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Cruise from Bremerhaven - From Germany to the World
Bremerhaven, the seaside city on the North Sea, is not only a significant port but also a first-class starting point for unforgettable cruises. With its modern cruise terminal, the city offers optimal conditions for the start of your sea voyage. Over the years, Bremerhaven has become one of the most popular departure points for cruises. AIDA, TUI Cruises, and other major cruise lines start German-speaking cruises from here. We have compiled the most important information and tips for you to be best prepared for your journey from Bremerhaven.
The Cruise Port of Bremerhaven
Every cruise naturally begins with the arrival at the port and boarding via the cruise terminal. In Bremerhaven, the first point of contact is the Columbus Cruise Center Bremerhaven (CCCB), one of the most established cruise ports in Europe. Here are some facts about the CCCB:
- Opening: 2003
- Capacity: Up to 4 cruise ships simultaneously
- Passenger handling: Up to 2,000 people per hour
- Location: Directly at the Columbus Quay, just a few minutes' walk from the city center
From experience, the terminal offers all amenities for a smooth start to your cruise, from check-in counters to baggage handling and security checks at the highest level. The staff is also very helpful, highly professional, and assists you with questions and problems of any kind.
Cruise Lines Departing from Bremerhaven
Next, let's look at which cruises depart from Bremerhaven. Several renowned cruise companies use Bremerhaven as a home port:
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AIDA Cruises
- Known for: German-speaking cruises, modern ambiance
- Popular ships: AIDAprima, AIDAnova
- Learn more about AIDA here
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TUI Cruises
- Known for: "Mein Schiff" fleet, feel-good concept
- Popular ships: Mein Schiff 3, Mein Schiff 4
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MSC Cruises
- Known for: International atmosphere, large ships
- Popular ships: MSC Preziosa, MSC Grandiosa
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Phoenix Reisen
- Known for: Classic cruises, smaller ships
- Popular ships: MS Amadea, MS Amera
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Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
- Known for: Luxury cruises, expedition voyages
- Popular ships: MS Europa 2, HANSEATIC nature
Fascinating Itineraries from Bremerhaven
From Bremerhaven, you can embark on a variety of exciting destinations. Here's a list of exciting routes and destinations from Bremerhaven:
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Norwegian Fjords
- Highlights: Geirangerfjord, North Cape, Tromsø
- Best travel time: May to September
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British Isles
- Highlights: London, Edinburgh, Dublin
- Best travel time: April to October
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Baltic Sea
- Highlights: Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg
- Best travel time: June to August
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Iceland and Greenland
- Highlights: Reykjavik, Ilulissat Icefjord, Northern Lights
- Best travel time: July to September
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Western European Metropolises
- Highlights: Amsterdam, Paris (Le Havre), Lisbon
- Best travel time: April to October
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Transatlantic
- Highlights: New York, Miami, Caribbean
- Best travel time: Year-round (depending on destination)
Getting to Bremerhaven
Crucial for the start of a cruise is already a stress-free and seamless arrival, usually the day before departure. Fortunately, Bremerhaven is excellently connected to the general transport network and offers you many different travel options:
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By Car
- Via the A27 (Bremen-Cuxhaven)
- Parking available at the cruise terminal (advance booking recommended)
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By Train
- ICE/IC connections to Bremen Central Station
- Regional train RB33/RS2 from Bremen to Bremerhaven (approx. 1 hour)
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By Plane
- Nearest airport: Bremen (BRE), about 60 km away
- Shuttle service or rental car to the cruise terminal
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Public Transport
- Bus line 509 from the main station to the cruise terminal
As you can see, Bremerhaven is a very well-connected port, so you can easily get there in various ways. You can find some tips to make your arrival even more relaxed in our tips section at the end of this article.
Attractions in Bremerhaven
If you have the chance to set sail from a historic port city like Bremerhaven, use the time before or after your cruise to really explore Bremerhaven. Here are some attractions you shouldn't miss:
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German Emigration Center
- Interactive museum on the history of emigration
- Located directly at the historic harbor
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Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8° Ost
- Interactive exhibition on climate and climate change
- Journey along the 8th meridian
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Zoo am Meer
- Focus on Nordic and maritime animal species
- Located directly at the mouth of the Weser
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German Maritime Museum
- Largest maritime museum in Germany
- Historic ships and maritime exhibits
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Havenwelten
- Modern urban quarter at the Old/New Harbor
- Restaurants, shops, and promenade
Attractions in Bremen
If you have more time, a trip to the Hanseatic city of Bremen is also worthwhile. Bremen is one of the oldest cities in Germany and offers an interesting mix of historical sights and modern attractions. Here are some tips:
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Bremen Town Musicians
- Famous bronze sculpture at the town hall
- Symbol of the city from the Grimm's fairy tale
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Schnoor Quarter
- Historic district with narrow alleys
- Small shops, galleries, and cafes
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Böttcherstraße
- Architectural Gesamtkunstwerk
- Mix of Gothic and Expressionist styles
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Universum Bremen
- Interactive science museum
- Over 300 exhibits on humans, earth, and cosmos
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Weserburg Museum of Modern Art
- One of the largest museums for contemporary art in Germany
- Changing exhibitions of international artists
Tips for Your Cruise from Bremerhaven
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Plan Your Arrival
- Arrive a day earlier to avoid stress
- Use public transport for arrival or alternatively come by car
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Parking
- Book your parking space at the terminal in advance
- Alternative: Park+Ride options in the area
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Embarkation
- Be punctual, but not too early (observe check-in times)
- Keep all documents handy
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Try Local Specialties
- Fish sandwiches on the harbor promenade
- Labskaus in a traditional restaurant
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Weather
- Pack wind and weather-resistant clothing
- North Sea weather can be changeable
Conclusion
A cruise from Bremerhaven offers you the perfect mix of maritime flair, modern ships, and fascinating routes. Whether you want to explore the Norwegian fjords, discover European metropolises, or set off for distant destinations - Bremerhaven is your ideal starting point. Take the opportunity to explore the region's attractions before or after your cruise and immerse yourself in the rich maritime history.
Plan your next cruise from Bremerhaven now and be inspired by the variety of possibilities. We wish you a wonderful journey and always a hand's breadth of water under the keel!
Click here for the best cruise deals for trips from Bremerhaven.