New York has four cruise ports serviced by most of the major cruise providers for those wishing to set sail out of New York City. There are also quite a few local cruise companies that provide everything from dinner cruises to sightseeing to the famous ferries. In addition to the typical east coast destinations of Florida and the Bahamas, New York cruises include some unexpected itineraries.

Staying in Brooklyn is an excellent way of enjoying all the classic New York City attractions with the convenience of a relaxed borough. You will also save a few dollars staying in Brooklyn while enjoying the best view of the city skyline, especially at night. Brooklyn hotels offer accessibility to the experiences you want without having to overspend on New York hotel accommodations.

Brooklyn Heights is the old, old neighborhood. It was, by some accounts, America's first suburb, a place where good people moved to escape the unwashed hordes in New York. Some of New York's oldest houses, dating to the 1840s, are located in Brooklyn Heights.

Cape Liberty Cruise Port is located on the New Jersey side of New York Harbor and is used primarily by Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise ships. It is seven miles from New York City and about 15 minutes from Newark Liberty International Airport.

Chelsea Recreational Piers is located on the Hudson River near streets in the West 20's. American Cruise Lines and other small coastal vessels use this pier.

Manhattan Cruise Terminal is located on the West Side of Manhattan, between West 48th and West 52nd streets. A vehicle entrance is located at 55th Street and 12th Avenue. It is easy to get to Manhattan on foot with a 15 to 20 minute walk.

With so much to see and do, a trip to New York City may seem a little overwhelming. The city is so big, mere words penned from a few local tour guides cannot capture the true essence of the city... there is simply too much to comprehend!

South Street Seaport is a 11-block touristy area. Its cobblestone streets are home to a world-class maritime museum with galleries and a collection of historic vessels, amid scores of restaurants and shops. The seaport also hosts a variety of special events, ranging from a spectacular music series to street festivals. The view from Pier 17 of the Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn Heights, across the East River, is breathtaking.

Williamsburg is just on the Brooklyn side of the Williamsburg Bridge from Manhattan. It is reminiscent of Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco. There's are a wide variety of restaurants and stores and a quick walk to the river yields a park with an amazing view that rivals the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.