If you’ve ever had to rush back from a shore excursion to return to your cruise ship on time, you might enjoy a cruise that features one or more overnight port stays. When a ship has permission to stay in port overnight, it’s possible to enjoy a leisurely dinner in an onshore restaurant, attend an evening sporting or cultural event, or dance the night away in a local club. Plus, some daytime activities have a different look and feel at night – think European Christmas markets or Venetian gondola rides.
Many cruise lines offer overnight port stays, including Azamara,
Celebrity, Oceania, Princess, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Virgin Voyages, and
Windstar. Overnight stays are more likely on longer cruises that call on larger
port cities. And, the cruise lines offer nighttime shore excursions that arrange
special experiences for you.
These are just a few of dozens of ports where it’s possible to
stay overnight on a cruise:
Reykjavik, Iceland. The sun is up for long hours during the
summer months, so an overnight stay gives you plenty of time to see waterfalls,
geysers, and the famous Blue Lagoon.
Copenhagen, Denmark. The rides, music stages, and restaurants
of Tivoli Gardens amusement park literally sparkle at night. An evening tour of
the Christianshavn neighborhood via canal is lovely, too.
Dubrovnik, Croatia. Walk the Old Town at night to imagine you’re
back in medieval times; take a break in a charming bar to sip a glass of rakija,
a local anise-flavored spirit.
Oranjestad, Aruba. Seaside bars and clubs are fun to visit in
the cooler air of the evening. You can also try your luck at a glittering
oceanfront casino.
Buenos Aires, Argentina. Dinner at an authentic parrilla
(grill restaurant) is a treat, as is a visit to Plaza Dorrego – grab a table to
enjoy a beverage, listen to music, and watch tango dancers.
Kyoto, Japan. Take an evening tour of Gion, the city’s best-known
geisha district. In this historic neighborhood, you can visit teahouses where
geishas entertain with music and dance.
An overnight port stay also lets you enjoy the quiet early
morning hours of the place you’re visiting; in fact, your ship may not depart
until noon or later.
In addition to overnight stays, some cruises include late-night
port departures, which also give you a chance to enjoy an evening on shore. To
consider all of your options for more time in port, talk with Anita, your
professional travel advisor.
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