The guides
We hope they are useful for you.
If so, please share.
If the destination is underlined, just click to view it. If not, its a work in progress!
Please bear with us as we work on the labour of love!
Thank you
The Destination Guides Team
POPULAR DESTINATIONS
USA & BAHAMAS
Nassau - Bahamas
Welcome to Nassau, Bahamas!
Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is a vibrant port city on New Providence Island. Known for its turquoise waters, colonial charm, and rich pirate history, it’s a favourite stop for Caribbean cruises.
Cruise Port Overview
Port Name: Nassau Cruise Port
Location: Prince George Wharf, downtown Nassau
Distance to Town: Walking distance (5–10 minutes)
Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD), but US dollars are widely accepted
Language: English
Top Attractions Near the Port
1. Bay Street & Straw Market
Distance: 5-minute walk
Highlights: Local crafts, souvenirs, handmade straw goods, and duty-free shopping.
2. Queen’s Staircase & Fort Fincastle
Distance: 15-minute walk
Highlights: 66 steps carved by slaves in the 18th century, leading to panoramic views and a historic fort.
3. Pirates of Nassau Museum
Distance: 10-minute walk
Highlights: Interactive exhibits on Nassau’s pirate past—great for families.
4. Junkanoo Beach
Distance: 15-minute walk
Highlights: Free public beach with bars, music, and water sports.
Excursions & Day Trips
🌊 Atlantis Paradise Island
How to Get There: 10-minute taxi or water taxi ride
What to Do: Explore the marine habitat, Aquaventure water park, casino, and beaches.
🐬 Blue Lagoon Island
How to Get There: 25-minute ferry ride (booked via cruise or independently)
Activities: Dolphin encounters, snorkeling, beach day, and kayaking.
🐠 Snorkeling & Scuba Tours
Operators: Stuart Cove’s, Bahamas Divers
Highlights: Coral reefs, shipwrecks, and tropical fish.
Local Eats
Arawak Cay (Fish Fry): Try conch salad, fried snapper, and Bahama Mama cocktails.
Graycliff Restaurant: Upscale dining in a historic mansion.
Twin Brothers: Famous for authentic Bahamian cuisine.
Shopping Tips
Best Buys: Rum cake, straw crafts, jewellery, and local spices.
Duty-Free Shops: Found along Bay Street—great for perfumes, watches, and liquor.
Tips for Cruise Visitors
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (same as ship time for most cruises)
Transportation: Taxis are plentiful; fares are fixed but confirm before riding.
Safety: Nassau is generally safe in tourist areas—stay alert and avoid isolated spots.
Wi-Fi: Available at cafes and some public areas near the port.
CURRENCY: Bahamian dollar but the US Dollar is widely accepted.
Bermuda
Welcome to Bermuda!
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic Ocean, famous for its pink sand beaches, turquoise waters, and charming colonial towns. It’s a unique blend of British heritage and island culture, offering a relaxing yet enriching cruise stop.
Cruise Port Overview
Main Cruise Port: Royal Naval Dockyard (King’s Wharf or Heritage Wharf)
Other Ports (less common): Hamilton and St. George’s (used by smaller ships)
Currency: Bermudian Dollar (BMD), but US dollars are accepted everywhere
Language: English
Getting Around: Ferries, buses, taxis, and scooters
Top Attractions Near the Royal Naval Dockyard
1. Royal Naval Dockyard Complex
Distance: At the port
Highlights: National Museum of Bermuda, Dolphin Quest, Clocktower Mall, local artisan shops
2. Snorkel Park Beach
Distance: 5-minute walk
Highlights: Family-friendly beach with rentals, snorkeling, and beach bar
3. Horseshoe Bay Beach
Distance: 25-minute taxi or shuttle ride
Highlights: Iconic pink sand beach, crystal-clear water, and scenic rock formations
4. Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse
Distance: 30-minute taxi ride
Highlights: Panoramic views from the top of one of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world
Excursions & Day Trips
🚤 Crystal & Fantasy Caves
Location: Hamilton Parish
What to See: Stunning underground caves with clear pools and dramatic stalactites
⛵ Hamilton (Capital City)
How to Get There: 20-minute ferry ride
What to Do: Explore Front Street shops, dine at harborside restaurants, visit the Bermuda Cathedral
🏛️ St. George’s (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
How to Get There: 45-minute ferry or taxi
What to Do: Wander cobblestone streets, visit St. Peter’s Church, and explore Fort St. Catherine
Local Eats
Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio (St. George’s): Famous for fresh seafood and ocean views
Swizzle Inn (near Crystal Caves): Home of the original Rum Swizzle cocktail
Frog & Onion Pub (Dockyard): British-style pub with local flair
Shopping Tips
Best Buys: Bermuda shorts, rum cake, island-made jewelry, and Gosling’s rum
Where to Shop: Clocktower Mall (Dockyard), Front Street (Hamilton), and local markets
Tips for Cruise Visitors
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (1 hour ahead of Eastern Time)
Transportation: Purchase a transportation pass for unlimited bus and ferry rides
Safety: Very safe, but always be mindful of your belongings
Wi-Fi: Available at cafes, the Dockyard, and some public areas
CURRENCY: Bermudian Dollar however the US dollar is widely accepted
Boston
Welcome to Boston!
Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States, rich in colonial history, revolutionary landmarks, and modern charm. It’s a walkable city with a blend of cobblestone streets, world-class museums, and a thriving food scene.
Cruise Port Overview
Port Name: Flynn Cruise port Boston (Black Falcon Terminal)
Location: South Boston Waterfront
Distance to Downtown: ~10–15 minutes by taxi or shuttle
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Language: English
Top Attractions Near the Port
1. Freedom Trail
Distance: 10–15 minutes by taxi
Highlights: A 2.5-mile red-brick trail connecting 16 historic sites including Paul Revere’s House, Old North Church, and Faneuil Hall.
2. Faneuil Hall Marketplace & Quincy Market
Distance: 10 minutes by taxi
Highlights: Shopping, street performers, and local eats in a historic setting.
3. Boston Common & Public Garden
Distance: 15 minutes by taxi
Highlights: America’s oldest public park and the famous Swan Boats.
4. New England Aquarium
Distance: 10 minutes by taxi
Highlights: Marine exhibits, penguins, and harbour views—great for families.
Museums & Culture
🖼️ Museum of Fine Arts
Distance: 20 minutes by taxi
Highlights: One of the most comprehensive art collections in the U.S.
🧪 Museum of Science
Distance: 20 minutes by taxi
Highlights: Interactive exhibits, planetarium, and IMAX theatre.
⚾ Fenway Park
Distance: 20–25 minutes by taxi
Highlights: Home of the Boston Red Sox—tours available even on non-game days.
Outdoor & Waterfront Activities
Harbour walk: Scenic walking path along the waterfront with views, parks, and public art.
Boston Harbour Cruises: Whale watching, harbour tours, and ferries to the Boston Harbour Islands.
Local Eats
Legal Sea Foods (Harborside): Iconic Boston seafood with harbour views.
Union Oyster House: Oldest continuously operating restaurant in the U.S.
Mike’s Pastry (North End): Famous for cannoli and Italian desserts.
Shopping Spots
Newbury Street: Upscale boutiques and cafes in historic brownstones.
Downtown Crossing: Department stores and local shops.
Copley Place & Prudential Centre: Indoor malls with luxury brands.
Tips for Cruise Visitors
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Transportation: Taxis, Uber/Lyft, and the “T” (Boston’s subway system)
Safety: Very safe in tourist areas—just be cautious in crowded spots
Wi-Fi: Available in cafes, museums, and public areas
CURRENCY: US Dollar
Galveston - Texas
Welcome to Galveston, Texas!
Galveston is a charming island city on the Gulf of Mexico, known for its Victorian architecture, rich maritime history, and laid-back beach vibes. It’s a popular embarkation port for cruises to the Caribbean and beyond.
Cruise Port Overview
Port Name: Port of Galveston
Cruise Terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and the newer Terminal 3 (Royal Caribbean)
Location: Harborside Drive, near downtown Galveston
Distance to Downtown: 5–10 minutes by car or shuttle
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Language: English
Top Attractions Near the Port
1. The Strand Historic District
Distance: 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk
Highlights: 19th-century architecture, boutique shops, cafes, and museums
2. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Distance: 10-minute drive
Highlights: Amusement rides, games, and oceanfront dining
3. Moody Gardens
Distance: 15-minute drive
Highlights: Rainforest and aquarium pyramids, 3D theaters, and paddlewheel boat rides
4. Bishop’s Palace
Distance: 10-minute drive
Highlights: Ornate Victorian mansion open for tours
Beaches & Outdoor Fun
Stewart Beach: Family-friendly with amenities and lifeguards
East Beach: Known for festivals and a lively atmosphere
Seawall Urban Park: Great for walking, biking, and beachside dining
Museums & History
Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum: Learn about offshore oil exploration on a real rig
Texas Seaport Museum & Tall Ship Elissa: Explore a historic sailing ship and maritime exhibits
Galveston Railroad Museum: Great for train enthusiasts and families
Local Eats
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant: A Galveston institution for fresh Gulf seafood
Shrimp ‘N Stuff: Casual spot for fried shrimp and po’boys
Sunflower Bakery & Café: Popular for breakfast and brunch
Shopping Spots
The Strand: Unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops
Tanger Outlets (Texas City): About 20 minutes away for outlet shopping
Tips for Cruise Visitors
Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST)
Transportation: Taxis, ride-shares, and shuttles available; parking at the port for cruisers
Safety: Tourist areas are generally safe—stay aware in crowded spots
Wi-Fi: Available in cafes, hotels, and some public areas
CURRENCY: US dollar
Los Angeles
Welcome to Los Angeles!
