central swim-up bar in the main pool while there are two full-service Beach Bars on either side of the area as well.

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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Norovirus: Nearly 200 sick in outbreaks on Princess, Royal Caribbean ships, CDC says

FILE - Tourists crowd upper decks and stateroom balconies as the Anthem of the Seas owned by Royal Caribbean International on Aug. 9, 2023, in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Horacio Villalobos#Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

Nearly 200 passengers on U.S. cruise ships suffered from diarrhea and vomiting in norovirus outbreaks in April, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC reported that 94 of the 2,532 (3.71%) passengers on Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess ship reported getting sick during its current voyage. The 32-day, roundtrip cruise began on April 5 and ends on May 7, according to the cruise tracking and information site CruiseMapper . 

Another 20 of the 1,066 crew members on board also reported getting sick, the CDC said.

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Cruise ship rescued 14 stranded at sea for over a week

This was the scene from the lunch buffet during the first full day of cruising for the Icon of the Seas. The crew rescued all 14 from the distressed boat which was dwarfed by the largest cruise ship in the world.

On Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas ship, 67 of the 1,993 (3.36%) total passengers on board became ill during a voyage that began on April 8 and ended on April 22, according to the agency. Two crew members aboard also got sick. 

In both of the norovirus outbreaks, the main symptoms were diarrhea and vomiting, the CDC said.

Princess Cruises told FOX Television Stations that "at the first sign" of an increase in passengers reporting gastrointestinal illnesses, "we immediately initiated additional enhanced sanitization procedures to interrupt the person-to-person spread of this virus."

"Our sanitization program, includes disinfection measures, isolation of ill passengers and communication to passengers about steps they can take to stay well while onboard," the company told FOX Television Stations.

Royal Caribbean International did not immediately return a request for comment, but the CDC said in its notice that the company also took several steps in response to the outbreak – including isolating the sick passengers and crew members and "increased cleaning and disinfection procedures." 

RELATED: 'Vampire facials' at unlicensed spa likely resulted in HIV infections: CDC

Cruise ships expose passengers to high volumes of people and new environments, which can "create the risk for illness from contaminated food, or water or, more commonly, through person-to-person contact," the CDC says. 

The agency recommends that anyone feeling sick should report their illness. If it happens before the voyage, travelers can ask their cruise line about any possible alternative cruising options. 

Those on board should wash their hands often to prevent illness, as well as get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. 

This story was reported from Cincinnati.

Moscow Muled

Top 5 caribbean mule recipes.

May 09, 2020

In this post, we reveal the Top 5 Caribbean Mule Recipes anywhere on the internet. Read on to learn how to make this awesome variation on the classic Moscow Mule!

Introduction

At times, one desires something new and exciting that complements the old. So, in comes the Caribbean Mule!

While you are probably familiar with the Moscow Mule, the Caribbean Mule is a variation that might just become your new favorite. The Caribbean Mule is a popular Mule that substitutes vodka for rum. An avid rum-drinker will no doubt love this version of the traditional Moscow Mule. And the best part is that it can easily be made from scratch without leaving your home. 

In this article, we’ll take a look at the easy-to-make, yet absolutely irresistible recipes for the Caribbean Mule. We’ll explore how the cocktails tastes, how it ought to be served, the different ways it can be made, and the different recipes. So, let’s get started!

History of the Caribbean Mule

Although there’s plenty to love about the original Moscow Mule, variety is undeniably the spice of life. Thus, there is good reason to have a collection of recipes for your cocktails. With only a cabinet full of liquor from different parts of the world and a few basic ingredients, exploring with the Mule drink is like going on an adventure from the comfort of your home bar. 

Because the original Mule was named to pay homage to where vodka came from, Russia, its variations have followed the same idea. The Caribbean Mule takes the spirit of the enchanting blue waters of the Caribbean islands, combined with conventional ginger beer. 

With the Caribbean Mule, you can choose to use spiced rum, white rum, pineapple-flavored rum, or even coconut rum. The sweetness of the drink is livened up by the ginger flavors.

Caribbean Mule Ingredients

The ingredients in this variation are:

• Rum – To achieve the best flavor, choose a premium quality rum.
• Lime juice – Fresh lime juice balances out the sweetness and adds a tangy flavor.
• Simple syrup – This can be made at home and is comprised of water, granulated sugar and, if you want to add a greater ginger kick, fresh slices of ginger.
• Ginger beer – Choose a high-quality beer for the best results.
• Ice – Use small crushed ice for heightened sensation and guaranteed chilling while drinking.

Which Rum Should You Use for your Caribbean Mule?

Spiced rum brings a comforting, warm feel that’s perfect during fall. When paired with ginger beer, the result is an extra sweetness and spice perfect for those cozy, cold nights or for entertaining your guests. Even when it comes to mixed drinks, you should always ensure you buy quality spiced rum. Preferably, use one with a medium to heavy texture. The flavors of the rum come out and help even out the ginger beer and simple syrup. 

You can also choose to use Red Leg rum. Red Leg spiced rum comes from the makers of Blavod, a premium vodka. The name is inspired by the red legged hermit crab that is indigenous to the coral reefs found in the Caribbean. The rum is infused with vanilla and ginger  and then rested in oak casks to marry all the spicy flavors. 

