3 day cruises from florida

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Florida Tourism
• Florida Hotels
• Florida Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Florida
• Florida Restaurants
• Things to Do in Florida
• Florida Travel Forum
• Florida Photos
• Florida Map
• All Florida Hotels
• Last Minute Hotels in Florida
• 5-stars Hotels in Florida
• 4-stars Hotels in Florida
• 3-stars Hotels in Florida
• Florida Hotels with Pools
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Florida
• Florida Hotels with Free Parking
• Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
• Temptation Cancun Resort
• Hyatt Ziva Cancun
• Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
• Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
• Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa
• Excellence Riviera Cancun
• Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
• Barcelo Bavaro Palace All Inclusive Resort
• Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
• Hotel Chester
• Isla Bella Beach Resort
• Alpine Hotel Nathiaglai
• Excalibur Hotel & Casino
• Popular All-Inclusive Resorts
• Popular Beach Resorts
• Popular Family Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Hotels
• Popular Hotels With Waterparks
• Popular Honeymoon Resorts
• Popular Luxury Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Family Resorts
• Popular Golf Resorts
• Popular Spa Resorts
• Popular Cheap Resorts
• Cruises from Florida
• Cruises from Florida to Africa
• Cruises from Florida to Antarctica
• Cruises from Florida to South America
• Cruises from Florida to Louisiana
• Cruises from Florida to Maine
• Cruises from Florida to Massachusetts
• Cruises from Florida to Rhode Island
• Cruises from Florida to Washington
• Cruises from Florida to Kauai
• Cruises from Florida to Maui
• Cruises from Florida to Oahu
• Cruises from Florida to Los Angeles
• Cruises from Florida to Santa Barbara
• Cruises from Florida to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Florida to Key West
• Cruises from Florida to Miami
• Cruises from Florida to Port Canaveral
• Cruises from Florida to Tampa
• Cruises from Florida to Portland
• Cruises from Florida to Bayonne
• Carnival Cruises from Florida
• Celebrity Cruises from Florida
• Crystal Cruises from Florida
• Cunard Cruises from Florida
• Disney Cruises from Florida
• Holland America Cruises from Florida
• Norwegian (NCL) Cruises from Florida
• Princess Cruises from Florida
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises from Florida
• Royal Caribbean Cruises from Florida
• Seabourn Cruises from Florida
• Silversea Cruises from Florida
• Windstar Cruises from Florida
• Costa Cruises from Florida
• Oceania Cruises from Florida
• MSC Cruises from Florida
• Azamara Cruises from Florida
• Ponant Cruises from Florida
• Viking Ocean Cruises from Florida
• 3 to 5 Day Cruises from Florida
• 6 to 9 Day Cruises from Florida
• 10 to 14 Day Cruises from Florida
• 15+ Day Cruises from Florida
• Family Cruises out of Florida
• Luxury Cruises out of Florida
• GreenLeaders
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Cheap 3, 4 & 5 Day Cruises from Florida

• United States    
• Florida (FL)

4 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a fun, value-packed cruise on a manageable scale
• You don't need the flashy features of MSC's newer ships
• You want a cruise experience that focuses on unique itineraries
• You want splash parks, waterslides and bowling alleys onboard
• You are looking for a cruise that caters to North Americans

3 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You seek MSC Cruises' next-gen Seaside EVO-class ships that are slightly bigger and better laid out
• You appreciate a wide variety of dining venues and activities, particularly geared towards families
• You seek a very good cruise value with lots included for a reasonable price point
• You prefer larger cabin bathrooms and showers over the very small entry-level ones onboard
• You miss the zip-line as only present on the first two Seaside-class ships
• You like smaller, quieter cruise ships with fewer fellow passengers

4 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

• You want to dine at any time and wherever you want, at no extra cost
• You want gratuities included in the cost of the cruise
• You'd like to get a tattoo onboard your cruise ship
• You don't like vibrant and late-night nightlife
• You are traveling with anyone under the age of 18
• You want a cruise longer than five nights

5 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean

• You want a more traditional, upscale cruise on a bigger ship
• You appreciate having a multitude of different dining choices
• You want plenty of activities but nothing overly wild or crazy
• You are looking for a ship with elaborate children's facilities
• You want an all-inclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite complex
• You prefer intimate, adult-oriented vacation experiences

5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want solid entertainment and splashy, Broadway-style shows
• You like to keep busy, and want active days and vibrant nights
• You want a big ship cruise with plenty of bang for your buck
• You want longer cruises that explore uncommon destinations
• You prefer a more traditional, laid-back kind of cruise vacation

4 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You a value-packed cruise on a ship with plenty of features
• You find Royal Caribbean's newer ships to be just too big
• You like to keep busy and want a full schedule of activities
• You want the wow factor of Royal Caribbean's big new ships
• You need spacious cabins; standard cabins are fairly tight
• You want all the latest bells and whistles to be onboard

• You want lots of high-energy entertainment options onboard
• You appreciate a value-packed cruise with lots of amenities
• You don't want to feel like one of a crowd on a bigger ship
• You want the latest flashy decor and knockout features onboard
• You like adventurous diversions, like waterslides and ziplines
• You prefer to have more spacious cabin accommodations

4 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean

• You want to sail aboard one of Celebrity’s newer ships
• You like plenty of activities, dining options and lounges
• You want a classy cruise experience at a reasonable price
• You dislike the idea of sailing with over 3,000 passengers
• You don’t want to be bothered with upsells and other costs
• You want crazy onboard features, even a real merry-go-round
• You are traveling with kids and want everyone to be entertained
• You see the ship as the destination; where it goes is secondary
• You want diverse itineraries to exotic, smaller ports of call
• You dislike feeling like you're in a large resort at sea
• You're looking for a more traditional ocean cruise experience

• You want a European-themed cruise on a big, super-fun ship
• You like decidedly upscale features like the MSC Yacht Club
• You appreciate having nonstop activities by day and night
• You want a cruise experience catering to American tastes
• You want a quiet, traditionally minded cruise experience
• You like having plenty of organized activities by day and night
• You want a classy cruise on a big ship for a reasonable price
• You value stylish interior design and innovative amenities
• You don’t want to have extra fees and costs for dining and drinks
• You are looking for a ship holding fewer than 2,000 passengers

Explore Florida

• Florida Cruises

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Road trip essentials.

Alissa Grisler and Amanda Norcross May 29, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Santa Barbara

John Rodwan and Suzanne Mason May 29, 2024

The Best Underseat Luggage

Rachael Hood May 28, 2024

Top Pride Parades and Celebrations

Suzanne Mason May 28, 2024

The Best Miami Boat Tours

Gwen Pratesi May 28, 2024

The Best Travel Purses

Rachael Hood May 24, 2024

The Best Beach Games

Gwen Pratesi May 24, 2024

The Best Branson Shows

Carrie A. Back May 23, 2024

The Best Beach Toys for Kids

Amanda Norcross May 23, 2024

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan May 23, 2024

3-Day Cruises from Port Canaveral

Three cruise ships offer 3-day cruises out of Port Canaveral in Florida. These short cruises are easy to combine with a trip to Disney World or Universal Orlando theme parks. The combination is a vacation that the whole family will enjoy. See the full schedule of departures below.

