Dive into the world of cruising with our ultimate guide to Carnival cruise ports.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or planning your first voyage, this guide covers everything from bustling departure ports to serene island escapes, ensuring your cruise adventure starts off right.
Carnival Departure Cruise Ports
Embarking on a Carnival cruise adventure starts at one of many departure ports around the world.
Each port offers its unique charm and attractions, making your journey memorable from the moment you arrive.
Below is a detailed guide to each Carnival departure port, including what to expect and how to make the most of your departure city.
United States
- Baltimore, MD
- Port of Baltimore: Known for its rich history and beautiful Inner Harbor, Baltimore serves as a convenient departure point for cruisers from the Mid-Atlantic region. The city’s attractions, such as the National Aquarium and Camden Yards, are perfect for pre-cruise exploration.
- Charleston, SC
- Port of Charleston: This historic port city offers southern charm and hospitality, making it an ideal starting point for Caribbean cruises. Don’t miss the historic downtown, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culinary scene.
- Galveston, TX
- Port of Galveston: A favorite among cruisers from the South and Midwest. Galveston boasts beautiful beaches and a rich Texas history, with attractions like the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens.
- Jacksonville, FL
- JAXPORT Cruise Terminal: Convenient for travelers from the Southeast. Jacksonville offers a mix of urban park system, beaches, and the unique Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.
- Los Angeles, CA
- Port of Los Angeles (San Pedro): Serving as a gateway to the Pacific, this port provides access to the beautiful coasts of Mexico, Hawaii, and beyond. LA’s vibrant city life, including Hollywood and Venice Beach, offers endless entertainment options.
- Manhattan, New York City, NY
- Manhattan Cruise Terminal: Positioned on the Hudson River, it’s a stone’s throw away from NYC’s iconic attractions like Central Park, Broadway, and Times Square, perfect for a pre-cruise stay.
- Miami, FL
- PortMiami: Known as the “Cruise Capital of the World,” Miami offers year-round departures to the Caribbean. The city’s lively beaches, Art Deco Historic District in South Beach, and Cuban culture in Little Havana are must-visits.
- Mobile, AL
- Port of Mobile: This port provides a cozy and convenient start to your cruise, with easy access and less crowded facilities. Explore the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park before you set sail.
- New Orleans, LA
- Port of New Orleans: A city famed for its jazz, cuisine, and vibrant Mardi Gras celebration. The French Quarter and Garden District are perfect for soaking up some local culture and cuisine before embarking.
- Norfolk, VA
- Port of Norfolk: A hidden gem on the East Coast, offering rich American history with sites like the Naval Station Norfolk and the Virginia Zoo.
- Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL
- Port Canaveral: A favorite for families due to its proximity to Orlando’s theme parks. It serves as a perfect extension of a vacation with trips to Walt Disney World or Universal Studios before setting sail.
- San Francisco, CA
- Port of San Francisco: Offers breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, like Chinatown and Fisherman’s Wharf, offer a plethora of dining and shopping experiences.
- Seattle, WA
- Port of Seattle: The gateway to Alaska’s stunning landscapes. Seattle’s Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the original Starbucks are iconic stops before cruising to the Last Frontier.
- Tampa, FL
- Port of Tampa Bay: Known for its close proximity to Clearwater Beach and the historic Ybor City neighborhood, offering a blend of cultural experiences and relaxation before your cruise.
International
- Barcelona, Spain
- Port of Barcelona: A major departure point for Mediterranean cruises. Barcelona’s architectural marvels, like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, are essential sights.
- Brisbane, Australia
- Port of Brisbane: The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and beautiful Queensland coast. The city’s South Bank and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary are popular attractions.
- Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
- Port of Civitavecchia: The port city for Rome, offering easy access to the eternal city’s ruins, the Vatican, and countless historical sites.
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Port of Lisbon: A departure point that blends rich maritime history with the charm of Portuguese culture. Be sure to visit the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery.
- London, England
- Port of Tilbury (London): Located on the River Thames, it’s the perfect starting point to explore London’s iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum.
- Singapore
- Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore: A modern and efficient cruise terminal serving as a gateway to Southeast Asia. Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands are must-visit landmarks.
