The Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, NJ, just a few miles from New York City, offers an alternative spot to begin your cruise travels. Without the hustle and bustle of New York City, yet within easy reach from the city that doesn't sleep, Bayonne is a small town gateway to major cruise lines and to Manhattan. The town of Bayonne itself is small and largely residential but it is in close proximity to more popular New Jersey towns such as Hoboken and Jersey City. And of course, New York City is just across the Hudson River for those interested in exploring while on shore. Major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and Celebrity Cruises have several of their sailings originating from there.

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Facts

Where is the cruise Cape Liberty Cruise Port?

Bayonne, NJ is home to one of three cruise ports in the region (Brooklyn, NY and Manhattan, NY both host cruise terminals as well). Cruise ships dock at The Cape Liberty Cruise Port at the Bayonne Harbor. The official address of the port is 14 Port Terminal Boulevard, Bayonne, NJ 07002-5038 (see map).

The Cape Liberty Cruise Port is homeport to the following:

• Royal Caribbean - Explorer of the Seas
• Celebrity Cruises - Summit
• Celebrity Cruises - Silhouette

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What language is spoken at this cruise port? Do they speak English?

English is the official language, but because of the high population of Latin American immigrants, Spanish is widely spoken.

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What is the time zone in Bayonne?

Bayonne is on Eastern Standard Time (-5 GMT).

Current Time - Bayonne, NJ, USA

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Money & Currency

What is the national currency?

The US Dollar (USD).

Where can I get or exchange money?

If you are exchanging international currency, such as Euros or Canadian Dollars, we recommend using the banks listed below, all of which are accessible from the Port.

• Banks closest to Cape Liberty Cruise Port: 

  There are many banks within a couple of miles of the Cape Liberty Cruise Port, below are a few:

  • Chase, has two locations near the port: 650 Broadway and 439 Broadway, both in Bayonne, NJ (see map)
  • Bank of America, has two locations near the port: 701 Broadway and 937 Broadway, both in Bayonne, NJ (see map.)
  • Garden State Community Bank , has two locations near the port: 441 Broadway and 568 Broadway, both in Bayonne, NJ (see map).
• ATMs closest to Cape Liberty Cruise Port: 

  The Chase and Bank of America locations listed above all have ATMs available even during hours when the branch lobby is closed.

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Stay in Touch

How can I stay in touch with home? (Ex. Email, phone, etc.)

Most cell phone plans in the US now offer free nationwide roaming. Contact your cell phone provider for information regarding roaming rates. Also, public phones are available throughout the city. If US is not home, you can purchase calling cards at most any gas station or convenience store to make international calls affordably.

Where are the Internet cafes?

Free WiFi is available at all Starbucks, with the closest location at 1 Lefante Way (see map) and most McDonald’s with the closest location at 537 Broadway, Bayonne, NJ (see map). If you are not bring a laptop or tablet on your trip you can still check email and make inexpensive international calls from The Hub Internet Cafe located at 353 Broadway, Bayonne, NJ (see map).

What are the cell phone rates?

Most cell phone plans in the US now offer free nationwide roaming. Contact your cell phone provider for information regarding roaming rates.

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Typical Weather in Bayonne

New Jersey has traditional seasonal weather common for the northeastern US. Winters (approximately late November - March) can be quite cold with occasional snowfall and almost certainly low temperatures and gusts of wind. Bundle up! Spring (optimistically, let's say April - June) is lovely but melts quickly into the sweltering summers (July - August) known for high humidity and equally high temperatures. Fall (September - November) are similar to spring with sunshine and moderate temperatures. Check the forecast before you leave home as temperatures vary and Mother Nature always has a few surprises up her sleeve.

Current Temperature

Average Monthly Temperatures and Rainfall in Bayonne

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Getting Around from Cape Liberty Cruise Port

The Cape Liberty Cruise Port is located in the Peninsula of the Bayonne Harbor in New Jersey. Overlooking the Hudson River, Cape Liberty welcomes travelers from all around the world to the town of Bayonne and the state of New Jersey. Bayonne is a small, largely residential town but it sits across the river and is a perfect point from which to explore the rest of New Jersey as well as New York City!

