Are you excited about booking a Hawaiian or Caribbean cruise vacation with Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL)? You’re dreaming of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, tropical cocktails, and exploring historic streets. But here’s the thing—not all cruise ports are created equal. Some are worth jumping off the ship as soon as it docks, but others? You’d be better off admiring the port from the comfort and safety of the ship.
Still wondering how to plan your dream vacation? This guide has you covered. I’ve broken down the best and worst cruise ports in Hawaii and the Caribbean that are included on NCL’s itineraries. My no-nonsense reviews are based on personal experiences and what real cruisers say about the ports.
Read on to discover the best ports of call and how to make even the ‘meh’ stops worth your while.
Philipsburg, St. Maarten ★★★★★ (5.0) 96/100
Many cruisers rate St. Maarten as one of the best ports of call on an NCL cruise. It’s also one of the most walkable Caribbean ports, and the island has a mix of Dutch and French cultures. Great Bay Beach is popular as it’s right beside downtown and in proximity to shops, lively beach bars, and restaurants.
Some of the best beaches in St. Maarten are a short taxi ride from the Cruise terminal. Many cruisers include Maho Beach in island tours to experience the planes roaring just above their heads. Other attractions for spending a memorable cruise day include Fort Amsterdam, Marigot on the island’s French side, and Fort Louis.
Philipsburg, St. Maarten, is described by many cruisers as a “port with zero stress and maximum fun where you can do as much or as little as you like.”
Check out my Philipsburg walking tour guide to discover the port city’s top attractions.
Grand Cayman ★★★★★ (5.0) 95/100
Grand Cayman is loved for its stunning beaches, fantastic snorkeling, and lush countryside. However, because it’s a tender port, getting ashore takes extra time, so an early tender is the best strategy for maximizing your day. A visit to Grand Cayman isn’t complete without time at Seven Mile Beach or Stingray City. For the best snorkeling on the island, travelers recommend heading to Eden Rock—a short walk from the cruise terminal.
Other cruisers recommend going to Rum Point or Cemetery Beach to skip the crowds and enjoy a peaceful Caribbean escape.
Check out my guide to the best things to do in George Town, which is close to the cruise terminal. Also check my guide to the best restaurants in Grand Cayman near the cruise port.
Willemstad, Curaçao ★★★★★ (5.0) 98/100
Willemstad is a cruiser favorite thanks to its Dutch-Caribbean charm, walkability, and vibrant waterfront. The famous Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge connects Punda and Otrobanda, both packed with shops, cafés, and colorful colonial architecture. Many travelers recommend stopping for a Blue Curaçao cocktail at a local bar or strolling through the Floating Market.
While the port area is lively, cruisers suggest taking a short taxi to Mambo Beach for a relaxing day by the water. Others recommend exploring the Kura Hulanda Museum for a deeper look into the island’s history. Willemstad is easy to enjoy on foot, making it one of the best Caribbean cruise stops on an NCL itinerary.
Curaçao is part of the ABC Islands in the Southern Caribbean. Unfortunately, Norwegian cruise ships no longer dock at Bonaire, which used to be highly popular with cruise passengers.
Grenada ★★★★☆ (4.8) 93/100
Grenada is a popular NCL cruise port in the Southern Caribbean. The beautiful island is known for its vibrant towns, spice markets, waterfalls, and beaches. Many cruise passengers recommend taking a short taxi ride to Grand Anse Beach for a relaxing cruise day. Other attractions include the Annandale Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, and excursions to the Grand Etang rainforest.
Grenada gets highly rated as it is one of the least commercialized on NCL cruise itineraries. The port area is compact and walkable, and Fort George is well worth a visit if you’re a history buff. However, the best attractions require a taxi ride or shore excursion.
Bridgetown, Barbados ★★★★☆ (4.7) 91/100
Barbados offers a mix of stunning beaches, colonial history, and vibrant island culture. Many cruisers head straight to Carlisle Bay, just a short taxi ride from the port, for soft sand and clear water. Others recommend touring Harrison’s Cave or visiting St. Nicholas Abbey for a taste of the island’s rum-making heritage.
Cruisers describe the port area as industrial and unattractive. However, the port of call still gets rave reviews because historic sites like the Parliament Buildings, Cheapside Market, and Independence Square are within walking distance. Travelers suggest taking a taxi to Pebbles Beach for a quieter experience or booking a catamaran tour to swim with sea turtles.
