Do Cruise Ships Depart From Norfolk, VA?

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Do Any Cruise Ships Depart From Norfolk, VA?

Norfolk, Virginia is a major port city on the Atlantic coast. It’s home to the world’s largest naval base, and it’s also a popular destination for cruise ships. But do any cruise ships actually depart from Norfolk?

The answer is yes, but it’s a bit complicated. Norfolk is not a major cruise ship terminal, so most cruise ships that visit Norfolk do not actually depart from there. Instead, they stop in Norfolk as part of a longer itinerary that includes other ports of call.

However, there are a few cruise ships that do depart from Norfolk on a regular basis. These ships are typically smaller than the mega-ships that visit Norfolk as part of a longer itinerary, and they offer a more intimate and luxurious cruise experience.

If you’re interested in taking a cruise from Norfolk, there are a few things you need to know. First, you’ll need to decide which type of cruise ship you’re interested in. If you want a large ship with all the amenities, you’ll need to choose a ship that stops in Norfolk as part of a longer itinerary. If you’re looking for a more intimate and luxurious experience, you’ll want to choose a ship that departs from Norfolk directly.

Once you’ve decided which type of ship you’re interested in, you can start planning your cruise. You’ll need to decide where you want to go, how long you want to be gone, and what kind of activities you want to do on your cruise.

No matter what type of cruise you’re looking for, you’re sure to find a great option that departs from Norfolk. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your cruise today!

Cruise Line Ship Departure Date
Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas January 7, 2023
Carnival Cruise Line Carnival Breeze February 14, 2023
Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Escape March 21, 2023

History of Cruise Ship Departures from Norfolk, VA

The history of cruise ship departures from Norfolk, VA, can be traced back to the early 19th century. In 1815, the first steamship to arrive in Norfolk was the “City of Washington.” This ship was followed by a number of other steamships, which made Norfolk a popular destination for passengers traveling between the East Coast and the Caribbean.

In the early 20th century, the cruise industry began to grow rapidly. This growth was due in part to the development of new technologies, such as the diesel engine, which made ships more efficient and less expensive to operate. The cruise industry also benefited from the increasing popularity of leisure travel.

By the mid-20th century, Norfolk had become a major cruise ship port. In 1957, the Port of Norfolk opened a new cruise terminal, which was designed to accommodate the growing number of cruise ships. The new terminal also helped to attract new cruise lines to Norfolk, such as Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International.

Today, Norfolk is one of the busiest cruise ship ports in the United States. In 2023, the Port of Norfolk is expected to handle over 2 million cruise passengers. The port is home to a variety of cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line.

Major Cruise Lines that Depart from Norfolk, VA

The following is a list of the major cruise lines that depart from Norfolk, VA:

  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Disney Cruise Line

Each of these cruise lines offers a variety of cruises to destinations around the world. Carnival Cruise Line offers cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, the Bahamas, and Alaska. Royal Caribbean International offers cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and Asia. Norwegian Cruise Line offers cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, and South America. Princess Cruises offers cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and Asia. Celebrity Cruises offers cruises to the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. Disney Cruise Line offers cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe.

Norfolk, VA, is a major cruise ship port that offers a variety of cruises to destinations around the world. The port is home to a number of major cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line.

3. Types of Cruises that Depart from Norfolk, VA

Norfolk, Virginia is a popular port of departure for a variety of cruises. The city’s location on the Chesapeake Bay makes it a convenient jumping-off point for cruises to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Europe, and the Transatlantic.

Caribbean cruises are the most popular type of cruise to depart from Norfolk. The city is located just a short distance from the Caribbean Sea, making it a quick and easy trip to some of the most beautiful and exotic destinations in the world. Popular Caribbean cruise destinations from Norfolk include the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic.

Bahamas cruises are another popular option for those departing from Norfolk. The Bahamas are a beautiful chain of islands located just off the coast of Florida. The islands are known for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly people. Popular Bahamas cruise destinations from Norfolk include Nassau, Freeport, and Grand Bahama Island.

Mexican Riviera cruises are a great option for those looking for a warm-weather getaway. The Mexican Riviera is a stretch of coastline along the Pacific Ocean that includes the states of Baja California Sur and Jalisco. Popular Mexican Riviera cruise destinations from Norfolk include Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatln.

Alaskan cruises are a great way to experience the beauty of the Last Frontier. Alaskan cruises depart from Norfolk in the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the days are long. Popular Alaskan cruise destinations from Norfolk include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka.

