Baltimore Cruise Port Parking (Photo Credit: Cruise Maryland)
If you’re planning a cruise out of Baltimore, Maryland, you’ll probably need information on the best options forBaltimore cruise portparking. We’ve rounded up everything you need to know, including bothofficialport parkingandcheaperlotsnearby. You’ll find lots of helpful info, such as the address, distance from the cruise port,shuttleavailability, and the cost to help you find the best possiblecruise parkingoption.
ThisBaltimore cruise portparking guide will make sure you are fully prepared for what to expect. Hopefully, you will gain a new insight into parking for your luxury cruise vacation.
The most convenientcruise parkingis onsite at theBaltimore cruise port, but it’s also the most expensive. By choosingparking lotsfurther away and using theshuttle serviceto and from the port, you can save a bundle on cost.
If you plan to arrive a day or two before your Baltimore cruise departs, or are planning a post-cruise stay, many hotels offer freecruise parkingas part of a Stay and Cruise Package. We’ve covered all the info on these below.
In This Article:
Things to Know aboutBaltimore Cruise Port
Located on the northwest shores of the Patasco River, thePort of Baltimoreis one of the largest and busiest cargo and container ports in the USA. Located within the historicInner Harbor, the South Locust PointCruise Terminalis also known as theCruise Maryland Terminal.
The official address is 2001 E. McComas St, Baltimore, MD 21230
Baltimore port and onsitecruise parkingare easy to reach being just 0.8 miles from the I-95 Exit 55 (Key Highway). Thecruise terminalis close to restaurants, shops, and attractions, including the National Aquarium and the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail.
Close toBaltimore cruise port, Harborplace is a waterfront shopping and dining hub and major events space. The port is also just a 10-minute drive fromBaltimore-Washington International Airport(BWI).
Currently,Baltimore cruise portserves Carnival andRoyal Caribbeancruise lines. NorwegianCruise Line(NCL) also started offering cruises out of Baltimore starting in September 2023.
One of the best things about thePort of Baltimoreis that it has plenty of affordablecruise parkingoptions. There are several different parking types near theBaltimore Cruise Port,including dedicatedparking lotsand hotels that offercruise parkingpackages with ashuttle service.
Baltimore Cruise PortParking Options
Onsite parking at theBaltimore Cruise Portis one of the easiest options. There’s usually plenty of space and no need to book in advance. Thecruise terminalparking lotson either side of the terminal are very convenient being just steps from the cruise check-in.
Apart from the officialBaltimore cruise portparking lotsthere is very little competition. Any securelong-term parking lotsthat aren’t right on the port offer ashuttle serviceto take you to and from the ship.
Norwegian Sky Cruise Ship Baltimore (Photo Credit: Port of Baltimore)
If you’re looking for an extended stay, need to park multiple vehicles for your group, or need disability accessible parking, these lots are probably your best and cheapestcruise parkingoption.
If you’re planning to stay in town for a day or two before or after your cruise, you should also check our hotelcruise parkingdeals. These Stay, Park and Cruise Packages usually include one night’s stay, breakfast, parking for the duration of your cruise and a courtesyshuttleto and from the cruise port. It’s a stress-free parking option and means that your relaxing cruise vacation starts the moment you arrive at the hotel.
Official Cruise Maryland Port Parking
If you want the convenience ofBaltimore cruise portparking withinwalking distanceof theCruise Maryland Terminal, the official onsiteparking lotis your best option.
No advanced reservations are necessary. Secure parking at theBaltimore cruise portis located within easywalking distanceof the terminal. Overflow parking is located close by, and there will be ashuttleprovided.
Parking is from $15 per day and is payable by credit card. Cash is no longer accepted.Parking feesare paid upon entering theparking facility. The type and size of vehicle you are / parking will make a difference to the cost of parking, and prices are listed below.
Thiscruise parkinglot can hold up to 1,500 cars at a time. It caters to SUVs and all sizes ofrecreational vehicles. Disabled accessible spaces and handicapped parking spaces are available and require proof or a valid permit. You’ll have the option of dropping off passengers and luggage before being guided to a parking space.
Photo Credit: Port of Baltimore
You’ll pay for parking on arrival, so you need to know the exact duration of your cruise i.e. how many nights of parking you need. If you aren’t returning on the same ship, i.e., flying back from one of the ports of call after an extended visit, you’ll need to know the total duration of that stay as well.
