Top 9 cruise ports for return visits

One of the biggest draws of cruising is the chance to explore multiple new islands or cities in one trip. However, if you cruise frequently, you might find yourself revisiting some ports. But is that necessarily a negative?

Certainly not if the port offers a wealth of attractions and activities that can't all be experienced in one go. This means some destinations are definitely worth revisiting on future cruises. Here's a handy guide to the nine best cruise ports for repeat visits — and yes, I've personally been to each of them multiple times.

Barcelona

If you've cruised the Mediterranean, it’s likely you’ve already visited Barcelona, as many ships use it as a seasonal home port. I've been there six times — including several overnight stays before cruising — and there's still so much left to see in this expansive city filled with architectural wonders, beautiful parks, top-notch museums, cozy tapas bars, and a scenic beachfront boardwalk.

One of the main highlights in Barcelona is Antoni Gaudí's magnificent La Sagrada Familia, which has been under construction for nearly a century since his passing. (It's expected to be completed in 2026.) I’ve toured this iconic site every time I’ve been in Barcelona, first in 2005 and most recently in 2022, and I always discover something new to admire in its grand, whimsical interior.

If you appreciate Gaudí's unique style, make sure to take advantage of a repeat visit to Barcelona to see his other masterpieces. You can marvel at the art nouveau details and otherworldly rooftop chimneys of La Pedrera (also known as Casa Mila), an apartment building along Passeig de Gracia, and the vibrant mosaics and sculptures at the enchanting Park Guell.

Many visitors stroll along Las Ramblas on their first trip, but during a return visit, take the time to delve deeper into The Gothic Quarter, where you’ll find Barcelona's 15th-century cathedral (La Seu), trendy art galleries, and lively tapas bars. Also nearby are the Barcelona Aquarium and Barceloneta Beach, both within walking distance from the port.

If you've explored the city and prefer to unwind in nature, don’t miss Montjuic. This mountaintop park offers stunning views of the city and is home to the Joan Maragall Gardens and the Barcelona Botanical Garden, along with several museums, including the Fundacio Joan Miró and the National Art Museum of Catalonia.

Boston

I’ve visited Boston just once on a cruise, in September 2023 during a Canada and New England sailing, but it was actually my sixth or seventh time in the city. I approached the day without any been-there, done-that frustration because Boston — a city alive with historic charm and contemporary vibrancy — always has something fresh to explore.

The top attractions in Boston — such as Fenway Park, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the 18th-century USS Constitution, the family-friendly Museum of Science, and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum — are spread throughout the city, so you may not visit them all in one port stop. If you’ve seen them all, a DIY walking tour is an excellent way to enjoy a return visit, especially if the weather is pleasant.

Most cruise lines provide complimentary shuttles from the Flynn Cruiseport to a central area, typically near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. This is ideal for exploring several neighborhoods or taking a step back in time along the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail.

I recommend beginning your visit at Boston Common, the oldest park in America, established in 1634. Be sure to check out its latest artistic feature, The Embrace, a striking 65,000-pound abstract bronze sculpture inspired by a 1964 photograph of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King.

At the nearby Granary Burying Ground, you can pay your respects to Paul Revere and several signers of the Declaration of Independence, including John Hancock and Samuel Adams. Just across the footbridge, stroll through the adjacent Public Garden and enjoy a ride on the whimsical pedal-powered Swan Boats, operating since 1877.

Don’t miss the picturesque neighborhoods of Beacon Hill and Back Bay, particularly the opulent late-19th-century townhouses along Commonwealth Avenue. Make your way to the Old North Church for a refresher on Paul Revere's famous midnight ride in 1775.

Treat yourself to a bowl of rich New England clam chowder at the Union Oyster House, which has been serving since 1826. Across the street in Union Street Park, you’ll find the New England Holocaust Memorial, a poignant free outdoor installation featuring six glass towers etched with numbers symbolizing the tattoos of countless Holocaust victims, along with quotes from survivors.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Many sun-soaked cruise ports tend to offer the same familiar activities — lounging on the beach, taking a snorkeling tour, or indulging in duty-free shopping — but Cabo San Lucas, located on Mexico's Baja Peninsula, presents such a diverse array of experiences that you could return multiple times without repeating an activity. As a prime stop for both Mexican Riviera cruises and Panama Canal transits, frequent cruisers are likely to find themselves back here often.

