General – This is a nature port on Chichagof Island which opened in 2004 and is only open when cruise ships are in. It was developed by the Native Tlingits and celebrates their culture. It is the ideal location for viewing wildlife and sea life. Hoonah, the only town on the island is described as the largest Tlingit Village in the state.
The Cannery Complex
Where You’re docked – Depending on tides and number of ships, cruise ships either dock or tender (sometimes both). In either case, arrival is near the adventure center which is the starting point for land tours. Going in the other direction, the boardwalk takes you to the old cannery complex which now houses a museum, local shops, restaurants and a display of the original cannery operation. The Fish House is also located in this area and it is the starting point for marine tours.
Transportation – There are very limited car rentals or taxi service. A sightseeing trolley is sometimes operational. If you plan to do more then a walking exploration, it is probably best to book a tour.
Icy Straight Point
Money – The US dollar is used here
NearbyAttractions:
The largest and highest zipline in North America is located at ISP. It runs 5330 feet and includes a 1300 foot vertical drop.
Hoonah Village is a short ride from where you come ashore. If a trolley is running it will be one of the stops. It is a very small community with only a few shops and restaurants.
The nature trail provides an opportunity to see native plants and possibly brown bears, bald eagles and the Sitka black tailed deer. If the weather is wet, trails can be very muddy so hiking boots are recommended.
Humpback Whale at Icy Straight Point
Porpoises and whales have been sighted from shore and anchored ships and several tours visit the Point Adolphus area, a prime location for whale watching.
NOTE: Cruise ships do not dock near town but dock right next to the Adventure Center which is the major attraction at this port.
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General – Piraeus is the seaport serving the city of Athens. This city is a major metropolis in its own right and the commercial area southeast of the port and near the sea has a number of excellent restaurants and attractions. While most passengers visiting this port for the first time will head out toward Athens and the Acropolis, if you have visited before consider spending some time discovering this remarkable port area.
Where You Dock – Most cruise ships will dock along the northwest side of the port. There is a good walking sidewalk around the port and if you walk north and than continue around the port off to the east you will reach the central district in less than half a mile.
Transportation – There are a number of ways to go from Piraeus to Athens. If you want to head out on your own the best bet is the metro but you can also take a bus or taxi. Rental cars are also available.
The metro can be used to travel from Piraeus to central Athens. A trip to Athens using the metro costs <€1. Also a free bus usually operates in the port taking passengers from the ships to the metro station.
The metro station is about one mile away from the cruise terminal, or a 15-20 minute walk around the harbor. After that, you have a 20-minute ride on the metro to Athens. If the shuttle isn’t running you can take bus (number 843) from the cruise port to the metro station. The ride should take no more than 5 mins. The cost of the ticket is 1€.
To get from Piraeus to the Acropolis by metro, take the metro from Piraeus to Thissio (15 mins). At the metro station follow the pedestrian avenue towards the Acropolis. The walk is another 10 minutes to reach the Acropolis.
Traveling from Piraeus to Athens on a bus will cost roughly €0.80. Due to the usual heavy traffic, you should avoid the bus if you don’t have a lot of time.
Taxis offer more flexibility. To get to Athens one would spend about €15. This will get one to the centre of the city. If you plan to travel to the airport, the price price could be about €40.
Money – Greece uses the Euro and US Dollars are not readily accepted.
Nearby Attractions:
Acropolis -First and foremost there is ancient Athens and the Acropolis and if you haven’t visited before this is not o be missed.
In Piraeus if you have free time visit the Greek Nautical Museum and the Piraeus Archeology Museum both within walking distance of the piers.
The Port of Kona or Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii
Kona is a favorite stop for cruise ships visiting the “Big Island” of Hawaii. Famous for its coffee, beaches and Volcano National Park on the island.
Where the Tenders Dock
There are no docking facilities so cruise ships anchor out, using tenders to get ashore. The tenders will dock right at the intersection of Palani Road and Ali’i Drive in the heart of town. Ali’i Drive runs along the waterfront and there are a number of restaurants and shops. Going straight up Palini about a mile will bring you to a Walmart, Post Office, Grocery and a Home Depot.
Transportation
The actual town is small and pedestrian friendly. If you want to get out into the countryside the best option is to rent a car which are available at a few agencies right in town.
Along the waterfront in town
Currency
Hawaii is a state in the United States and the currency is the U.S. Dollar. ATMs are readily available and most credit cards accepted.