- Sydney, Australia
- Port of Sydney: Famous for its Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney offers an unforgettable start to any cruise, with easy access to Australia’s stunning landscapes and vibrant city life.
Each of these departure ports provides unique experiences, both within the port area and in the surrounding city or region.
Arriving a day or two early can enhance your vacation, allowing you to explore local attractions, enjoy regional cuisine, and adjust to any time differences before your cruise begins.
Carnival’s Private Cruise Ports
Half Moon Cay, The Bahamas
- Operated by: Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line
- Features: Pristine sandy beaches, a 2-mile-long, crescent-shaped beach, horseback riding by the sea, stingray adventures, and a variety of water sports.
- Description: Often regarded as one of the most beautiful private islands in the Caribbean, Half Moon Cay offers an unparalleled serene beach experience with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Amber Cove, Dominican Republic
- Operated by: Carnival Cruise Line
- Features: A large aquatic adventure park, zip-lining, waterslides, and poolside cabanas, alongside cultural and adventure tours in the surrounding areas.
- Description: Located on the Dominican Republic’s North Coast, Amber Cove merges modern, luxury amenities with the rich culture and outdoor adventures of the country.
Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, Honduras
- Operated by: Carnival Cruise Line
- Features: A 10-acre private island featuring a nature reserve, stunning beaches, an aerial chairlift, and a variety of water sports.
- Description: This cruise port is designed to welcome Carnival Cruise Line guests into a world of tropical beauty and adventure, offering everything from beach relaxation to heart-pounding zip-lining.
Celebration Key, Grand Bahama Island (Opening in 2025)
- Operated by: Carnival Cruise Line
- Features: The newest addition, set to offer various attractions, retail, dining, and a beach experience.
- Description: This upcoming destination promises to enhance Carnival’s portfolio of private ports with its unique offerings on Grand Bahama Island, aiming to provide guests with an unforgettable experience.
These private ports are part of Carnival Cruise Line’s commitment to offering their passengers exclusive and memorable experiences.
Each destination is carefully crafted to showcase the beauty of its location, providing a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Carnival Cruise Ports in North America
North America is a vast and diverse continent, offering a wide range of experiences for Carnival cruise passengers.
From the sun-soaked beaches of the Caribbean to the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska and the historical sites of Canada and New England, here’s an expanded look at the ports of call you might explore on a Carnival cruise.
The Caribbean
The Caribbean is a jewel in Carnival’s crown, boasting some of the world’s most beautiful islands and ports of call.
- Nassau, Bahamas: A gateway to paradise with its vibrant markets, stunning beaches, and the Atlantis resort.
- Cozumel, Mexico: A diver’s dream with its coral reefs and Mayan ruins.
- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands: Offers unique experiences like Stingray City and Seven Mile Beach.
- Ocho Rios, Jamaica: Known for its waterfalls, especially Dunn’s River Falls, and lush landscapes.
- San Juan, Puerto Rico: Rich in history with Old San Juan and its fortresses.
- St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands: Offers beautiful vistas from places like Mountain Top and stunning beaches such as Magens Bay.
- Aruba: Known for its Dutch colonial architecture, aloe vera plantations, and windswept beaches.
- Barbados: Famous for its British colonial history, rum distilleries, and Harrison’s Cave.
- St. Maarten: A unique blend of Dutch and French cultures on one island, with stunning beaches and Maho Beach’s airplane landings.
Alaska
Alaska offers some of the most spectacular natural scenery on earth, accessible from ports such as:
- Juneau: The capital city, gateway to the Mendenhall Glacier.
- Skagway: Offers a glimpse into the Klondike Gold Rush and scenic railway tours.
- Ketchikan: Famous for totem poles and the nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.
Mexico
Beyond the Caribbean, Mexico offers vibrant cultural experiences and natural beauty.
- Ensenada: A favorite for wine enthusiasts and those looking to explore La Bufadora.
- Cabo San Lucas: Offers dramatic landscapes like El Arco and luxury resorts.
Canada & New England
Experience the rich history and stunning autumn landscapes in ports like:
- Saint John, New Brunswick: Known for the Bay of Fundy and its reversing falls.
- Halifax, Nova Scotia: Offers maritime history, including the Titanic museum.