Since the maincruise parkinglot in Baltimore is the closest and most convenient option, it can fill up quickly. Make sure you arrive early. Later in the day, you may need to go to an overflowparking lotbecause the main portparking lotis full.
Thisparking lotis certainly the most convenient, being right on the port itself. There areshuttlesgoing from theparking lotto the terminal all the time, so you don’t need to worry about a long walk between your car and check-in.
Even if you printed off luggage tags before arriving, you’ll still need to go to thetentmarkedCruise Luggage Tagsas you leave theparking lot. Thistentis where you’ll drop off your luggage to be checked and screened, loaded onboard the ship, and eventually delivered to your cabin door.
Econopark Express at The Parking Spot
Econopark Express is now part of The Parking Spot company and app. It operates at two locations close to theairport. Despite the distance being a little further from the cruise port, that doesn’t make theseparking lotsany less popular.
The Econoparkcruise parkinglots are fully fenced, which gives your car some added security while you’re away. The company offers a regularshuttle serviceto and from thecruise terminal. They also offer a valet service and an optional carwash.
Shuttlesrun 24/7 when needed, but you should plan a little extra time for travel. You should allow for the transit time in theshuttleitself, and in case you miss the first availableshuttle, or it’s too full.
Like theparking lotby thecruise terminal, Econopark offers accessibility spaces for vehicles with handicapped stickers at no additional cost. It’s also a little cheaper than parking at the port, although the complimentaryshuttlecan be more of an issue.
The Parking Spot, Baltimore
Complimentary water bottles are available on allshuttles, and the staff also offer luggage assistance. That’s a huge help for getting you and your family loaded and unloaded quickly.
If you own an electric vehicle, this parking choice is a particularly good option. They’ve recently renovated the electric area with EV charging points. While it does require a reservation, you’ll know you have a good parking space and a fully charged vehicle when you get back.
If your plans change unexpectedly, you’re in luck. There are no fees for changing or canceling your parking reservation ahead of time.
You don’t have to have a parking reservation, although it is strongly recommended. Like theparking lotat the port, the Econopark Express often fills to capacity. While there are otherparking optionsif you arrive and they are at capacity, you don’t want to be caught in a bind because you ran out of time.
If you make a reservation to park here, you’ll also have the option to pre-pay for a discount. There are two prices for parking vehicles at Econopark Express. The prepaid price is lower than if you opt to pay when you leave theparking lot. The two Econopark locations are shown below:
Ridge Road,Baltimore cruise portparking lotis 12.5 miles from the cruise port and is cheaper as it offers uncovered parking:
South Camp Meade Road car park is 8.6 miles fromthe Baltimore cruise portand has covered and uncovered parking. Prices are shown below:
Fast Park Pay and Relax (BWI)
Fast Park Pay and Relax offersBaltimore cruise portparking lotsclose to theairport. Both sites offer ashuttle serviceto theairport, but not to the cruise port.
If you book yourBaltimore cruise portparking with Fast Park Pay and Relax you will need to book a taxi or Uber to transfer you and your luggage to and from the cruise port.
The car parks are open 24/7. The Nursery Rd car park has limited covered parking and Fast-charge EV charging stations, unlike the Elkridge Landing Rd car park.
Baltimore HotelCruise ParkingOptions
Most hotels offering a Stay andCruise ParkingPackage are situated aroundBWI airport, which is roughly 10 minutes from the port. There are also a couple of closer options near the Baltimore/Inner Harborarea.
Another common option is to fly or drive to Baltimore the day before, spend a night at a local hotel, and take advantage of their parking andshuttleoptions. This can be one of the most convenient options since you don’t have to worry about hopping fromthe parking lottoparking lotwhen you’re in a serious time crunch.
Baltimore Cruise Hotels (Photo Credit: LEE SNIDER PHOTO IMAGES / Shutterstock)
Many hotels that offer this service will also offer breakfast before you leave, which can cut down on your expenses of having to go to a restaurantdowntownbefore boarding.
There are lots of hotels in Baltimore that offer a cruiseshuttle service, so we won’t be able to cover all of them. Even if you don’t see your hotel on this list, you can call them and check to see if they offer cruiseshuttleand parking services.
Even if there isn’t ashuttle, you may be able to pay for extended parking and take an Uber or taxi to the port.