European cruises are a great way to see some of the world’s most famous landmarks and cities. European cruises depart from Norfolk in the spring, summer, and fall months. Popular European cruise destinations from Norfolk include London, Paris, Rome, and Barcelona.

Transatlantic cruises are a great way to see the world from a different perspective. Transatlantic cruises depart from Norfolk in the fall and winter months, when the weather is cooler and the seas are calmer. Popular transatlantic cruise destinations from Norfolk include New York City, London, and Paris.

4. Port Facilities and Services in Norfolk, VA

Norfolk, Virginia is home to two cruise terminals: the Norfolk International Terminal and the Newport News Marine Terminal. Both terminals offer a variety of amenities and services for cruise passengers, including:

  • Cruise terminals
  • Passenger amenities
  • Transportation to and from the cruise terminals

Cruise terminals

The Norfolk International Terminal and the Newport News Marine Terminal are both located on the waterfront and offer easy access to the cruise ships. The terminals are both large and modern, and they offer a variety of amenities for cruise passengers, including:

  • Ticket counters
  • Baggage check-in
  • Security screenings
  • Duty-free shopping
  • Food and beverage concessions
  • Restrooms
  • ATMs
  • Wi-Fi

Passenger amenities

In addition to the amenities offered at the cruise terminals, Norfolk also offers a variety of other passenger amenities, including:

  • Hotels
  • Restaurants
  • Bars
  • Nightclubs
  • Shopping
  • Museums
  • Theaters
  • Sporting events

Transportation to and from the cruise terminals

There are a variety of ways to get to and from the cruise terminals in Norfolk. The most popular option is to drive. There are several parking garages located near the terminals, and there is also plenty of street parking available. If you don’t have a car, you can also take public transportation. The Tide light rail system has a stop near the Norfolk International Terminal, and there are also several bus routes that serve the area. You can also take a taxi or rideshare service to the terminals.

Do any cruise ships depart from Norfolk, VA?

Yes, several cruise ships depart from Norfolk, VA. The following is a list of some of the most popular cruise lines that offer cruises from Norfolk:

  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Princess Cruises

What are the different types of cruises that depart from Norfolk?

There are a variety of different types of cruises that depart from Norfolk, VA. Some of the most popular types of cruises include:

  • Caribbean cruises
  • Alaskan cruises
  • European cruises
  • Transatlantic cruises
  • Mediterranean cruises

What are the best times of year to take a cruise from Norfolk?

The best time of year to take a cruise from Norfolk depends on the type of cruise you are interested in. For example, if you are interested in a Caribbean cruise, the best time to go is during the winter months (December-April). If you are interested in an Alaskan cruise, the best time to go is during the summer months (June-August).

What are the ports of call for cruises that depart from Norfolk?

The ports of call for cruises that depart from Norfolk vary depending on the cruise line and the type of cruise. Some of the most popular ports of call include:

  • The Bahamas
  • Cozumel, Mexico
  • Grand Cayman
  • Key West, Florida
  • St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

How long do cruises from Norfolk typically last?

Cruises from Norfolk typically last anywhere from 3 days to 14 days. The length of the cruise will depend on the cruise line and the type of cruise.

What are the costs of cruises from Norfolk?

The cost of a cruise from Norfolk will vary depending on the cruise line, the type of cruise, and the time of year. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per person for a cruise from Norfolk.

How do I book a cruise from Norfolk?

You can book a cruise from Norfolk through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line. To book a cruise through a travel agent, simply contact a local travel agency and let them know what type of cruise you are interested in. To book a cruise directly with the cruise line, visit the cruise line’s website and select the cruise that you are interested in.

What are the other things to do in Norfolk, VA?

In addition to taking a cruise, there are a variety of other things to do in Norfolk, VA. Some of the most popular attractions include:

  • The Norfolk Naval Base
  • The Virginia Zoo
  • The Norfolk Botanical Garden
  • The Chrysler Museum of Art
  • The Norfolk Tides (minor league baseball team)

    Norfolk, Virginia is a popular port of call for cruise ships, and there are a variety of reasons why. The city’s convenient location, beautiful scenery, and rich history make it a desirable destination for cruise passengers. Additionally, the port is well-equipped to handle large cruise ships, and there are a variety of activities and attractions available for passengers to enjoy while they’re in town. If you’re looking for a great cruise vacation, Norfolk, Virginia is a great option.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.