What can you do in Cabo? On my first trip, I relished a catamaran sail that took me to the destination's iconic landmark: the picturesque El Arco natural stone arch and the nearby Lovers Beach. This area lies at the convergence of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, where you can also spot playful sea lions. If you travel between December and March, you might even catch a glimpse of the humpback and gray whales that migrate here; alternatively, consider booking a whale watching tour for a closer encounter.

Other sought-after water activities include glass-bottom boat tours and sport fishing. While the Pacific waters aren’t as conducive to snorkeling as those in the Caribbean, you can still enjoy snorkeling in the tranquil waters of Chileno Bay.

If you've checked off sightseeing from the water, dive into the rich food and drink culture of Mexico on your next visit to Cabo. A tequila tasting is essential for anyone eager to experience authentic local flavors, and you can enjoy this on its own or alongside a cooking class or a salsa-making (and dancing) session. Alternatively, skip the organized tours and explore the many bars and restaurants near the Cabo San Lucas Marina, where you can savor a salt-rimmed margarita paired with fresh Baja-style fish tacos.

For a more exhilarating experience, unleash your adventurous spirit with an off-roading escapade, or embrace tradition with a horseback or camel ride along the shore. If you're feeling artistic, consider excursions to San Jose del Cabo, famous for its historic Mission (one of Baja's oldest) and its Arts District brimming with eclectic galleries, or visit the charming village of Todo Santos, filled with shops and artistic venues.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

It's no secret that Eastern Caribbean cruises can become quite predictable, particularly the routes on the latest megaships, which are limited to a select few ports due to their size. One notable stop is Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, which hosts 1.5 million cruise visitors each year and can accommodate up to six cruise ships at once.

I've visited St. Thomas five times, with my most recent trip being in 2019, and I still haven't experienced all the island's offerings. From heart-pounding activities like zip lining, snorkeling, and helmet diving to relaxing moments spent on the beach sipping daiquiris or indulging in duty-free shopping, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, you can check off another island from your list by taking a tour or snorkel excursion to the breathtaking Trunk Bay on nearby St. John.

If you love encountering marine life, you can snorkel at Sapphire Beach or in Christmas Cove, or embark on a catamaran sail to a vibrant reef filled with fish and coral. For an added thrill, try a Sea Trek helmet dive at Coral World Ocean Park, where a full-head apparatus allows you to stroll along the ocean floor during a guided tour, or sign up for a scuba diving adventure to explore offshore reefs.

Prefer to stay on the water's surface? St. Thomas has sea kayaking tours available, or if you're looking for an adrenaline rush, try flyboarding, where you strap your feet to a water-powered hoverboard and soar above the waves.

The crescent-shaped Magens Bay Beach, located on the island's north coast, is the top destination for sunbathing in St. Thomas; don't miss the stunning view from Drake's Seat along the way. For a different experience on a return visit, take a 15-minute ferry from the Crown Bay cruise port to Water Island, where you can stroll to Honeymoon Beach, known for its shaded palapas and beach bar, or visit the east side of the island for a swim at the pristine Sapphire Beach.

If heights don't intimidate you, hop on a gondola to Paradise Point for breathtaking harbor views from 700 feet up. Alternatively, experience a thrilling ride through the treetops on a zip line adventure.

Copenhagen

While all the major ports in Northern Europe are great for lovers of art, culture, and architecture, Copenhagen stands out as my top choice for a return visit, thanks to its blend of culinary innovation and modern design. I've cruised to this picturesque Danish capital three times, spending a total of seven days, and there's still so much left to explore.

Maybe that's because I keep returning to three specific spots. The world's longest pedestrian street, Stroget, is filled with shops and casual dining options, cutting through the historic heart of the city. The iconic Nyhavn harbor, with its 17th-century buildings, features outdoor cafes that attract both locals and tourists. Then there's Tivoli Gardens, a nearly 200-year-old amusement park that enchants with its stunning landscaping, sparkling lights, and diverse dining choices, from traditional Danish dishes to international cuisine.

Each visit also includes a canal cruise, which is both budget-friendly (around $15) and provides a fantastic overview of the city's architectural gems. Highlights include the vibrant facades of Nyhavn, the distinctive spire of the Church of Our Savior, the modern Royal Danish Opera House, and the petite Little Mermaid statue that pays tribute to the beloved author Hans Christian Andersen.