Walking

Walking around the cruise port or to/from the town of Bayonne is not recommended.

Taxis

Upon arrival at the Cape Liberty Cruise Port, you can call a taxi to get you to your destination. Below are some sample fares from the Cape Liberty Cruise Port (taxes, tolls and surcharges may be extra):

• to Newark International Airport (EWR): $30.00
• to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): $75.00
• to LaGuardia Airport (LGA): $80.00

• to Manhattan Penn Station: $65.00
• to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan: $65.00
• to Grand Central Station in Manhattan: $70.00

• to Newark Penn Station (PATH station): $30.00

Bayonne Taxi Services:

• Campbell Taxi: 201-339-8300
• Bayonne City Yellow Cab: 201-339-5000
• Archie's Cab and Van Service: 201-858-8800

For those in the area for just the day and looking to do sightseeing in New York City, we recommend calling a taxi to connect you to public transport that will get you to Manhattan cheaply (see below.)

Shuttle Service

Shuttle service is a convenient and affordable hybrid between taxi cabs and public transport as shuttle providers operate vans carrying multiple passenger groups (reducing price) but still offer point-to-point service.

• Go Winston Airport Shuttle offers transportation from the cruise port to all New York area airports. Call (800)424-7767 to arrange service before your cruise.
• Go Airlink also offers shuttle services to and from New York airports. Call (877)599-8200 to book service.

Public Transportation

Cape Liberty Cruise Port is accessible to / from public transportation with a short cab ride for connection.

For the NJ Light Rail (Hudson-Bergen line), take a taxi 2 miles to the 34th Street station in Bayonne. From the 34th Street Station, take the Light Rail to your destination in New Jersey.

Or if you're looking to go further, take the Light Rail to Jersey City, NJ or Hoboken, NJ and connect to the PATH train, which will take you to New York City.

Car Rentals

Not all major car rental companies are represented near the Cape Liberty Cruise Port so be sure to plan ahead if you want to rent a car.

• Enterprise is probably the most convenient, located about 4 miles away at 1347 John F Kennedy Boulevard West, Bayonne, NJ (see map). Call to reserve and ask for a pick up at the Cruise Port or take a taxi to the Enterprise location.

While driving to/from the Cruise Port or around the other towns in New Jersey is commonplace, we do not recommend driving to/from Manhattan given the tunnel tolls, busy streets, and limited parking. Parking at the Cape Liberty Cruise Port is $19 per day, all taxes included.

Car Service

A number of car service companies service the area and arranging service in advance is relatively easy. Car service is particularly handy for airport transfers (they can pick you up outside baggage claim for pick-ups) or to get from Bayonne to your desired destinations. For the convenience of a black car pick-up at your desired location you will have to pay a premium over regular taxi cabs so check the fare before you go.

• Go Winston Transportation Group offers private or shared car service to and from the Cape Liberty Cruise Port. Call 1-800-424-7767 to arrange service before your travels.
• Go Airlink also offers sedan car service so call 877 599-8200 to book service.

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Cape Liberty Cruise Port to/from Newark International Airport

What is the best way to travel between the port and the airport

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) located in Newark, New Jersey is a short distance from the Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne. A major hub for travelers flying to New York / New Jersey, a taxi from EWR to Cape Liberty will cost approximately $30 for up to 4 passengers.

Bayonne Taxi Services:

• Campbell Taxi: 201-339-8300
• Bayonne City Yellow Cab: 201-339-5000
• Archie's Cab and Van Service: 201-858-8800

For those arriving into either LaGuardia Airport (LGA) or John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, you can also take a taxi straight to the Cape Liberty Cruise Port but keep in mind that crossing two rivers and all of Manhattan will not be cheap (expect to pay $80-$100 in cab fare).

