The Port of Baltimore: A Comprehensive Guide to Cruising from Maryland

For those in the Mid-Atlantic who prefer not to fly before their cruise, the Port of Baltimore offers a convenient departure point. And if flying is necessary, the port is just a 15-minute drive from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). In 2023, over 440,000 passengers sailed from this bustling port, according to Maryland state reports.

Baltimore is home to major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line, both operating ships year-round. The Vision of the Seas and Carnival Pride offer voyages to destinations such as Canada, New England, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Bermuda, and even the Panama Canal on occasion.

American Cruise Lines operates smaller ships that embark on round-trip voyages through the scenic Chesapeake Bay from Baltimore, along with one-way trips along the East Coast Inland Passage to Amelia Island, Florida. Norwegian Cruise Line also occasionally offers departures from the port.

On March 26, 2024, a container ship crash caused the complete collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, temporarily closing the Port of Baltimore to all vessels. However, by June 12, 2024, the port fully resumed operations, welcoming cruise ships again, allowing travelers to resume their planning for cruises from Baltimore.

Overview of the Port of Baltimore Cruise Terminal

Cruise Terminal Information for the Port of Baltimore

Location: 2001 East McComas Street, Baltimore, MD 21230

Terminals available: One

Red-capped porters are stationed at the drop-off area to collect your tagged luggage. Please note that wheelchairs are only available inside the terminal building. If you require assistance from your taxi or car to the terminal, it’s recommended that you arrange a wheelchair or mobility scooter in advance.

Cruise lines departing from Baltimore

• Royal Caribbean
• Carnival Cruise Line
• American Cruise Lines
• Norwegian Cruise Line

Airports near the Port of Baltimore cruise terminal

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is only a 15-minute drive from the cruise port. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is about an hour away, while Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) are approximately 90 minutes away, depending on traffic conditions.

Airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country, and United Airlines offer flights to BWI from various U.S. cities.

DCA is serviced by airlines including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.

To save on airfare to the port, consider credit cards like the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card, which provides a Companion Fare certificate each year on your account anniversary. After spending $6,000 or more during the previous year, you can fly with a companion for $99 (plus taxes and fees starting at $23) on any Alaska Airlines flight booked on alaskaair.com.

The Southwest Companion Pass lets you bring a companion along for free, except for the cost of taxes on their ticket. Delta also offers companion certificates as a benefit with some of its American Express credit cards.

If you have a credit card with lounge access benefits, you can start your vacation early by relaxing before your flight. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® grants entry to Priority Pass lounges at BWI, DCA, and IAD, while The Platinum Card® from American Express offers access to the Amex Centurion Lounge at PHL (with one opening at DCA later this year). Cardholders of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card enjoy unlimited access to the Capital One Lounge at IAD, which opened last fall.

How to reach the Port of Baltimore for your cruise

The Port of Baltimore is located just a few miles from downtown, making it easily accessible by a variety of transportation options.

Cruise Line Transfers to the Port of Baltimore

Carnival does not provide a shuttle service between Baltimore airport and the cruise port, but Royal Caribbean does. The fare varies depending on your sail date, and Royal Caribbean was unable to provide a specific price range. Larger groups may find private transfers to be more cost-effective than using the cruise line's shuttle, but it’s a good idea to check the shuttle price for your departure to confirm. If you decide to use Royal Caribbean’s shuttle, make sure to book your transfer at least two weeks ahead of time.

Hotel shuttle services

Most hotels in downtown Baltimore do not offer shuttle services to the cruise port.

The Best Western Plus Hotel & Conference Center, located 3 miles from the port, offers a Park and Cruise Package that includes free parking during your cruise and a complimentary shuttle to and from the terminal.

Aloft BWI Baltimore Washington International Airport provides a free on-demand shuttle to the cruise port, though hotel parking costs $15 per night.

Private airport shuttle services

Several shuttle providers, such as Supershuttle and Blacklane, operate between BWI and the cruise terminal. For instance, KD Elite Transportation charges $25 per person for a one-way trip. Prices may vary with other companies depending on group size and the type of vehicle selected.

Private van and car services

You can reserve a private car or van from services like DC Liver, BWI Shuttle Service, or 95 Star Airport Sedan, Limo & Shuttle Service to transport your group from BWI to the cruise terminal. The cost is approximately $100 for a luxury sedan that fits three passengers, and $180 for an SUV that accommodates five passengers.

