Cruise Planning
Cruise Port Guides
Practical, honest guides to help you decide what to do, how to get around, and what is genuinely worth your limited time in port.
A Better Day in Port
Make the most of every day ashore.
Some ports are made for wandering on your own. Others are worth planning well before you sail. These guides help you understand what is nearby, what needs to be booked, and what is genuinely worth your limited time in port.
Written From Experience
I only write port guides for places I have personally visited.
Every guide on this page begins with firsthand experience. I have walked the streets, figured out the transportation, seen what is close to the ship, and learned which parts of the day are easy and which require more planning.
I combine what I learned while I was there with the practical recommendations you need to plan your own day. My goal is to help you arrive with a realistic sense of the destination, a plan that fits the time you have, and fewer surprises once you step off the ship.
More About Celeste
Explore the Guides
Where will your cruise take you?
Browse my firsthand port guides, with more destinations added as I sail and explore.
Browse by Region
Caribbean Ports
Southern Caribbean
Cruise Port Guide
Aruba
Beaches, transportation, port logistics, and what to know before spending a cruise day in Aruba.
Explore Aruba
Western Caribbean
Cruise Port Guide
Cozumel
Beaches, excursions, shopping, transportation, and how to plan a cruise day on the island.
Explore Cozumel
Puerto Rico
Cruise Port Guide
San Juan
Explore Old San Juan, historic forts, local food, and one of the Caribbean’s easiest ports to enjoy independently.
Explore San JuanCruise Line Destinations
Private Islands & Beach Clubs
Royal Caribbean Private Destination
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Beaches, pools, complimentary areas, paid experiences, transportation, and how to choose the right version of CocoCay for your cruise.
Read the CocoCay GuideCruising Close to Home
Planning a cruise from Boston?
Explore cruise lines, destinations, sailing seasons, costs, and the practical details New England travelers should know before booking a cruise from Boston.
Explore Cruises From BostonYour Vacation, Thoughtfully Planned
Ready to plan the cruise itself?
Tell me what matters to you, and I’ll help you narrow down the right ship, itinerary, cabin, and sailing.
Start Planning