Attractions
Kailua-Kona is a town on the west coast of Hawaii Island (the Big Island) with a few sites located near town. Hulihee Palace is a former royal vacation home dating from 1838. Mokuaikaua Church, from the 1800s, is Hawaii’s oldest Christian church. On Kailua Bay, reconstructed thatched houses at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark are erected on the site of King Kamehameha I’s residence. There are a number of good coral reefs which located just off Kamakahonu Beach. Kona is also near to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park with some nice hiking trails.
Shops along Ali’i Drive
The “Big Island” of Hawaii is the largest and southern-most island in the State of Hawaii. It is home to The Volcano National Park which includes Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world’s most massive shield volcano. The other major town on Hawaii is Hilo on the southeast coast and another favorite stop for cruise ships.
Probably the most isolated state capital in the United States and one of two that you cannot drive to (Hawaii). It is also one of the most frequented cities on Alaska cruise itineraries. Besides being isolated and the states capital it also has a lot to offer.
Where You Dock
Norwegian Pearl tied up at the AJ Dock
Docking facilities stretch from the waterfront right at the foot of the historic district for a mile southeast along the Gastineau channel. If you are lucky and your ship docks near town you are only steps from shops and restaurants. There is however no cruise terminal or public facilities readily available at the dock. Restrooms are available at the public library just a block from the Red Dog Saloon along with a number of stores and restaurants. There is also a shuttle service provided from the docks down the channel but it is not free (currently about $2 each way).
Historic downtown Juneau
Transportation
Besides the official dock shuttle there are taxis available at reasonable rates. To get to Mendenhall Glacier we would recommend the public bus service that departs from near the cruise ship docks. Current round trip fare to Mendenhall NPS Visitor Center is $30 per person. Outside of the historic district Juneau is actually a very large city in geographic size. If you really want to see the wider area there are also rental car agencies near town.
Money
Alaska is a state so the currency is the U.S. Dollar and most credit cards are welcome. You will also find a number of ATM machines available.
Attractions
Mendenhall Glacier
Wander the streets of Juneau’s historic district, shop, visit the infamous Red Dog Saloon where Wyatt Earp lost his guns in a poker game. Within just a few square miles, browse multiple museums and an arts centers celebrating Alaska’s Native heritage. See multiple totems, the Ancon Mural, visit the fascinating DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and be sure and go out to Mendenhall Glacier. Stop by one of Travel Juneau’s visitor information sites for a Downtown Walking Tour Map and be your own guide!
Take a cable car up to a mountain top high above the city or take a helicopter out to the Juneau ice field and walk on a glacier. Go salmon fishing or whale watching, there’s more to do than will fit in a day.
The Greek islands attract people from all over the world and the most popular of these pieces of paradise is Mykonos. It features an exciting nightlife and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that attracts visitors of all ages who come for a number of reasons. The island is famous for partying, relaxation, picturesque villages and magnificent beaches featuring golden sands and the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea.The weather is usually great, the sky and sea compete to see which is the more spectacular turquoise and everywhere you look are sun bleached white stucco buildings. Spend time strolling thru narrow streets and alleys as you shop for art, local crafts and souvenirs. Cafes and restaurants are everywhere with seating that spreads out onto patios and porches each offering incredible views.
While visiting keep an eye out for the Pelican of Mykonos. Named Petros (Peter) he’s part of the traditions and culture of the island. This mascot of Mykonos strolls leisurely through the city’s many streets and alleyways.
Currently Petros the Pelican is a second generation mascot. He and his predecessor have made Mykonos their home since 1954. The original Petros passed away in 1985 and the current Petros quickly took his place. Both of these Pelicans have have their way into the hearts of the people of Mykonos as well as the many visitors to this enchanted island.
Where Your Ship Docks
Mykonos has a new cruise ship docking pier about a mile and a half from Mykonos City. Shuttle bus service is usually provided and there are good sidewalks around the waterfront but they can be steep in places.
Transportation
The island has a good bus system with routes that connect most towns with the many popular beaches. The Mykonos bus fleet includes 26 buses, some of which are provided especially for the island”s tourist visitors. The fare is between €1 and €3, depending on the distance traveled, and you can buy tickets directly from the driver or at the booths at the terminals. Taxis are also readily available.
Money
The local currency is the Euro (€) and ATM’s are conveniently located.
Attractions
Mostly the island is popular for the beaches with dozens to pick from. A couple of the most popular include:
Paradise beach and Super Paradise beach are 4 miles from Mykonos Town, they are sand beaches very popular with young people that come to play all day and late into the night. It also features diving and watersports and plenty of bars and clubs which flow out onto the beach. Paradise beach has a party vibe with good swimming in beautiful water. It’s also nudist friendly. You can reach the beach by taxi, boat or bus.