The 3-night cruises go to the nearby islands of the Bahamas. Voyages on Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean stop at their private islands, which are exclusive playgrounds for their passengers.

You may also want to see our schedule of 4-day cruises from Port Canaveral .

3-day cruises on Carnival Cruise Line . Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Nassau (Bahamas). • 2024 departures: January 5, 12, 19; February 9, 16; March 8, 29; April 12, 26; May 17, 31; June 14, 28, July 12, 26, August 9, 23; September 6, 20; October 4, 18; November 1, 15, 29; December 13, 27.

3-day cruises on Carnival Cruise Line . Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Bimini (Bahamas). • 2024 departures: January 2, 26; February 2, 23; March 1, 15, 22; April 5, 19; May 10, 24; June 7, 21; July 5, 19; August 2, 16, 30; September 13, 27; October 11, 25; November 8, 22; December 6, 20.

3-night cruises on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Nassau (Bahamas) and Castaway Cay (Bahamas). • 2024 departures: January 5, 12, 19, 26; February 2, 9, 16, 23; March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; June 7, 14, 21, 28; July 5, 12, 19, 26; August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; September 6, 13, 20, 27; October 4, 11, 18, 25; November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; December 6, 13, 20, 26, 27.

3-night cruises on Royal Caribbean . Round-trip from Port Canaveral to CocoCay (Bahamas) and Nassau (Bahamas). • 2024 departures: January 2, 5, 12, 19, 26; February 2, 9, 16, 23; March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; June 7, 14, 21, 28; July 5, 26; August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; September 6, 13, 20, 27; October 4, 11, 18, 25; November 1, 8, 22, 29; December 6, 13, 27.

3-5 Day Cruises from Florida

We found you 454 cruise s

.css-3ekbvf{-webkit-animation:none;animation:none;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-base);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-sm);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);line-height:24px;text-transform:uppercase;}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-3ekbvf{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-sm);}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-3ekbvf{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);}} 4 Night .css-dfa557{-webkit-animation:none;animation:none;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;color:black;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-lg);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);line-height:22px;}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-dfa557{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-lg);line-height:22px;}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-dfa557{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-xl);line-height:28px;}} Bahamas - Short .css-1sc0dsj{-webkit-appearance:none;-moz-appearance:none;-ms-appearance:none;appearance:none;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;-webkit-user-select:none;-moz-user-select:none;-ms-user-select:none;user-select:none;position:relative;white-space:nowrap;vertical-align:middle;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;line-height:1.2;transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-normal);height:auto;min-width:var(--chakra-sizes-10);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);background:none;border-bottom:1px dotted;border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-radius:0!important;border-bottom-left-radius:0!important;border-bottom-right-radius:0!important;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);margin:0px;padding:0!important;font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-Roboto);font-weight:500;padding-top:0.625rem;padding-bottom:0.625rem;-webkit-padding-start:1rem;padding-inline-start:1rem;-webkit-padding-end:1rem;padding-inline-end:1rem;-webkit-align-self:flex-end;-ms-flex-item-align:flex-end;align-self:flex-end;margin-left:var(--chakra-space-1);}.css-1sc0dsj:focus-visible,.css-1sc0dsj[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-1sc0dsj:disabled,.css-1sc0dsj[disabled],.css-1sc0dsj[aria-disabled=true],.css-1sc0dsj[data-disabled]{opacity:0.4;cursor:not-allowed;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-1sc0dsj{margin-left:var(--chakra-space-1);}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-1sc0dsj{display:none;margin-left:var(--chakra-space-2);}}.css-1sc0dsj:active,.css-1sc0dsj[data-active]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);background:none;}.css-1sc0dsj:hover,.css-1sc0dsj[data-hover]{border-bottom:1px solid;background:none;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1sc0dsj:focus,.css-1sc0dsj[data-focus]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);} Details

• Fare Insight

4 Night Western Caribbean Cruise Details

5 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise Details

5 Night Bahamas - Short Details

Grand European River Cruises On Sale

• Be immersed in local cultures, cuisines, art, history, music and more
• LIMITED TIME OFFER: Save up to $4,600 per couple on 2024-2026 voyages*
• NO KIDS | MODERN LONGSHIPS | SCANDINAVIAN COMFORT | VOTED WORLD’S BEST

4 Night Bahamas Cruise Details

4 night bahamas & perfect day cruise details, 5 night western caribbean cruise details, 4 night short caribbean cruise details, 3 night bahamas cruise details, related cruises.

3 Day Cruises from Piraeus

3 Day Cruises from Bari

3 Day Cruises from Beijing

3 Day Cruises from Bordeaux

3 Day Cruises from Buenos Aires

3 Day Cruises from Charleston

3 Day Cruises from Frankfurt

3 Day Cruises from Fremantle

3 Day Cruises from Haifa

3 Day Cruises from Hamburg

3 Day Cruises from Kusadasi

3 Day Cruises from Southampton

3 Day Cruises from Bayonne

3 Day Cruises from Valencia

3 Day Cruises from London

3 Day Cruises from Okinawa

3 Day Cruises from California

Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. Our partners who list cruise pricing on Cruise Critic are required to provide prices for cruise only or cruise packages , per person, double occupancy, and are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates, and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. Taxes, fees and port expenses not included. Rates are in AUD and valid for AU and New Zealand residents only. Fuel supplement may apply. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees.

For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. In addition, average cruise prices are updated nightly.

Furthermore, Cruise Critic makes no guarantees for availability of prices advertised on our site. Listed prices may have blackout dates, qualifications or restrictions.

Cruise Critic is not responsible for content on external web sites.

Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of 30th May 2024 .

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Cruises from Florida

Embark from Florida: A Gateway to Caribbean Wonders & Beyond

3-day Miami

Embark on a mini bahamas odyssey from miami.

Set sail on a captivating 3-day journey from Miami, your gateway to a Bahamas adventure. These mini cruises combine exploration with relaxation, whisking you away to the Bahamas’ tropical sanctuaries or the Bahamas’s lively cultures and stunning vistas. Seasonal insights from the Miami Cruise Monthly Guide can optimize your voyage, ensuring you pick the prime time for your escape. Whether seeking thrilling exploits or serene relaxation, these cruises from Miami are to your preferences for an unforgettable Bahamas escapade. Onboard, savor diverse culinary delights and discover your ideal haven in the array of cozy accommodations, all curated for your supreme comfort.