Taxis and ride-hailing services

At BWI, taxi stands are located near doors 5 and 13 on the arrivals/lower level, just outside baggage claim. A ride to the port costs a flat rate of $30, regardless of the number of passengers, with no additional charges allowed.

App-based rideshare services at BWI pick up passengers on the outer curb of the departures/upper level, between doors 5 and 12. To reach the curb, use the crosswalks at doors 5, 8, and 12. A standard Uber ride will cost around $30, an Uber XL is approximately $40, and premium cars or SUVs range from $60 to $75. Prices may vary based on traffic and time of day.

At DCA, taxi stands are located just outside baggage claim at Terminal 1 (to the right) and outside doors 5 and 6 at the lower level of baggage claim. A taxi ride to the cruise port typically costs between $150 and $175.

For ride-hailing at DCA, pick-up locations are on the third (outer) curb at Terminal 1 and the outer curb outside baggage claim at Terminal 2 (first level). When booking your Uber or Lyft, choose from Zones 1 to 4. An Uber will cost around $75 to $100, an Uber XL can reach up to $125, and premium cars or SUVs range from $150 to $200. Prices fluctuate based on time of day and traffic conditions.

Baltimore Cruise Port Parking

On-site parking options

There are secure, long-term parking lots located just a short walk from the cruise terminal, and no advance reservation is required. Parking is cashless, with payment accepted via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express upon arrival. The rates are $15 per night for passenger vehicles and SUVs, $30 for recreational vehicles under 30 feet, and $40 for RVs over 40 feet. Accessible parking spaces for special needs are also available.

If your luggage already has your cruise line-issued tags, you can drop it off at the designated luggage drop-off area for screening and handling before parking. If your bags aren’t tagged, look for the tent marked 'Cruise Luggage Tags' on the left side as you enter the parking area. Once your luggage is dropped off, you'll be directed to the parking spaces.

There are no discounted off-site parking lots with shuttle services to the Baltimore cruise port.

Park-and-cruise packages

Several local hotels offer packages that include both a stay and parking for the duration of your cruise.

The Hilton Baltimore BWI Airport provides a Park, Stay & Go package, which includes parking for up to seven nights and shuttle service to the cruise terminal. The Best Western Plus Hotel & Conference Center also offers free parking and a complimentary shuttle to the port. The Courtyard Baltimore Downtown/McHenry Row also allows you to park for the duration of your cruise.

Hotels near the Port of Baltimore

The Baltimore area offers a variety of hotels that are conveniently located near the cruise port. Whether you prefer to stay near the airport, in downtown, or outside the city, your choice may depend on your transportation needs to and from the terminal.

Hilton hotels near the Baltimore cruise port

The modern Canopy by Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point (starting at 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night) is ideally situated between Harbor East and Fells Point, offering easy access to the Inner Harbor attractions. Guests can enjoy a ninth-floor terrace, bike rentals, and complimentary local beer and wine tastings. The hotel’s restaurant, Cindy Lou's Fish House, serves fresh seafood and Mid-Atlantic dishes with scenic waterfront views.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Baltimore Inner Harbor (starting at 36,000 Hilton Honors points per night) is centrally located near major sights, with the Charles Center Metro station just minutes away. It includes a free hot breakfast, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.

For those seeking a hotel near the airport, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Baltimore at BWI Airport (starting at 36,000 Hilton Honors points) offers free parking, made-to-order breakfast, a complimentary evening reception, and a free airport shuttle.

Marriott hotels near the Baltimore cruise port

The Courtyard by Marriott Baltimore Downtown/McHenry Row (starting at 25,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) is the closest hotel to the cruise terminal, offering free parking. Although it's just a 10-minute walk to the port, the route may not be the most picturesque, and you might prefer not to carry your luggage that distance.

The Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, located in Harbor East (starting at 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night), boasts recently renovated rooms with views of either the harbor or the city. The on-site restaurant, apropoe's, is named after Edgar Allen Poe and serves modern American dishes.

The Residence Inn Baltimore Downtown / Inner Harbor (starting at 28,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) is ideal for families or larger groups. All rooms are suites with kitchens, living areas with sofa beds, and workspaces. Guests also enjoy a complimentary breakfast.

Hyatt hotels

The Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor (starting at 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night) offers a rooftop pool and bar, while the Hyatt House BWI Airport (starting at 8,000 World of Hyatt points per night) is an affordable choice with free airport shuttle service and complimentary breakfast.

