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Best cruises from Florida: Must-sail routes from every port

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Best cruises from Florida: Must-sail routes from every port preview image

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With five major ports strategically positioned across the Sunshine State, you'll find an incredible variety of the best cruises in Florida to match any vacation style and budget. From quick Caribbean escapes to exotic South American adventures, Florida's bustling cruise terminals serve as gateways to some of the world's most captivating destinations.

Whether you're looking for a quick family getaway to Curacao's pristine white sand beaches or a weeklong retreat to Peru's magnificent rainforests, virtually every major cruise line operates here, ensuring you'll find Florida cruises that are perfect for you.

To help you plan your cruise vacation, we'll explore departure ports, cruise duration, onboard amenities, dining options, and shore excursions. You'll learn everything you need to know to confidently book your cruise out of Florida.

Related: Best time to book a cruise

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Best cruises from Florida cruise ports: Top picks for 2025

Before diving into the best cruises out of Florida, it’s important to understand your choice of cruise ports across the state. Your cruise will leave from one of these ports and likely return to the same spot, making transportation to and from your terminal easier.

Here are the top cruise ports for departures from Florida:

Cruises from Miami

PortMiami is just a 15-minute drive from Miami International Airport (MIA) and is known as the “cruise capital of the world.”

Many of the best Florida cruises leave from here and include the following cruise lines: Azamara, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages.

Related: Check out the best cruises from Miami

Check out the best cruises from Miami, Florida:

Norwegian Aqua: The best new cruise from Florida to the Caribbean

Top view of Norwegian Aqua cruise ship's deck with water slides and pools.

Scheduled to debut in April 2025, one of the best cruise ships out of Florida is the Norwegian Aqua, which offers a 7-night Eastern Caribbean journey that adults, families, and solo travelers will enjoy.

This cruise is ideal for those craving both exploring and laid-back island vibes, with unforgettable stops at Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, Tortola, and Great Stirrup Cay.

Shore excursions on this itinerary include:

  • Puerto Plata – Explore the iconic Damajagua Waterfalls and see the famous squirrel monkeys at Monkeyland.
  • St. Thomas – Enjoy picturesque beaches like St. Thomas Beach and snorkeling opportunities at Buck Islands Turtle Cove with colorful marine life and turtles.
  • Tortola – Opt for the Virgin Gorda Baths & Snorkel excursion, where you’ll swim in crystal clear water at The Baths next to a beautiful white sand beach. Go on the Virgin Sailor excursion to take the helm of your own two-person Rigid Inflatable Boat and sail to White Bay Beach on Guana Island.
  • Great Stirrup Cay – Norwegian’s private island, offers a unique snorkeling experience to see fish, sculptures, and an underwater garden. Visit Stingray City to touch and feed the majestic rays, or take a quick 10-minute boat ride to Treasure Island to swim with wild pigs. Wave runners, kayaks, and paddle board tours are all available for rent, as well as private cabanas and villas on the beach.

Great Stirrup Cay beach with sun loungers, cabanas, and a cruise ship in the background, an exclusive stop for Norwegian Cruise Line.

The Norwegian Aqua has cutting-edge onboard experiences, including the Aqua Slidecoaster, the first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea. Thrill-seekers can race through its two unique courses, while families enjoy the Galaxy Pavilion’s immersive VR attractions. The Glow Court transforms from an interactive sports area by day to a vibrant nightclub at night.

Kids can cool off at the Aqua Park with exhilarating waterslides, while adults relax at the Mandara Spa’s thermal suite, featuring a two-story waterfall and the first clay sauna at sea. For dining, savor Thai cuisine at Sukhothai, indulge in plant-based dishes at Planterie, or enjoy premium seafood at Ocean Blue.

Find Norwegian Florida cruise sailings from Miami:

Oceania Nautica: Best Panama Canal cruise from Miami

Oceania Nautica's pool deck at sunset with loungers, hot tubs, and a tranquil ocean backdrop.

Oceania Cruises stands out among Florida cruise lines and is known for its intimate luxury, world-class gourmet dining, and immersive itineraries that highlight the best of each destination.

Departing from Miami, the recently refurbished Oceania Nautica (2022) sails on 10-night journeys or longer through the Panama Canal, featuring a selection of culturally rich and naturally stunning ports of call, making it one of the best luxury cruises from Florida.