Planning Your 3-day Miami Cruise

Discover the allure of the Bahamas with a swift 3-day cruise departing from the vibrant city of Miami. Begin your journey with seamless transportation from Miami International Airport directly to the bustling PortMiami , ensuring a smooth transition to your maritime adventure. Explore the extensive offerings, terminals, and amenities of PortMiami to enhance your cruising experience. These brief yet immersive 3-day cruises serve as the ideal getaway, inviting you to explore the verdant landscapes of the Western Bahamas and the serene beaches of the Bahamas. Embark on this perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, all starting from the dynamic Miami shoreline.

Leading Cruise Lines Embarking for a 3-day Cruise from Miami

• Carnival Cruise Line : Set sail on an unforgettable 3-day voyage with Carnival Cruise Line from Miami, where fun and sun merge seamlessly. Immerse yourself in Carnival’s festive spirit, where fun and entertainment abound, making every moment onboard a celebration.
• MSC Cruises : Experience the vibrant blend of European charm and innovative amenities with MSC Cruises on a 3-day adventure from Miami. With MSC Cruises, experience a fusion of European flair and modern luxury, crafting a distinctive ambiance for your Caribbean exploration.
• Norwegian Cruise Line : From Miami, Norwegian Cruise Line’s 3-day cruises offer the ultimate freedom and flexibility with Freestyle Cruising. Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising concept ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to design your mini vacation just as you envision it.
• Royal Caribbean : Royal Caribbean’s 3-day cruises from Miami are synonymous with innovation and adventure. Adventure meets innovation on Royal Caribbean’s mini cruises, featuring an array of thrilling activities and entertainment.

Onboard Your Floating Resort

• Accommodations to Suit Every Style : From cozy interior cabins to luxurious balcony suites, enjoy accommodations designed to be your comfortable sanctuary at sea. Each cabin category offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay.
• Culinary Delights for Every Palate : Indulge in a variety of dining options onboard, from casual alfresco meals to elegant fine dining experiences. Each meal is an opportunity to explore new flavors and culinary traditions.
• Entertainment and Leisure Activities : Immerse yourself in the wide array of entertainment options available onboard, including Broadway-caliber shows, live music, and themed parties. Stay active with fitness classes, unwind in the spa, or take a dip in one of the pools.

Itinerary Highlights and Must-See Stops on Cruise from Miami

Unravel the vibrant tapestry of the Bahamas , where each port of call is a new discovery. Explore historic sites, engage in thrilling water sports, or simply soak up the sun on powdery beaches. This tranquil haven invites you to explore its clear waters, rich in fishing, diving, and historical intrigue.

• Nassau : Nassau’s vibrant culture and beautiful beaches are just a short sail away on mini cruises from Miami. Explore Nassau’s rich history, bustling markets, and coral reefs. Whether it’s a visit to the iconic Atlantis Resort, a stroll through the Straw Market, or a snorkeling adventure, Nassau offers a blend of excitement and relaxation.

Exclusive Island Escapes: A Guide to Private Paradises

Uncover the tranquility of exclusive island retreats held by renowned cruise lines, each presenting a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and seclusion. These privately owned paradises promise unforgettable sun-soaked moments, tailored to create the ultimate escape on your cruise journey.

• Great Stirrup Cay : Unwind in the seclusion of Norwegian’s private island, a haven for water enthusiasts and beach lovers.
• CocoCay : Experience Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, where thrilling waterparks and luxurious beach clubs offer unparalleled island joy.
• Ocean Cay : MSC’s Ocean Cay focuses on sustainable relaxation and marine conservation, providing a unique, eco-friendly island experience.

Florida Keys

• Key West : Key West’s laid-back vibe and rich history make it a favored docking destination for mini cruises from Miami. Often dubbed the crossroads of the Caribbean, it serves as a pivotal stop on both Eastern and Bahamas cruises.

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, February 28, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: February 28, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, February 28, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Independence of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: February 28, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Independence of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, February 21, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: February 21, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, February 21, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Independence of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: February 21, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Independence of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, February 14, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: February 14, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, February 7, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: February 7, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Norwegian Pearl, Bahamas from Miami, January 31, 2025

3-day mini cruise to Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay with NCL Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 31, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Norwegian Pearl; Ports of Call: Miami, Great Stirrup Cay, Nassau, Miami;[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, January 31, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 31, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, January 27, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 27, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, January 24, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 24, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, January 24, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 24, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Norwegian Pearl, Bahamas from Miami, January 17, 2025

3-day mini cruise to Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay with NCL Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 17, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Norwegian Pearl; Ports of Call: Miami, Great Stirrup Cay, Nassau, Miami;[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, January 17, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 17, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, January 17, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 17, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, January 10, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 10, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, January 10, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 10, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, January 3, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 3, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, January 3, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: January 3, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Norwegian Pearl, Bahamas Holiday cruise from Miami, December 27, 2024

3-day Holiday cruise to Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay with NCL Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 27, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Norwegian Pearl; Ports of Call: Miami, Great Stirrup Cay, Nassau, Miami;[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, December 27, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 27, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, December 27, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 27, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Norwegian Pearl, Bahamas Holiday cruise from Miami, December 24, 2024

3-day Holiday cruise to Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay with NCL Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 24, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Norwegian Pearl; Ports of Call: Miami, Great Stirrup Cay, Nassau, Miami;[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, December 20, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 20, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, December 20, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 20, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, December 13, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 13, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, December 13, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 13, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, December 6, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 6, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, December 6, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: December 6, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Royal Caribbean, CocoCay & Nassau from Miami, November 29, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Allure of the Seas Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: November 29, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Allure of the Seas; Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent[…]

Carnival Conquest, Nassau from Miami, November 29, 2024

3-day Bahamas mini cruise with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Miami, Florida; Departure Date: November 29, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Conquest; Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; Enjoy magnificent scenery and unique experiences on[…]

The 7 Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries for 2024

W hether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

• Life & Culture
• Entertainment

How to plan your Florida summer vacation with theme parks, cruises and attractions

• Sharon Kennedy Wynne Times staff

Memorial Day weekend ushered in the unofficial start of summer, and as we embark on vacation season, it’s a good time to review what’s new with Florida’s theme parks, cruise ships and attractions.

This summer will bring new coasters at Busch Gardens and SeaWorld, a rebrand of Disney’s Splash Mountain ride designed for the studio’s first Black princess, a new Tampa-based cruise ship from Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville at Sea and new animals to see and pet at local zoos and aquariums.

The Sunshine State remains one of the top travel destinations in the world: More than 135 million visitors are expected to vacation in Florida this year, a number that has bounced past pre-pandemic levels. We have some of the world’s prettiest beaches and waterways, but also five of the 10 most-visited theme parks in the world. And the state welcomes more cruise ship passengers, especially PortMiami, to its terminals than any other port in the world.

That kind of traffic and record sales have inspired the industry to spend millions on ever more exciting attractions, which can help take the sting out of a high admission price.

Luckily, Florida residents do have an edge. Florida resident deals at Disney World and Universal Orlando offer discounts on multiday packages that can cut daily admission prices in half. Some cruise lines such as Disney and Royal Caribbean often have a special Florida Resident Cruise Discount. And the new Margaritaville at Sea cruise sailing out of Tampa starting in June is offering Heroes Sail Free cruises for teachers, first responders and military, allowing them to sail as many times as they’d like for free with a paying guest.

