Spring Break 2026 Cruise Deals from New Jersey: Complete Booking Guide

**Published**: February 9, 2026 | **Updated**: February 9, 2026 **Reading Time**: 12 minutes

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Spring break 2026 is shaping up to be one of the best years ever for New Jersey cruise travelers. With 66 sailings departing from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne—just 25 minutes from Essex County—families, couples, and groups can skip the airport entirely and board a world-class cruise ship right here in the Garden State. Prices start at just $390 per person, and with Royal Caribbean offering 59 sailings and Celebrity adding 7 premium voyages, there is something for every budget and travel style.

But here is the reality: spring break is the most competitive booking window of the year. Cabin inventory is already shrinking, and the best balcony and suite options will disappear weeks before departure. If you are planning a spring break cruise from New Jersey, the time to book is now.

In this complete guide, we break down every deal, itinerary, and strategy you need to lock in the perfect spring break cruise from Cape Liberty or the Newark area.

📞 Ready to book your spring break cruise? Call 833-874-1019 for personalized deals and cabin availability.

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Why Spring Break 2026 Is the Year to Cruise from New Jersey

Spring break 2026 represents a perfect storm of value for New Jersey cruise travelers. Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne has expanded its sailing schedule, cruise lines are competing aggressively for spring break bookings, and Wave Season 2026 promotions are still in full swing.

The Cape Liberty Advantage

Cape Liberty is the closest major cruise port to Essex County, Morris County, Union County, and Hudson County. Located in Bayonne, it sits just:

**25 minutes** from downtown Newark
**30 minutes** from Montclair, West Orange, and Livingston
**35 minutes** from Morristown and surrounding Morris County towns
**20 minutes** from Jersey City, Hoboken, and Hudson County
**40 minutes** from Elizabeth, Cranford, and Union County communities

This means no flights, no airport security lines, and no jet lag. You drive to the port, park your car, and walk onto your ship. For families with kids, this eliminates hours of stressful airport travel and lets your vacation start the moment you leave your driveway.

2026 Cape Liberty Sailing Schedule

The numbers tell the story of Cape Liberty's growing importance:

| Statistic | 2026 Spring Season | |-----------|-------------------| | **Total Sailings** | 66 from Cape Liberty | | **Royal Caribbean** | 59 sailings | | **Celebrity Cruises** | 7 sailings | | **Starting Price** | $390/person | | **Ships Deployed** | Independence, Oasis, Odyssey of the Seas, Celebrity Silhouette | | **Destinations** | Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, Bermuda |

Wave Season 2026 Is Still Active

January through March is "Wave Season" in the cruise industry—the period when cruise lines release their most aggressive promotions to fill spring and summer cabins. Right now, deals include 75% off second guests, onboard credit up to $600, free drink packages, and reduced deposits. These offers layer on top of already competitive spring break pricing, creating the deepest discounts of the year.

For a deeper dive into Wave Season strategy, check out our [Wave Season 2026 Cruise Booking Guide](/blog/wave-season-2026-cruise-booking-guide).

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Spring Break 2026 Cruise Deals by Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean from Cape Liberty

Royal Caribbean dominates the Cape Liberty schedule with 59 sailings in the spring season, deploying three of its most popular ships. For families, Royal Caribbean is the gold standard—their ships feature waterslides, surf simulators, rock climbing walls, and kids' clubs that keep children entertained while parents relax.

Odyssey of the Seas — 5 Weekly March Sailings

Odyssey of the Seas is the star of spring break 2026 at Cape Liberty. This Quantum Ultra-class ship offers 5 consecutive weekly departures in March:

| Departure Date | Itinerary | Nights | Starting Price | Highlights | |---------------|-----------|--------|---------------|------------| | **March 2, 2026** | Bahamas & Perfect Day | 7 | $489/person | CocoCay, Nassau | | **March 9, 2026** | Bahamas & Perfect Day | 7 | $449/person | CocoCay, Nassau | | **March 16, 2026** | Bahamas & Perfect Day | 7 | $529/person | Peak spring break week | | **March 23, 2026** | Bahamas & Perfect Day | 7 | $499/person | CocoCay, Nassau | | **March 30, 2026** | Bahamas & Perfect Day | 7 | $459/person | Late spring break |

Every Odyssey sailing includes a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas. This island features Thrill Waterpark (the tallest waterslide in North America), a massive freshwater pool, exclusive beach areas, and complimentary dining. For families, CocoCay alone is worth the cruise.

