Traveller’s ultimate guide to cruise ports
Planning a cruise, but not sure what itinerary is right for you? Traveller’s cruise expert, Brian Johnston, offers his guide to some of the major ports around the world, including who cruises there and what the local must-see highlights are.
Barcelona, Spain
One of the world’s biggest cruise ports is merely functional but, once off the ship, this city is a marvel.
- by Brian Johnston
Singapore
This small island nation packs in more easy-to-visit, family-friendly attractions and multi-ethnic influences than many cities twice its size.
- by Brian Johnston
Quebec City, Canada
Ships dock either at Vieux-Port or adjacent Basse-Ville and you’re a hop from cafes, a farmers’ market, and plenty of shopping.
- by Brian Johnston
Yokohama, Japan
Yokohama is right beside Tokyo, yet overlooked. Here’s why you should visit this port city with lively international connections.
- by Brian Johnston
Budapest, Hungary
Grand architecture, a rich history, and a stylish and confident present make Budapest one of Europe’s most beautiful, fascinating and lively capitals.
- by Brian Johnston
Auckland, New Zealand
The cruise terminal could hardly be better located to explore New Zealand’s breezy, sea-gazing capital, so get walking.
- by Brian Johnston
Valletta, Malta
One of cruising’s most majestic sail-ins takes you into a city with oodles of history and charm, and an island with plenty to explore.
- by Brian Johnston
Buenos Aires, Argentina
You don’t have to look hard for a good time in Buenos Aires, a city passionate about tango, football, political demonstrations and juicy steaks.
- by Brian Johnston
Kaohsiung, Taiwan
This city on Taiwan’s southern tip has lately undergone a wonderful overhaul to become one of Asia’s most relaxed and easy-to-visit destinations.
- by Brian Johnston
Vancouver, Canada
One of the world’s most organised cruise terminals makes for an easy arrival in a city happily married to the sea.
- by Brian Johnston
Los Angeles, USA
Welcome to LA: capital of consumerism, city of freeways and fashionistas, home to movie wannabes and Hollywood stars.
- by Brian Johnston
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Kangaroo Island has bounced back from its 2019-20 summer bushfires and is as beautiful as ever. Here’s what you should take in.
- by Brian Johnston
Wellington, New Zealand
Although small, Wellington is cultured, occasionally avant-garde and buzzing with youthful energy. Here’s what to do in a day.
- by Brian Johnston
Cape Town, South Africa
One of the world’s most spectacular harbour towns has plenty in it, and even more around it, to ensure you have a very busy port day.
- by Brian Johnston
Istanbul, Turkey
The world’s only underground cruise terminal has transformed arrival in a city that offers a spectacular sail-in skyline.
- by Brian Johnston
Lautoka, Fiji
Lautoka is a modest town with a big heart, and sits amid the gorgeous surrounds of main island Viti Levu’s west coast.
- by Brian Johnston
Saint-Malo, France
This breeze-blown port is flanked by beaches and wave-booming seas; the newer town has agreeable promenades, restaurants and markets.
- by Brian Johnston
New Orleans, US
This ocean and river port is one of America’s most historical cities but also has throbbing contemporary excitement thanks to its music and nightlife scenes.
- by Brian Johnston