Top shore excursions on this itinerary:

  • Cozumel – Feel the thrill of Mexico on a jungle ATV expedition, weaving through rugged trails and lush tropical landscapes before unwinding on one of Cozumel’s pristine beaches.
  • Costa Maya – Step back in time with a guided tour of the Kohunlich Mayan Ruins, an awe-inspiring archaeological site featuring towering temples, intricate masks, and the rich history of an ancient civilization.
  • Harvest Caye – The Monkey River Eco Tour offers a journey through Belize’s untouched rainforests, where you can cruise through winding waterways and spot howler monkeys, exotic birds, and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
  • Santo Tomás de Castilla – Take in the serenity of the Las Escobas Springs Adventure, where crystal-clear cascades and tranquil natural pools are a picturesque setting for relaxation and a refreshing swim.
  • Roatán – A magical, up-close dolphin encounter awaits, where you can interact with these intelligent creatures in a stunning marine sanctuary.
  • Puerto Limón – Immerse yourself in the heart of Costa Rica’s biodiversity with the Rainforest Extravaganza, a guided exploration of vibrant flora and fauna, with the chance to spot toucans, sloths, and colorful frogs.
  • Panama City – Discover the lush landscapes of Panama from above on the Gamboa Aerial Tram, gliding through the rainforest canopy for breathtaking views of the Panama Canal and the tropical wilderness below.

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Onboard the Nautica, enjoy an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, where sophisticated entertainment, indulgent spa treatments, and world-class dining create your own cruise experience.

Evenings come to life with live performances at Horizons, craft cocktails at the Martini Bar, and the excitement of the Casino at Sea. For ultimate relaxation, the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center offers a serene wellness retreat, while the pool deck provides a tranquil escape with plush loungers and whirlpools.

Dining aboard the Nautica is a gourmet affair, perfect for travelers seeking cruises from Florida, all-inclusive. Signature dishes curated by Jacques Pépin elevate the experience, with The Grand Dining Room offering refined French classics and contemporary global flavors.

Meanwhile, Toscana delivers authentic Italian cuisine with handcrafted pastas and signature olive oil tastings. Polo Grill serves up a luxurious steakhouse experience with premium cuts and fresh seafood, while the Terrace Café offers alfresco dining with breathtaking ocean views. With an emphasis on destination-inspired cuisine and exquisite service, every meal is a highlight of the journey.

Find Oceania cruises from Florida:

Cruises from Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral, known as the gateway to Orlando’s world's most famous theme parks, is a popular hub for many family-friendly sailings.

If you’re flying in for a cruise out of Orlando, the port in Cape Canaveral is about 40 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO). Cruise lines leaving out of Port Canaveral include: Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, MSC, Norwegian, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean.

Related: Discover the best family-friendly cruises

Related: How to find your cruise shuttle from Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral

Browse the best cruises out of Cape Canaveral, Florida:

Disney Magic: Best cruise from Port Canaveral for families with kids

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Disney Cruise Line is among the best cruises from Florida for families with young kids, especially the Disney Magic’s 5-night Bahamas cruise which boasts engaging youth programs and a variety of kid-friendly amenities, such as the AquaDuck water coaster and themed play areas like the Oceaneer Club.

The Disney Magic itinerary is one of the best cruises from Florida and features stops at Nassau, Castaway Cay, and Disney’s newest private island, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

This itinerary includes shore excursions such as:

  • Nassau – Offers action-packed family activities at the Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark between its waterslides, pools, aquariums, and beaches, and up-close encounters with marine life at Dolphin Cay. If you prefer to stay dry, check out Blackbeard’s Revenge Pirate Ship Adventure, a sailing experience aboard a large pirate ship while enjoying tall tales and pirate-themed surprises.
  • Castaway Cay – Disney’s beloved private island provides exclusive water activities for novices and experts alike, from snorkeling along the lagoon’s Discover and Explorer trails to sailing, kayaking, and swimming at Castaway Family Beach. The beach also offers food and games for all ages, including the Da Shade Game Pavilion for tiny tots.
  • Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point – Disney's new private island features the “Rush Out, Gush Out” water play area complete with two slides, water drums, and wave fountains. The Goombay Cultural Center offers colorful arts and a culture pavilion inspired by the traditions and natural beauty of the Bahamas. Adults can find their way to lounge on the comfy beachside cabanas while the kids keep busy.