But where should we go? Buckle in as we take a tour through the many new offerings coming to Florida’s attractions.

New cruise ships

Tampa will be the port of call for the newest cruise ship from the late Jimmy Buffett’s cruise line Margaritaville at Sea, which has been offering low-cost cruises out of Palm Beach. Starting June 14, the company will be sending out the newly remodeled ship, The Islander, on four- and five-night cruises with stops in Key West, Cozumel and the Mexican Yucatan town of Progreso.

Across the state at Port Canaveral, Royal Caribbean is preparing for the July debut of its next megaship, Utopia of the Seas. It is shipping out six months after the debut of its wildly popular predecessor, Icon of the Seas , officially the world’s largest cruise ship sailing out of Miami. The still-giant Utopia will offer a series of three- and four-night cruises from Port Canaveral, in contrast to Icon’s weeklong inaugural sailings this year.

Explore Tampa Bay’s sights and bites

Subscribe to our free Do & Dine newsletter

You’re all signed up!

Want more of our free, weekly newsletters in your inbox? Let’s get started.

Utopia’s itineraries were designed with locals “craving a fast getaway,” Royal Caribbean said, after the company noticed an exponential rise in demand for quick weekend vacations.

Theme parks

Busch Gardens: The Tampa theme park is set to open Phoenix Rising , its 10th roller coaster. The suspended coaster will make you feel like a bird flying over the park on a 1,831-foot track with a maximum speed of 44 miles per hour.

Adventure Island: The water park across the street from Busch Gardens has a new play area called Castaway Falls. It doubles the size of its previous toddler play area, Splash Attack, and features more than 100 play elements, including two giant tipping buckets, four waterslides, water shooters and more.

Walt Disney World

• Magic Kingdom: Splash Mountain has been wholly remade to erase the theming from the controversial 1946 film “Song of the South,” which has been criticized for using racist stereotypes and glorifying plantation life. The newly renamed Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, opening in June, will star Disney’s first Black princess from the 2009 animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” The ride will be set after the final kiss of the movie. Jazzy frogs playing Afro-Cuban music will be hopping into the adventure, which still includes a five-story drop from the top of the mountain. In keeping with the New Orleans theme, beignets and gumbo will be offered in nearby food stalls. And over in Frontierland, the Country Bear Jamboree is closed with a sign that says “Bear With Us.” It will reopen this summer and feature reinterpreted Disney tunes in different genres of country music, from bluegrass to pop-country, Americana, rockabilly and other styles.
• Epcot: After several years of construction walls blocking its paths, Epcot took down those walls in late 2023 , and in June it will finally unveil the final piece of its multiyear transformation. CommuniCore Hall is the last piece of the Epcot plan that has included projects such as Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure ride, the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind indoor roller coaster and Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, a walk-through attraction. CommuniCore Hall, set to be unboxed June 10, is next to the new World Celebration Gardens and the Walt the Dreamer statue that was unveiled in December. CommuniCore Hall will be the central spot for Epcot’s festivals and a Mickey & Friends character greeting area. But first up at the adjacent CommuniCore Plaza stage will be “Celebration Encanto,” a summer singalong with songs from “Encanto.” That will happen several times daily between June 10 and Sept. 6.
• Disney Springs: A new nighttime drone show called “Disney Dreams That Soar” is planned for Disney’s shopping and entertainment district. It will “showcase Disney stories celebrating the joy of flight,” according to the official Disney Parks Blog . The new production is scheduled to be up in the air nightly from May 24 through Sept. 2.
• Animal Kingdom: Saluting the 30th anniversary of the animated film “The Lion King” from June 10 through Sept. 6, the park will have themed eats, a Pumbaa popcorn bucket, a new merchandise collection and a special Timon and Rafiki meet-and-greet at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

Universal Orlando

• DreamWorks Land: The Woody Woodpecker KidZone section of Universal Studios is being converted to a DreamWorks animation kids area. It will replace Curious George, Barney, Woody Woodpecker and Fievel with new feature characters, rides and attractions based on “Gabby’s Dollhouse,” “Shrek,” “Trolls” and “Kung Fu Panda.” Opening June 14, you can meet Shrek and splash in his swamp, ride on the Trollercoaster and learn kung fu moves with Po.
• Also debuting June 14, a new nighttime show coming to the Universal Studios lagoon will feature 288 fountains that reach heights of up to 131 feet. It will also have 4K projection mapping, an original composition and more than 600 drones to celebrate the emotional power of music by leveraging iconic scores and scenes. Expect pictures from “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” films, “Jurassic World,” “Jaws,” “Shrek,” “Ghostbusters,” “Trolls,” “Back to the Future,” “Universal Monsters,” “Transformers,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “E.T.,” “Fast and Furious,” “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” “Minions,” “The Mummy” and “King Kong .”
• June 14 will also be the start date for Hogwarts Always , a new nighttime extravaganza in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure. On select nights, wizards, witches and Muggles alike will be able to gather around the famed School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for a visually stunning experience that will take them on a journey through iconic moments of a Hogwarts school year. The show will also have four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house and culminate in a colorful pyrotechnic display above the castle.
• Universal Mega Movie Parade: Starting July 3, Universal’s biggest daytime parade to date will feature 13 new floats and nearly 100 performers, including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more. It will celebrate classic moments from beloved movies, such as “E.T.,” “Back to the Future,” “Jaws,” “Ghostbusters,” “Jurassic World,” Illumination’s “Minions” and “Sing” and DreamWorks’ “Trolls” and “Kung Fu Panda.” Watch out for the massive 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man as he towers atop the “Ghostbusters” float, the colorful Caterbus and giant rainbows that shimmer on the vibrant “Trolls” float, a live marching drum line performing the iconic movie score of “Jaws” alongside a float themed to the film and dinosaurs stalking their prey beside a “Jurassic World” float — the largest figure ever featured in a Universal Orlando daytime parade.

Legoland: The new Ferrari Build and Race experience opened in March with an interactive attraction that puts guests in the driver’s seat to build, test and race their own Lego Ferrari with cutting-edge digital technology.

SeaWorld: Opening later this spring, Penguin Trek is an indoor-outdoor roller coaster that will operate in the building that held the former Empire of the Penguin attraction. The iceberg look remains and, as with the previous attraction, parkgoers will encounter the real birds in their habitat at the end of the experience, right before the gift shop. But first they will ride a coaster that moves at speeds of up to 43 miles per hour across a 3,020-foot track that traverses both the indoors and outside.