Independence of the Seas — Classic Spring Break Sailings

Independence of the Seas offers shorter 4-5 night itineraries perfect for families who want a taste of cruising without a full week commitment:

**4-Night Bahamas**: Starting at $390/person — visits Nassau and CocoCay
**5-Night Bahamas**: Starting at $430/person — adds a sea day for relaxation
Perfect for first-time cruisers or families with younger children
FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing wall, ice skating rink onboard

Oasis of the Seas — The Ultimate Ship

Oasis of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world and brings its massive scale to Cape Liberty for spring break 2026:

7-night Eastern Caribbean itineraries
7 distinct neighborhoods onboard including Central Park and Boardwalk
The Ultimate Abyss (10-story slide), zip line, Broadway shows
Starting from $549/person for interior cabins
Best for families who want maximum onboard activities

**Royal Caribbean Spring Break Deals:** - **75% off second guest** on select sailings - **Kids Sail Free** on select March departures - **Up to $600 onboard credit** when booking suites - **Reduced deposit**: $100/person instead of standard $250

Celebrity Cruises from Cape Liberty

Celebrity Cruises offers a more refined, premium cruise experience from Cape Liberty with 7 sailings aboard Celebrity Silhouette. This is ideal for adults-only trips, couples, and travelers who prefer a quieter, more upscale atmosphere.

Celebrity Silhouette Highlights:

Solstice-class ship with elegant modern design
Lawn Club: real grass lawn on the top deck
AquaClass staterooms with spa-inspired amenities
Qsine restaurant: one of the most creative dining experiences at sea
Canyon Ranch SpaClub for premium wellness treatments

Celebrity Spring Break Sailings:

| Departure | Itinerary | Nights | Starting Price | |-----------|-----------|--------|---------------| | **March 7, 2026** | Eastern Caribbean | 7 | $599/person | | **March 14, 2026** | Bahamas & Bermuda | 7 | $579/person | | **March 21, 2026** | Eastern Caribbean | 7 | $649/person | | **March 28, 2026** | Southern Caribbean | 10 | $849/person |

**Celebrity Deals:** - **Always Included**: Drinks, Wi-Fi, and tips included in the fare - **75% off second guest** on select sailings - **Onboard credit up to $400** for balcony and above

Other Cruise Lines from the Newark Area

While Cape Liberty is the closest port, New Jersey residents also have access to sailings from nearby terminals:

**Norwegian Cruise Line from Manhattan Terminal** - Manhattan Cruise Terminal is a 30-40 minute drive from Essex County - Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway offer 7-night Caribbean itineraries - Starting from $499/person with Free at Sea promotions (free drinks, excursions, Wi-Fi)

**Carnival Cruise Line** - Sailings from nearby ports with shuttle connections - Budget-friendly options starting at $349/person - Best for first-time cruisers and families on tight budgets - Fun Ship 2.0 features including waterslides and comedy shows

**MSC Cruises** - European-style cruising with modern ships - Competitive spring break pricing from $429/person - MSC Yacht Club offers ship-within-a-ship luxury experience

**Virgin Voyages** - Adults-only cruising for 18+ travelers - Departures from nearby ports - All-inclusive concept (dining, fitness, Wi-Fi included) - Starting from $699/person for spring break sailings

For more details on Royal Caribbean specifically, visit our [Royal Caribbean cruise guide](/cruises/royal-caribbean).

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Best Spring Break Cruise Itineraries for NJ Families

Choosing the right itinerary depends on your budget, available time, and what your family wants from the trip. Here is a breakdown of the most popular options sailing from or near New Jersey.

4-5 Night Bahamas (Budget-Friendly, Short)

**Best For:** First-time cruisers, families with young kids, budget-conscious travelers

The short Bahamas itinerary is the most affordable way to cruise from Cape Liberty during spring break. You get 2-3 port stops including Perfect Day at CocoCay, Nassau, and sometimes a sea day—all without using up an entire week of vacation time.

