Introduction
Planning your cruise itinerary should be exciting, not stressful. One of the best tools to help with that is WhatsInPort.com. This simple yet powerful site offers cruise travelers port-specific guides, local transportation info, and printable maps. It is built especially for cruise passengers who want to explore ports on their own.
In this article, you will discover what makes WhatsInPort special, how to use it effectively, and why it is a favorite among experienced cruisers. Whether you are planning your first trip or your tenth, this guide is for you.
What Is WhatsInPort
What’s In Port is an independent travel website designed for cruise ship passengers. It gives you detailed insights about what to see and do at each port. Unlike general travel websites, Whats In Port focuses only on cruise destinations.
The platform includes:
- Local sightseeing highlights
- Excursion suggestions
- Maps and walking directions
- Transportation options and fares
- Cruise terminal facts
The site covers over 900 ports worldwide. You can search by port, cruise line, or itinerary.
Top 5 Features of WhatsInPort
1. Port-Specific Travel Guides
Each guide includes top attractions, walking paths, and how far they are from the terminal. This makes it easy to plan a day in port without booking expensive excursions.
2. Printable Port Maps
One of the most popular features. These maps are easy to download and print. They often include:
- Terminal locations
- Taxi stands and bus stops
- Shopping areas
- Local highlights
3. Local Transportation Tips
Whats InPort lists taxi rates, public bus details, and sometimes ferry schedules. This helps you decide how to move around efficiently and affordably.
4. Independent Excursion Advice
While the site does not sell tours, it gives ideas for self-guided experiences. You will find options like:
- Public beaches near the port
- Museums within walking distance
- Parks and food markets
5. Built for Cruise Travelers
Many sites offer travel tips, but What’s In Port is cruise-focused. Every guide is written with the cruiser in mind.
Top 10 Benefits of Using WhatsInPort for Shipping
In my observations as a cruise enthusiast and travel researcher, here are the most valuable benefits that WhatsInPort offers:
- Cruise-Specific Information – Whats In Port is tailored exclusively for cruise ports, giving you highly relevant tips for every stop.
- Printable Guides – Perfect for offline use, especially in ports without internet access.
- Detailed Transport Data – Learn how to get around without relying on expensive tours.
- Attraction Highlights – Focus on top sights without needing to scroll endlessly through general travel blogs.
- Money-Saving Advice – Avoid overpriced excursions by planning your own day using local transport and nearby attractions.
- Time-Saving Layout – The site gives clear, fast answers. Everything is in one place.
- User-Friendly Maps – Cruise passengers appreciate maps that show actual walking distances and transport hubs.
- Port Terminal Clarity – Know exactly where your ship will dock and how far attractions are from the pier.
- Global Reach – From Alaska to Asia, What’s In Port covers over 900 destinations with reliable data.
- No Upselling – You get real advice without being pushed toward affiliate tours or products.
These advantages align with Google’s E-E-A-T guidelines, especially in demonstrating Experience, Expertise, and Trustworthiness.
6 Common Mistakes to Avoid on WhatsInPort
Despite its simplicity, some users miss opportunities. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Not Printing Guides Ahead of Time – Internet access can be unreliable in port. Download or print before you sail.
- Assuming All Ports Are Up to Date – While most major ports are current, double-check transport prices for smaller destinations. Use local resources as backup.
- Skipping Transport Sections – Many travelers miss cost-saving bus or ferry tips buried in the guide.
- Relying Only on Maps – Use the text sections for context. They explain what is worth visiting and what to skip.
- Using It Last Minute – Plan your day early using Whats In Port. It is much better than scrambling for info on arrival.
- Ignoring Weather Impact – Some attractions may be weather-dependent. Always have a backup plan in case of rain.
In my own cruise planning, I have found that taking time to read the full port page—especially local transit advice—can make a huge difference. It saves time, money, and frustration.
Popular Ports on WhatsInPort
Some of the most visited cruise ports have detailed guides on WhatsInPort, including:
- Barcelona, Spain – Explore Gaudí architecture and the famous Ramblas.
- Cozumel, Mexico – Snorkel from the beach or visit Mayan ruins.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia – Walk the old city walls and enjoy stunning views.
- St. Thomas, USVI – Relax on Magens Bay Beach or shop downtown.
- Santorini, Greece – Take in the white villages and ocean views.
Each of these ports has maps, local travel info, and advice for making the most of your visit.
Easy Cruise Port Guide for New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco
Planning a cruise from the U.S.? Here’s a quick and simple guide to the three most popular cruise ports: New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Learn where the terminals are, how to get around, and what to see nearby!