The Easy Caribbean Mule Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 4 oz spiced rum
• 2 small pieces of fresh ginger
• 4 oz ginger beer
• ¼ oz homemade ginger simple syrup
• ¼ oz lime juice

Instructions:

• Muddle the fresh ginger.
• In a cocktail mixer, add the simple syrup, spiced rum, and lime juice and shake well.
• Strain, then add ginger beer to create that absolutely delicious spicy cocktail. 

Pirate Inspired Caribbean Mule

This cocktail will transport you to the ocean blue waters of the dreamy Caribbean from wherever you are in the world. 

• ½ oz white rum
• ½ oz gold rum
• 1 oz coconut rum
• Pineapple wedge
• Mix all the rums.
• Add ginger beer, then stir gently.
• Serve in a classic copper mule mug over ice and garnish with the pineapple wedge.

The Kranks’ Caribbean Mule

This easy-to-make Caribbean style cocktail is one tasty treat. It draws its inspiration from a holiday favorite, ‘Christmas with the Kranks.’ In the movie, a couple whose kids are all grown up and have left home go merry-making on a Caribbean holiday cruise. This particular cocktail uses cranberry syrup, which gives the drink a distinctive twist.

• 4 fresh cranberries chopped
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 12 oz ginger beer
• ½ cup white sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 2 slices lime
• Ice as needed 
• Put the water, sugar, and chopped cranberries in a saucepan and cook over very low heat.
• Stir frequently until the cranberries are completely soft.
• Use a fine-mesh sieve to strain the mixture. Press the pulp gently to extract the liquid.
• Let the syrup cool for about 20 minutes at room temperature. Cover the syrup and put it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before use.
• Pour ½ oz of lime juice and 1 tablespoon of the cooled syrup into two Collins glasses or copper mugs.
• Add ice, then pour rum and ginger beer in equal amounts and stir using a cocktail stirrer.
• Garnish with cranberries, a lime wheel, and rosemary sprig.

Bright Caribbean Cocktail

This low-carb cocktail is bright enough to make you forget a chilly and dull day outside your window. It’s also perfect for weekend entertaining. Besides, you get to enjoy all the goodness of a low-carb  drink which lets you indulge while also helping you in the weight management department!

• 1 1/8-inch slice of fresh ginger
• ¼ teaspoon of pineapple coconut water enhancer
• 4 oz sugar-free ginger beer
• 1 oz pineapple rum
• Frozen cranberries
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 2 oz club soda
• Muddle the ginger in the bottom of your cocktail mixer.
• Fill with ice.
• Add all the rum, water enhancer, and lime juice. Shake well.
• Put the mixture in a glass and add the club soda and ginger beer
• Garnish using the frozen cranberries and serve immediately.

The result is a sparkly cocktail that is ideal for weekend sipping. If you prefer your drinks a little sweeter and a bit heavier, then add more ginger beer.

Ginger Peach Fizz

The dark rum used has a flavor that perfectly complements the peaches  in this utterly amazing cocktail.

• 1 ½ oz dark rum
• ¾ oz simple syrup
• ¾ oz lime juice
• 2 slices of peach
• Muddle peach slices in a cocktail shaker.
• Add ice, lime juice, rum, and simple syrup, then shake.
• Strain mixture in a highball glass and top with ice.
• Fill the glass with ginger beer and stir.
• Use the mint sprig to garnish.

Which One Should You Use: Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale?

Although it’s possible to use ginger ale instead of ginger beer in your Caribbean Mule cocktails, you won’t achieve the depth of ginger flavor, which is what makes ginger beer such a great mixer. Ginger beer is actually fermented and has a sharper, more pronounced ginger flavor and almost .05 percent alcohol. Besides, it’s less carbonated compared to ginger ale .

Making Homemade Simple Syrup

Simple syrup is a mixture of sugar and water that’s dissolved and then cooled. The ideal ratio should be 1:1.

To make a ginger simple syrup, you should mix a few fresh slices of ginger with water and sugar and put it in a small saucepan. Then, place it over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from the heat and allow to cool.

Should You Make Your Own Simple Syrup or Use A Store-Bought One?

Even if you're a novice, making your own homemade spiced Caribbean Mule with your own simple syrup is very easy. The advantage of making your own is you can control the sweetness and flavor when cooking. For instance, adding extra ginger will give your drink more punch. On the other hand, if you need a faster drink, then store-bought simple syrup is your best bet. However, it will not have as much ginger flavor. 

Get Creative

Does the idea of rum and ginger beer sound fascinating? Rather than just following a specific recipe, take a tall glass and fill it with ice to the brim. Next, pour a shot of rum or two. Add ginger beer to the ice and rum until you find the balance that perfectly suits your palate.

It’s Always a Good Time

With these delicious and refreshing recipes, you can rest assured that these cocktails will excite any palate. The drinks are meant to be sweet but not overly sweet, and the alcohol contents, although generously poured, can still be subtle depending on what you like.

Cocktails are more than simply drinks. They make friends out of strangers and bring people together. So, sit back, relax, and have a good time with any of these amazing recipes.

Did You Enjoy This Article?

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following articles:  Top 7 Jamaican Mule Recipes and  Top 7 Pineapple Mule Recipes

Relevant Products

Moscow Mule Copper Mug

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