Copenhagen boasts a royal allure, as Denmark is home to one of the oldest monarchies in the world. Experience this grandeur firsthand at Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the royal family, where you can catch the ceremonial changing of the guard at noon. Additionally, Rosenborg Castle houses treasures spanning 400 years of Danish history, including the crown jewels.

Museums offer a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Denmark's rich artistic and cultural legacy. The Statens Museum for Kunst — National Gallery of Denmark showcases a diverse collection of both Danish and international art, while Copenhagen Contemporary highlights installations from renowned artists and emerging creatives. The Designmuseum Danmark presents centuries of intriguing artifacts and special exhibitions focusing on Danish Modern furniture and interior design.

For food enthusiasts, there's a delightful variety of dining options to explore, from street vendors selling polser (the Danish take on hot dogs) to cafes offering smorrebrod, open-faced sandwiches, and fresh herring, along with an impressive selection of 17 Michelin-starred restaurants.

Kahului, Maui

Among all the Hawaiian Islands, Maui stands out for its incredible versatility. Its coastline ranges from golden sandy beaches to stark black lava, and its interior features everything from lush valleys to volcanic craters. I've visited Maui five times — twice by cruise — spending a total of 16 days soaking up its stunning beaches and popular attractions. Despite this, I still feel like there's so much more to discover.

If you haven't yet experienced the breathtaking views from the summit of Haleakala, the 10,023-foot dormant volcano that shapes Maui's skyline, consider booking a tour that offers stunning panoramas or even a biking adventure down its slopes. Between December and April, a whale-watching trip to catch sight of humpback whales is a fantastic option; if the whales are out for the season, you can choose to go dolphin watching instead. Additionally, snorkeling excursions to Molokini Crater or the nearby island of Lanai, where spinner dolphins and sea turtles are frequently spotted, are also popular.

A must-see on Maui is the Road to Hana, the notorious winding and narrow path that leads to the picturesque town of Hana, known for its striking black-lava beaches. If you're sensitive to motion sickness, you might want to skip this journey, which includes 59 one-lane bridges and 620 hairpin turns.

For those who prefer to explore on their own, you can rent a car near the Kahului port and pack a lot into one day. First, visit the scenic Iao Valley, then venture upcountry to the lower slopes of Haleakala. Here, you can explore the historic cowboy town of Makawao, famous for its craft shops and the T Komodo Store and Bakery (arrive early to grab some cream puffs before they sell out), along with Ali'i Kula Lavender and Surfing Goat Dairy.

At sea level, especially if traveling with younger children, the Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii, provides a fun alternative. This attraction showcases a variety of native and endemic marine life. And let’s not forget about Maui's stunning beaches! You can visit them time and again without ever tiring of their soft, white sands.

Naples, Italy

Exploring the intricate charm of Naples during a 2023 Mediterranean cruise was an eye-opener. Previously, I had merely passed through Naples three or four times en route to Capri and the Amalfi Coast, but I had never truly discovered the city itself. What I found is that Napoli, Italy's third-largest city, is more than just the birthplace of pizza and the gateway to Pompeii. Its remarkable architecture, rich history, and wealth of archaeological wonders have sparked a recent surge in tourism.

Naples caters to everyone’s interests. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a shopper, or a foodie, a walk along the narrow pedestrian thoroughfare known as Spaccanapoli in the historic center is a must. Here, you'll be treated to an array of sights, from intricate architectural designs and bakery displays filled with cream-filled pastries to two notable churches: the 15th-century Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo, featuring a fortress-like exterior, and the Baroque Cappella Sansevero, renowned for its stunning sculptures.

More impressive architecture from the 16th to 19th centuries awaits throughout the city, including the lavish Teatro di San Carlo opera house and the beautifully domed Galleria Umberto I shopping arcade. The opulent Royal Palace of Naples once served as the residence for the kings and queens of the Kingdom of Naples until the 19th century.

Naples also boasts excellent museums and castles. At the top of your itinerary should be the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, which houses Roman artifacts from Pompeii among its treasures. Inside the medieval fortress of Castel Nuovo, you'll discover a collection of Italian frescoes and paintings.

