Best Cruises Out of Miami for New Cruisers (Updated 2025)
PortMiami. Image credit: Photo by Fernando Jorge on Unsplash
Cruising from Miami for First-Timers
Thinking of cruising from Miami for the first time? Here’s everything you need to know - from cruise line picks and top itineraries to local tips for pre-cruise stays.
By Kathy Taylor | Cruise Lowdown
Why Cruise from Miami?
Miami isn’t just the cruise capital of the world - it’s one of the easiest and most exciting places to begin your first voyage. With stunning ships sailing year-round, multiple Caribbean itineraries to choose from, and a lively city to explore before (or after) you sail, it’s a top choice for American travellers dipping their toes into cruising.
Whether you want sun-soaked beach days, action-packed adventures, or just some poolside relaxation, there’s a cruise from Miami to match.
What cruise line departs from Miami?
Many cruise lines use Miami as theirs embarkation point including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Virgin Voyages, MSC Cruises, Celebrity and Carnival Cruise Line. Many premium lines also begin their voyages in Miami including Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, and Oceania Cruises.
Top 5 Cruise Lines for First-Timers Sailing from Miami
1️⃣ Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas in Miami. Image credit: Photo by Zoshua Colah on Unsplash
Perfect for: Families, thrill-seekers, and multigenerational groups
Ships: Icon of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas (see my related article The Top 10 Biggest RCI Ships
Why it’s great: Epic onboard activities (think surf simulators and zip lines), plus private island Perfect Day at CocoCay is often included.
Tip: Choose a 3 or 4-night sailing on Freedom-class ships for a budget-friendly, high-energy intro to cruising.
2️⃣ Carnival Cruise Line
Perfect for: Party lovers, value travellers, and first-time fun-seekers
Ships: Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee (see more of the fleet here)
Why it’s great: Affordable fares, plenty of dining options, upbeat atmosphere - and excellent short sailings to the Bahamas and Mexico.
3️⃣ Norwegian Cruise Line
Perfect for: Relaxed cruisers, foodies, and flexible travellers
Ships: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Getaway
Why it’s great: No set dining times or formal nights, with a strong entertainment lineup and standout specialty restaurants.
4️⃣ Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady at Terminal V in Miami. Image: Virgin Voyages
Perfect for: Adults (18+), couples, solo travellers
Ships: Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, Brilliant Lady
Why it’s great: No kids, no buffets, no boring evenings. All dining is included, and sailings often visit Bimini Beach Club in the Bahamas. Great for cruisers who usually say, “I’m not a cruise person.”
Tip: All cabins have a hammock on the balcony - great for insta content.
5️⃣ Celebrity Cruises
Perfect for: Luxury-curious, couples, and wellness lovers
Ships: Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Summit and more
Why it’s great: Stylish ships with spa vibes, fine dining, and adults-only areas. Ideal for a chilled but upscale cruise experience.
Best First-Time Cruise Itineraries from Miami (2025)
Best First-Time Cruise Itineraries from Miami (2025)
Short Bahamas cruises are great for first-timers on a budget. For more adventure, try a 7-night sailing with fewer sea days, or which include a fun-packed private island resort.
Best Miami Cruise Deals for 2025 & 2026
If you’re looking to sail from Miami without breaking the bank, there are some great-value options for both U.S. travellers and UK fly-cruisers planning a sunshine escape. Here are a few standouts to watch for (cruise-only prices):
Bahamas Short Breaks from $249 / £199pp
Who’s it for? First-time cruisers who want a taster without committing to a week at sea.
Typical itinerary: Miami – Nassau – Perfect Day at CocoCay – Miami
Lines to check: Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC Cruises.
Why it’s a deal: Frequent sailings, competitive pricing, and ideal for adding on a few days in Miami pre/post cruise.
Western Caribbean from $399 / £349pp
Who’s it for? Anyone after lively ports, tropical beaches, and a mix of culture.
Typical itinerary: Miami – Cozumel – Roatán – Costa Maya – Miami
Lines to check: Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, MSC Cruises.
Why it’s a deal: Great mix of activity and relaxation, plus plenty of last-minute discounts.
Eastern Caribbean from $499 / £429pp
Who’s it for? Cruisers who want to explore lush islands and historic towns.
Typical itinerary: Miami – Puerto Rico – St. Thomas – Dominican Republic – Miami
Lines to check: Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages.
Why it’s a deal: Often includes more days at sea to enjoy ship amenities, with seasonal price drops in autumn.
Fly-Cruise Packages from the UK from £699pp
Who’s it for? UK travellers wanting a stress-free bundle including flights, transfers, and cruise.
Typical itinerary: 7-night Caribbean sailings plus 1–2 nights in Miami.
Lines to check: Marella Cruises, P&O Cruises (chartered flights), major UK travel agents like Iglu Cruise or Bolsover Cruise Club.
Why it’s a deal: Bundled pricing can save £200–£400 compared to booking separately, especially for early-bird offers.
Tip: For the lowest fares, book either well in advance (12–18 months) or watch for “wave season” deals in January-March.
Where to Stay in Miami Before Your Cruise
It’s smart to arrive at least a day early — not just to avoid delays, but to enjoy Miami’s vibrant scene.
Top Hotel Picks (near PortMiami):
So many to choose from, including leading hotel chains. Here are some other popular options:
Kimpton EPIC Hotel – Luxe rooftop pool & Biscayne Bay views
YVE Hotel Miami – Boutique style, walkable to Bayside Marketplace
citizenM Miami Worldcenter – Trendy, tech-forward, and affordable
Insider Tip: Choose hotels in Downtown Miami or Brickell for easy access to the cruise port (10–15 mins by Uber/Lyft).
Getting to PortMiami
From Miami International Airport (MIA): 15–20 mins by taxi/Uber ($25–$35)
From Fort Lauderdale (FLL): ~40–45 mins by car ($50–$75 Uber or shared shuttle)
Cruise Line Shuttles: Available but often pricier -check your ship’s website
Parking: Onsite at PortMiami ($22/day), or nearby lots with shuttles from ~$12/day
Best Time of Year to Cruise from Miami
Miami offers year-round cruise departures, but the ideal time depends on what you value most. The peak winter season, from December to April, boasts warm, dry weather and calm seas—perfect for Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries—though prices are higher and ships busier. May and September–October tend to be quieter and more affordable, but fall within hurricane season, so itineraries can change. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid, with occasional afternoon downpours, but is popular with families thanks to school holidays and plentiful onboard activities for children.
First-Time Cruise Tips (From Someone Who’s Been There)
Here are my personal tips (although I don’t always take my own advice!):
Arrive early at the terminal: Most cruise lines now offer staggered check-in times. Stick to yours for faster boarding.
Don’t overpack: Especially on short cruises - swimwear, dinner-wear (smart casual), and comfy sandals are your must-haves.
Budget for extras: Tips, excursions, Wi-Fi, drinks, and specialty dining can add up fast. Many can be purchased in advance plus look for inclusive deals.
Explore the ship on Day 1: The pools, spa, and restaurants are often quietest before sailaway.
Final Word
Cruising from Miami is the perfect way to test the waters - literally. With incredible ships, sun-soaked itineraries, and a city that feels like part of the holiday, your first cruise might just turn into the first of many.
Still unsure which line or ship is right for you? Drop your questions in the comments or DM me on Instagram @CruiseLowdown — I’m always happy to help!
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