Tampa Bay attractions

ZooTampa at Lowry Park: The zoo has a new walking trail created with Tampa General Hospital that is a 1-mile loop situated among animal habitats and includes signs every eighth of a mile that help guests follow their progress and stay on track. Also new is the recently opened Stingray Shores , where you can pet stingrays. It also includes a new experience where you can get in the pool with and feed the stingrays. Also new this year is a reimagined Australia Realm featuring a new family-friendly ride, Aussie Trek, expanded water and dry play areas, and an enhanced retail shop, bar and new restaurant. The area continues to feature opportunities for up-close wildlife connections with koalas and barnyard animals as well as enhanced viewing of wallabies. 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa. zootampa.org .

Clearwater Marine Aquarium: The rehab hospital for sea life recently introduced its newest resident species , octopus vulgaris. Known for its camouflage abilities, the animal can be fascinating to watch as specialized skin cells called “chromatophores” allow it to change its color, pattern and texture to blend in with its surroundings and protect it from predators. Another new resident is Opie, a juvenile male river otter brought to the aquarium after a dog attack that injured his right eye, making him unable to be released back into the wild. A new self-guided audio tour available in both a children’s version and adult version is included with admission. 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater. cmaquarium.org .

Florida Aquarium: The Tampa aquarium is in the middle of a three-year, $40 million expansion. MORPH’D is the first new gallery to open since the aquarium debuted in 1995. The gallery is full of fish and marine life never before seen at the aquarium and focuses on the ways animals adapt to their environment and camouflage themselves. Don’t miss feeding time for the archerfish, which, as its name implies, will spit a line of water like a sharpshooter to knock down a piece of shrimp hanging from a branch over its tank. The aquarium this March began a new ticketing system that now requires advanced ticket purchases, with visitors picking a designated time frame to visit. 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. flaquarium.org .

Glazer Children’s Museum: A first of its kind for Tampa, the downtown museum has on display a massive real-life fossil of a triceratops, aptly named Big John , that was discovered in South Dakota in the Hell Creek Geological formation in 2014. It’s the largest known triceratops skeleton in the world and made its journey to the museum for a three-year stay. The museum has also expanded its learning center and added a new sensory room. With the dinosaur’s help, the museum saw a record-breaking 248,000 visitors last year, surpassing all previous attendance figures. 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. glazermuseum.org .

Tampa Bay History Center: Bootleggers, jazz music and worker revolts are the focus of a special exhibit, “Decade of Change: Florida in the 1920s,” which runs through July 14. You can celebrate the Fourth of July at the history center with $5 admission and meet costumed characters from history and military reenactors representing several eras. 801 Old Water St., Tampa. 813-228-0097. tampabayhistorycenter.org .

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Florida’s only spring-fed water park has a live mermaid show that is more than 75 years old. In addition to the clear springs, there is a sandy beach at Buccaneer Bay with flume rides, volleyball, river rides, a kiddie pool area and, of course, the mermaid shows. It’s a bargain with an admission price of $13, $8 for kids 6-12. During the summer months, it typically fills to capacity before noon, so get there early. 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee. 352-592-5656. weekiwachee.com .

Sharon Kennedy Wynne is a reporter covering events, things to do and family experiences through the region. Reach her at [email protected].

MORE FOR YOU

• Advertisement

ONLY AVAILABLE FOR SUBSCRIBERS

The Tampa Bay Times e-Newspaper is a digital replica of the printed paper seven days a week that is available to read on desktop, mobile, and our app for subscribers only. To enjoy the e-Newspaper every day, please subscribe.

• New York City
• Miami South Florida
• Philadelphia
• Washington DC
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco Bay Area
• Connecticut
• Long Island
• Westchester

HOME - South Florida

Activity calendar, submit an activity, crafts for kids, science for kids, at home activities, online & virtual, camps guide, classes guide, party ideas, family vacations, resorts & hotels.

• Theme & Water Parks

Florida Guide

Orlando guide, california guide.

• Miami - Dade
• Fort Lauderdale & Broward
• Palm Beach County
• Key West & Florida Keys
• Beaches & Lakes
• Best Of Lists
• Birthday Parties
• Boredom Busters
• Christmas/Hanukkah
• City Guides
• Classes & Enrichment
• Crafts & Recipes
• Fairs & Festivals
• Fall Activities
• Family Travel
• Farms & U-Pick
• Free Activities
• Hotels & Resorts
• Indoor Activities
• News & Openings
• Parent Talk
• Parks & Playgrounds
• Play Gyms & Sports Centers
• Pools & Spray Parks
• Preschools & Schools
• Restaurants
• Skiing & Winter Sports
• Special Needs
• Special Occasions
• Spring Activities
• Stores & Services
• Summer Activities
• Trains, Dinos & Heroes
• TV, Film & Movies
• Visitors Guide
• Weekend Events
• Weekend Trips
• Winter Activities
• Zoos & Gardens

3 Days in Miami with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom

More and more, Miami is becoming a destination for families and an ideal family getaway . Whether it is for a full week or a stop prior to getting on a planned cruise, there is so much to do aside from the beach .

Have three days to spend in the Miami area? If so, I have taken the guesswork out of the neighborhoods and compiled in this list the must-see and must-do places to visit. Since all families enjoy different things, look at this as a chance for you to mix and match neighborhoods, creating the most fun days you can have in Miami and South Florida.

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Visiting miami: a few words about this itinerary, getting around miami.

One rule of thumb for getting around Miami is you should have access to a car or have your favorite ride-share app loaded and ready on your phone. Getting around by foot is great, but Miami encompasses more than 35 square miles. Add to that the greater Miami area and the suburbs, and the area is close to 60 square miles. So unless you are planning on only exploring one neighborhood, a car is a necessity when exploring the Miami area.

Pick and Choose Your Miami Itinerary

There is so much to do in Miami, especially if you want to explore more than one neighborhood. One neighborhood could take a full day on its own, so remember to focus on what makes your family happy and pick and choose activities you feel your family will enjoy the most. There are activities for shoppers, thrill-seekers, water lovers, beach lovers, science fanatics, animal enthusiasts, foodies, artists, and more. So choose your activities first, then focus on a neighborhood where those activities exist, filling in the extra time as you have it.

Here, we will detail the neighborhoods you can visit and what activities are within or near those neighborhoods, so you can focus on a neighborhood or area per day. We also have grouped one to three neighborhoods together so you can see what neighborhoods are easy to move about it in and not lose time in the dreaded Miami traffic we locals know all too well.

I have given my thoughts on how to choose what to do on your three days in Miami. Look at the neighborhoods and the activities they offer and pick and choose the neighborhoods to plug into your Day 1, 2, and 3 itinerary. That will help you and your family get the most enjoyment out of your three days in this vibrant and wonderful city.

3 Days in Miami with Kids: Day 1 Strategy

Get the lay of the land and explore the neighborhood where you are staying. Most people think of Miami Beach when they think of visiting Miami. If that is the case with you, get on a pair of comfortable shoes and enjoy the day by the beach—shopping, exploring, and having tons of fun in Miami Beach.

