Cape Liberty Cruise Port: Your Comprehensive Guide to Cruising from New Jersey

One of the first things that strikes you at Cape Liberty cruise port is the incredible views: Nestled on the Hudson River in New Jersey, directly opposite New York City, this port showcases breathtaking panoramas of the Manhattan skyline and unobstructed vistas of the Statue of Liberty. When you sail out of Cape Liberty, you'll be right up close to Lady Liberty as you navigate through the harbor.

Cape Liberty serves as a major departure point for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruises. From this port, ships from these lines embark on journeys to the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Canada, New England, and beyond.

Keep in mind that although Cape Liberty is often labeled as "New York" on various cruise booking websites, it is indeed located on the New Jersey side of the Hudson River, in Bayonne. This is a quirky regional detail, as many attractions in New Jersey are often branded as "New York" — for instance, both the New York Jets and New York Giants play their home games at the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Cape Liberty is an excellent departure point for anyone based in the nearby Tri-State area (New York, New Jersey, Connecticut), Pennsylvania, or other East Coast locations. The port is also easily accessible from Newark International Airport (EWR), which is just 10 miles away. If you arrive early, you’ll find plenty of hotel options for a pre- or post-cruise stay in the vicinity as well.

Additionally, you'll be situated just across the Hudson River from New York City, making it convenient to include a trip to the Big Apple in your cruise plans.

Overview of Cape Liberty Cruise Port

Information on Cape Liberty Cruise Terminal

Location: 4 Port Terminal Blvd., Bayonne, NJ 07002

Number of terminals: One
While Cape Liberty offers wheelchair access, be sure to contact your cruise line at least 30 days before departure to arrange for boarding assistance from the terminal to the ship.

Cruise lines operating from Cape Liberty

• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

Airports in proximity to Cape Liberty cruise port

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is the nearest airport to Cape Liberty cruise port, located just 10 miles away, which is about a 20-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions.

While LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is situated 22 miles away and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is 32 miles from Bayonne, reaching Cape Liberty from either airport can take at least one hour, potentially extending to two hours due to the need to navigate around Manhattan.

Public transportation does not provide a direct route from any of the three major airports to the cruise port.

EWR serves as a hub for United Airlines, offering numerous flights from across the country into Newark every day. Other domestic airlines flying into EWR include Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Sun Country, and Spirit Airlines.

If you're looking to fly with Southwest, you'll need to select LGA, as the airline has moved all its New York City gates to this airport. Other domestic airlines operating at LGA include Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Spirit, United Airlines, and American Shuttle.

JFK is the most distant airport from Bayonne and Cape Liberty, but it boasts the highest number of airlines, with a total of 70, and serves as a hub for both American Airlines and Delta. Other domestic airlines at JFK include Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, Sun Country Airlines, and WestJet.

Since outbound flight schedules may not perfectly match your cruise line's disembarkation times, you could find yourself with some downtime at the airport. Be sure to carry a credit card that offers airport lounge access. For EWR, a United-branded card is particularly beneficial, as United is the only airline operating from terminal C, limiting lounge options to United Clubs and the Polaris Lounge. Terminal A, the other domestic terminal, features a Delta Lounge and an AA Admiral's Club. Notably, the airport lacks lounges accessible through Priority Pass.

How to reach Cape Liberty cruise port

Whether you're arriving at the cruise port from the airport or a local hotel, you’ll have various transportation options at your disposal. However, you won’t find any cruise-line-operated shuttles running from the airport to Cape Liberty cruise port.

Hotel Shuttles

Several select Hilton hotels near EWR provide complimentary shuttle service to the port. Keep in mind that there will be a fee for overnight parking at these hotels.

Limos and Private Car Transfers

The New York/New Jersey metro area offers a wide range of limo and private car services. One of the most well-known and easy-to-remember options is Dial 7 car and limousine service, which you can reach at 1-212-777-7777.

Blacklane is another excellent choice for private transfers. You can expect to pay around $130 for a car from EWR, and approximately $330 for a private car or limousine from JFK.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

It's easy to catch a taxi from EWR to take you to Cape Liberty. Taxi stands are located on the arrival (ground) level of the airport, right outside baggage claim.