Ornos beach is well equipped with loungers and umbrellas along with many cafes and restaurants. There is good for windsurfing, diving and water skiing. It’s less than 2 miles from Mykonos Town, so it’s easy to get to by bus or boat. It’s located in a lovely bay with great views. Although it can get crowded, it is more relaxed than other beaches, so it’s an enjoyable place to spend the day.
The Mykonos windmills are the iconic feature of this island. The windmills can be seen from many points around the village of Mykonos, the island’s principal village and are the first thing you see when coming into the harbor as they stand on a hill overlooking the village.
The Aegean Maritime Museum – a non-profit institution founded in 1985. It’s dedicated to collect, study and promote Greek maritime history and tradition. It features a particular focus on the evolution and activities of the merchant ship, mainly in this historic region of the Aegean Sea. The Aegean Maritime Museum is housed in a traditional 19th century Myconian building, which is located at the centre of the Town of Mykonos.
The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos – a museum thats collections include exhibits dating from the Prehistoric to the Hellenistic period. The museum includes six rooms that include models and tomb artifacts of Rinia. Also featured are earthenware, Cycladic stoneware and ceramics dated from ninth and eighth century BC. The most popular display is the internment reliefs of the fall of Troy.
Shopping
Specialties include olive products like soaps and oils, spices along with local arts and crafts. Keep a look out for good buys in souvenir shops, high label designer clothes and shoes, art galleries and fine jewelry in the Greek design tradition.
You can download a pdf copy of this post that you can save or print and take with you as a handy reference.
Mykonos Greece – where your ship docks, getting around, attractions to see, beaches to visit, currency and shopping. Part of the Cruise Ports of Call guides from Intend2Travel.
Weighing Ships Shore Excursions Against Going It Alone
Many people like the convenience of a ship sponsored tour, but we are just not “guided tour” enthusiasts, even as we’ve taken on a fair number of them. To begin with, there are some land tours that just make sense under some circumstances. First is where there is someplace you really want to see and even the ship sponsored bus tour is on a very tight schedule based on the time in port. The one thing you can be sure of, if you are on a ship sponsored tour, the ship isn’t going to sail without you, which is not the case if you are out on your own. And yes, we have seen people left behind by not being back on board when required. We have also taken a number of tours because the cost was just too good to ignore. Sometimes that is because we have onboard credits that we just need to spend and others have been provided by our travel agency as a perk.
From our point of view the biggest problem with guided tours is that you become a prisoner of the tour. It isn’t uncommon to get stuck visiting some place that you just aren’t interested in. It just doesn’t seem right spending forty-five minutes at a chocolate factory or a nut packer or souvenir outlet on a tour you paid to join? Usually the tour operator is being paid to deliver people to that particular business. The other case is visiting a location where you could spend hours and are informed you have to be back on the bus in a half hour. Going it on your own eliminates those problems.
There is also the issue of cost. If you understand your options, often you will see that the ships shore excursion will cost you significantly more money than if you went off on your own. Consider a few examples to illustrate:
Cozumel Chankanaab
Cozumel Chankanaab National Park – When you get down to it, this is a day at the beach. The park is equipped with bars, restaurant, along with beach and snorkel rental options. A taxi ride will cost between US$10 and US$20 each way (make sure you have plenty of singles as drivers don’t offer change) and park admission is about US$21. A recent tour booked through the cruise ship cost $69 per person. That’s $138 for what would have cost $62 for two people going on their own.
Mendenhall Glacier Alaska – This is a national park outside of Juneau Alaska. The park is serviced by a public bus route from the historic downtown area near the ship docks with round-trip fare being $31. Add to that the admission to the park (NPS standard fees) $20 which totals $51 ($31 if you have a NPS Golden Eagle Senior Park Pass). The basic cruise tours usually start around $75 and if they add in a salmon bake it can cost an extra $20 to $30. For more on Mendenhall CLICK HERE.
Rome from the Port of Civitavecchia – If your cruisehas Rome as a port of call there usually is a tour called something like “Rome On Your Own” for around $100 per person which includes a bus ride from Civitavecchia in to Vatican City and back to the ship. Six blocks from the Civitavecchia seaport is the towns train station and for as little as US$12 you can get a round-trip ticket to the St. Peters station and usually trains run about every half hour. For two that’s a savings of $172 and the trip in and back on the train is actually much faster than the tour bus.
For more on visiting Rome from Civitavecchia CLICK HEREand for our eight hour tour of Rome on your own CLICK HERE.