If you've already arrived in New York or New Jersey and want a cheaper alternative to get you to Cape Liberty, take the PATH train to Jersey City or Hoboken. Connect outside the PATH station to the NJ Light Rail (Hudson-Bergen) and take the light rail to the 34th Street station in Bayonne. From here, take a taxi ~2 miles to the cruise port.

Similarly, you can take a bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan. Bus 99S will take you to Bayonne along Kennedy Boulevard. Get off at 33rd St and Kennedy Boulevard, then take a taxi ~3 miles to the cruise port. Be sure to call your taxi ahead of time to ensure an efficient transfer from the bus to the cab!

Hotels

Which hotels are convenient to get to/from the port?

While hotels in Bayonne, NJ are not commonplace, we have a few recommendations for nearby accommodations for those traveling to and from Cape Liberty.

• The Hyatt Regency in Jersey City sits on the Hudson River and boasts amazing views of New York City. The Jersey City waterfront is steps away as is the Harborside Shopping Complex. From the hotel, travelers have plenty of transportation options including the PATH or the ferry to Manhattan, the Light Rail or PATH to other points in New Jersey, etc.
• Candlewood Suites in Jersey City is more family and budget friendly. While not as convenient to public transport as the Hyatt, this hotel compensates with family friendly suites, free parking and the like.

For those looking primarily for convenience, the area around Newark Airport hosts countless hotels. The Marriott family of hotels alone has a Residence Inn, a Courtyard by Marriott and a Marriott hotel while other brands such as Holiday Inn, Hilton and Wyndham all feature their own locations nearby as well.

You can also visit our New York City Port Guide for recommendations on hotels in Manhattan if you prefer to stay in New York, rather than in New Jersey

Food & Drink

What are the best eats in Bayonne? Where are the best places to get them?

Must-Eats - New Jersey Classics

New Jersey is known for a number of truly unique foods including tomato pie, a variant of pizza made with the cheese first on the dough, then the toppings and sauce, making a tomato-rich pie unlike traditional pizza. Disco fries are also a Jersey treat and be prepared to work your way through a plate of French fries, smothered in brown gravy and cheese. The pork roll (aka Taylor ham) is a sausage like meat product popular for both breakfast and lunch sandwiches. And for more meat, try an Italian hot dog.

And of course, given New Jersey's location right in the middle of New York and Pennsylvania means many of the treats associated with New York City or Philadelphia are commonly found in the "Garden State", New Jersey. New Yorkers brought pizzas and bagels to Jersey decades ago as Philadelphia influenced the introduction of cheesesteaks and pretzels. Last but not least, submarine sandwiches or hoagies are commonly available across New Jersey as a result of the influence of the bordering states.

To try out many of these foods, the best place to go is a classic New Jersey diner. Known for their 24 / 7 service and classic menu items, diners are a great place to grab a bite alone or with a family. Another option for those looking for a sandwich is a classic deli, where you'll surely get a sub or hoagie and may even want to throw on some taylor ham to try.

If you travel down to the Jersey shore, be sure to try out the saltwater taffy and funnel cakes on the boardwalk.

Must-Eats - NYC Classics

Across the water in New York City, there is another universe of food options waiting to be explored. New York is known for the variety of food options at every price point and from every corner of the earth. Here are a few of our "must-eats" in the city but check out our New York City Port Guide for more.

Pizza is a NY city staple and no visit would be complete without a true New York style slice. If you're in a rush, Ray's Pizza and its many imitators offer a quick fix. But if you're looking to have a pie, try John's Pizzeria in Times Square (260 West 44th St. btw. 8th Ave. & Schubert Alley) or Lombardi's in Soho (32 Spring St, at Mott St.) Remember, to hold and fold your slice just like New Yorkers do (if you don't want to stand out as a tourist: Don't use a fork and knife)!

A classic deli sandwich is also a classic so if you're looking for a piled-high meal, try Stage Delicatessen in Midtown (7th Ave. btw. 53rd & 54th St.) or Katz's Deli on the Lower East Side (206 East Houston St., at Ludlow St.)