Fares are calculated by the meter. The starting rate is $4 for the first 1/8 mile, followed by $0.65 for each additional 1/8 mile. The waiting charge is $0.65 per minute, and there’s a $1 surcharge per bag for luggage placed in the trunk, plus a $1.75 fee for airport pickups. The typical fare from Newark Airport to Cape Liberty cruise port is around $40.

Ride-hailing options like Uber and Lyft are also available for your convenience.

UberX fares typically range from $25 to $35, while UberXL costs between $35 and $45, depending on the time of day. For Premier and Premier SUV rides, expect to pay around $75 to $90. Note that prices can fluctuate during heavy traffic or peak demand. Rides from LGA or JFK will be significantly pricier due to the distance and tolls (approximately $40), with starting fares around $120 for UberX and $150 for UberXL.

Public Transportation

A few public transport options operate in New Jersey towards Bayonne, but none will get you within 2 miles of the cruise port.

NJ Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and PATH: If you’re traveling from Jersey City or Hoboken, take the light rail to the 34th Street stop in Bayonne. One-way fares are $2.25. After getting off, you’ll need to call a taxi/Uber/Lyft for the remaining 2 miles to the cruise port. For those coming from New York City, the PATH train to Jersey City and Hoboken also costs $2.25 and connects to the light rail.

Bus: From the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, you can take the NJ Transit 119 bus to Bayonne for $6. The bus follows Kennedy Boulevard and stops upon request every three blocks. The closest stop to the cruise port is at 33rd Street and Kennedy Boulevard. From there, you can call a Bayonne cab or use Uber/Lyft to reach the cruise port, located about three miles east of Kennedy Boulevard.

Parking at Cape Liberty Cruise Port

On-Site Parking

Travelers will find plenty of on-site parking available right next to the terminal at Cape Liberty. No need for reservations, and your parking spot is assured. The daily parking rate is $30, taxes included.

Park-and-Cruise Options

Park2Go (Cape Liberty Cruise Port) provides indoor valet parking for $20 per day and outdoor valet parking for $18 per day. A complimentary shuttle service operates to and from Cape Liberty every 30 to 45 minutes from 6 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., seven days a week. It's recommended to book your spot on their website before your arrival.

Accommodations Near Cape Liberty Cruise Port

Several points hotels are conveniently located close to Cape Liberty. Check for your favorite brands around Newark Airport and in Jersey City (7 miles north of the cruise port) and Hoboken (9 miles north of the cruise port). If you're planning an extended stay or wish to explore New York City, you might consider staying in Manhattan. (Keep in mind, if you opt for this option, allocate ample time to reach the cruise port, as there are no direct transport options from the city to Cape Liberty.)

Your hotel choice and location will hinge on the duration of your stay, what attractions you want to visit, and how many hotel points you plan to use.

Hilton Properties Near Cape Liberty Cruise Port

Chocolate chip cookies? Count me in! The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Jersey City (starting at 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night) not only serves up fresh-baked cookies but is also conveniently located for a quick walk to Newport Centre mall and easy access to the PATH train at Newport.

Hampton Inn & Suites Newark Airport Elizabeth (starting at 40,000 Hilton Honors points per night) is roughly a five-minute drive from EWR and 20 minutes to Cape Liberty. It’s one of the few hotels that provides a complimentary shuttle to the cruise port. (While the shuttle is free, hotel parking costs $20 per night.) The hotel’s free breakfast is a wonderful way to start your day, keeping you satisfied until you board the ship for a relaxed lunch before departure.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Newark Airport (starting at 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night) also includes a complimentary shuttle to Cape Liberty, situated about 11 miles (a 20-minute ride) away, and just a 5- to 10-minute drive from EWR. Parking is $20 per night. Guests enjoy a free breakfast, plus a complimentary happy hour featuring drinks and snacks. The hotel also boasts an on-site restaurant and an indoor pool.

Hyatt Hotels Near Cape Liberty Cruise Port

The Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson (starting at 15,000 points per night) features stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline from its pier location by the Exchange Place PATH station. It’s one of the few hotels in the area that offers a pool, making it a great choice for families.

For a stay right in the vibrant Jersey City Arts District near Exchange Place, the contemporary Hyatt House Jersey City (starting at 15,000 points per night) is an excellent choice.

