Welcome aboard, traveler! Your next adventure starts at the bustling Baltimore Cruise Port. Nestled in the heart of Charm City, this port serves as a gateway to the mesmerizing seascape and beyond. Each year, thousands of cruise enthusiasts embark on their sea journey from this vibrant port, making it one of the most popular ports on the East Coast.
The Baltimore Cruise Port, often pulsating with energy and excitement, is more than just a departure point. It’s a hub where travelers can soak up some local culture, savor delicious seafood (crab cake, anyone?), or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning harbor views before setting sail.
This Baltimore Cruise Port Guide is your trusty compass. It’s not just about getting you to the ship on time. It’s about maximizing your overall cruise experience. From transportation options to close-by hotels, from cruise parking to exciting excursions – this guide has got it all covered. So let’s dive in and set the sails for an unforgettable journey!
Transportation Options to and from Baltimore Cruise Port
Navigating Baltimore is a breeze with a variety of transportation options at your disposal. Think you’re stuck with just taxis or rental cars? Think again!
Baltimore offers a wide array of choices, catering to every traveller’s needs and preferences.
1. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services:
For those who prefer a direct route, taxis are readily available at the airport, hotels, and the cruise port itself. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are popular choices for their convenience and cost-effectiveness.
2. Rental Cars:
If you enjoy being in control of your journey, rental cars offer the freedom to explore at your own pace. Many reputable companies such as Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget operate in Baltimore.
3. Public Transportation:
Going green? Baltimore has an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, light rail, and subway services. The Charm City Circulator is a free shuttle bus service that runs through several key points in the city.
4. Private Shuttles:
Some hotels offer private shuttles to the cruise port as part of their services – a hassle-free choice for guests!
No matter your preference, rest assured that getting to and from the Baltimore Cruise Port is a smooth sailing experience! Up next: A look at the closest airports to the cruise port for those flying into this vibrant city.
Closest Airports to Cruise Port
Are you catching a flight straight to your cruise? Then, knowing the closest airports to Baltimore Cruise Port is essential. Don’t just book a ticket; plan the journey.
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is your go-to airport. It’s a mere 11 miles from the cruise port, making it the most convenient option for flyers. The trip takes approximately 15 minutes by car, so you can quickly switch from air to sea travel.
Still, there are more options if BWI doesn’t suit your needs. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is around 45 miles away, with a driving time of about an hour. Slightly farther out is Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), which sits 61 miles away – roughly an hour and 15-minute drive.
Each airport offers different airlines, routes, and prices:
- BWI: JetBlue, Spirit, Southwest
- DCA: American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines
- IAD: United Airlines, Delta Air Lines
Consider your needs and preferences before choosing your airport and remember – the adventure starts before boarding the cruise!
Cruise Parking
Parking at the cruise port can often be a tricky affair, but not in Baltimore! The Baltimore Cruise Port offers an impressive and highly convenient parking facility that is a stone’s throw away from the terminal — no tedious shuttle rides here!
The icing on the cake? It’s a 24/7 secured, outdoor parking lot. So, you can relish your cruise without any worries about the safety of your vehicle. The lot is well-lit and patrolled round the clock.
The parking fee is typically around $15 per day. But bear in mind, this can change depending on the season and availability. It’s always advisable to check the latest rates before you set sail. Payments can be made using all major credit cards.
What if you have an oversized vehicle? Fret not! Baltimore Cruise Port also provides parking spaces for recreational vehicles or RVs, albeit at a slightly higher cost.
But here’s a pro tip: Arrive early! The gates open fours hours before each ship’s sailing time, and it’s a first-come-first-serve basis. So, the early bird gets the worm…or in this case, the best spot!
Parking at Baltimore Cruise Port is truly a breeze. Just park your car, grab your luggage, and let the sea adventure begin!
Hotels near Baltimore Cruise Port
Planning a cruise trip is more than just packing your bags and boarding the ship. It’s about the whole journey, including where you’ll stay before or after your voyage. Let’s delve into some top-notch hotels near Baltimore Cruise Port that offer comfort, convenience, and affordability.
The Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel sits in a prime location with its stunning views of the Inner Harbor. Room rates may be on the higher side, but the top-tier amenities and proximity to local attractions make it worth every penny.