Sleep Inn and SuitesDowntownInner Harbor
Sleep Inn and SuitesDowntownBaltimore offers mid-range hotel accommodations just a short walk from the harbor andBaltimore cruise port. Parking can be arranged at the hotel for the duration of your cruise. Once a 20th-century warehouse, the hotel has a historic ambience with exposed brick walls and a dramatic lobby. Air-conditioned rooms include /coffee and a free breakfast.
Best Western Hotel & Conference O’Donnell St
Best Western Plus Hotel and Conference Center offers a wide variety of amenities and advantages for travelers looking to start the luxury part of their cruise a little early. The indoor pool is heated, rooms were renovated in 2011. Amenities such as in-room microwaves and a make-your-own waffle station make staying here especially comfortable.
They offerfree wifi, which is important to stay on top of last-minute changes to departure times, staying in touch with people you’re meeting on the cruise, and just staying entertained!
If you have a little more time to spend before your cruise, the hotel also offers a complimentaryshuttleto Baltimoredowntownevery hour.
Cruise parkingis free for up to 30 days and only an additional $10 per day after that. That means that your whole stay at the hotel is only slightly more expensive than the average bill for parking at the port or nearby paidparking lots.
Shuttlesto the port are free for up to 2 people. If you have a larger party shuttling to the cruise port together, you’ll have to pay an additional $12 per person.
Best Western PlusBWI AirportArundel Mills
Best WesternBWI AirportHotelmight not offer all of the amenities of some of the other hotels in the area, but it does offer a Sleep, Cruise and Park package, which includes breakfast and a complimentaryshuttle serviceto the port.
The rooms themselves offerfree wifi, and all guests are welcome to enjoy a continental breakfast from 5:30-10 am. There’s also a free gym available on campus.
Parking is free for cruisers for up to 14 days. After 14 days you’ll be charged an additional $5 a day. It’s still significantly cheaper than parking at the port, or one of the nearbyparking lots.
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott
Fairfield Inn and Suites in Linthicum Heightsreceives good ratings for their room quality and other amenities. Close toBWI Airport, this upscale hotel has comfortable, well-appointed guest rooms and prides itself on its friendly service. Luxurious beds, a well-lit work desk, Wifi and LCD TV ensure your comfort. The 24/7 fitness center makes it easy to unwind after a long day of travel, while the seasonal pool and sun deck are a wonderful way to relax in the summer.
If you have a few hours to kill before heading over to the port, there are a few museums and other entertainment nearby. Cruise and Park packages include acomplimentary breakfast,shuttletransport, and free parking.
Cruiseshuttletimes vary, but you can count on ashuttleleaving for the port every hour. Parking at the hotel is free up to 8 days. Expect a $10 per day charge for longer stays in theparking lot.
What to Expect fromBaltimore Cruise PortParking
Things to consider when choosing the bestBaltimore cruise portparking option for you should include the following considerations:…
Distance to Cruise Port?
This is one of the most important considerations since you don’t want to haul your luggage back and forth from a distant parking location. Most cruise passengers should opt for nearby parking or ashuttle serviceto and from the port.
Whilehotel parkingcan be a great deal, it’s not always an option, and there’s no point in paying for a hotel you aren’t going to use. Fortunately, there are other options. Like any city, Baltimore has several long-term parking locations and car storage options. You’ll find some optionsdowntown, and others at theairport.
Cruise Ship Docked in Baltimore
Since these options are less convenient, you’ll probably pay a little more to park here. The parking itself may be the same, but you’ll need to pay an Uber or taxi service to take you and your luggage to the port.
Covered or Open?
Many people prefer covered parking for long-term parking solutions. Unfortunately, at this time, there are very few coveredparking options. The lots we’ve talked about are mainly openparking lots, meaning that snow, rain, and other weather isn’t blocked.
Some hotels may offer a small covered parking area, but most do not. While there are parking garages and other coveredparking optionsin Baltimore itself, they generally aren’t convenient to thecruise terminal.
So, if you opt for open cruise port parking in Baltimore, it’s a good idea to check your insurance policy for things like hail damage coverage.
You generally won’t have to worry about security issues however, since theparking optionswe’ve listed are monitored locations. That means that there are security measures in place to keep your car safe while you’re away.
Electric Charging
With electric vehicles getting more popular and more affordable, you might be wondering if you have electricparking options. At this time, while there may be electric parking available at some hotels and at the port, those features aren’t always advertised and may not be available.