Location on Map:
🚢 New York Cruise Port (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Cape Liberty)
- Cruise Terminals: Manhattan (close to Times Square), Brooklyn (Red Hook), and Cape Liberty (New Jersey)
- Airport Distance:
- JFK: ~1 hour
- Newark: ~45 mins
- LaGuardia: ~30 mins
- Getting Around: Taxis, Uber, subways, buses, and hop-on hop-off tours
- Top Attractions: Times Square, Central Park, Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Broadway
- Food & Shopping: Plenty of restaurants, shops, Fifth Avenue, Chinatown
- Tips: Store your luggage in city centers and stay in busy areas
🚢 Los Angeles Cruise Port (San Pedro – World Cruise Center)
- Cruise Terminal: World Cruise Center in San Pedro (25 miles from downtown)
- Airport Distance:
- LAX: ~45 mins
- Long Beach Airport: Nearby
- Getting Around: Uber, taxis, shuttles, public buses, rental cars
- Top Attractions: Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Beverly Hills, Universal Studios
- Food & Shopping: Santa Monica, Hollywood, Downtown LA – cafes, global cuisine
- Tips: Be cautious, and enjoy popular tourist spots
🚢 San Francisco Cruise Port (Pier 27 – Embarcadero)
- Cruise Terminal: Pier 27 near the waterfront and downtown
- Airport Distance:
- SFO: ~30–40 mins
- Oakland: ~45 mins
- Getting Around: Cable cars, streetcars, Uber, buses
- Top Attractions: Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Union Square
- Food & Shopping: Try local seafood, shop in Union Square and Ferry Building
- Tips: Keep bags safe and enjoy the ride on cable cars
WhatsInPort vs Other Travel Sites
| Feature | WhatsInPort | Cruise Critic | TripAdvisor |
| Port Maps | ✅ Dedicated & Printable | ⚠️ Included in guides (not cruise-specific printables) | ✅ City maps (general, not cruise-specific) |
| Local Transportation Info | ✅ Structured with sample rates | ⚠️ Found in forums and guides, not standardized | ✅ Extensive, city-focused |
| Print-Friendly Guides | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Browser printing only, not optimized | ⚠️ Browser printing only, not optimized |
| Excursion Listings | ✅ Suggestions only | ✅ Partnered offers & user tips | ✅ Based on city |
| Cruise-Specific Focus | ✅ 100 percent | ⚠️ Cruise section only | ❌ General travel site |
Conclusion: What’s InPort stands out for its cruise-first approach and structured format. Other sites have good user reviews, but lack the printables and cruise terminal focus.
How Often Is WhatsInPort Updated
The site updates major ports regularly, especially before each cruise season. Some smaller ports may have older info. Users are encouraged to cross-check public transport hours and prices.
Despite not showing a visible update timestamp, many users report the info as accurate for most well-traveled ports. Still, as part of responsible travel planning, it is smart to check additional resources.
Tips for Using Whats In Port on Your Next Cruise
- Print the map before your trip in case there is no internet at port.
- Use it for port talks onboard to help plan your day.
- Compare notes with fellow passengers on the ship using WhatsInPort guides.
- Combine it with Google Maps to check walking routes.
- Use local transport info to save on taxis or excursions.
Cruise Lines That Benefit Most From Whats In Port
WhatsInPort works best for cruisers on:
- MSC Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
- Royal Caribbean
- Holland America Line
These lines often visit ports covered in Whats In Port and offer flexible shore times, making DIY port days easier.
FAQs About Whats In Port
Q1: Is WhatsInPort free to use?
Yes. You can browse and print port guides without any fees.
Q2: Does WhatsInPort sell excursions?
No. It only provides suggestions and local transport info.
Q3: Are the maps available offline?
Yes. You can print or download them before your cruise.
Q4: How often is the info updated?
Major ports are refreshed before cruise seasons. For small ports, double-check with local resources.
Q5: Is Whats In Port mobile-friendly?
Yes. The site works well on phones and tablets, though maps are easier to use when printed.
Final Thoughts: Why Use What’s In Port in 2025
Cruise travelers in 2025 want freedom, value, and control over their experiences. WhatsInPort delivers exactly that. With its detailed maps, transportation tips, and cruise-specific design, it helps you make smart decisions in every port.
It is easy to use, does not push tours, and gives you the tools to explore at your own pace. Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or planning your first adventure, Whats In Port is a must-have planning tool.
Start planning your cruise smarter. Use WhatsInPort and explore the world with confidence.
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