While we're on the topic of quick and easy bites, we have to mention hot dogs - you'll find Gray's Papaya, Papaya Dog or Papaya King locations all over town. They're just as tasty for a mid-day snack as they are for late night treats.

What about dessert? Two words. NY Cheesecake. Junior's is a Brooklyn institution that has recently opened a Manhattan outpost so you can pick up your cheesecake right in midtown now (1515 Broadway at 44th St.)

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What are the must-drinks in Bayonne? Where is the best place to get one?

While in town, we recommend visiting the Vu Lounge at the Hyatt Jersey City for its spectacular views and tasty drinks. Order a Manhattan cocktail and enjoy the view of Manhattan!

Given the large number of bars on Hoboken's main street, we have to suggest a bar crawl on Washington Street to try out the different establishments and enjoy the variety of beverages available. Start at the Black Bear, swing by the Brass Rail and then keep exploring.

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Souvenirs

Which are the best souvenirs to buy in Bayonne? Where can I get them?

Under $25:

The best souvenirs from anyone visiting the New York area are those items inscribed with the "I (heart) NY" logo. Nowadays, you can find anything from t-shirts to baby onesies, to typical souvenirs such as magnets, cups, etc. with the famous logo.

Other souvenirs you can pick up in New Jersey would be food treats to take home (saltwater taffy, taylor ham or even fresh NJ blueberries) and of course, knick knacks from sightseeing spots such as a miniature Statue of Liberty or a NY skyline as seen from New Jersey are readily available.

$25-$75

Sports team gear from New Jersey and New York are popular souvenirs and gifts. New York Giants, New York Yankees or other local sports teams all sell their wares for children and adults alike.

Over $75

A couple of bottles of fine wine or champagne may be a smart purchase in Bayonne before you embark on your cruise. Many cruise lines allow you to bring a bottle or two of wine and/or champagne per person and can either be consumed in your stateroom or in the restaurants for a corkage fee (for more information regarding your cruise line's policy on bringing aboard wine at embarkation read this blog post.)

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Attractions

What are the top attractions and must-sees in Bayonne? How long will it take me to get there and to explore?

Attractions

Although Bayonne, NJ is more of a residential town than sightseeing center, there is plenty to do nearby.

• The Bayonne Bridge is one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world and located just around the corner from the Cruise Port.
• Jersey City, NJ is a few miles away from Bayonne and offers a variety of activities including shopping, sightseeing, and more. The Jersey City waterfront offers unparalleled views of Manhattan, across the Hudson River. Liberty State Park is a great, unexpected space in the midst of urban Jersey City. We recommend the Liberty Science Center which holds fascinating science exhibits all year round that are great for family fun.
• From Liberty State Park in Jersey City, ferries run regularly to Ellis Island - the first stop for immigrants arriving to the US until as recently as 1954 - and to Liberty Island - home of the Statue of Liberty. Ellis Island has a great museum - visitors can even search the database to find family members that may have traveled through the island in the past 100 years - and though the Statue of Liberty itself just closed for renovations, Liberty Island is still accepting visitors. It's worth pointing out that not only are the islands themselves worthy sightseeing spots, but the ferry rides to and from are a wonderful way to spend the day and see the area. Ferries run daily from 8:30am-4pm.
• Hoboken, NJ is also a short drive from Bayonne and offers visitors the charming small town experience. With lovely walkable streets and plenty of restaurants and cafes as well as local shops for picking up charms, Hoboken offers a relaxing excursion for those spending a day on shore.
• The Meadowlands are a New Jersey institution, hosting sports teams such as the NY Giants, as well as the Izod Center, home of performing arts ranging from rock, pop and country concerts to Disney on Ice for children. Check out the extensive schedules to find something special during your stay!
• A bit further afield, visitors can head to the Jersey Shore, dotted with cute beachside towns and boardwalks. Of particular interest is Atlantic City, known for its extensive boardwalk and numerous casinos.