**Duration:** 4-5 nights
**Starting Price:** $390/person
**Ports:** Nassau, Perfect Day at CocoCay
**Weather:** 78-82°F (26-28°C) in March
**Best Ship:** Independence of the Seas

**Why Families Love It:** Short enough that younger kids (ages 3-7) stay engaged without getting restless. CocoCay has a splash pad and kids' area that is included in the fare. Parents get a beach day while kids play in supervised areas.

7-Night Eastern Caribbean (Most Popular)

**Best For:** Families wanting a full vacation, best variety of ports

The 7-night Eastern Caribbean is the most popular spring break itinerary from Cape Liberty. You visit 3-4 ports across the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. or British Virgin Islands, with sea days built in for relaxation.

**Duration:** 7 nights
**Starting Price:** $449/person
**Ports:** San Juan, St. Thomas, CocoCay, Nassau (varies by sailing)
**Weather:** 80-85°F (27-29°C)
**Best Ships:** Odyssey of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas

**Why Families Love It:** Enough time to truly unwind, explore multiple cultures, and enjoy the ship's amenities without rushing. The mix of beach days and city ports (San Juan) gives everyone something to enjoy.

7-Night Western Caribbean (Cozumel, Jamaica, Grand Cayman)

**Best For:** Adventure seekers, snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, cultural travelers

Western Caribbean itineraries from the tri-state area typically include Cozumel (Mexico), Jamaica, and Grand Cayman. These ports offer some of the best excursions in the Caribbean—from Mayan ruins to world-class snorkeling.

**Duration:** 7 nights
**Starting Price:** $479/person
**Ports:** Cozumel, Jamaica (Falmouth or Ocho Rios), Grand Cayman
**Weather:** 82-87°F (28-31°C)
**Highlights:** Chichén Itzá excursion, Dunn's River Falls, Stingray City

**Why Families Love It:** Active families with older kids (10+) will thrive on the excursion options. Cozumel has some of the world's best snorkeling right from the port. Jamaica offers cultural immersion that is genuinely educational.

Bermuda Cruises (3-4 Day Quick Getaway)

**Best For:** Couples, weekend warriors, travelers with limited time

Bermuda is closer to New Jersey than the Caribbean, making it possible to do a quick 3-4 night sailing. The pink sand beaches, British colonial charm, and turquoise waters make Bermuda feel like a world away despite being just 650 miles offshore.

**Duration:** 3-4 nights
**Starting Price:** $399/person
**Ports:** King's Wharf, Hamilton (some itineraries)
**Weather:** 70-75°F (21-24°C) in late March/April
**Note:** Best for late spring break (late March-April) when Bermuda weather warms up

Spring Break Itinerary Comparison

| Itinerary | Duration | Starting Price | Best For | Weather | |-----------|----------|---------------|----------|---------| | **Bahamas Short** | 4-5 nights | $390/person | Budget, young kids | 78-82°F | | **Eastern Caribbean** | 7 nights | $449/person | Full vacation, variety | 80-85°F | | **Western Caribbean** | 7 nights | $479/person | Adventure, culture | 82-87°F | | **Bermuda** | 3-4 nights | $399/person | Quick trip, couples | 70-75°F |

For more Caribbean cruise information, see our [Caribbean cruise deals page](/cruises/caribbean).

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When to Book Your Spring Break Cruise (Timing Strategy)

Timing your booking correctly can mean the difference between a balcony cabin at a great price and settling for an interior room at a premium. Here is the strategy Essex County travel experts recommend.

Wave Season 2026 Deals Are Still Active

We are currently in the heart of Wave Season 2026 (January through March), which means cruise lines are offering their deepest discounts of the year. These include:

**Royal Caribbean:** 75% off second guest + up to $600 onboard credit
**Celebrity:** Always Included pricing (drinks, Wi-Fi, tips) + 75% off second guest
**Norwegian:** Free at Sea (choose 2-4 free perks: drinks, excursions, Wi-Fi, specialty dining)
**Carnival:** Early Saver Rate with price protection guarantee

**Important:** Wave Season deals typically expire in March. If you are reading this in February 2026, you still have time—but the window is closing. Read our [Wave Season 2026 guide](/blog/wave-season-2026-cruise-booking-guide) for the full breakdown.