In addition to exploring the captivating urban tapestry of Naples, you can catch a speedy ferry from the cruise port to the enchanting isle of Capri. There, ride the funicular up to the stylish Capri Town, where picturesque paths lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Ferries also connect you to Amalfi Coast towns, such as Sorrento and Positano, or you can book a tour to witness the ancient ruins of Pompeii.

Just a friendly reminder: Before you depart Naples, be sure to indulge in one of the city's famous crispy thin-crust pizzas — or consider it your reason to return.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

My second Caribbean cruise in 1998 set sail from San Juan, and I've returned eight times since — with Old San Juan being my go-to destination for a day in port. Why? This vibrant 500-year-old neighborhood is perfect for exploring on foot, buzzing with energy and offering delights for history enthusiasts, food lovers, and souvenir collectors alike.

On the historical side, you can't miss El Morro (officially known as Castillo San Felipe del Morro), the imposing fortress perched on a cliff overlooking Old San Juan. Other ancient landmarks include the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, built in 1540, and Casa Blanca, the oldest residence in San Juan. This historic house was constructed in 1521 for then-governor Juan Ponce de León and now serves as a museum.

Whenever I find myself in Old San Juan, I love to wander along the shaded Paseo de la Princesa, which leads to the pathway between the sea and the city’s ancient stone walls, passing beneath the stunning Tiffany-blue La Fortaleza. Originally built in 1540 as a fort and prison, it has since been transformed into the governor's official palace. I re-enter through the grand red Puerta de San Juan and head towards the lively Calle de la Fortaleza, renowned for its artistic overhead installations, to capture a few pictures.

If you've already explored Old San Juan, consider embarking on a culinary walking tour to savor local delights, such as garlicky mofongo (mashed plantains) and the creamy piña colada (which was invented here), or join a bike tour from Old San Juan to Condado. This vibrant beachfront area is packed with resorts, bars, and restaurants.

Beyond San Juan, a visit to Puerto Rico opens up opportunities for snorkeling at Escambron Marine Park, taking a surf lesson at Isla Verde Beach, or enjoying thrilling all-terrain vehicle or zip line adventures. Nature enthusiasts can also schedule a tour of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. forest system.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Just because you’ve been to Vancouver during an Inside Passage cruise to Alaska doesn’t mean you shouldn’t return for a Pacific coast cruise or even another Alaska trip. Each of my three visits to this refined city, nestled within the stunning mountains-meet-sea landscape of British Columbia, has offered uniquely different experiences — from totem poles and Chinese gardens to whale watching and thrilling gondola rides.

For a return trip, consider exploring Vancouver's downtown districts. Gastown, the historic heart of the city, features charming architecture, cutting-edge galleries, chic boutiques, and vibrant bars and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Gastown Steam Clock, which resembles an antique and sounds off every 15 minutes. In Chinatown, don’t miss the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, the first of its kind outside of China, showcasing Ming Dynasty traditions.

If you prefer a nature-centric stroll, follow the coastline to Stanley Park via the Seawall Water Walk. (It’s quite a trek — bike rentals are available.) Once in the expansive 1,000-acre park, you can admire First Nations totem poles, beautiful gardens, and views of the city skyline. Families might enjoy visiting the Vancouver Aquarium to observe various marine life or heading to Second Beach to swim or splash in the fountains.

Elevate your sightseeing with a seaplane tour — or simply enjoy watching the planes take off and land in the harbor. Flyover Canada (located in Canada Place) offers a unique experience where you strap into a motion seat and virtually soar above the breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.

If you're craving the flavors of Vancouver or searching for a unique keepsake, make your way to the Granville Island Public Market. This vibrant spot showcases local food vendors, farmers' market stalls, and artisans offering their handmade creations. The city is also famous for its creative food trucks, which serve everything from Japanese-infused hot dogs to delicious tacos.

Then there's the allure of the great outdoors. During my last trip in April 2019, I finally tackled two Vancouver experiences I hadn’t tried before. I rode the Skyride to the top of Grouse Mountain, standing at 4,039 feet, where I enjoyed lunch with breathtaking views (if you're fortunate, you might see one of the two resident grizzly bears), and wandered the trails and thrilling walkways at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The refreshing mountain air sealed the deal. I’ll definitely return to Vancouver for more adventures.