Marriott Hotels Near Cape Liberty Cruise Port

Traveling with friends? The W Hoboken, known for its live music in the lobby lounge and a well-loved sushi restaurant, is a great pick. Rates start at 32,000 points, and you can redeem a Marriott 35k free night certificate on select dates. Depending on your elite status with Marriott Bonvoy, you may qualify for complimentary breakfast at this location.

Hotels Without Points Programs

New York City boasts an abundance of unique hotels that don’t belong to any traditional loyalty programs.

For a luxurious treat, consider the Four Seasons New York Downtown. Along with its sumptuous accommodations, it features a stunning spa, a 75-foot indoor heated lap pool complete with comfy loungers, and even an outdoor relaxation terrace.

Trendsetters will want to experience the trendy The Standard, High Line, situated in the heart of the vibrant Meatpacking District. This prime location offers easy access to the High Line elevated walkway and the nearby Christopher Street PATH train.

Dining Options Near Cape Liberty Cruise Port

If you're in or around Newark, make your way to Ferry Street, famous for its authentic Portuguese and Spanish eateries. Here, you can indulge in large pitchers of sangria and generous portions of classic dishes like baked rice paella and seafood stew mariscada.

In Jersey City, the Newport area boasts restaurants with stunning views of New York City, alongside familiar chains like Cheesecake Factory at Newport Centre. Meanwhile, Hoboken’s Washington Street, the city’s main avenue, is packed with diverse dining options from tacos to juicy steaks, interspersed with bars, cafes, and shops.

Activities to Enjoy Near Cape Liberty Before or After Your Cruise

If you're looking to extend your time around Cape Liberty, New Jersey offers a wealth of activities. Here are some top picks to explore nearby.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

As soon as you arrive at Cape Liberty, you'll catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty. For a closer look, you can purchase tickets for a Statue City Cruise through the National Parks Service, which includes access to the crown inside the statue. This ticket also grants entry to Ellis Island and the National Museum of Immigration. While the Statue is commonly linked to New York, it's typically quicker and less crowded to visit from the New Jersey launch point at Liberty State Park, located about 6 miles from Cape Liberty.

Liberty Science Center and Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park offers a fantastic opportunity to explore. It boasts restaurants with stunning views of the water and the New York City skyline, along with bike and walking paths, expansive playgrounds, and the incredible Liberty Science Center, an interactive science museum that can easily fill an entire day.

American Dream

Located about 15 miles north of Cape Liberty in East Rutherford, American Dream is the second-largest shopping and entertainment complex in the U.S., following Minnesota's Mall of America. This vibrant destination features a variety of shopping options, numerous dining establishments, and attractions such as the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, DreamWorks Water Park, an ice skating rink, an aquarium, and even an indoor ski slope.

Museums in New York City

When visiting Cape Liberty, New York City is just around the corner. The PATH transportation system makes it easy to access attractions in Lower Manhattan and the West Side. A short walk from the Christopher Street PATH station leads you to the Whitney Museum of American Art (99 Gansevoort St.), known for its contemporary art displays and stunning views of the Hudson River. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum, located near the World Trade Center PATH station (180 Greenwich St.), honors the memories of 9/11 victims.

For a glimpse into 20th-century art, hop on the subway and head uptown to the Museum of Modern Art (11 W. 53rd St.) or the Guggenheim Museum (1071 5th Ave.). On the west side of Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History (200 Central Park W) is a favorite for families, featuring a huge dinosaur exhibit and a captivating planetarium. On the east side, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 5th Ave.) awaits, showcasing an extensive collection of remarkable artworks, making it North America's largest museum.

Shopping options near Cape Liberty cruise port

Along with the vast array of stores at American Dream, there are several conveniently located shopping centers near Cape Liberty for last-minute cruise essentials. If you’re in Jersey City or Hoboken, Newport Centre in Jersey City is easily accessible via the PATH train at the Newport stop. There, you’ll find various retail shops, including Sephora and Macy's, with a Target just across the street. In Hoboken, Washington Street is lined with boutique shops, bookstores, bodegas, and larger retailers like Lululemon and Athleta.