Non-points hotels

The Roost is a stylish extended-stay hotel offering apartment-style rooms, a fitness center, and a seasonal outdoor pool. Located less than 5 minutes from the cruise terminal, it's an excellent option for larger groups with one-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations.

For cruise enthusiasts with a love of spirits, the Sagamore Pendry Hotel in Fells Point is housed in a beautifully restored 1914 building on a historic pier. This upscale hotel features a speakeasy-inspired whiskey bar, a classic chop house, a waterfront pool, and elegant rooms with harbor views and rich mahogany, brass, and leather accents.

Couples seeking a romantic pre- or post-cruise escape can indulge at The Ivy, a boutique luxury hotel in Mount Vernon. This intimate retreat boasts 17 suites, a bistro, and exceptional service, with rates including breakfast, activities, cocktails, snacks, and private car service to the Inner Harbor.

Dining options near the Baltimore cruise port

The Baltimore cruise terminal is located in an industrial area rather than the city center. While you won't find many eateries right at the port, downtown Baltimore and its nearby neighborhoods boast a wide variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Be sure to try a local favorite: Maryland blue crabs or jumbo lump crab cakes.

For a pre-cruise dinner, consider taking a taxi or Uber to Fells Point, a historic waterfront neighborhood with cobblestone streets, 18th-century row houses, and a charming selection of restaurants and pubs.

For a livelier atmosphere, head to the Inner Harbor, where you'll find a mix of tourist-friendly chains and independent eateries with waterfront views.

Things to see and do in Baltimore before or after your cruise

Baltimore is filled with a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy before or after your cruise. Here are some great options based on your interests and those of your family or group.

Explore marine life at the aquarium

Located just 10 minutes from the cruise terminal, the National Aquarium (501 East Pratt Street) is the star of the Inner Harbor and draws 1.5 million visitors annually, making it Maryland's top attraction. Its award-winning exhibits feature a pod of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, the Jellies Invasion showcasing nine species of jellyfish, and an Indo-Pacific Reef with rays and black-tipped reef sharks. The Inner Harbor is only a short 10-minute ride from the port.

Visit a science center with the family

Baltimore's Inner Harbor is home to two exciting science centers that are perfect for curious minds of all ages. The Maryland Science Center (601 Light Street) offers exhibits on dinosaurs, electricity, space, and human anatomy, along with an IMAX theater for immersive learning experiences.

Designed for younger kids, Port Discovery (35 Market Place) features three floors of interactive exhibits, including play areas themed around ancient Egypt, a diner, a gas station, water-based activities, and an art studio.

Dive into U.S. history

Located just 1.5 miles or a five-minute drive from the cruise terminal, Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (2400 East Fort Avenue) is known for its role in the War of 1812. It was here that soldiers defended Baltimore harbor from a British attack, and the large American flag raised in victory inspired Francis Scott Key to pen what would become the U.S. national anthem, 'The Star-Spangled Banner.'

Take a tour and sample brews at a renowned brewery

Craving a taste of Guinness but can't get to Dublin? You're in luck—Baltimore is home to the only U.S. location of the iconic Irish brewery. Chosen in 2015 for its strategic location near major cities and Maryland's strong brewing heritage, the site offers a unique experience.

After taking a tour and enjoying a tasting at the Guinness Open Gate Brewery (5001 Washington Boulevard, Halethorpe, about a 15-minute drive from the cruise port), relax with a meal in the taproom. You can savor specialties like beer cheese fries, Guinness beef stew, and milk stout Smith Island cake. The brewery also offers exclusive local brews, such as Baltimore Blonde and El Dorado Amber Ale.

Shopping near the Baltimore cruise terminal

For last-minute essentials like toiletries, snacks, or drinks, head to the CVS in Baltimore's Inner Harbor (400 East Pratt Street). A bit closer to the cruise terminal, there's a Target in Canton (3559 Boston Street), about 15 minutes by taxi or Uber. If you're in the mood for more shopping, Arundel Mills Mall (7000 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover) is a 10-minute drive from BWI.

For those seeking apparel or unique accessories near downtown, Harborplace (201 East Pratt Street) offers a vibrant mix of shops and dining in the Inner Harbor. A standout is Made in Baltimore (301 Light Street), a boutique that champions local artisans and manufacturers, perfect for picking up authentic souvenirs. Additionally, Southside Marketplace (857 East Fort Avenue) in Federal Hill features a surface parking lot with a grocery store, fast food, casual dining options, and various retail shops and services.