How Far From Shore Do Cruise Ships Sail?

A cruise ship can travel from one to five miles away from shore, known as daylight cruising distances, depending on the type of cruise and vessel size. Short-hop cruises typically stay relatively close to shore, while international waters are 15 miles away for casinos and duty-free shopping. Some routes may require ships to sail in open waters for extended periods, while others offer more opportunities for coastal cruising.

The actual distance a cruise ship travels from land varies depending on the itinerary, but some venture hundreds of nautical miles away from the closest coastline. Factors such as the desired destination, water depth, and local regulations can affect the distance from shore. Coastal cruising is generally more dangerous, as larger vessels require deeper waters to avoid running aground. The minimum safe distance from the shore should be at least 500 yards or 0.25 nautical miles.

A cruise ship can sail anywhere from one to 12 miles away from the shore, depending on the regulations and laws of the countries they visit. International waters are 15 miles from the coast, while the distance from the nearest land can range from 1 inch to hundreds of miles depending on the phase of the moon and day of the week. Modern cruise ships can travel up to 400 or 500 nautical miles per day, equating to a distance of 10 miles out to sea.

The MSC World Cruise 2026 includes 15 free shore excursions designed by MSC Cruises to provide an ultimate experience as passengers journey around the globe. New cruiser questions, first-time cruiser questions, and general cruise FAQs are available to answer your questions. Most of the time, you see land, but it’s smooth sailing all the way.