Many cruise lines offer two- to four-day nonstop “cruises to nowhere” that leave and return to the same port. For the cruise lines, they can be a way to give a new ship a test float. For passengers, they offer an affordable aquatic getaway. And for some, part of the appeal is getting out into international waters to double down on the blackjack tables.
Following are just a few upcoming cruises:
United States: Carnival Cruises offers two-day cruises from Miami on Sept. 5 (from $237) and Norfolk, Virginia, on Oct. 17 (from $220). 1-800-CARNIVAL, carnival.com.
In 2004, Cunard Line will run a three-night Mother’s Day weekend cruise from New York City May 7 to 10 (from $599), and a four-night cruise in July (from $749). 1-800-728-6273.
SYDNEY: P&O Cruises’ three-nighter embarks March 26, 2004. Prices start at $795 Australian (about US$540). 61-213-2469, pocruises.com.au.
HONG KONG: Star Cruises runs daily, offering all-night karaoke and gambling. Prices start at HK$389 for Hong Kong residents, and HK$610 (about US$80) for nonresidents. 852-2-317-7711, www.starcruises.com.hk.
CAPE TOWN: Starlight Cruises launches its next two-day excursion Dec. 6. From 2,245 rand (about US$300). 021-555-0900. www.starlight.co.za.