3 Days in Miami with Kids: Day 2 Strategy

Choose a neighborhood with a museum, animal encounter, or tour that interests you. Go and explore that neighborhood. If you prefer to see more than just one neighborhood, get tickets for the Big Bus Tour hop on-hop off bus and travel through the art deco neighborhoods of Miami Beach, Wynwood, the Design District, Little Havana, Brickell, and Downtown. Listen to the history of the neighborhoods, jumping off the bus when you want to explore a specific area. Jump back on when you are done.

3 Days in Miami with Kids: Day 3 Strategy

Explore the water before tackling some more adventures. Island Queen Cruises and Tours offers sightseeing cruises with views of the Miami skyline along the Intracoastal Waterway from Key Biscayne through Miami Beach and Downtown. While on the cruise, view the beautiful homes that line the waterway; you might even see a celebrity. Take a food tour through Little Havana or choose an activity, professional sports game, shopping area, or other place you have among your top things to do and explore that neighborhood.

RELATED: Summer Camp Guide for Miami and South Florida

Miami Neighborhoods that Offer Fun and Excitement for Families

Coconut grove, south miami, and coral gables.

These neighborhoods provide a day of quality family time in a relaxed and tranquil environment. Explore nature at  Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables. Both destinations offer an outdoor experience where kids can run and explore. Kids can also learn on walks along the trails and by viewing the exhibits. You can easily spend a few hours in both places and are sure to be hungry. If you are looking for more than a potential small snack area, head to  Glass and Vine in Coconut Grove, a covered outdoor restaurant in Peacock Park . If you prefer to be by the water for lunch, consider  Monty's Raw Bar in Coconut Grove. This great option provides a laid-back family feel that only a marina in Florida can offer.

After lunch, head to the beach or pool, continuing your relaxed Florida day at either Matheson Hammock Park , with its small size and manmade atoll pool, or the Venetian Pool  in Coral Gables, which is refilled daily from spring water from an underground aquifer. The pool features two waterfalls and cave-like grottos.

If you prefer to shop, vist the Miracle Mile  and the Shops at Merrick Park in Coral Gables. Miracle Mile offers shoppers a half-mile lined street of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment.  Merrick Park is a high-end shopping mall with stores and restaurants you are sure to love. If you are in Coconut Grove, browse the boutiques or stop into CocoWalk  for a fun shopping experience.

Looking for a fun snack? Mojo Donuts  makes gourmet donuts in fun flavors and has three locations in South Florida, including in Coral Gables.

Wynwood and the Walls, the Design District

The Wynwood neighborhood is all about grafitti walls, hip vibe, and street art, while the nearby Design District is all about high-end shopping. In Wynwood, head straight to the Wynwood Wall s, which is Miami's outdoor street art museum. These walls will wow you while providing some Instagram-worthy pictures. If you haven't satisfied your street art fix, head to the Museum of Graffiti , where you can view the history of this street art or even take a quick class.

After your art fix, enjoy lunch at either 1-800 Lucky or Mr. Cheezious , or grab a donut at The Salty . If you prefer to move on and explore the high-end shopping of the Design District, then enjoy Ol'Days Farm to Table for lunch before shopping the day away at stores such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and other boutiques.

RELATED: Airboat Tours to See Alligators in the Everglades  

Little Havana, Downtown Miami, and Brickell

These neighborhoods have so much to offer you won't be able to fit it all into a day. Here are some options. Start your day at a museum. The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum  offers hands-on science and STEM exhibits and a planetarium. The Perez Art Museum , which is right across the street, offers guests beautiful art gallery exhibits. You can spend hours at both or just take your time at one. After the museum, head to the waterside Bayfront Park and enjoy lunch and shopping at  Bayside Marketplace or one of the other great family-friendly restaurants nearby, including  OkeyDokey food hall in Brickell or  Versaille in Little Havana.

If you prefer to start your day with a food tour, then head to Little Havana and enjoy a  walking food tour  lasting about three hours.

After lunch or your food tour, enjoy shopping at the Bayside Marketplace or at  Brickell City Centre . Besides shopping, these areas offer family fun and thrilling activities. You can enjoy a game of mini golf at Puttshack in Brickell City Centre; a Marlins game at Loan Depot Park near Little Havana during baseball season; a Miami Heat  game near Downtown during basketball season; or jump on the Thriller Miami Speedboat,  which departs from Bayside Marketplace.

RELATED: Guide to Classes for Kids in the Miami Area   

Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, Surfside, Sunny Isles, Aventura, and Watson Island

Miami Beach and its surrounding areas have so much to offer that one day is never enough. If you are looking to enjoy just walking around, browsing shops, taking in the sun at the beach, or sampling good food, then enjoy a day filled with the following in whatever order that works for you.

Restaurants for Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks for Kids

• Sugar Factory , Miami Beach: Good for brunch, lunch, and dinner, this restaurant has amazing signature drinks, milk shakes, and fun food.
• Barton G , Miami Beach: This is a splurge restaurant that provides the ultimate "wow" dining experience.
• Lincoln Road Food Hall : Great to browse the different food options, and everyone gets to eat what they want.
• Monty's Sunset , South Beach: Located poolside and waterfront on the docks of the Miami Beach Marina, it offers casual dining, fresh-caught local seafood, raw bar, live music, and stunning sunsets.
• Big Pink : A fun, retro diner experience.

Beaches and Parks for Kids

• South Pointe Beach , Miami Beach: This beach on the southern tip of Miami Beach offers a scenic oceanfront park and splash pad, sandy beach, fishing pier, off-leash dog area, and picnic space.
• South Beach : Between Fifth and 15th streets is Lummus Park. This area features the most traffic with tourists, a playground, volleyball nets, and white sand beaches.  After the beach, you can enjoy a drink or meal at one of the Ocean Drive cafés.
• Sunny Isles Beach : Sunny Isles Beach is a two-mile stretch of white-sand beaches where you can enjoy wide beaches and clear waters for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports.
• Oleta River Park : In between North Miami Beach and Sunny Isles, this park is a haven for mountain bikers, paddlers, anglers, and swimmers. You can enjoy a picnic along scenic Biscayne Bay or unwind while fishing.
• Lincoln Road, Miami Beach: An eight-block-long pedestrian mall with more than 200 boutiques and restaurants lining both sides of the street. You can shop at brands like All Saints, Mango, Ted Baker, Scotch & Soda, Zara, H&M, and popular brands like Adidas, Nike, Anthropologie, Lululemon, and more.

If you prefer to head to a museum, see animals, or do something thrilling, then enjoy the Miami Children's Museum ,  Jungle Island , and Treetop Trekking , both on Watson Island. If taking Instagram-worthy photos and being silly with your family is on the agenda, head to the Museum of Ilusions on Lincoln Road. You can also look into one of the day resort pass apps such as Resort Pass, or see if you can get a day pass at Tidal Cove at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry and enjoy hours of fun at an on-site water park. After that, head for lunch or dinner, or to one of the beaches.

