New York - Red Hook-Brooklyn Cruise Port

The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is located in the Red Hook neighbourhood of Brooklyn, overlooking Upper New York Bay. It serves as a turnaround port, with many cruises beginning and ending here, although some itineraries also include Brooklyn as a port of call. The terminal occupies Pier 12 beside Buttermilk Channel, the waterway separating Brooklyn from Governors Island, and accommodates one cruise ship at a time. From the waterfront, passengers enjoy open views across the harbour, including the Statue of Liberty.

Red Hook has deep maritime roots and was once one of New York's busiest working waterfronts. During the early twentieth century, the neighbourhood played an important role in the city's shipping industry, with nearby Erie Basin providing extensive dock and repair facilities. The modern Brooklyn Cruise Terminal opened in 2006, giving New York an additional cruise gateway while preserving the area's long connection with the sea.

Although quieter than Midtown Manhattan, Red Hook has developed its own distinctive character. Former warehouses and industrial buildings now sit alongside cafés, restaurants, galleries and small independent businesses, while the waterfront offers excellent views of passing ships and the New York skyline. The neighbourhood rewards visitors who enjoy exploring on foot, with a mix of historic streets and a relaxed atmosphere that feels different from many of the city's busier districts.

The terminal is well connected to the rest of New York. Ferries provide a scenic link to Lower Manhattan, while taxis and rideshare services offer convenient access to the city's airports and major attractions. Public transport is also available, with nearby subway stations connecting Red Hook to the wider network. As with any cruise departure, passengers should always check their boarding documents for the correct terminal and arrival instructions before travelling.

The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal combines modern cruise facilities with one of New York's historic waterfront neighbourhoods. Whether you arrive early to explore Red Hook or continue into Manhattan before or after your cruise, it provides an appealing introduction to one of the world's great harbour cities. On The Cruise Globe, you can see exactly where your ship was docked during your visit.