Cabin Selection Narrows Fast

Spring break is the second-busiest cruise booking period after summer. Here is how cabin availability typically progresses:

**Suites**: Sell out 4-6 months before departure (many already gone)
**Balcony cabins**: Sell out 2-3 months before departure (book by mid-February)
**Ocean view**: Sell out 1-2 months before departure
**Interior cabins**: Last to sell, but best locations go early

**For March 2026 spring break sailings:** Suites are largely sold out. Balcony cabins are going fast. If you want a balcony on a peak March sailing, book this week.

Deposit Requirements and Cancellation Policies

Most cruise lines offer flexible booking terms for spring break 2026:

**Standard deposit:** $100-$250/person (reduced during Wave Season)
**Final payment due:** 75-90 days before departure
**Cancellation:** Full refund minus deposit if cancelled before final payment
**Travel insurance:** Strongly recommended for spring break (weather, illness, schedule changes)

**Pro Tip:** Book with Next Trip Anywhere and we handle all deposit tracking, payment reminders, and cancellation assistance. One less thing to worry about. Call **833-874-1019**.

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Spring Break Cruise Packing and Planning Tips

What to Pack for Caribbean Weather (March/April)

March Caribbean weather is ideal for cruising: warm, sunny, and low humidity. Pack accordingly:

**Essentials:** - Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton and linen) - Swimsuits (at least 2-3 per person) - Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended) - Sun hat and quality sunglasses - Comfortable walking shoes for port excursions - Light rain jacket (brief tropical showers are common)

**For Formal Nights:** - Most 7-night cruises have 1-2 formal evenings - Men: collared shirt and slacks minimum; suit or sport coat for formal night - Women: cocktail dress or elegant separates - Kids: neat casual is usually accepted

Temperature Guide:

| Destination | March Avg High | March Avg Low | Water Temp | |-------------|---------------|---------------|------------| | **Bahamas** | 80°F (27°C) | 69°F (21°C) | 76°F (24°C) | | **Eastern Caribbean** | 84°F (29°C) | 73°F (23°C) | 79°F (26°C) | | **Western Caribbean** | 86°F (30°C) | 74°F (23°C) | 80°F (27°C) | | **Bermuda** | 72°F (22°C) | 62°F (17°C) | 66°F (19°C) |

Passport and Documentation Reminders

**U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises** (depart and return to same U.S. port): A passport is strongly recommended but not legally required. A birth certificate + government-issued photo ID is accepted.
**However:** We always recommend a valid passport. If you miss the ship at a foreign port, you need a passport to fly home.
**Children:** Require a birth certificate at minimum. Passport recommended.
**Processing time:** Standard U.S. passport processing is 6-8 weeks. If yours is expired, apply now or use expedited service (2-3 weeks, additional fee).

Cape Liberty Embarkation Day Tips

Having helped thousands of Essex County families depart from Cape Liberty, here are our top embarkation day tips:

**Arrive between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM** for the smoothest check-in experience. Avoid the 1:00-2:00 PM rush.
**Check in online** 72 hours before departure. Upload your passport photo and complete health screenings to save 30+ minutes at the terminal.
**Eat before you arrive.** The terminal has limited food options, and the ship's buffet opens around 11:30 AM. Have a good breakfast at home.
**Bring a carry-on bag** with swimsuits, medication, and essentials. Your checked luggage may not arrive at your cabin until 4-6 PM.
**Download the cruise line app** before departure. Royal Caribbean's app lets you check in, book excursions, and view your schedule.

Driving Directions from Essex County

**From Newark/East Orange/Irvington:** Take I-78 East to the NJ Turnpike South. Exit 14A to I-78 East/Bayonne. Follow signs to Cape Liberty Cruise Port. Total: ~25 minutes without traffic.

