Just because a cruise ship docks in a destination doesn’t mean passengers have to get off there – and some ports may get skipped more than others among repeat guests.
Cruise experts helped USA TODAY round up five ports where some cruisers tend not to disembark for various reasons, though that judgment call comes down to guest preference and others may find plenty to enjoy.
“If you haven't been to any of those places, it's usually worth getting off at least once, especially if you're truly new to the destination, not just to the cruise, because that ‘first time I've seen this place’ experience is exactly what turns a port from, let's say, an abstract itinerary box into something more memorable, something later that you decide to skip,” said Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel.
Florida's cruise ports can be packed. Try boarding here instead.
Feldman said the Bahamas capital is “great for the first time, especially if you're doing an excursion to an Atlantis-type resort or Baha Mar.” Royal Caribbean also recently opened the nearby Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, a short ferry ride away.