- Quebec City, Quebec: A slice of Europe in North America, with its French heritage and stunning architecture.
Bermuda
Situated off the East Coast, Bermuda is known for its unique blend of British and American culture, pink sand beaches, and water activities.
- King’s Wharf: The primary port, offering access to historic sites, golf courses, and water sports.
The Bahamas
Apart from Nassau, Carnival cruises also visit other parts of the Bahamas, offering serene beaches, clear waters, and private island experiences like:
- Half Moon Cay: Carnival’s private island, known for its stunning beaches, horseback riding, and stingray adventures.
- Freeport: Offers an opportunity to explore nature, including the Lucayan National Park and its underwater cave systems.
This section provides a snapshot of the varied and rich experiences available across North America for Carnival cruisers.
Each port offers its unique charm, from adventure and history to relaxation and natural beauty, ensuring that every traveler finds something to love.
Carnival Cruise Ports in South America
South America is a continent rich in culture, history, and natural wonders.
Carnival’s itineraries to South America offer passengers a chance to explore diverse landscapes, from bustling cities and colonial towns to majestic mountains and breathtaking coastlines.
Here’s an overview of the key ports Carnival visits in South America, providing a taste of what you can expect.
Argentina
- Buenos Aires
- Known as the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires is famous for its vibrant culture, tango dancing, and historical neighborhoods like La Boca and San Telmo. The city offers a blend of European architecture and Latin flair, with excellent dining and shopping.
Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro
- The iconic city of Rio, with its Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking the city, famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and the lush Tijuca Forest. Carnival time here is a spectacle unlike any other, with vibrant parades and street parties.
- Santos
- The port city for São Paulo, Santos is known for its coffee exports and beautiful beachfront garden. São Paulo, a short drive away, is a bustling metropolis with an impressive art scene, museums, and gourmet dining options.
Chile
- Valparaíso
- A port city that serves as the gateway to Santiago, the capital of Chile. Valparaíso is known for its brightly colored houses, artistic graffiti, and historic funiculars. Santiago, set against the Andes’ backdrop, offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with beautiful parks, museums, and vineyards nearby.
Uruguay
- Montevideo
- The capital city known for its beachfront promenade, the Rambla of Montevideo, art deco buildings, colonial homes, and Mercado del Puerto for a taste of local cuisine. Uruguay’s culture is rich in music and dance, with candombe and tango performances common in the city’s plazas.
Peru
- Callao (for Lima)
- The port city of Callao is the maritime gateway to Lima, Peru’s sprawling capital. Lima is famous for its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and world-class gastronomy. Highlights include the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Larco Museum, which offers a vast collection of pre-Columbian art.
Colombia
- Cartagena
- A gem on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by walls built in the colonial era. The city is known for its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and lively squares. Nearby, the stunning Rosario Islands offer perfect spots for snorkeling and relaxing on white sandy beaches.
These destinations in South America are just a glimpse into the continent’s rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and history.
Each port offers a unique set of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins and colonial cities to enjoying modern cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
South America is a continent of contrasts, where every Carnival port of call promises an adventure.
Carnival Cruise Ports in Europe
Europe, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, offers a breathtaking experience for Carnival cruisers.
From the sun-kissed Mediterranean shores to the historic cities of Northern Europe, each port of call is a gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Here’s an overview of the key European destinations where Carnival visits.
Mediterranean
- Barcelona, Spain
- A vibrant city known for its art and architecture, Barcelona is the gateway to the Mediterranean. Highlights include the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the bustling Las Ramblas street. The city’s beaches offer relaxation after a day of exploration.
- Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
- The port for Rome, this city is a treasure trove of history, from the Colosseum and Roman Forum to the Vatican City. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and explore centuries of art and culture in this eternal city.
- Naples, Italy
- Gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and Capri, Naples itself boasts incredible historical sites, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisine, especially its world-famous pizza.
- Venice, Italy
- Known for its intricate canal system, beautiful architecture, and unique culture, Venice is truly one-of-a-kind. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and enjoy a gondola ride through the city’s waterways.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
- A medieval city on the Adriatic Sea, known for its massive stone walls encircling the Old City. Highlights include the pedestrian-only Placa (Stradun), Baroque churches, and stunning views from the city walls.