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Disney’s onboard amenities include a variety of water play areas such as AquaLab, Goofy’s Pool, Nephews Splash Zone, and the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool. Enjoy live performances of your favorites like “Tangled: the Musical” and “Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story,”, while younger children will enjoy character meet and greets hosted around the ship.

Youth programs like the Oceaneer Club (ages 3-10), Edge Club (tweens aged 11-14), and Vibe (teens aged 14-17) offer daytime enrichment, themed playrooms, private hangout areas, games, and activities.**

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Dining options range from burgers and hot dogs at Duck in Diner to cheesy pizza at Pinocchio's. For a kid-friendly menu with a unique dinner show starring Disney favorites, check out Animator's Palate. Parents can enjoy an adult-exclusive fancy Italian cuisine at Palo’s.

**Oceaneer Club is open from 9:00 am - midnight; Vibe and Edge Club run from 10:00 am - 1:00 am.

Find Disney cruises from Florida:

Wonder of the Seas: Best cruises out of Port Canaveral for activities

Thrilling water slide tower on Royal Caribbean's deck under a bright blue sky.

Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas sets the bar high with its 7-night Caribbean cruise, including their Perfect Day at CocoCay private island–a highlight for both families and active travelers, and ranked among the best cruises for friends by US News.

This cruise has two different itinerary options: Eastern Caribbean cruises, and Western Caribbean cruises from Florida, each one offering distinct excursions and a unique experience.

Some of the best shore excursions on this itinerary include:

  • Perfect Day at CocoCay – Both itineraries feature Royal Caribbean's private island, offering attractions like the Oasis Lagoon with its swim-up bar, poolside lounge chairs, and underwater submerged surround sound. Thrill Waterpark features exhilarating amenities like the 135-foot Daredevil’s Peak water slide, two-person rafts on The Twister, a zero-gravity rush on The Slingshot, and a refreshing wave pool. For a laid-back beach day, check out the infinity pool at Coco Beach Club, or enjoy a private Bora-Bora-style Overwater Cabana.
  • Western Caribbean itinerary – Enjoy multiple stops in Mexico and Roatan, Honduras. This itinerary is better for cultural enrichment and exploration, providing a first-hand view of the historic Chacchoben Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya, an Iguana Farm eco-tour in Roatan, and a Mystical ChaakTun Cenotes & Maya Spiritual Cleanse in Cozumel.
  • Eastern Caribbean itinerary – Visit Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands, and Phillipsburg, St. Maarten for an itinerary suited for recreation. Visit Orient Bay Beach, renowned as the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean,” for its soft white sand and calm turquoise waters. Explore numerous bars, restaurants, and beach clubs, and take advantage of parasailing, kitesurfing, and hang gliding opportunities. Additionally, visit a local rum distillery for a taste of authentic Caribbean spirits.

Perfect Day at CocoCay with vibrant water slides, activities, and lush landscaping, a private island destination by Royal Caribbean.

The Wonder Playscape is a favorite among kids, offering slides, climbing walls, and engaging puzzles and games. Daredevils can try a new stunt on the Ultimate Abyss–the tallest waterslide at sea–or race a friend down a twisting water slide, the Perfect Storm. FlowRider surf simulator is a fun challenge for all ages, and families will love the show at the AquaTheater, featuring a 30-foot diving platform and over 137,000 gallons of water.

For dining, head over to The Mason Jar for some southern-style comfort food, or go to El Loco Fresh for tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Johnny Rockets is known for its famous shakes, burgers, and fries, and Wonderland offers specialty dining with exotic presentations.

Browse Wonder of the Seas cruises from Port Canaveral:

Cruises from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

Port Everglades is a popular choice for travelers, conveniently located just 10 minutes away from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

The following lines sail out of Port Everglades (Ft. Lauderdale): Celebrity, Cunard, Disney, Holland America, Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Viking Ocean Cruises.

View the best cruises from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida:

Emerald Princess from Port Everglades: Best cruises from Florida for couples

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Princess Cruises is one of the best cruise lines from Florida, known for serene experiences tailored to couples and those seeking a relaxed cruise across the seas. The Emerald Princess offers a 12-night Transcanal cruise from Port Everglades that encapsulates this ethos with a unique, diverse itinerary.