All in all, Barbados offers plenty of ways to enjoy your cruise day ashore, no matter your pace.
San Juan, Puerto Rico ★★★★☆ (4.7) 90/100
San Juan is a cruiser favorite for its walkability, history, and nightlife. Within minutes of stepping off the ship, you can explore Castillo San Cristóbal, El Morro, and the vibrant streets of Old San Juan. Calle Fortaleza, lined with cafés and shops, is perfect for soaking in the local culture.
Many cruisers love strolling through the blue cobblestone streets, grabbing a drink at Barrachina—the home of the piña colada, or enjoying ocean views from the city walls. I recommend disembarking the ship early to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Check out my article on the best ways to spend a cruise day in San Juan.
Tortola, British Virgin Islands ★★★★☆ (4.6) 88/100
Tortola is a beautiful, laid-back cruise port in the British Virgin Islands known for its pristine beaches and scenic island views. Many cruisers head straight to The Baths at Virgin Gorda, a short ferry ride away. Here, you can explore the dramatic granite boulders and crystal-clear waters. Others opt for Cane Garden Bay, a stunning beach lined with beach bars and calm waters.
Road Town is a pleasant island town within walking distance of the port and relatively easy to get around. Many cruise passengers recommend renting a car or booking an excursion to experience Tortola’s breathtaking mountain roads and panoramic viewpoints. If you plan on visiting The Baths, I’d recommend an early departure to avoid crowds.
Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ports in the Virgin Islands.
Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas ★★★★☆ (4.5) – 87/100
Great Stirrup Cay is Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island, offering an exclusive and hassle-free beach day for NCL guests. With no outside vendors, no security worries, and no need to haggle, it’s a stress-free stop compared to busier Caribbean ports. The island features soft white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of loungers, making it an ideal spot to relax.
One of the biggest perks? The NCL drink package works here, so cruisers can enjoy unlimited tropical cocktails without extra charges—something not offered at many other ports. There are multiple bars, buffet-style dining included in the cruise fare, and rentable cabanas for those who want a VIP experience. Water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular, and the island even has an underwater sculpture garden for unique marine life encounters.
That said, some passengers warn that shade is limited, and unless you rent a cabana, most loungers are in full sun. Others mention that the tendering process can be slow, making it crucial to get an early tender boat to secure the best beach spots and rentals.
Cozumel, Mexico ★★★★☆ (4.5) 84/100
Cozumel cruise port offers a mix of history, beaches, and adventure, making it a top-rated stop. While the downtown area is lively and great for shopping and eating, some cruisers find the vendors a bit persistent—though haggling is part of the experience. Many cruisers head straight to Chankanaab Beach Park for snorkeling, dolphin encounters, and beach relaxation, while history lovers take excursions to the nearby San Gervasio Mayan ruins.
The downtown area is walkable, filled with duty-free shopping, authentic Mexican cuisine, and vibrant street performers. If it’s an adventure you’re after, ATV tours and parasailing are available. For the best snorkeling in the Caribbean, head to Palancar or Columbia Deep Reef—just a short taxi ride away.
Discover 28 things to do in Cozumel on a cruise day in port, or check out the fantastic beaches on the island.
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands ★★★★☆ (4.5) 83/100
St. Thomas, USVI, is a gateway to incredible beaches and historic towns. Many cruisers head straight to Magens Bay, one of the Caribbean’s most famous beaches, or take a ferry to St. John for unspoiled natural beauty. For breathtaking views, the Skyride to Paradise Point is a quick trip from the port.
The historic port town of Charlotte Amalie is walkable from the cruise terminal. Here, you can explore historic sites like Fort Christian, the 99 Steps, and a synagogue with a sand floor. Duty-free shopping along Main Street is popular, but expect crowds and persistent vendors near the port. Early mornings are the best time to explore before the midday rush and intense heat.
Dominica ★★★★☆ (4.5) 82/100
The island of Dominica is a top Caribbean cruise destination due to its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Although the capital, Roseau, is compact and walkable, the best attractions are a short taxi or bus ride away. These include Trafalgar Falls, the Boiling Lake, Emerald Pool, and the Champagne Reef.