Northern Europe
- Southampton (London), England
- While not directly in London, Southampton serves as a gateway to the capital city’s myriad attractions, such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum, as well as the historic Stonehenge nearby.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system, and narrow houses with gabled facades. Visit the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and enjoy cycling along the city’s extensive bike paths.
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- The capital city of Denmark is known for its colorful waterfront, historic downtown area, and modern Danish design. Don’t miss the iconic statue of The Little Mermaid, Tivoli Gardens, and the hip Nyhavn district.
- St. Petersburg, Russia
- Offering a glimpse into Russia’s imperial past, with the magnificent Hermitage Museum, the Winter Palace, and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. Note: Visiting Russia may require advance visa planning.
Baltic
- Tallinn, Estonia
- A well-preserved medieval town with cobbled streets, ancient walls, and towers. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a blend of architectural styles and vibrant café culture.
- Stockholm, Sweden
- Spread across 14 islands, Stockholm is known for its stunning cityscape, the Vasa Museum, and historic Gamla Stan (Old Town). The city is a blend of contemporary culture and historical treasures.
Western Europe
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city is known for its café culture, soulful Fado music, and pastel-colored buildings. Visit the Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
These European ports of call offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from ancient ruins and medieval towns to modern cities bustling with life.
Each destination provides a unique glimpse into the continent’s diverse cultures, history, and natural beauty, making a European Carnival cruise an unforgettable journey.
Carnival Cruise Ports in Asia, Australia, and the Pacific
Carnival’s voyages to Asia, Australia, and the Pacific unlock a world of diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unique wildlife.
These regions offer a mix of modern metropolises, ancient temples, and stunning natural beauty, providing a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler.
Australia
- Sydney, Australia
- The iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are just the beginning. Explore the historic Rocks district, enjoy the sun at Bondi Beach, and take a ferry to Manly for spectacular views of the harbor.
- Brisbane, Australia
- Gateway to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, Brisbane is known for its vibrant arts scene, lush parks, and the Brisbane River that snakes through the city. Nearby, the Australia Zoo and the Great Barrier Reef offer incredible wildlife encounters.
New Zealand
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Known as the “City of Sails,” Auckland is surrounded by water and dotted with volcanoes. The Sky Tower offers panoramic views, while the nearby Waiheke Island is a haven for wine enthusiasts.
- Wellington, New Zealand
- The capital city, known for its vibrant arts scene, the Te Papa museum, and scenic cable car rides. Wellington serves as a gateway to the South Island’s natural wonders.
Fiji
Suva, Fiji
- A tropical paradise, Suva is known for its colonial architecture, beautiful parks, and vibrant markets. The surrounding islands offer pristine beaches, clear waters for snorkeling, and lush rainforests.
Japan
Tokyo, Japan
- A bustling metropolis that blends the ultra-modern with traditional, from skyscrapers and neon-lit streets to historic temples and serene gardens. Must-visits include the Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, and the Tsukiji Fish Market.
Kyoto, Japan
- The heart of traditional Japan, known for its classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses. The historic Gion district offers a chance to see geishas and partake in tea ceremonies.
Singapore
Singapore
- A city-state known for its futuristic skyline, lush green spaces, and vibrant street food scene. Highlights include the Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the multicultural districts of Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam.
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam
- A dynamic city that showcases Vietnam’s urban side, with French colonial landmarks, bustling markets, and street food tours. The nearby Cu Chi Tunnels offer a glimpse into the country’s wartime history.
Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand
- Thailand’s capital is a city of contrasts with action at every turn. Marvel at the gleaming temples, catch a tuk-tuk along the bustling Chinatown, or take a longtail boat through floating markets.
Indonesia
Bali, Indonesia
- Known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches, and coral reefs. The island is also renowned for its yoga and meditation retreats, vibrant arts scene, and the seaside towns of Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua.
These destinations in Asia, Australia, and the Pacific offer Carnival cruisers an opportunity to explore some of the world’s most fascinating cultures, landscapes, and cities.
Each port provides a unique window into the traditions, natural beauty, and culinary delights of these regions, promising an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and adventure.