Homestead, Cutler Bay, South Dade

As you go farther south, you can enjoy a day filled with animals at Zoo Miami in South Dade or at Everglades National Park . Both locations offer hours of fun and can be a whole day in and of themselves.

When going to Zoo Miami, don't forget your bathing suit for its on-site splash pad. Its playground offers kids extra fun aside from the animal feedings, shows, and huge exhibits of animals that are organized by continent.

At Everglades National Park, enjoy an airboat tour to see alligators and other Florida wildlife. This park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and home to endangered species such as the manatee, American crocodile, and Florida panther. Take a boat tour, ranger-led tour, or shark valley tram tour.

If you have extra time after the park or zoo, head to the Homestead Miami Speedway and take in a race. If you want to grab a bite, check out  Nando Grill for a meal or Knauss Berry Farm when open and grab one of its famous cinnamon buns. 

Virginia Key and Key Biscayne

This area of Miami is over a causeway and largely removed from the hustle and bustle of Miami Beach. Head directly to the Miami Seaquarium to see wildlife shows, aquarium tanks, swim with dolphins, or just roam and see what touch tanks you happen upon. After the aquarium, head to lunch at either of these waterfront restaurants on Virginia Key— Salt Waterfront or Rusty Pelican . If you prefer to continue on to Key Biscayne, enjoy lunch at the retro diner Donut Gallery.

If you prefer to spend a day at the beach on Key Biscayne, then Crandon Beach Park is your place to stop. This beach park has kayaks and kiteboards available for rent, nature tours, cabana rentals, a tennis center, golf course, and two miles of beach that is consistently named one of the top 10 beaches in the United States.

Places featured in this article:

Featured local savings.

• Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
• Let Us Call You CALL ME
• Drink Packages
• Flights by Celebrity℠
• Hotels by Celebrity
• Manage Reservation
• Shore Excursions
• Upgrade with MoveUp

• My Tier and Points
• Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

• South Korea
• New Zealand
• Grand Cayman
• St. Maarten
• U.S Virgin Islands
• New England & Canada
• Pacific Coast
• Antarctic Ocean
• Panama Canal
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• Cruise Ports (+300)
• Mediterranean

Perfect Day at CocoCay

• All Inclusive
• Bucket List Cruises
• Cruise & Land Package
• Groups & Events
• New Cruises
• Popular Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• Destination Highlights
• Group Excursions
• Private Journeys
• Shore Excursions Overview
• Small Group Discoveries

• 360° Virtual Tours
• Celebrity Apex
• Celebrity Ascent NEW
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Constellation
• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Eclipse
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Millennium
• Celebrity Reflection
• Celebrity Silhouette
• Celebrity Solstice
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Xcel COMING SOON
• Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

• Celebrity Flora
• Celebrity Xpedition
• Celebrity Xploration
• The Retreat
• Suite Life. Elevated.
• Iconic Suite
• Penthouse Suite
• Reflection Suite
• Royal Suite
• Signature Suite
• Celebrity Suite
• Aqua Sky Suite
• Horizon Suite
• Sunset Suite
• View All Suites
• Concierge Class
• Galapagos Accommodations
• Eat & Drink
• Entertainment
• Spa & Wellness

• Cruising 101
• Cruise Fare Options
• Cruise Tips
• First Time on a Cruise
• What is Included on a Cruise
• Future Cruise Vacations
• Accessible Cruising
• Captain's Club Rewards
• Cruise Insurance
• Flights by Celebrity
• Healthy at Sea
• Manage Cruise
• The Celebrity Store
• Travel Documents
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

• 75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings
• 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free
• Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
• Resident Rates
• Exciting Deals
• View All Offers
• All Included
• Cruise & Land Packages
• Dining Packages
• Photo Packages
• Wi-Fi Packages
• View All Packages
• Captain's Club Overview
• Join the Club
• Loyalty Exclusive Offers
• Tiers & Benefits
• Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $150.

Best 3-Day & 4-Day Cruises

Enjoy Island Life

A three- or four-day cruise to Key West and the Bahamas is the perfect getaway. Lounge on pristine beaches in The Bahamas and sail along dreamy coastlines with a cool rum punch in hand. In Key West, explore galleries and quirky pubs. You’ll come back feeling refreshed and relaxed.

On board our stylish, contemporary ships, you’ll have ample time to enjoy world-class cuisine, unwind by the pool, and indulge in blissful treatments in the spa. Elevate your experience to The Retreat®, where you’ll enjoy exclusive dining, a tranquil lounge, and suite accommodation. Unwind and recharge with a spectacular three- or four-day cruise with Celebrity Cruises.

Itineraries

View all 3-day & 4-day cruises, featured ports of call.

For the first time ever, we’re taking you to one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive islands, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination combines the best of beachside bliss and sun-soaked excitement.

Bustling Nassau offers an impressive range of activities for every taste. Admire the stately Georgian architecture and 18th-century Fort Montagu. Taste creamy conch chowder and decadent rum cake. Bask under the palms on Blue Lagoon Island, or drift amid rainbow-colored shoals of fish at Pearl Island. You could even join a watercolor class to capture the brilliant white, aquamarine, and sapphire-blue colors surrounding you.

The warm waters around sleepy Bimini beckon, whether you want to snorkel over multicolored reefs, look out for docile sharks from the comfort of a glass-bottomed boat, or head out to sea to learn how the locals fish for conch. While it’s tempting to swing in a hammock with a chilled rum punch in hand, there’s cultural interest here, too. Check out the Dolphin House, a labor of love built over time by a local historian using shells, sea glass, and upcycled materials from the ocean.

Quirky, bohemian Key West is so tiny you can explore it on foot, whether you’re headed for the white sands and colorful reefs of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park or prefer to check out the island’s many art galleries. Writer Ernest Hemingway lived here in the 1930s and his Spanish colonial-style mansion is now a museum. Look out for the six-toed cats that roam the tropical gardens. Whatever you do, be sure to make time for a slice of tangy Key lime pie, which originated here.

You Might Also Like

Bahamas Cruise from Miami

Cruises from Florida to Bahamas

Cruises from Florida

Cruises from Miami

Cruises from Fort Lauderdale

Best Time to Cruise the Caribbean

How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise

Best Cruises for Couples

How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon Cruise

How to Choose the Best Stateroom

Best Time to Cruise to The Bahamas

Best Short Cruises

Long Weekend Cruises

5-Day Cruises

Weekend Cruises

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

3 - Day The Bahamas from Miami, FL

Get to Know Carnival Conquest

Cruising aboard Carnival Conquest elevates fun at sea to an art form — the ship demonstrates a true mastery of the craft with an onboard collage of fun spots for you to enjoy, like Guy's Burger Joint ™ , RedFrog Rum Bar ® and SkyBox ™ Sports Bar. There's fun everywhere you look, from the dance club (great for people-watching) to the show lounges (great for show-watching). Alchemy Bar ® serves up not only one-of-a-kind drinks, but a complete experience for your senses. There's even The Punchliner Comedy Club ™ , which gives stand-up comedians a microphone and a place to share their craft for your enjoyment. And let's not forget Seuss at Sea ™ , which turns classic Dr. Seuss stories and characters into big fun for all. You don't need to be able to tell a Monet from a Renoir to dine in our two artful dining rooms, you just need to be hungry. You don't even need to be a critic to enjoy Dive-In Movies, where cinematic favorites are up on the big screen, poolside. With delicious food, bars and entertainment, Carnival Conquest features a scene for everybody.