Princess cruises out of Florida have a variety of shore excursions on this itinerary, including:

  • Aruba – Discover historic sites from the California Lighthouse to the Antilla Shipwreck. Explore the island's natural beauty, characterized by its soft, white sand beaches and the unique Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations.
  • Curacao – Wander through the vibrant culture-packed streets of Willemstad and cross the historic Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge. Curacao is also home to some of the nicest beaches in the world, where you can sink into the sand and watch the world go by.
  • Cartagena – Step back in time in the historic Old City and visit the majestic 17th-century La Popa Monastery. Check out the Historical Museum of Cartagena, or visit the iconic Cathedral built in 1602.
  • Limon Bay & Panama Canal – Experience the might of the Panama Canal firsthand, and explore the verdant landscapes of Limon Bay. Discover the lush Veragua Rainforest, with its famous 65-foot-tall Puma Waterfall.
  • Cayman Islands – Explore historic Georgetown, dive into crystal-clear waters or journey to the Wreck of the Ten Sails Memorial.

Cruise ship passing under the Centennial Bridge in the Panama Canal, surrounded by lush greenery, a scenic highlight of Princess Cruises.

Princess cruises from Florida offer engaging onboard activities catered to adult travelers. The Piazza–a European-style square with cafes, boutiques, and performers–is the star of the ship. Head over to Princess Links, the on-deck 9-hole miniature putting course, or relax at one of the many freshwater pools and whirlpool hot tubs.

Enjoy a Vegas-style casino with blackjack, Texas Holdem, and slots, or go up to the top deck at night for stargazing. If you’re looking for enrichment, Discovery at Sea has activities featuring Discovery hit shows like “Shark Week” and “Finding Bigfoot.”

Princess Emerald’s dining venues include the Salty Dog Grill serving hot dogs and burgers, and the International Cafe, offering delectable pastries and coffee. The World Fresh Marketplace is a dining staple, with a buffet including a variety of international flavors. For upscale dining, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria features fresh handmade pasta and other classic Italian dishes.

Browse the best Princess cruises from Florida:

Viking Mars: Best cruises for adults out of Florida

Alfresco dining experience on the Aquavit Terrace next to World Cafe aboard Viking Mars, with ocean views.

Among the best cruise lines for adults from Florida is Viking Ocean Cruises, favored for its elegant, adult-oriented cruises that focus on enriching cultural experiences. The Viking Mars departs Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades) and takes cruisers on a 20-night Atlantic & Mediterranean horizons sailing through the lush landscapes of Madeira, Portugal, and Italy’s historic city-states, with stops in tropical St. Maarten, vibrant Barcelona and the picturesque southern coast of France.

Some of the shore excursions for this itinerary include:

  • Madeira – Explore Monte Palace or enjoy swimming in the natural volcanic pools. For a calmer experience, take a scenic dolphin and whale-watching tour.
  • Barcelona – Marvel at Gaudi’s architectural creations at Guell Palace and La Sagrada Familia. View the world from the eyes of one of the 20th century’s most prolific artists at the Picasso Museum.
  • French Riviera. – Delight in a wine and oyster tour or visit the famous Mont St. Clair in Sete. Visit the old port, marvel at the historic Notre-Dame de la Garde, and check out the Palcade of the Popes at Avignon.
  • Italian Riviera – In Florence, visit the Basilica of Santa Croce, check out Ponte Vecchio, and of course visit the historic Leaning Tower of Pisa. In Rome, visit the Roman Colosseum and tour the landmark Michelangelo Fortress.

Colorful waterfront buildings and yachts dotting the azure waters of Portofino, showcasing the charm of the Italian Riviera under a bright summer sky.

For this longer cruise from Florida, Viking has several enriching onboard entertainment options. Attend a talk hosted by a world-class guest lecturer, or enjoy a live show inspired by the performing arts of your destination at The Theater. Viking Resident Historians also give lectures catered to the specific destinations on your cruise, which is a great way to gain insight into your destination.

There are many on-board live musical entertainment options, such as pianists, violinists, cellists, and guitarists. Vikings Kitchen Table is a fun onboard cooking school that lets you cook with handpicked ingredients from local markets at each destination port.