Los Angeles is a sprawling, star-studded metropolis known for its beaches, entertainment industry, cultural landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods. Whether you're into Hollywood glam, coastal relaxation, or world-class museums, LA has something for everyone.
Cruise Port Overview
Port Name: Port of Los Angeles (World Cruise Centre)
Location: San Pedro, about 25 miles south of downtown LA
Nearby Airports: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – ~45 minutes by car
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Language: English
Top Attractions Near the Port (San Pedro Area)
1. Battleship USS Iowa Museum
Distance: Walking distance from the terminal
Highlights: Explore a real WWII battleship with interactive exhibits
2. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
Distance: 10-minute drive
Highlights: Family-friendly marine exhibits and tide pools
3. Point Fermin Park & Lighthouse
Distance: 10-minute drive
Highlights: Scenic ocean views and a historic lighthouse
Day Trips & Excursions from the Port
🎬 Hollywood
Distance: ~1 hour by car
What to See: Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Sign, and celebrity home tours
🏖️ Santa Monica & Venice Beach
Distance: ~1 hour by car
What to Do: Ride the Ferris wheel on the pier, stroll the Venice Boardwalk, and enjoy beachside dining
🖼️ The Getty Center
Distance: ~1 hour by car
Highlights: Art museum with stunning architecture and panoramic city views
🛍️ Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive
Distance: ~1 hour by car
What to Do: Window shop luxury brands and explore the upscale neighborhood
Cultural & Family-Friendly Attractions
Griffith Observatory & Park: Great views of LA and the Hollywood Sign
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): Iconic “Urban Light” installation and diverse exhibits
California Science Centre: Home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour
Local Eats
San Pedro Fish Market: Famous for seafood platters and waterfront views
In-N-Out Burger: A California classic for quick, tasty burgers
Grand Central Market (Downtown LA): A foodie haven with global cuisine
Shopping Spots
The Grove: Outdoor mall with shops, restaurants, and a trolley
Citadel Outlets: Discount shopping near downtown LA
Third Street Promenade (Santa Monica): Trendy shops and street performers
Tips for Cruise Visitors
Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Transportation: Taxis, ride-shares (Uber/Lyft), and rental cars are widely available
Traffic: LA traffic is notorious—plan extra time for travel
Wi-Fi: Available in most public areas, cafes, and attractions
CURRENCY: US dollar
Miami - Florida
Port of Miami (PortMiami) Overview
Location: Dodge Island, just east of downtown Miami.
Nickname: "Cruise Capital of the World"
Terminals: Multiple modern terminals serving major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, and Disney.
Currency
Currency Used: United States Dollar (USD)
Tipping: Common and expected. Typical tips:
Restaurants: 15–20%
Taxis/Rideshares: 10–15%
Porters: $1–$2 per bag
Top Things to Do Near Port Miami
🌴 1. Bayside Marketplace
Distance: ~5 minutes by car or 15-minute walk
Highlights: Waterfront shopping, dining, live music, and boat tours.
🏖️ 2. South Beach
Distance: ~15–20 minutes by car
Highlights: Iconic beach, Art Deco architecture, Ocean Drive, vibrant nightlife.
🖼️ 3. Wynwood Walls
Distance: ~15 minutes by car
Highlights: Outdoor street art museum, trendy cafes, and galleries.
🐬 4. Miami Seaquarium
Distance: ~10 minutes by car
Highlights: Marine life shows and exhibits, great for families.
🏛️ 5. Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Distance: ~10 minutes by car
Highlights: Contemporary art, beautiful bayfront location.
🛥️ 6. Boat Tours & Water Activities
Options: Celebrity home tours, speedboat rides, jet ski rentals, and Biscayne Bay cruises.
Transportation Tips
Taxis & Rideshares: Readily available at the port.
Public Transit: Metrorail and Metromover connect downtown and nearby areas.
Luggage Storage: Available at some nearby hotels or services like Bounce or Vertoe.