Some cruise passengers note that tourist infrastructure is less developed than in other Caribbean islands. However, in my opinion, this just adds to the island’s untouched charm. Other things to do in Dominica include climbing Morne Bruce, hiking through lush landscapes, or relaxing in hot springs and mud pools.
Harvest Caye, Belize ★★★☆☆ (3.9) – 74/100
Harvest Caye is NCL’s private destination in Belize, but unlike Great Stirrup Cay, it’s not all-inclusive. Food, drinks, and activities all cost extra. Beach loungers are free, but clamshells for shaded seating require an additional fee. While the island is beautifully maintained and features a massive pool with a swim-up bar, many cruisers feel frustrated by the lack of included perks.
The biggest advantage is that NCL ships dock directly at Harvest Caye, so there’s no need for tender boats. Excursions to Belize’s mainland are easy to book, including zip-lining, wildlife tours, and Mayan ruins. The beach itself gets mixed reviews—while spacious, the sand is coarse, and the water isn’t as clear as other Caribbean stops.
Many cruisers are caught off guard when they realize their NCL drink package doesn’t work here, making drinks significantly more expensive than on the ship. Others appreciate the resort-like atmosphere but wish it felt more like a traditional cruise private island.
St. John’s, Antigua ★★★★☆ (4.0) 68/100
Antigua’s claim to fame is its 365 beaches, offering plenty of options for enjoying a beach day by the sea. Dickenson Bay and Valley Church Beach are popular choices—both are short taxi rides from the port. For history lovers, Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights provide stunning views and a glimpse into the island’s past.
The cruise terminal area is walkable, with duty-free shopping, markets, and local restaurants—I recommend heading to Redcliff Quay for the best places to eat. Some cruisers mention persistent vendors near the port, so be prepared, but usually, a polite and firm “no thank you” is enough. If you’re heading to the beach, arrange a taxi early to secure a good spot before the crowds arrive.
St. Lucia ★★★☆☆ (3.8) 63/100
St. Lucia’s breathtaking scenery makes it a favorite for nature lovers, but it’s not very walkable. The best attractions—The Pitons, Sulphur Springs, and Toraille Waterfall—require getting there by taxi, bus, or catamaran. The best advice is to book an excursion. I’ve found that boat tours are one of the best scenic ways to experience the coastline and iconic landmarks.
Castries, the capital, has markets and shops near the port, but be prepared for heavy crowds on port days. I’ve also read reports of pushy taxi drivers and higher tour prices than other islands. Booking excursions early ensures you get the best spots for adventure tours or a beach day at Sugar Beach or Pigeon Island.
Aruba ★★★☆☆ (3.8) 62/100
I love Aruba, but for some reason, it gets mixed reviews from Norwegian cruise ship passengers. On the one hand, cruisers rave about Aruba’s beautiful beaches, quaint downtown, and Dutch-Caribbean charm. It’s also easy to do a self-guided walking tour of Oranjestad. On the other hand, its dry, barren landscape gets hot in the afternoons, which many travelers find overbearing.
The most popular attractions—Eagle Beach with its Foti trees, Palm Beach, and Arikok National Park require a taxi or excursion. Some cruisers recommend taking a tour of the island’s eastern side to experience the rugged coastline, marvel at natural limestone bridges, and explore caves.
Related: How to spend a cruise day in Aruba.
Roatan, Honduras ★★★☆☆ (3.7) 60/100
Norwegian Cruise Line ships dock at Coxen Hole in Roatan, and there’s not much to do in the vicinity. However, the island’s stunning, unspoiled beaches are an eco-tourist’s dream. You’ll also find some of the best reefs for snorkeling and diving. For the best beach, head to West Bay Beach—a 25-minute drive on the island’s southernmost tip.
Belize City ★★★☆☆ (3.5) 58/100
The cruise port at Belize City has a negative reputation among NCL guests due to safety concerns and the unattractive port area. Also, it’s a tendering port, which adds time and inconvenience to any shore excursion. Most cruisers recommend booking a ship-operated tour to the Mayan Ruins. Belize City is considered a dangerous cruise port, and it’s not advisable to venture outside the port area alone.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica ★★★☆☆ (3.0) 50/100
Ocho Rios is a hit or a miss with cruise passengers, depending on who you ask. The immediate port area feels chaotic and overwhelming, with aggressive vendors, pushy taxi drivers, and safety concerns. The best recommendation for enjoying Ocho Rios is to book a shore excursion to Dunn’s River Falls, Mystic Mountain, the Original Blue Hole, or Mahogany Beach.