For those looking for more than New Jersey has to offer, the PATH and the ferry are both convenient ways to hop over to New York City! Check out the New York City Port Guide for a full array of recommendations but here are a few "can't miss" suggestions:

• The World Trade Center site and 9/11 Memorial are New York landmarks that we recommend to all visitors. From New Jersey a short PATH train or ferry ride across the Hudson River will deliver you directly to the site, where a beautiful memorial marks the spot of the World Trade Center buildings and reconstruction of other buildings is now underway.

• Times Square is a favorite tourist site in New York, known for its bustling crowds, bright lights and 24/7 activity. On 42nd Street and beyond, there are countless stores for souvenir shopping - don't forget to pick up an I (heart) NY item or two - as well as themed stores (M&Ms and Hershey's are two favorites) and of course the TKTS booth in the heart of Times Square that sells discounted day-of theater tickets for Broadway and off-Broadway shows
• The Highline is a newer New York attraction that is a truly unique experience. An urban, above ground "park", this landmark is built upon a now-defunct railway line running above ground, over Manhattan's west side. From 34th Street down to 14th Street, explore unique urban landscaping…and some great people-watching!

For more New York City tips, don't forget to check out the port guide.

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Beaches

Although New Jersey and New York have many famous beaches, they are all mor than an hour away from Bayonne. Good news though, your cruise ship is going to take you to a beautiful beach, if you can just wait a couple of days. If you just can't wait head down to the Jersey Shore or Long Island and visit one of several popular beaches.

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Shopping

The City of Bayonne has a designation as a Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ). This designation allows businesses to charge a 3.5% sales tax instead of the normal 7% sales tax, and tax free for some other tangible personal property items (such as office supplies and equipment.)

One of the best and most popular shopping areas in Bayonne is the Bayonne Town Center. This shopping area is made up of over 30 national and regional chains, restaurants, gyms and spas. Found on Broadway between 17th and 30th Street, Bayonne Town Center is a safe and walkable shopping district that benefits from the UEZ sales tax reduction.

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Golf

Bayonne has several good golf courses in the area, however most of these courses are private, members only courses. So if you know a member at one of these clubs enjoy, but for those looking for a public course to carve up try Ash Brook Golf Course. Ash Brook Golf Course, located 22 miles west of the port in Scotch Plains, offers a 7,040 yard, par 72 course. Opening in 1953, Ash Brook was designed by Alfred Tull and is a parkland style golf course with fairways lined with trees and large greens. This course is recognized by golflink.com as a top 100 course. Contact the pro shop for more information and tee times at (908)756-0414.

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Scuba

If you read the Beaches section, the same goes here: Your cruise ship is going to take you to fabulous locations for scuba diving, so be patient and take advantage of the wonderful diving oppurtunities in Bermuda, the Bahamas, or wherever in the Caribbean your ship is taking you to.

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Tours

With Bayonne's proximity to New York City, there are a countless amount of tours that you can take. From Times Sqaure to Central Park there is a wide variety of things to see, do and experience. Two tours stand out because of their significance and accessibility from the Bayonne area: The Statue of Liberty and the 9/11 (World Trade Center) Memorial.

• The Statue of Liberty, located on Liberty Island can be reached by ferry from Liberty State Park, located just 15 minutes north of the Cape Liberty port area. From Liberty State Park, the tour will take you to Ellis Island and then to Liberty Island where the Statue of Liberty proudly stands. Tours are moderately priced as low as $13 for adults and $5 for children 4-12. Audio tours, in several different languages, are also available to go along with the tour for an additional fee.
• The 9/11 Memorial tour will take you to the site of the September 11th terroist attack. Where the Twin Towers once stood, now lies a national tribute to the honor and memory of the over 3,000 people that lost their lives in the worst terrorist attack on American history. This tour is sure to stir some emotions and is well worth the time and effort it will take to get there.
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