Florida Cruises

Set Sail for Florida with CruiseAway

Welcome to the vibrant and sun-kissed realm of **Florida**! Known for its stunning beaches, thrilling theme parks, and rich cultural sites, Florida is a top cruise destination that’s appealing to families, adventure seekers, and sun worshippers alike. Imagine lounging on pristine coastlines, exploring the magic of **Walt Disney World**, or diving into the ecological wonders of the **Everglades**. Fun fact: Florida is home to more than 800 miles of coastline, offering endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure! A cruise to Florida allows you to experience its unique attractions while enjoying the comfort and luxury of your ship.

Must-Visit Harbours in Florida

Your cruise to Florida will likely bring you to several exciting harbours. Here are five popular ports to explore:

• Miami: A vibrant city known for its Art Deco architecture and multicultural flair, Miami offers an array of activities. Explore the famous **South Beach**, take a stroll through **Ocean Drive**, or discover the shops in **Bayside Marketplace**. Don’t miss visiting the **Wynwood Walls**, where you can marvel at vibrant street art. Insider tip: Try some authentic Cuban coffee at **Versailles Restaurant** for a true taste of Miami!
• Fort Lauderdale: Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is famous for its picturesque canals and beautiful beaches. While your cruise is docked, hop on a water taxi to explore the scenic waterways, visit the stunning **Bonnet House Museum & Gardens**, or relax at **Las Olas Beach**. Pro tip: Enjoy dining at **Las Olas Boulevard** for a range of fantastic waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood.
• Port Canaveral: A gateway to thrilling adventures, Port Canaveral is near major attractions like **Cocoa Beach** and the **Kennedy Space Center**. While docked, take a shuttle to explore the history of space travel or hit the beach for some fun in the sun. Don’t forget to indulge in fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant; **Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar** is a local favorite!
• Tampa: This west coast gem is home to exciting attractions like the **Busch Gardens**, an amusement park and zoo experience. While in Tampa, visit the historic **Ybor City** for a taste of Cuban culture and a walk through its unique shops. Insider tip: Stroll along the **Riverwalk** for stunning views and delightful places to stop for a coffee or bite to eat.
• Key West: The southernmost point in the continental United States, Key West is known for its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. Visit the famous **Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum**, explore **Duval Street**, and enjoy sunset celebrations at **Mallory Square**. Pro tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the island at your own pace; it’s a fun way to see the sights!

Best Times to Cruise to Florida

The best time to cruise to Florida typically ranges from **April to June** and **September to November**, when temperatures are comfortably warm around **20°C to 28°C**. These months are usually less crowded and more affordable, making them ideal for a laid-back holiday experience. Summer, particularly **July and August**, can be hot, with temperatures rising above **30°C**, and attracts heavy tourism, driving up prices. Additionally, the winter months see mild temperatures, but they also tend to be the most expensive for cruising.

Cost of Cruising in Florida

When budgeting for your cruise to Florida, expect to pay between **$1,800 and $3,500** for a one-week cruise. For a two-week adventure, the costs can range from **$3,000 to $6,000**, while luxury cruises can start at around **$5,000** per week. The cheapest times to cruise are typically during the shoulder seasons, while prices peak in the summer months due to high demand. Dining components in Florida can be reasonably priced, ranging from **$15 to $50** per meal, depending on the type of restaurant and its location.

Major Cruise Lines Operating in Florida

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships** and **13** that sail to Florida, the **Caribbean Princess** and **Enchanted Princess** are top choices. Departures commonly occur from **Fort Lauderdale** and **Port Canaveral**. Princess Cruises is loved for its range of onboard entertainment options, unique itineraries, and focused guest services, making it a popular choice for families and adventurers alike.
• Carnival Cruise Line: This cruise line features **26 ships**, with **17** that cruise to Florida. The **Carnival Sunrise** and **Carnival Elation** frequently operate from **Miami** or **Port Canaveral**. Carnival is all about fun—offering lively entertainment options, water slides, and casual dining venues that make for a joyful cruising experience!
• Holland America Line: The fleet size for Holland America is **11 ships**, with **nine** cruising to Florida. **Eurodam** and **Zuiderdam** often set sail from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Miami**. Holland America is renowned for its immersive itineraries focusing on culture and cuisine, appealing to food lovers wanting to explore local flavours at every port.
• MSC Cruises: This cruise line operates **23 ships**, with **eight** sailing to Florida. The **MSC Divina** and **MSC Seaside** set sail from ports like **Miami** or **Port Canaveral**. MSC is well-known for its family-friendly approach, diverse onboard experience, and Italian hospitality reflected in its dining!
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a fleet size of **29 ships**, **21** offer itineraries to Florida. The **Grandeur of the Seas** and **Explorer of the Seas** frequently depart from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Tampa**. Royal Caribbean is famous for its innovative ships that offer thrilling activities, entertainment options, and gourmet dining onboard, ensuring every guest finds something to enjoy!

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of **eight ships**, six are dedicated to Florida routes. **Vista** and **Insignia** frequently set sail from **Miami** or **Tampa**. Oceania Cruises stands out for its focus on culinary excellence, providing a wide range of fine dining experiences reflecting local and international cuisine with a touch of luxury.
• Explora Journeys: With just **two ships**, both sail to Florida, the **EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II** usually depart from **Miami** or **San Juan**. This luxurious line offers an intimate cruising experience with a strong focus on cultural immersion and sustainable travel, ensuring enchanting days on shore and relaxing evenings on board.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury cruise line has **six ships**, with **four** that visit Florida, including **Seven Seas Grandeur** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. They depart mostly from **Miami** or **Barcelona** and are behind all-inclusive luxury cruising, providing top-notch service, exquisite dining, and exciting shore excursions.
• Silversea: Featuring **13 ships** with **four** sailing to Florida, including the **Silver Ray** and **Silver Moon**, these cruises frequently leave from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Lisbon**. Silversea is known for its exceptional luxury service, award-winning dining, and exclusive excursions, ensuring a top-tier experience for discerning guests.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With **11 ships**, five are dedicated to Florida voyages. **Viking Mars** and **Viking Octantis** frequently depart from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Fuerte Amador**. Viking Ocean Cruises focuses on providing culturally immersive experiences, offering onboard education and exploration opportunities that highlight local history and culture.

Exploring Alternative Regions

If the allure of Florida has caught your eye but you’re keen to explore other exciting destinations, consider these five alternatives:

• Caribbean: With its tropical islands, stunning beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, the Caribbean offers endless relaxation and adventure for beach lovers and families.
• Western Caribbean: This region boasts beautiful coastlines, vibrant cultures, and thrilling excursions, perfect for adventurers seeking a different style of cruising.
• Southern Caribbean: Known for its stunning islands and rich local cultures, the Southern Caribbean provides a unique blend of experiences that highlight the charm of island life.
• Mexico: From charming coastal towns to historical sites, Mexico offers diverse and culturally rich itineraries that combine relaxation and exploration.
• Eastern Caribbean: Famous for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant culture, cruises here offer an idyllic backdrop for sun-seekers and those looking for unique island vibes.

Florida is undoubtedly a spectacular cruise destination filled with adventure, culture, and stunning vistas. Don’t wait! Set sail for an unforgettable experience with **CruiseAway** and explore all that Florida has to offer!