Amazing Ports On The Best Cruises Out Of New York
The best cruises out of New York include sailings to Europe, Canada and the Caribbean. Read on for a list of fantastic ports to see along the way!
By Sherri Eisenberg | Published on June 4, 2025
Cruising might not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of New York City, but with the port of Cape Liberty just a quick car ride away in New Jersey, it's become a popular jumping-off point for those in the region, as well as those with inexpensive flight options to one of New York City's three airports. When you're looking for the best cruises out of New York City, you have several route options from Cape Liberty — including transatlantic crossings, New England and Canada, Bermuda, The Bahamas and the Caribbean — and you can choose from affordable getaways or longer adventures. Read on for a list of the top ports you can call on during a cruise from Cape Liberty.
1. Barcelona, Spain
If thoughts of incredible architecture and delicious Spanish flavors make you swoon, Barcelona will steal your heart on your transatlantic crossing, ensuring it is one of the best cruises out of New York. From Barcelona's fascinating Gothic Quarter — where you'll see medieval landmarks — to its delightful winding alleys and lively cafés, this gem embodies romance and classic European charm. Plus, Barcelona is one of the best food cities in the world, and home to delicious churros, spectacular tapas and paella, and seafood plucked right from the sea. If you're wondering, "How long is a cruise from New York to Spain?" you'll want to set aside two weeks for these transatlantic cruises from New York, which can also include Italy or Portugal, depending on which route you choose.
2. Perfect Day At Cococay, The Bahamas
Think of this private-island experience in The Bahamas as your ideal beach excursion: You'll find gorgeous swathes of white sand and multiple pools, including a breathtakingly large freshwater pool and the largest wave pool in the Caribbean, as well as luxurious overwater cabanas. Plus, attractions like a lightning-fast zip line, a helium-balloon ride that takes you up to 450 feet above the island and a water park with the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean, Daredevil's Peak®. There's so much to do for both adults and kids that your biggest issue might just be figuring out what to hit first. Without a doubt, any cruise that calls here is a contender for best family cruise from New York.
3. Royal Navy Dockyard, Bermuda
Bermuda's world-class diving and golf courses have long attracted visitors from all over the world. But it's the island's heavenly pink sand beaches, laid-back vibes and candy-colored city streets that make it one of the best destinations for a tropical vacation, especially in the popular summer months. Join a cruise sailing from Cape Liberty to Bermuda and see for yourself why these are generally considered among the best cruises from NYC.
4. Portland, Maine
With its dramatic landscape of granite cliffs and windswept beaches, Maine is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Acadia, Maine's only national park, is a haven for outdoorsy types, while the town center's quaint cobblestone streets beckon with locally owned boutique shops, pubs and restaurants serving fresh-caught lobster. The best time to see Portland is on a fall foliage cruise in September.
5. Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Centuries-old ruins, lush tropical forests, secluded shores and a Caribbean food scene shaped by more than 120 nationalities are just some of the reasons why St. Maarten tops many travelers' vacation lists. There's plenty of vibrant Caribbean culture to explore, including in the form of artistic murals. And if you're cruising to the Caribbean from the New York area, you have plenty of eastern and southern Caribbean sailings to choose from in order to reach this sunny port.
6. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax is the ultimate city for you to raise a pint to adventure. It's home to more pubs and clubs per capita than nearly any other Canadian city, and even had a brewmaster serve as mayor — three times. But aside from its thriving craft beer culture, Halifax also attracts visitors with its lovely waterfront views, live music scene and 100 Wild Islands. If you're looking for the best weekend cruise from New York, the four-night sailings to Halifax are an ideal taste of maritime Canada.
7. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is an inspiring Caribbean gem that welcomes visitors with open arms and an ice-cold piña colada. Old San Juan is lively, Puerto Rican fare is famously tasty, and the beaches are pristine and picture-perfect. You can experience all the magic that the "Isle of Enchantment" has to offer on Caribbean cruises departing from the New York area. So what is the best cruise from New York to Puerto Rico? Look for nine-night options to the eastern Caribbean.
8. St. John, New Brunswick
Canada's oldest incorporated city offers several record-setting historical sites along its picturesque streets, including North America's oldest continuous farmers market and Canada's oldest continuous museum. If you prefer to wander on the wild side, there are endless trails worth exploring in Irving Nature Park and Rockwood Park. Cruises from the New York area to New Brunswick sail from May through October.
Whether you long for adventure and new discoveries or just plenty of relaxation, it's time to start planning that much-deserved vacation. Find your perfect trip among the amazing options of cruises out of Cape Liberty.