For budget-friendly travelers, The Days Inn by Wyndham Baltimore Inner Harbor Hotel is an excellent choice. It boasts clean rooms, friendly staff, and it’s just a short hop from the cruise port.
Want to splurge a bit? The Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore offers luxury at its finest. With exceptional service, plush accommodations, and an infinity pool overlooking the harbor – it’s an experience in itself!
Now if you’re looking for something unique and historical, The Admiral Fell Inn is your place. This charming hotel located in Fells Point presents a blend of history with modern convenience.
Remember, choosing a hotel near Baltimore Cruise Port not only reduces travel time but also allows you to soak in the local flavor of the city before setting sail!”
Hotels with Parking
Ah, the joy of finding a hotel that offers parking! It’s like discovering a hidden gem in the vast expanse of your travel plans. When you’re cruising from Baltimore, having a secure place for your vehicle can make your journey that much more stress-free.
Conveniently, Baltimore presents a decent array of hotel options with parking facilities. Here are some notable ones:
- Brookshire Suites Inner Harbor: This downtown hotel offers valet parking and sits just a 10-minute drive from the cruise port.
- Staybridge Suites Baltimore Inner Harbor: Featuring historical charm coupled with modern amenities, this all-suite hotel provides self-parking within walking distance to the port.
- The Admiral Fell Inn: Steeped in history and offering valet parking, it nestles in Fells Point district, which is only 2 miles east of the cruise terminal.
Remember to factor in the additional cost of parking when comparing hotel prices. Most hotels charge a daily fee for their parking services, which can add up over the duration of your cruise.
And while we’re on the subject of convenience and comfort, let’s segue into hotels that offer not just parking but shuttle services as well!
Hotels with Shuttles
Stepping out of your comfort zone can be a thrill, but when it comes to travel logistics, convenience is king. Enter the hotels with shuttles! Why worry about getting to the cruise port when you could be sipping coffee in a plush hotel lobby, waiting for your ride?
Several hotels in the vicinity of the Baltimore Cruise Port offer this very perk. For instance, Hampton Inn Baltimore-Downtown-Convention Center offers a free shuttle service that takes you straight to the cruise port. Talk about traveling in style!
Then there’s Hyatt Place Baltimore Inner Harbor – not only does this hotel promise a warm bed and a hot breakfast, it also provides shuttle services to the port. You can enjoy your morning muffin without the side serving of travel stress.
Yet another example is the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor, which guarantees top-notch hospitality along with convenient transportation to your cruise ship.
These are just a few examples of hotels offering shuttle services. When booking your accommodation, be sure to ask about their shuttle schedule and if there are any additional charges involved. It’s all about making your journey as smooth as possible so you can focus on enjoying your cruising adventure!
Excursions for Before and After Cruise
Your Baltimore cruise journey doesn’t have to start and end at the port. Why not add a dash of adventure with some exciting excursions before setting sail or after returning? Baltimore offers a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and culinary experiences that would be a shame to miss.
You can take a stroll in the historic district of Mount Vernon with its 19th-century architecture and the original Washington Monument. Or explore the vibrant Inner Harbor area, home to attractions such as National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, and numerous shops and restaurants. Don’t forget to try some famous Maryland crab at one of the local seafood joints.
If you’re a fan of Edgar Allan Poe, why not visit his house and museum? And sports enthusiasts can relive history at the Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum or enjoy an Orioles baseball game at Camden Yards – there’s something for everyone!
For art lovers, a visit to The Walters Art Museum or the Baltimore Museum of Art is a must. Both offer free admission and boast impressive collections.
Those yearning for open spaces can head to Federal Hill Park for panoramic views of the city or Patterson Park for its pagoda, boat lake, and bird watching.
So, step out of your comfort zone, discover Baltimore’s charm before or after your cruise trip. It’s sure to add another dimension to your holiday experience!
Cory Edwards has a passion for cruising that is only matched by his knowledge of the industry. He is the owner of his own travel agency, Blue Ocean Cruise and Travel, that is dedicated to putting together dream cruises for all his clients. He has embarked on a countless number of cruises himself and he plans to keep sailing the high seas as often as possible.