My thanks to all of you for helping work out a solution. Train to Newark and cab it is, with the PATH train and ferry in the back pocket if cabs can't make it into Manhattan.

Look what is happening in Boston... they have closed North Station... and the situation is so bad most people are taking vacations this week. On top of that if you do use the subway you cannot carry packages or take a bike.. If I were you...forget about NYC unles youcan find a limo service to take you there

crys...good choice...enjoy your cruise.

Crys, I live in downtown Manhattan, and think your decision to take the train to Newark Penn Station (yes - don't be confused, it's the same as the New York Penn Station!) and then travel by car to the pier is the most sensible.

One question - have you called the cruise company and asked what they are instructing people?

Also - A cab from the train station, may be ok, but it will probably just be a local Newark City cab, and possibly the driver will not be familiar with the best routes into Manhattan that day. I would suggest you call a car service to pick you up at a pre-arraranged spot. it will run a bit more thana cab, but since you're traveling with your mom, the driver will help with the luggage. They might want you to call them when you arrive, but it will also have the added advantage of being a flat fee - not a metered cab. If you get stuck in traffic, you're not paying extra for it. From Newark Penn Station to the piers on the west 50's should be around $40 - 50, I think. I would call Tel Aviv 800-222-9888 (www.telavivlimo.com) or Tri-State 800-722-7122 (www.LimoNewYork.com)

Thanks, mp. That's exactly why I was thinking car service would be the best bet--I can just see that meter clicking while stopped in traffic, or NJ drivers refusing to go into Manhattan that day. I'd feel more secure having a service lined up, so the references are much appreciated. I did call the cruise line, and they suggested what everyone here did--do anything to avoid Penn Station. They are airline oriented re ground transportation, so couldn't say much more on trains. Incidently, I didn't realize when I booked that the timing fell in the middle of the convention. I guess I should have asked why they were offering such great discounts and upgrades for this particular sailing!