So I returned Sunday and just wanted to give a viewpoint of using Amtrak from CT to Cape Liberty. It served the purpose I needed it for but honestly I would prefer driving myself. It was just myself.
The train cost round trip was less than $100 which for me was good. The trains, both directions, were packed full so finding a seat was difficult, nobody likes to share these days. ๐. Then lugging around a packed suitcase was no fun at all. It was cumbersome just to use restrooms. Then while in Penn Station, Newark I was asked multiple times to buy food for people who were obviously hungry and needed it. I did for one lady but after that I had to say I couldn't. I'm not sure what it was she ordered (McDonalds breakfast) but it was $19.22....LOL. I didn't care but it was that multiple other people kept asking. It just made me feel very uncomfortable.
I stayed at the Doubletree which is attached to Penn Station. (Used my CC points for it) Room was nice and clean. No issues except the floor you walk in is not the checkin floor and I had to use the escalator with said suitcase. Not a big deal, but I learned I am not very good maneuvering with a packed suitcase.
I took Uber to and from the port. It cost $31.44. I checked with the taxi service when disembarking and they wanted $75.00. I said thank you and ordered the Uber. It was only my second time using Uber and it was a good experience both directions.
So all and all using Amtrak is definitely doable but for me the hassle with luggage and the extra time vs just driving to the port and paying to park just isn't worth it. Hopefully by my next cruise I will have gotten another car.
Thanks everyone for the advice