Location & Transportation
New York City offers three main cruise ports:
• Manhattan Cruise Terminal – Most ships dock along the West Side (12th Avenue) in Midtown. It’s a pleasant 15 minute walk from the heart of the city.
• Brooklyn Cruise Terminal – Located in the Red Hook neighborhood with stunning views of the skyline. Taxis and ride-shares are recommended as amenities near the terminal are limited.
• Cape Liberty Cruise Terminal (NJ) – Royal Caribbean and a few other lines dock here on the New Jersey side of New York Harbor.
When planning your trip, check which terminal is being used by your ship. For ground transportation information and nearby airport options, visit the Port Authority website.
Nearby Lodging
New York City has a wide variety of lodging options—from luxury hotels in Midtown Manhattan and boutique offerings in Brooklyn to more budget-friendly accommodations throughout the city. Many hotels are within easy access of the main attractions, so you can strike a balance between comfort and convenience during your stay.
Nearest Airport
New York is served by several major airports. Here’s a quick guide:
• For Cape Liberty, Newark Airport is the best choice with taxi fares around $30.
• For the Manhattan terminal, both LaGuardia Airport (approx. $35 taxi fare) and JFK (approx. $54) work well.
• For the Brooklyn terminal, LaGuardia (around $35) or JFK (around $48) are your best bets.
Be sure to check your terminal’s recommendations and airport ground transportation options before you fly.
Sightseeing
New York City truly has a sight for every interest. The city’s energy and diversity make exploring its streets an unforgettable experience. Here are some highlights:
• The iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island – symbols of hope and freedom.
• Downtown and Financial District – features the Brooklyn Bridge, Trinity Church, South Street Seaport, and Wall Street.
• Times Square, Broadway & The Theatre District – dazzling lights, world-class shows, and an atmosphere that never sleeps.
• Central Park – 843 acres of green space in the midst of skyscrapers, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
• The impressive skyline – consider a harbor cruise or a visit to the Empire State Building for breathtaking views.
Museums
• American Museum of Natural History – Explore millions of specimens, from dinosaur fossils to cosmic wonders, plus an IMAX theater and the Rose Center for Earth and Space.
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art – One of the world’s largest art museums, showcasing masterpieces from cultures around the globe.
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – Home to an outstanding collection of modern art featuring works by Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, and more.
• The United Nations Headquarters – Visit the international zone with its own security and unique global exhibits.
Tours & Excursions
Explore New York like a local with a range of guided tours and excursions:
• Hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tours – A great way to cover major attractions at your own pace, including downtown loops and night tours.
• Harbor cruises – Enjoy a close-up view of the skyline and historical landmarks from the water.
• Walking tours – Discover themed walks through neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and the Financial District.
• Architecture tours – Learn about the city’s unique blend of historic and modern design on a guided tour.
Shopping
New York City is a shopper’s paradise with everything from luxury boutiques to quirky local stores. Be sure to explore:
• Fifth Avenue – For high-end designer shops and flagship stores.
• SoHo and Tribeca – Discover unique boutiques, vintage shops, and artisan goods.
• Local markets – Enjoy pop-up markets and seasonal street fairs where you can pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Dining
The culinary scene in New York is as diverse as its population. There’s something to satisfy every craving:
• From classic New York-style pizza and bagels to upscale, world-class dining establishments.
• Explore trendy neighborhoods like the East Village, Williamsburg, or Harlem for a mix of ethnic cuisines and innovative dishes.
• Don’t miss iconic institutions like delis and food trucks offering local flavors at every corner.
Culture & Local Events
New York is not only about sightseeing—it’s a cultural melting pot full of events and local quirks that make every visit memorable. Here’s what to know:
• The official currency is the U.S. dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but a little cash can be useful for smaller vendors and street food.
• English is the everyday language, though you’ll hear many languages spoken in this diverse city.
• Business hours vary: many shops are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with some shorter openings on Sundays. Museums and cultural institutions may have special hours or be closed on certain weekdays.
• Tipping is customary: typical rates are 15–20% at restaurants and around 10–15% for taxis and other services.
• New York bursts with festivals and events year-round – from the famous New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square to seasonal parades, art festivals, and live concerts. For a current listing of events, check out this New York Festivals guide.
Safety & Awareness
• Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• In an emergency, dial 911.
• Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly at busy tourist sites and on public transportation.
References
• Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
• NYC Official Guide
• NYC Cruise Information