Viking Mars’ dining options include The Restaurant, offering high-quality destination-focused cuisine, and The Chef’s Table, a specialty restaurant with a multi-course tasting menu. Head to the World Cafe for a vibrant, international experience with diverse dishes, or try out Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant for rich Italian cuisine. If you’re in the mood for a midday snack, The Wintergarden has you covered, offering delicate finger sandwiches, scones, and desserts.

Find the best Viking cruises from Florida:

Queen Victoria: Best luxury cruises from Fort Lauderdale

Grand Lobby on Cunard Queen Victoria cruise ship with an impressive staircase, elegant decor, and seating areas.

Cunard Line stands out among the best cruise lines Florida has to offer, thanks to their luxurious amenities and classic ambiance.

Cunard's best cruise from Florida is aboard its iconic Queen Victoria, which provides a 14-night Transatlantic cruise that epitomizes British maritime tradition mixed with modern touches.

This journey starts at Celebration Key, Bahamas, continues with the tranquil beauty of Bermuda, leads through the dramatic Azores, and concludes in historic Southampton, England.

Some available shore excursions on Cunard cruises for a transatlantic itinerary include:

  • Hamilton – Visit historic Fort Hamilton, or take an enriching tour of Bermuda City Hall Arts Center, and Bermuda National Gallery. If you want to admire the island's pristine beauty, check out Crystal and Fantasy Caves, or take a scenic trip to Horseshoe Bay.
  • Ponta Delgada – Take a charming city tour along historic streets, or go on a private whale-watching expedition. If you love nature, swim with dolphins or enjoy a scenic nature walk through the island's dramatic volcanic landscapes.
  • Southampton – Explore the city’s storied culture through the medieval Southampton City Walls, interactive SeaCity Museum, aviation-focused Solent Sky Museum, and the crown jewel of performing arts at Mayflower Theater.

Aerial view of Sete Cidades crater lakes on São Miguel Island, Azores, showcasing vibrant green landscapes and deep blue waters under a bright sky.

Cunard offers a variety of onboard amenities to keep you entertained during your time at sea. Take a watercolor class, or attend various enriching technology seminars, cooking lessons, and art talks. If you enjoy music, check out The Queens Room for jazz concerts and classical music recitals, or enjoy a performance by the Royal Cunard Company. “Behind the Scenes” is a free galley tour that lets you take a sneak peek at the logistics of onboard culinary operations. Many sporting activities are also offered on deck.

Cunard’s dining options include the Lido, serving exquisite regional dishes, or Britannia Restaurant, the main dining restaurant with a wide range of cuisines. For a more exclusive dining experience head to Princess Grill for elegant and creative dishes or Queens Grill for the most upscale menu and ambiance aboard.

Compare Cunard cruises from Florida:

Cruises from Jacksonville (JAXPORT)

Just a short 20 minute drive away from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is Jacksonville Port Authority.

As a smaller regional hub, JAXPORT is less crowded and offers fewer cruises. Only two major cruise lines depart from Jacksonville’s JAXPORT: Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line.

See top cruises from Jacksonville Florida:

Carnival Elation: Best cruise to Bahamas from Jacksonville, Florida

Top deck view of Carnival Elation, featuring sun loungers, umbrellas, a bustling pool area, and mini-golf course against the ocean backdrop.

The best Carnival cruise ship from Florida is the Carnival Elation, which offers an electric 6-night Bahamas itinerary with stops at Celebration Key, Nassau, and Princess Cays, bringing you signature Carnival fun from start to finish, ensuring a blend of adventure and respite.

Shore excursions on this itinerary include:

  • Celebration Key – Carnival's private island boasts attractions like Paradise Plaza with its exhilarating water slides, and Calypso Lagoon for some downtime in the water. For shoppers, Lokono Cave offers a unique retail experience, while ocean activities like paddleboarding provide active ways to enjoy the turquoise waters.
  • Nassau – The capital city of the Bahamas invites you to explore its cultural and historical landmarks like Gregory’s Arch, the Roman Catholic Cathedral, the Government House, and the Parliament Building. For a different vibe, the Atlantis Resort offers luxury and excitement with its casino and shopping/dining hub Marina Village.
  • Princess Cays – Carnival Corp’s private beach located on Eleuthera Island, Princess Cays, features a stingray beach encounter where you can interact with marine life, a coastal cruise offering scenic views of the shoreline, and paddle wheeler rentals for up to four people. Looking for privacy? Villas for parties of eight and Clamshell Hideaways for two, are available for rent on the beach.