Onboard Activities

Onboard Dining

change your itinerary

This world cruise takes you on an endless summer world

A new residential world cruise is preparing to set sail from Belfast, Ireland, and well-heeled cruisers can buy in for more than three years of summer.

The Villa Vie Odyssey is the second residential cruise program where travelers can buy a permanent cabin onboard. Its itinerary, set to depart on May 30, is designed to keep travelers in warmer climates throughout the sailing.

The route is broken up into 16 segments with 425 destinations planned over about 1,300 days. Travelers can purchase a cabin onboard or use the line’s pay-as-you-go plan.

Advice: There's more to booking a cruise than picking your travel dates. Here's what to know.

Purchase prices start at $99,000 for an inside cabin, plus a $1,750 monthly fee per person. Balcony cabins start at $249,000, with monthly fees starting at $4,000 per person. Owners can also bring guests aboard and rent out their cabins to other travelers when they are not sailing themselves.

Villa Vie also offers a one-time payment plan called Endless Horizons. Under that program, travelers have the right to occupy a cabin for life but are not necessarily assigned a single cabin for the duration of their travels. Those who choose the Endless Horizons option will pay $299,999 for single occupancy or $499,999 for double occupancy, and will not have to pay further monthly fees. 

For pay-as-you-go sailing, prices start at $89 per person per day, with segment lengths varying from 35 to 120 days. 

The Odyssey started its life as the Crown Dynasty in 1991 and most recently sailed as the MS Braemar with Fred Olsen Cruises. It’s been undergoing a refit in Belfast, and its current configuration has 485 cabins, called villas by the line.

The first segment will take the ship around northern Europe, including the fjords of Norway. 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Royal Destinations
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Required Travel Documents
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

3 Night Bahamas & Perfect Day Cruise

Your ship freedom of the seas.

GO FOR THE BOLD

Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠

Splashaway Bay℠

Laser Tag: Clash for the Crystal City℠

FlowRider ®

Soak up a new scene.

El Loco Fresh ®

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

Playmakers℠ Bar & Arcade

Chops Grille℠

Refueling reimagined.

The Lime and Coconut ®

Day 1: Miami, Florida

Called Culture

Blank Canvas

Local Cuisine

Day 2: Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon..

Thrill Waterpark

Daredevil’s Tower

Splash Summit

Adventure Pool

Coco Beach Club

Overwater Cabanas

Beach Cabanas

The Restaurant

Hideaway Beach

Hideaway Pool and Swim-up Bar

On the Rocks

Slice of Paradise

Hideaway Cabanas

Island Dining

Captain Jack's®

Skipper's Grill

Chill Grill

SNACK SHACK

THRILLS & CHILLS

UP, UP AND AWAY

Oasis lagoon.

South Beach

CAPTAIN JILL’S GALLEON

SPLASHAWAY BAY

CHILL ISLAND

Day 3: nassau, bahamas.

LEGENDARY LOST CITY

Private Paradise

LOUNGE LIKE A LOCAL

Day 4: Miami, Florida

• Getting Results.
• Newsletters

WEATHER ALERT

A special weather statement in effect for Osceola Region

Messi scores, but inter miami's 10-match mls unbeaten streak ends in 3-1 loss to atlanta united.

Tim Reynolds

Associated Press

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi, right, heads the ball as Atlanta United goalkeeper Josh Cohen (22) watches during the first half of an MLS soccer match Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Lionel Messi scored yet again. It was the lone real highlight for Inter Miami, as its 10-match Major League Soccer winning streak was ended by an Atlanta United side that got its first league win in nearly two months.

Saba Lobjanidze scored once in each half, Jamal Thiaré helped put the game away with a goal in the 73rd minute and Atlanta United snapped a nine-match MLS winless streak with a 3-1 victory on Wednesday night.

Recommended Videos

Atlanta United was 0-5-4 in MLS play since beating Chicago 3-0 on March 31. But it never trailed on Wednesday, with Lobjanidze scoring late in the first half to put his side on top and adding the second in the 59th minute. After Messi's score, Atlanta United kept all 10 field players in the defensive end whenever the hosts had deep possession in the final 30 minutes.

Messi got his 11th goal of the MLS season, tying Luis Suarez for the team lead. Inter Miami (10-3-4, 34 points) kept a one-point lead atop the Eastern Conference and the overall MLS standings over Cincinnati (10-3-3, 33 points). Cincinnati lost to Nashville on Wednesday night, missing a chance to take the top spot.

Inter Miami entered Wednesday with a 7-0-3 mark in its last 10 MLS matches. It is now 10-0-4 when allowing two goals or less in MLS play this season — and 0-3-0 when surrendering three goals or more.

So, Wednesday was a dud. The first half of the season, though, has gone largely to plan.

With 34 points through exactly half the MLS schedule — matching its total from all of the 2023 season, when Messi joined around the midway point and helped the team win Leagues Cup but couldn't get it into the playoffs — Inter Miami is on pace for 68 points this season.

Mathematically, yes, that's correct.

Realistically, well, probably not so much.

The plan, for now, calls for Messi to play at least some minutes when Inter Miami plays host to St. Louis on Saturday. After that, Messi will be trading Inter Miami's pink kit for the blue of Argentina — playing for country instead of club for a bit.

Copa América — the 16-team tournament which runs from June 20 through July 14 — is looming, with Messi set to play for defending champion Argentina and Suarez a possibility to play for Uruguay. They may miss MLS matches when Inter Miami plays at Philadelphia (June 15), vs. Columbus (June 19), at Nashville (June 29), at Charlotte (July 3) and at Cincinnati (July 6). Following the Copa América final, Miami also has home matches against Toronto (July 17) and Chicago (July 20).

Unlike most leagues, MLS schedules games during some FIFA fixture periods, when release of players to national teams is mandatory. And after Copa, it would seem likely that Inter Miami may lose some players again when national teams call for the Paris Olympics.

Messi had some opportunities in the early going, including a diving header about four minutes into the match off a chip into the middle of the box by Jordi Alba. Messi, fending off some contact, sent the ball into the turf and the carom spun over the crossbar; he gave Alba a thumbs-up for the idea as he picked himself up from the grass with a smile.

And in the 21st minute, Messi sent a chip toward the left post — just over a leaping Robert Taylor, who would have had plenty of net to aim for had he been able to attempt the header.

His goal in the 63rd minute was a typical Messi masterpiece, threading a ball between two defenders and just inside the right post, barely out of the reach of a diving Atlanta goalie Josh Cohen.

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.