Monte Carlo From Villefranche-sur-Mer
Another interesting tour comparison is a trip into Monte Carlo from the popular cruise port of call Villefranche-sur-Mer. Most cruise sponsored tours start at $75 per person. Monte Carlo is a beautiful but compact city and going on your own simply requires walking seven or eight blocks from the cruise tender dock to the train station and buying a US$12 round trip ticket. It’s only a short twenty minute train trip to Monte Carlo and once there buy a Hop-On-Hop-Off Monte Carlo bus tour for under US$30.
In order to head off on your own and save money you do have to be a bit adventurous. We are pretty independent and are usually comfortable using local buses and trains as we travel. With our biggest fear being missing the ships departure we always build in a good time allowance as we make our plasn. We are also good at doing research on our destinations and have a good idea of what we want to see and how to do it before we even leave on a trip.
A Few Ship Sponsored Tours That Are A Must
On the other side of the equation are a examples of ship excursions that are well worth the cost:
The Golden Triangle Iceland – This tour is a bit pricy but so are the local tour companies. Often the reason this tour is better is often ships dock in the afternoon and sailed shortly after noon the next day disqualifying local tours as an option. While you can consider renting a car there is the issue of time. The tour itself probably travels over a hundred miles and takes you to geo-thermal fields, waterfalls(!!) and Icelands rift valley where the earths crust is pulling apart. No shopping stops or misspent time. If you are going to Iceland don’t miss the Golden Triangle.
Ephesus Turkey – The ancient city of Ephesus, located near the Aegean Sea in modern day Turkey, was one of the great cities of the Greeks and later the Romans in Asia Minor and home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, the ruins of Ephesus are a major attraction located some distance from the port. Again not inexpensive but a great experience (it usually does include a stop at a rug showroom). You might be adventurous but think hard about renting a car for half a day in Turkey.
Seeing Bangkok
Bangkok’s port is Laem Chabang and it’s well over an hour drive from the city. Attempting to use public buses is a serious challenge, especially on a tight time schedule. If this is a first visit to Thailand do not pass up a day or two in Bangkok it is an experience not to be missed.
Wine & Food Tours
Wine and food tours are a staple of ship sponsored excursions and often are often some of the more reasonably priced tours. Taking advantage of these at times provides a good way to see a city or the countryside and sample local fare.
A Wine & Tapas Tour in Palma – This one usually isn’t very expensive and includes stops at several different tapas bars and free time in town for shopping on your own. The drive back to the pier can include brief stops at the castle overlook above town and a nice drive along the coast. A good answer to filling an afternoon in Mallorca. For more information CLICK HERE.
Jerusalem – Regardless of where your ship docks, Jerusalem is at least an hours trip away. The city is also huge with streets and alleys that present as a never ending maze. To really see Jerusalem in a short time, a guide is almost a must. The convenience and the time you save makes a ships shore excursion worth the cost.
Ports With Great Public TransportationFor Exploring On Your Own
Singapore – While there are several cruise docks in Singapore, the nearest Metro Station is only a few blocks walk from each. The Singapore Metro system is clean, well marked and best of all the signage is in English.CLICK HEREfor specific information.
CLICK MAP TO DOWNLOAD A PDF COPY
Amsterdam – The center of Amsterdam is focused on the Central Train Station that can be reached in a short seven to ten block walk from the ships pier. A series of tram routes fan out from the train station and The Amsterdam City Card allows you to travel on Amsterdam’s GVB-trams, buses, and metros. This popular one-, two-, three or four day pass also provides free or discounted access to many of the city’s museums and attractions. A one-hour canal cruise by boat is also included with the pass.
Sydney – Cruise ships dock at a pier next to Sydney’s historic Rocks area with only a short walk to Circular Quay where you can catch ferries around the harbour, pick up a bus or a light rail. Ask about the Opal Card which gives you easy system access for a very reasonable price. MORE HERE.
Hong Kong – Like Singapore, Hong Kong has a very modern and inexpensive metro system with easy to use ticket vending machines and route information in English. It is also common for there to be free bus service that will take you from the cruise pier to a number of destinations in downtown. MORE HERE.
Athens – Piraeus is the seaport for the city of Athens and while a bit out of the city, the cruise ships dock less than a mile from a metro station. Easy to get to by just following the water front. Fare is only a couple of Euros and the Thissio stop on the green line from Piraeus is only a short walk to the Temple of Hephaestus and the Acropolis is less than a half mile away. An easy trip on your own representing a major saving. Complete instructions and map HERE.
Along the waterfront in town 
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