In 2003, New York announced the grand opening of a new alternative port
for cruise lines. Because ports in Florida were becoming more and more
crowded, additional docking facilities in interesting cities on the Eastern
Seaboard were needed to provide cruise lines with a new home port. The port has been
wildly popular. So much so that another has been added in nearby Brooklyn.
The Red Hook terminal in a neighborhood in Brooklyn opened in April 2006
and welcomed its first permanent resident, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 (formerly
docked in Manhattan). Located on the Buttermilk Channel, the Brooklyn
terminal gave the first increase in New York cruise ship pier capacity
in over 30 years. With the likes of Cunard and Princess cruise lines as
eager residents, the terminal has already become a success. Most other
major cruise lines have also assigned vessels to sail from Brooklyn.
Princess Cruise lines will launch the Crown Princess from the Brooklyn
dock in June 2006 for a Caribbean cruise. From June to October, Princess
will offer numerous Caribbean tours, including calls on ports in popular
destinations such as the Virgin Islands, Grand Turk and Jamaica. Star
Princess will begin cruises from Brooklyn in October 2006 visiting ports
up and down the New England and Canadian seacoast.
But Brooklyn? It doesn't seem like the most exciting location for a cruise
ship port. On the contrary. While not normally publicized as a vibrant
city with plenty to do, Brooklyn offers cruisers an opportunity to spend
a few days in New York before or after their tour.
Very similar to Manhattan, Brooklyn offers a trendy nightlife as well
as diverse cultures and eclectic cuisine. Bars, clubs and restaurants
line the streets, offering a tremendous variety of options for visitors
and locals alike.
If culture is your thing, Chinatown is always a wonderful experience.
In addition, Flatbush offers the largest Caribbean population in the United
States. In either place, you'll delight in the authentic sights, sounds
and tastes on every
corner.
With spectacular views of many popular attractions, including the Brooklyn
Bridge and the Statue of Liberty, the Red Hook terminal also offers exciting
options for sightseers. However, New York City is just a short cab ride
away and opens a virtual treasure trove of attractions, shows, museums
and affairs.
Overall, Brooklyn offers greater value (with lower rates on hotels) and
a central location, making it a wonderful choice for both vacationers
and the cruise lines. If New York is closer for you than Florida, or if
you've been longing to visit the Big Apple, consider booking your next
cruise from the Red Hook terminal in Brooklyn. Your travel agent will
have a complete listing of which cruise lines sail from Red Hook and the
destinations available.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center based
in Yonkers, New York. Visit them online today at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com
for the best deals, including Alaska cruises and Hawaii cruises. You'll
find their service exceptional and their attention to detail second to
none.