**From Montclair/West Orange/Livingston:** Take I-280 East to the NJ Turnpike South. Exit 14A, follow signs to Cape Liberty. Total: ~30-35 minutes.

**From Morristown/Morris County:** Take I-287 South to I-78 East to the NJ Turnpike. Exit 14A to Cape Liberty. Total: ~40-45 minutes.

**From Jersey City/Hoboken:** Take the local streets south through Bayonne or Route 440 South. Follow signs to Cape Liberty. Total: ~15-20 minutes.

Parking at Cape Liberty

**Standard parking:** $22/day ($154 for a 7-night cruise)
**Covered parking:** $27/day ($189 for a 7-night cruise)
**Pre-book online** to guarantee a spot during peak spring break weeks
**Alternative:** Have someone drop you off or use a ride service. The terminal has a dedicated drop-off area.

For more port-specific information, visit our [Cape Liberty cruise port guide](/cruises/cape-liberty-port).

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Spring Break 2026 Cruise Pricing Comparison

Here is a comprehensive look at spring break cruise pricing across all major lines accessible from New Jersey.

Full Pricing Comparison Table

| Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | Starting Price | Best Deal | |-------------|------|-----------|--------|---------------|-----------| | **Royal Caribbean** | Odyssey of the Seas | Bahamas + CocoCay | 7 | $449/person | 75% off 2nd guest | | **Royal Caribbean** | Independence of the Seas | Bahamas Short | 4 | $390/person | Kids Sail Free | | **Royal Caribbean** | Oasis of the Seas | Eastern Caribbean | 7 | $549/person | $600 onboard credit (suite) | | **Celebrity** | Silhouette | Eastern Caribbean | 7 | $599/person | Always Included | | **Celebrity** | Silhouette | Southern Caribbean | 10 | $849/person | 75% off 2nd guest | | **Norwegian** | Breakaway | Caribbean | 7 | $499/person | Free at Sea (4 perks) | | **Carnival** | Various | Bahamas | 5 | $349/person | Early Saver Rate | | **MSC** | Various | Caribbean | 7 | $429/person | Kids Free on select | | **Virgin Voyages** | Various | Caribbean | 5 | $699/person | All-inclusive |

Budget vs Mid-Range vs Premium Tiers

**Budget Tier ($349-$449/person):** - Carnival 5-night Bahamas - Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas 4-night - MSC 7-night Caribbean - Best for: price-sensitive families, first-time cruisers

**Mid-Range Tier ($449-$599/person):** - Royal Caribbean Odyssey 7-night - Royal Caribbean Oasis 7-night (interior) - Norwegian Breakaway 7-night with Free at Sea - Best for: families wanting balance of value and experience

**Premium Tier ($599-$849+/person):** - Celebrity Silhouette 7-night (Always Included) - Celebrity Southern Caribbean 10-night - Virgin Voyages 5-night (adults-only) - Royal Caribbean suites on any ship - Best for: couples, adults-only trips, luxury seekers

Hidden Costs to Watch For

While the advertised fares are real, there are additional costs every cruiser should budget for:

| Cost Category | Budget Estimate | Notes | |--------------|----------------|-------| | **Gratuities** | $16-$20/person/day | Auto-charged; Celebrity includes in Always Included | | **Drink Package** | $60-$90/person/day | Included with Celebrity; optional on Royal Caribbean | | **Excursions** | $50-$150/person/port | Book through cruise line or independently | | **Wi-Fi** | $15-$25/day | Included with Celebrity and Norwegian Free at Sea | | **Specialty Dining** | $35-$75/person/meal | Optional; main dining is included | | **Port Parking** | $22-$27/day | Cape Liberty parking |

**Pro Tip:** Celebrity's Always Included fare bundles drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities into the base price. When you factor in these "hidden" costs, Celebrity often matches or beats Royal Caribbean's total trip cost despite a higher advertised fare.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cruise line for a spring break family cruise from NJ?

**Royal Caribbean** is the top pick for families. Their ships at Cape Liberty (Odyssey, Oasis, Independence of the Seas) have the most family-friendly amenities: waterslides, surf simulators, rock climbing walls, and Adventure Ocean kids' clubs. Perfect Day at CocoCay is a massive hit with kids of all ages. Prices start at $390/person, and Kids Sail Free promotions run on select March sailings.