Electric Charging
The onlyparking lotwe can guarantee electric parking space is the Econopark Express Lot. These spaces are limited, so we highly encourage reserving your space. That way you can be sure you’ll have a safe parking space, and a charged car when you return.
Baltimore Cruise PortParking Tips
Once you’ve sorted out yourcruise parking, here are some of the things you should know about cruises in general, and some basic things you can do to be prepared for your cruise ahead of time.
Print Out Luggage Tags Ahead of Time
One of the best and easiest things you can do before a cruise is to print out and laminate your luggage tags before you arrive.
If you have to print your luggage tags on the day of departure, you might get caught by all the normal printing errors and lose time. The last thing you want is to add to your stress with time crunches and rushing to get to what should be a relaxing cruise.
Laminating the tags also makes them significantly more durable, making it that much more likely that the tags will stay intact for the whole trip. Since your tags are how the cruise staff will deliver your luggage, and how you’ll likely identify your luggage after the cruise, preventing tears prevents lost items.
Be Prepared for a Couple Hours Without Your Luggage
While some cruises operating out of theBaltimore Cruise Portwill allow you to bring your own luggage on board, many won’t. If you don’t bring your own luggage on deck, you should be prepared for a couple of hours before it’s delivered to your room.
Royal Caribbean Luggage in Port (Photo Credit: Jennifer Jessica Peck / Shutterstock)
Basics, like sunscreen, any medications you might need and swimsuits can be carried on in a bag or tote for simplicity. You may also want to bring a book, a puzzle, or some kind of group board game if you’re cruising with family and friends.
There’s going to be plenty to do onboard, but the first few hours of any cruise are usually the slowest. Especially if this is your first cruise, you’re also more likely to get overwhelmed and want some time to yourself in your cabin in those first few hours.
Eating atBaltimore Cruise Port
We highly recommend that you eat before entering the port. There are some food vending machines available, but for the most part, you’ll want to wait until you’re actually on thecruise shipto eat. The terminal can be a busy place, so opportunities to sit down and eat can be rare and overcrowded.
Fortunately, there are lots of restaurants available in nearbyDowntownBaltimore. Otherwise, most hotels in the area offer a complimentary continental breakfast, though some are better than others.
Captain Larry’s
This nearby bar and restaurant offers a kids menu for those about to head out on a family cruise. Serving a variety of sandwiches and seafood entrees, this restaurant is a good option for those looking forward to a nautical theme and an affordable lunch. They also offer a decent variety of burgers, all at a wallet-friendly price.
Baba’s Mediterranean Kitchen
If you’re looking for something a little different, the fresh and healthy Mediterranean food at Baba’s is a great option. Pittas are portable if you’re on the go, or sit down for a Mediterranean plate or salad if you have a little more time.
Food is fresh, tastes great, and you have the option of several authentic ethnic sides if you’re ordering for a group.
Of course, there are also the local fast food options of McDonalds, Subway, or Chipotle Mexican Grill nearBaltimore cruise port.
Baltimore Cruise PortParking FAQ
Where to park for a cruise from Baltimore?
There are a few options for parking near the cruise port in Baltimore. The port itself offers a pay-to-park lot, and there are nearbycruise parkinglots with a dedicatedshuttleto the port.
Alternatively, many of the local hotels offer a Stay, Park and Cruise service that can take care of your car.
Whatcruise linesoffer cruises out of Baltimore?
Right now you can expect to find cruises fromRoyal CaribbeanInternational andCarnival Cruise Lineoperating out of theBaltimore cruise port. NorwegianCruise Lineswill be operating formBaltimore cruise portfrom late 2023. However, that may change as the port grows, or if their contracts with majorcruise lineschange.
How much is parking at theBaltimore cruise port?
Parking at theBaltimore cruise portcosts $15 per night for most vehicles. Larger vehicles will have to pay more.
Conclusion:
We’ve gone over a lot of information in this article, so before you go, let’s go over a quick recap. There are three main options for yourBaltimore cruise portparking. You can either park in the officialparking lotat the port, book withcruise parkingcompanies such as Econopark, or you can take advantage of thecruise parkingpackages offered at many of the nearby hotels.
Booking a night at a hotel pre-cruise takes a lot of the stress out of travel by offering breakfast and letting you get a good night’s sleep before the boarding process. Not to mention, all those listed offer afree shuttle serviceto and form the cruise port.
Hopefully, the cruise tips we’ve offered will help you be prepared for your cruise, whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a fully experienced world traveler.