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) / Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC -5 / -4)
New York
Brooklyn Cruise Terminal Overview
Location: Red Hook, Brooklyn, at Pier 12
Serves: Major cruise lines like Cunard, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line
Access: About 20–30 minutes from Manhattan by car, depending on traffic
Currency
Currency Used: United States Dollar (USD)
Tipping: Standard practice in NYC
Restaurants: 18–20%
Taxis/Rideshares: 15–20%
Porters: $1–$2 per bag
Top Things to Do Near the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal
🗽 1. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Access: Take a ferry from Battery Park (short ride from the terminal)
Highlights: Iconic American landmarks, immigration history museum
🌉 2. Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO
Distance: ~15 minutes by car
Highlights: Walk the bridge, explore cobblestone streets, enjoy skyline views from Pebble Beach
🖼️ 3. Brooklyn Museum & Prospect Park
Distance: ~20 minutes by car
Highlights: Art collections, scenic park designed by the creators of Central Park
🛍️ 4. Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Distance: ~10 minutes by car
Highlights: Stunning views of Manhattan, peaceful walkways, historic brownstones
🍕 5. Local Eats in Red Hook
Highlights: Try famous spots like Hometown Bar-B-Que, Red Hook Lobster Pound, or Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie
🛥️ 6. NYC Ferry
Access: Red Hook/Atlantic Basin landing nearby
Highlights: Scenic, affordable way to explore NYC waterfront neighbourhoods
Transportation Tips
Taxis & Rideshares: Available at the terminal, but wait times can vary
Public Transit: Limited directly at the terminal; nearest subway is a 20–25 minute walk
Shuttles: Some cruise lines offer shuttle service to Manhattan or subway stations
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) / Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC -5 / -4)
Port Canaveral - Florida
Port Canaveral Overview
Location: Cape Canaveral, Florida (East Coast, near Orlando)
Serves: Major cruise lines like Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Norwegian
Distance from Orlando: ~45 minutes by car
Currency
Currency Used: United States Dollar (USD)
Tipping: Common and expected
Restaurants: 15–20%
Taxis/Rideshares: 10–15%
Porters: $1–$2 per bag
Top Things to Do Near Port Canaveral
🚀 1. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Distance: ~20 minutes by car
Highlights: NASA exhibits, space shuttle Atlantis, astronaut encounters, launch viewing (if scheduled)
🏖️ 2. Cocoa Beach
Distance: ~10 minutes by car
Highlights: Surfing, beach bars, Ron Jon Surf Shop (open 24/7), Cocoa Beach Pier
🐬 3. Exploration Tower
Distance: ~5 minutes from the cruise terminals
Highlights: Interactive exhibits, panoramic views of the port and rocket launches
🛥️ 4. Port Canaveral Cove
Highlights: Waterfront dining, fresh seafood, and views of cruise ships and wildlife
🐊 5. Airboat Rides & Eco Tours
Options: Explore Florida’s wetlands and spot alligators, manatees, and exotic birds
🎢 6. Orlando Theme Parks (for longer stays)
Distance: ~1 hour by car
Options: Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld
Transportation Tips
Taxis & Rideshares: Available at the terminal
Shuttles: Many hotels and cruise lines offer shuttle services to/from Orlando airports
Car Rentals: Available nearby; ideal if exploring the Space Coast or heading to Orlando
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) / Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC -5 / -4)
San Francisco - USA
Port of San Francisco Overview
Cruise Terminal: James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27
Location: Embarcadero waterfront, near downtown San Francisco
Access: Walkable to many major attractions and public transit options
Currency
Currency Used: United States Dollar (USD)
Tipping: Standard in the U.S.
Restaurants: 18–20%
Taxis/Rideshares: 10–15%
Porters: $1–$2 per bag
Top Things to Do Near the San Francisco Cruise Terminal
🌉 1. Walk or Bike the Golden Gate Bridge
Distance: ~20 minutes by car or accessible via bike from the Embarcadero
Highlights: Iconic views, photo ops, and scenic trails
🏝️ 2. Visit Alcatraz Island
Access: Ferries depart from Pier 33 (just a short walk from the cruise terminal)
Highlights: Historic prison tours, ranger-led programs, and stunning bay views
🐟 3. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39
Distance: ~10-minute walk
Highlights: Sea lions, seafood, shopping, street performers, and the Aquarium of the Bay
🛍️ 4. Stroll Through Chinatown
Distance: ~15-minute walk
Highlights: Oldest Chinatown in North America, authentic cuisine, herbal shops, and temples
🚋 5. Ride a Historic Cable Car
Access: Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines nearby
Highlights: Classic San Francisco experience with great views of the city’s hills
🌳 6. Golden Gate Park
Distance: ~25 minutes by car
Highlights: Museums, gardens, lakes, and the California Academy of Sciences
Transportation Tips
Public Transit: Muni buses, streetcars, and BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) are accessible from the Embarcadero
Taxis & Rideshares: Readily available at the terminal
Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance from the port
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST) / Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) (UTC -8 / -7)


.jpg)