We're spending a few days in A'dam prior(second visit there) to a cruise. Will probably get a hotel on Priceline and there is a good chance we could end up near the central train station-already checked on Bidding for Travel. Is the cruise terminal near the train station? Would it be walkable with luggage or just a short taxi ride away? An advice is appreciated.
Actually there is a Movenpick Hotel connected to the Cruise Ship terminal which is affiliated with Priceline. Also nearby is a brand new DoubleTree Hotel. It's an easy 15 minute walk to Centraal Station. There is also a tram from the terminal direct to the station. Taxis are of course available.
We stayed at the Movinpik last time we sailed from Amsterdam. Most convenient, but not cheap. Never used Priceline, so do not know what discount you can expect on it. Our Son & Daughter-in-law joined us and they walked from the Centraal Station. It does not look far, but with luggage, if it is hot - it was for them - it was quite tiring and sweaty. There is a tram - I forget the number - which comes along the waterfront from outside the station and stops very close to the hotel. Have a great cruise!
I'd try to get a hotel in Amsterdam that is convenient for sightseeing for your "few" days there. I paid €19 (including tip) for a taxi from a hotel near the museums and quite a distance from the train station, hardly a fortune. According to google maps, it's just over a kilometer to walk from the train station to the cruise terminal.
You can walk to Centraal Station, but there is a tram stop right at the cruise terminal that will get you there in three minutes. With minimal luggage, this is your best option. If you are taking lots of luggage, take a taxi.