Princess Cays, Bahamas

Aboard the Carnival Elation, families will enjoy WaterWorks’ twisty water slides during the day, and the PunchLiner Comedy Club for evening entertainment. Anyone with a sweet tooth will love Cherry on Top candy boutique, and children will adore Seuss at Sea, featuring a Dr. Seuss character parade, arts and crafts activities, and green eggs & ham breakfasts.

Dining options range from fresh sushi at Bonsai Sushi Express to Guy Fieri's American restaurant, Guy’s Burger Joint. Variety is guaranteed at Lido’s Marketplace which offers a buffet featuring BBQ, a pasta bar, an Asian station, and more.

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Cruises from Tampa (Port of Tampa)

Florida’s up-and-coming cruise port is Port Tampa, which is located about 20 minutes from Tampa International Airport (TPA).

The following lines offer cruises out of Tampa: Carnival, Celebrity, Norwegian, Oceania, Regent, and Royal Caribbean.

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Carnival Miracle: Best Carnival cruise destinations from Tampa

Aerial view of Carnival Miracle cruising forward in Western Caribbean.

Carnival cruises from Florida include the recently refurbished (2022) Carnival Miracle, a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise designed for those looking to unwind, celebrate, or soak in the region’s vibrant energy.

The itinerary includes stops at Cozumel, Mexico; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and George Town, Cayman Islands, each with its own adventurous style that brings these islands to life.

The top shore excursions in this itinerary include:

  • Cozumel – Enjoy a taste of luxury on your own private yacht with up to 12 guests and sail to a calm snorkeling reef. Unwind on an All Inclusive Private Oasis at Passion Island featuring local cuisine, a private beach villa, complimentary tequila tasting, a variety of sports activities
  • Ocho Rios – Experience your own Jamaican adventure where you can zipline through lush rainforests, sail on a catamaran to a snorkeling reef, and ride horseback along the shoreline. For a more laid-back experience, visit Dunn’s River Falls, relax on the white sand of Mahogany Beach, and enjoy a flavorful Jamaican lunch at a local hotspot.
  • Georgetown – If you enjoy sightseeing, take an Exclusive 7 Mile Beach Helicopter Tour where you can see the sunken USS Kittiwake and admire the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. For a more active day, the Certified Two Tank Dive will take you to the reef, dive wreck, tunnels, and caverns, and is recommended for novice divers seeking a new and unique experience.

Family enjoying a scenic chairlift ride through lush green foliage in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, offering panoramic views of the rainforest.

Onboard the Carnival Miracle, experience everything from thrilling entertainment to laid-back lounges. The ship features Playlist Productions, offering lively musical performances, and Camp Ocean, an engaging youth program for children ages 2-11 with ocean-themed activities.

Adults can unwind at bars like RedFrog Pub, serving Caribbean-inspired drinks, or Alchemy Bar, where expert mixologists craft unique cocktails. For sports fans, SkyBox Sports Bar provides a great spot to catch live games with a refreshing drink in hand.

When it comes to dining, Guy’s Burger Joint serves up mouthwatering, handcrafted burgers with fresh-cut fries, while Nick & Nora’s Steakhouse offers a refined dining experience with premium cuts of steak and seafood.

Find more upcoming Carnival cruises from Tampa:

Itineraries and the best cruise destinations from Florida

The top cruise destinations from Florida are the Bahamas, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, and transatlantic cruises. Check out the best cruises leaving from Florida for each of these destinations to help you find the best pick for your next sailing.

Bahamas cruises from Florida

Colorful waterfront homes and marina in Nassau, Bahamas, with boats docked and a bridge in the background, popular cruise destination.

If you’re looking for an exciting and short cruise from Florida, the Bahamas is an excellent choice located just 50 miles off the coast. These cruises tend to last 3-6 nights and offer unique, action-packed shore days at Nassau, Freeport, Bimini, as well as private cruise line islands. The best cruise lines to Bahamas from Florida are Carnival and Disney.