Nassau, Bahamas ★★☆☆☆ (2.8) 45/100
Nassau attracts thousands of visitors daily, giving it a lively but often overwhelming atmosphere. While historic sites like the Queen’s Staircase are worth a visit, many cruisers feel the crowds, pushy vendors, and pricey excursions detract from the experience. It’s one of the busiest cruise ports in the Caribbean, with up to 30,000 ship passengers in port at any one time.
My advice is to disembark early and take a walking tour of Nassau to visit the iconic Queen’s Staircase and Fort Fincastle. This way, you avoid the crowds.
Related: The best things to do in Nassau, as well as must-visit beaches in and around Nassau.
Freeport, Bahamas ★★☆☆☆ (2.7) 43/100
Freeport in The Bahamas frequently gets ranked as one of the worst cruise ports in the Caribbean. It’s an industrial container port with nothing to do in the immediate vicinity. The best way to spend a day in port is either to stay on board or book an excursion to Lucayan National Park, Paradise Cove, or a private beach club.
Costa Maya, Mexico ★★☆☆☆ (2.4) 38/100
Cruisers say that Costa Maya feels like an overpriced, manufactured cruise stop that feels more like a tourist trap than an exotic tropical location. Beyond the port, there’s little to do without booking an excursion—I’d recommend visiting the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, Bacalar Lagoon, or a private beach club like Maya Chan.
If you decide to explore Mahahual, head to the quieter end of the Malecón for a more relaxed vibe. Skip the port shopping area unless you enjoy overpriced souvenirs and pushy sales tactics.
St. Kitts ★★☆☆☆ (2.3) 36/100
St. Kitts can feel underwhelming and crowded if you stay near the port. A walking tour of Basseterre is an excellent way to spend your day near the ship. However, the best shore attractions on St. Kitts require a taxi or pre-booked excursion. Popular attractions include Brimstone Hill Fortress, a scenic railway tour, and Cockleshell Beach.
Best and Worst NCL Ports in Hawaii
The Norwegian Cruise Line ship Pride of America is the only cruise ship with year-long sailings to Hawaii and inter-island cruises.
Honolulu, Oahu ★★★★☆ (4.6) – 88/100
Despite being the busiest cruise port in Hawaii, it’s voted the best because of access to must-see spots like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head. The port area isn’t scenic, and traffic can be frustrating.
Port of Hilo ★★★★☆ (4.3) – 85/100
Hilo is the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, but the port itself is dull, and rain is frequent. Downtown has little appeal for cruisers spending a day on the island.
Kahului, Maui ★★★★☆ (4.1) – 80/100
Kahului’s port area is industrial, with no attractions nearby. Maui’s highlights—Haleakalā, Road to Hana, and Kaanapali Beach—require excursions. Avoid wasting time near the port.
Nawiliwili, Kauai ★★★☆☆ (3.9) – 75/100
Kauai’s port is scenic but lacks nearby attractions. Public transport is limited, so excursions are a must. Book a helicopter tour, visit Waimea Canyon, or relax at Poipu Beach. Return early to avoid port traffic delays.
Kailua Pier, Kona, Hawaii’s Big Island ★★★☆☆ (3.5) – 70/100
Kona is a tender port, which means delays. The area is charming but lacks major attractions nearby. For a better visit, tour a coffee farm, snorkel at Captain Cook Monument, or explore Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Just remember to get back for shipboard time.
Best and Worst NCL Ports: What to Expect
Cruisers love top-rated ports like San Juan, Grand Cayman, and St. Maarten for their walkability, stunning beaches, and rich culture. Others, like Nassau, Freeport, and Costa Maya, often disappoint with crowds, pushy vendors, and limited attractions near the port. Although cruising Hawaii is an unforgettable experience, the port areas are disappointing.
Just remember—no matter where you dock, the right excursion can turn an average stop into an unforgettable experience. Or you could decide to stay on board and enjoy the ship’s amenities. Wishing you smooth sailings and incredible port adventures.
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