Port Envy: Southeast Edition
The Caribbean is easily the world’s most popular cruising destination, featuring hundreds of islands strewn across the stunning blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. Most cruises run in the winter months, but several itineraries continue throughout the year from several southeastern ports. In this edition of Port Envy, you’ll see why our favorite ports for Caribbean-bound cruises are Miami and New Orleans!
Miami
Ranked the fifth richest city on the planet, and offering enough sand, sun, and skin to be a vacation destination of its own, there is no end to the luxury that can be experienced in this cosmopolitan paradise.
The Miami cruise port is located downtown, on the eastern side of the city, with plenty of hotels to accommodate any budget and more restaurants and local attractions than you’ll know what to do with. The Miami International Airport is only 7.5 miles away.
Located very near the port is one of the city’s best outdoor shopping malls, the Bayside Marketplace. Bayside offers a 16 acre shopping extravaganza with over 150 retail stores, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Relax on a sunny patio and watch ships sail into port in anticipation of your own cruise to come!
For families with kids too young to appreciate a lazy day spent lounging about and shopping, the nearby Miami Seaquarium boasts one of the country’s most impressive collections of exotic, underwater wonders. Swim with dolphins, play with sea lions, or simply stare in astonishment at their 750,000 gallon tank that houses an artificial reef and thousands of colorful fish. The aquarium is open from 9:30am to 6pm (ticket booth closes at 4:30pm) and general admission tickets cost $39.95 for adults and $29.95 for children.
For those looking for a little more excitement, South Beach should be at the top of your list. From Jackie Gleason to Scarface, South Beach has been a source of Hollywood fascination for decades and is now home to many of Hollywood’s biggest stars. It’s got the best clubs, the best restaurants, and of course, the best shopping! Those looking to spend some serious cash should head straight for Lincoln Road, while those looking for a quintessential South Beach experience will want to take a stroll down Ocean Drive. It is easy to get around on foot and the city itself is no more than 5 miles from the port.
New Orleans
Though Florida carries the bulk of southeastern ports, it isn’t your only option for embarkation. Famous for creole culture, jazz music, and even voodoo, New Orleans is another great choice for cruises bound for Caribbean seas.
Located along the massive Mississippi River, New Orleans is a weird and wonderful place, featuring some of the most interesting architecture, the most unique cuisine, and some of the busiest bars in the US. Whether you are looking for a little culture or just a place to let down your hair, New Orleans offers something for everyone.
The New Orleans International Airport is 7 miles from the cruise terminal and the majority of tourist attractions and hotels are within walking distance.
The French Quarter is the city’s most famous neighborhood and caters to tourists of all ages. It is only a few minutes from the port and can be reached by trolley for $1.25. The main thoroughfare is Bourbon Street, where the majority of the bars are located. Home to the first dueling piano bar and one of the only places in the country you can carry drinks in the street, it is known the world over for its annual Mardi Gras Festival held in February, as well as the only slightly lesser known Jazz Festival in May. The majority of the architecture is French-influenced and existed long before Louisiana became part of the United States, making it a great place to walk around during the day and an even better place to bust a move after dark. Now, on to the real highlight of a visit to New Orleans, the food!
While there is no rule to finding the best restaurants, a few pointers will help you narrow it down. Contrary to popular belief, the term “Cajun” is not as popular among locals as you might think. Cajun refers to a small portion of town called “Acadian,” established by the descendants of French-speaking exiles from Nova Scotia. While you will likely see the word “Cajun” plastered across every restaurant window in the touristy parts of town, you’ll have to go to Acadian for the real thing. That being said, finding great food won’t be a problem, no matter where you are. Creole culture has brought French, Spanish, and African influences to all kinds of unique dishes that can be found throughout the city, from Crawfish Bisque to good ol’ Jambalaya! For a scenic spot to enjoy the local fare and a view of the magnificent Mississippi River, check out the Riverwalk Marketplace, located minutes from the French Quarter.