What is the cheapest spring break cruise from New Jersey?

The most affordable option is **Carnival's 5-night Bahamas cruise starting at $349/person** from nearby ports. From Cape Liberty specifically, **Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas 4-night Bahamas starts at $390/person**. Both include all meals, entertainment, and basic amenities in the fare.

When should I book my spring break cruise for the best price?

**Right now.** We are in Wave Season 2026 (January-March), when cruise lines offer their deepest discounts. For March 2026 departures, balcony cabins are already selling out. The general rule: book 3-6 months ahead for the best cabin selection at the best price. Waiting until the last minute may get you a slightly lower fare, but you will be stuck with the worst cabin locations.

What is included in the cruise fare?

All cruise fares include: your cabin, all meals in the main dining room and buffet, room service (basic items), pools and fitness center, entertainment (shows, live music, movies), and kids' clubs. **Not included:** alcoholic beverages (unless you buy a package or sail Celebrity Always Included), specialty restaurants, shore excursions, spa treatments, gratuities (except Celebrity), and Wi-Fi (except Celebrity and Norwegian Free at Sea).

How much does parking cost at Cape Liberty?

Standard parking at Cape Liberty is **$22/day** ($154 for a 7-night cruise). Covered/garage parking is **$27/day** ($189 for 7 nights). We strongly recommend pre-booking parking online during spring break weeks, as the lot can fill up. Alternatively, have someone drop you off or take a ride service to the terminal.

Do I need a passport for a spring break cruise from Cape Liberty?

For closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to Cape Liberty), U.S. citizens are not legally required to have a passport—a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID are accepted. **However, we strongly recommend a valid passport.** If you miss the ship at a foreign port due to illness, emergency, or any other reason, you will need a passport to fly home. Passport processing takes 6-8 weeks, so apply now if yours is expired.

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Book Your Spring Break Cruise Today

Spring break 2026 is just weeks away, and the best cabin selections are disappearing fast. Whether you want a budget-friendly 4-night Bahamas getaway on Independence of the Seas or a premium 10-night Southern Caribbean voyage on Celebrity Silhouette, Next Trip Anywhere is here to make it happen.

Why Book Through Next Trip Anywhere?

**Local NJ expertise:** We have helped thousands of Essex County, Morris County, Union County, and Hudson County families book cruises from Cape Liberty. We know the port, the ships, and the best deals inside and out.
**Personalized service:** Unlike booking online, you get a dedicated travel specialist who knows your preferences, tracks your booking, and handles any issues that arise.
**Price match guarantee:** We monitor cruise pricing daily. If the price drops after you book, we rebook at the lower rate—no questions asked.
**Group and family rates:** Booking for 4+ cabins? We negotiate group rates directly with cruise lines for additional savings.
**Payment plans:** Spread your cruise cost over monthly payments with no interest or fees.

📞 Call 833-874-1019 today to speak with a cruise specialist. Or [contact us online](/contact) for a free, no-obligation quote.

We serve all of northern New Jersey, including Essex County (Newark, Montclair, West Orange, Livingston, Bloomfield, Nutley), Morris County (Morristown, Parsippany, Denville), Union County (Elizabeth, Cranford, Westfield, Summit), and Hudson County (Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne, Weehawken).

Your spring break cruise is waiting. Let us help you find the perfect one.

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**Next Trip Anywhere** Serving Essex County and Northern New Jersey since 2010 Licensed, bonded, and trusted by your neighbors

**📞 Call Now: 833-874-1019** **Office Hours**: Monday-Friday 9 AM - 6 PM, Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM **After-Hours Emergency Line**: 833-874-1019 (24/7)

*See also: [All-Inclusive Caribbean Packages](/packages/all-inclusive-caribbean) | [Caribbean Cruise Deals](/cruises/caribbean) | [First-Time Cruise Guide](/blog/first-time-caribbean-cruise-guide-newark) | [How to Choose Your Perfect Caribbean Cruise](/blog/how-to-choose-perfect-caribbean-cruise-2026)*