Related: Check out our picks for the best Bahamas cruises

Compare short cruises to the Bahamas from Florida:

Caribbean cruises from Florida

Vibrant sunset over the Caribbean Sea with lush hills, coastal resorts, and clear turquoise waters, a scenic cruise destination.

If you’re seeking a longer, richer experience, the Caribbean offers a variety of islands with diverse cultures, landscapes, and beaches for both family time and alone time.

A Caribbean cruise from Florida typically last 5-10 nights, providing ample time to enjoy scenic island excursions and beautiful beaches for a mix of adventure and relaxation.

The best cruise line out of Florida to the Caribbean islands is tied between Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, offering itineraries as diverse as the islands and cruisers they cater to.

Compare the best Caribbean cruises from Florida:

Panama Canal cruises from Florida

Illuminated cruise ship sailing under the iconic Panama Canal bridge at twilight, a highlight of Panama Canal cruises.

If you're seeking a cruise that combines adventure, culture, and diverse natural landscapes, a Panama Canal cruise may be your top choice in 2025. These cruises offer a longer, more immersive experience, typically lasting 10 or more nights.

You'll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant cultures of Central and South America, witness the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, and unwind on some of the world's most beautiful beaches. The top cruise lines out of Florida that offer Panama Canal cruises are Princess and Oceania.

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Transatlantic cruises from Florida

Scenic view of Ponta Delgada coastline with a small green and white lighthouse, rocky breakwater, and blue ocean, Azores.

Transatlantic cruises range from 14-21 nights and give you a chance to thoroughly enjoy your ship's amenities and kick back during long days at sea. The best cruise out of Florida sailing across the Atlantic is tied between Viking Ocean Cruises and Cunard Line.

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FAQs

Q: What is the best cruise line out of Florida?
A: The best lines from Florida are Carnival, Disney, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, Oceania, Viking, and Cunard.

Q: What cruise lines leave from Florida?
A: The top cruise lines out of Florida are: Azamara, Carnival, Celebrity, Cunard, Disney, Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Oceania, Princess, Regent, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Viking, and Virgin Voyages.

Q: What is the best city to cruise out of Florida?
A: This depends on the cruise line you choose, as well as the specific cruise and itinerary. Booking your cruise on a booking platform that makes everything simple, like Cruisebound, helps you easily choose the best city to cruise from.

Q: What cruises leave from Tampa?
A: The cruise lines that leave from Tampa, Florida include: Carnival, Celebrity, Norwegian, Oceania, Regent, and Royal Caribbean. Each line cruises to a multitude of destinations from Tampa, such as Europe, Bahamas, and the Caribbean.

Q: What cruise lines leave from Port Canaveral?
A: Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, MSC Cruises, Norwegian, Princess, and Royal Caribbean all depart from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Q: What cruise lines sail from Jacksonville, FL?
A: Carnival and Norwegian are the two cruise lines that depart from the Jacksonville, Florida port.

Q: What is the most popular cruise port in Florida?
A: The most popular cruise port for cruises departing from Florida is Miami because of its status as the world's largest cruise hub, state-of-the-art terminals, diverse cruise destinations, proximity to Miami International Airport, and vibrant pre- and post-cruise attractions.

Q: What are the best cruises from Florida?
A: The best Florida cruises are: Disney Magic 5-night Bahamas, Wonder of the Seas 7-night Caribbean, Carnival Elation 6-night Bahamas, Norwegian Aqua 7-night Caribbean, Carnival Miracle 7-night Western Caribbean, Emerald Princess 12 night-Transcanal, Oceania Nautica 10-night Panama Canal, Viking Mars 20-night Atlantic/Mediterranean, and Queen Victoria 14-night Transatlantic cruise.

Q: What are the best cruise lines departing from Florida?
A: The best lines cruise lines out of Florida are Carnival, Cunard, Disney, Norwegian, Oceania, Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Viking.

Find the top cruises from Florida for your next vacation

Florida is a prime cruise hub, offering diverse itineraries for every traveler—from luxury escapes to family adventures. From the vibrant shores of the Bahamas to the historic passages of the Panama Canal and across the majestic Atlantic, the ports of the Sunshine State connect you to virtually any place you desire.

Whether you seek relaxation or excitement, cruises out of Florida provide endless possibilities. Discover the ideal cruise departing from Florida today, and set sail on a journey that promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Book with Cruisebound and discover the best cruise Florida has to offer.

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