Nicknamed the “Big Easy,” New Orleans is a popular tourist destination famous for its vibrant culture, raucous nightlife, and unique Creole cuisine. Louisiana’s most populous city is also home to the sixth-largest cruise port in the United States – the New Orleans Cruise Port, or Port NOLA.
Strategically nestled along the Mississippi River, it’s the perfect departure point for cruises headed to Caribbean destinations in the Gulf of Mexico and river cruising experiences.
This informative guide will provide full details about the port and its facilities, essential travel information, and recommendations for the best attractions and amenities near the port to help you get the most out of your visit to NOLA.
In This Article:
- New Orleans Cruise Port Locations
- Port NOLA Terminals and Piers
- River Cruise Terminals
- Parking at Port NOLA
- Distance to the Airport and Directions
- Cruise Lines Operating from Port NOLA
- Caribbean and Mississippi River Cruises
- Best Time to Visit New Orleans
- Seasonal Weather Conditions
- Safety Concerns in the City
- What to Do Near the Port
- Dining Near New Orleans Cruise Port
- Nearby Shopping Recommendations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
New Orleans Cruise Port Locations
Port NOLA is conveniently located near the heart of downtown New Orleans. The port actually consists of two separate terminals, the Erato Street Cruise Terminal and the Julia Street Cruise Terminal, which sit beside each other along the western bank of the Mississippi River.
Since they are both located near the downtown core of New Orleans, they are easily accessible through various transportation options.
The port also features two spillover berthing locations, which cater to smaller river cruise ships and ferries. These two locations, the Orange Street Wharf and the Thalia Street Wharf, are located just north of the two cruise terminals.
Terminal Addresses
- Erato Street Cruise Terminal: 1100 Port of New Orleans Place, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Julia Street Cruise Terminal: 920 Port of New Orleans Place, New Orleans, LA 70130
Port NOLA Terminals and Piers
Rather than piers, Port NOLA’s two cruise terminals feature cruise ship berths built directly into the banks of the Mississippi River.
Where many of the cruise ports you find in the Caribbean and along the American Eastern and Western Seaboards rely on piers to allow cruise ships to dock in deeper waters, the Mississippi River is deep enough to allow cruise ships to berth along its banks.
While they are similar in layout, the two terminals differ in scale and the facilities they offer.
Erato Street Cruise Terminal
The Erato Street Cruise Terminal is located just south of the Julia Street Cruise Terminal along the same stretch of the western bank of the Mississippi River.
Despite being a high-traffic cruise terminal, Erato Street Terminal only has berthing space for a single full-size cruise ship. This is just the unfortunate reality of a river-based cruise port.
Even following a $15 million development project in 2005, expansion of the terminal berths was constrained by space, the width of the Mississippi River, and water depth variability.
To compensate for space limitations, the turnover for visiting ships is incredible. Both terminals can handle an immense number of ships and passengers due to their efficiency and modern screening facilities.
Terminal Features
Designed as a multi-level terminal, Erato Street Cruise Terminal features an integrated parking garage above the indoor check-in and waiting areas. This allows visiting passengers to go through screen procedures well in advance of boarding their respective vessels.
The terminal is equipped with modern facilities, including numerous check-in counters, tourist information booths, a spacious and comfortable passenger waiting area, elevators, numerous restroom facilities, and plenty of vending machines.
The terminal also offers complimentary Wi-Fi and a luggage handling service. It also has a small snack and refreshment stand and a store that carries small New Orleans-themed souvenirs and cruise essentials, like sunscreen and seasickness medication.
Primary Cruise Lines: Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line.
Julia Street Cruise Terminal
The Julia Street Cruise Terminal Complex was built before the Erato Street Cruise Terminal, so it is the smaller of the two. While it technically has berthing space for two smaller cruise ships, it cannot accommodate more than one modern mega-ship at a time.
The terminal building has a similar layout to the Erato Street structure, but it is smaller and does not have terminal parking on the roof. Julia Street features the same modern facilities as Erato Street, including ample check-in areas and seated waiting lounges.
Read Also: Tampa Cruise Port – Terminals, Transportation, What’s Nearby
It also has direct walkway access to the Riverwalk Outlets waterside shopping mall. Paid luggage handling is available, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi.
Primary Cruise Lines: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International.
River Cruise Terminals
In addition to the two major cruise terminals, Port NOLA also features two smaller docking areas that are used for smaller river cruise ships:
Orange Street Wharf
- Description: Primarily used for river cruises, it has limited facilities.
- Cruise Lines: American Queen Voyages and Viking River Cruises.
Thalia Street Wharf
- Description: Thalia Street Wharf is the smallest of the two river cruise berths. It is used for small river cruise vessels and occasionally ferry services.
- Cruise Lines: American Cruise Lines.
Parking at Port NOLA
Port NOLA offers convenient parking options at both cruise terminals.
Erato Street Cruise Terminal features a multi-level parking garage on top of the structure. Several elevators provide direct access to the cruise terminal from the parking lots, and there are designated handicapped spots for those with accessibility needs. The cost is $25 per day, but disabled veterans qualify for free parking for up to seven days.
There is also a lot adjacent to the Julia Street Cruise Terminal. The surface lot offers a porter service for those who need assistance with their bags. The lot is just a short walk to the terminal buildings, and the fee is also $25 per day.
Additional overflow parking is located nearby, which is rarely required outside of peak cruise season. It has the same parking rates as the main lots and offers complimentary shuttle services to both cruise terminals.
Reservations are not required for any of the lots, and parking is always available on a first-come-first-served basis. On-site security monitors all three lots so guests can rest assured that their vehicles will be watched while they enjoy their cruise vacation.
Distance to the Airport and Directions
Port NOLA is roughly 17 miles from Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY). Since many passengers travel to the cruise port from out of state, the relatively close proximity to a major international airport is incredibly convenient.
The airport’s single terminal is served by Interstate 10, allowing straightforward transit between it and the city’s downtown core. If you are planning to rent a vehicle and drive yourself to the cruise port, you can use the following directions:
- Exit Terminal Drive and merge onto the 1-10 East towards New Orleans. Continue for 13.6 miles
- Take Exit 11 and merge onto US-90 East for 1 mile
- Use the right lane to exit onto Calliope Street, then turn right onto Tchoupitoulas Street
- Watch for Port NOLA Cruise Port signs, then turn left onto Port of New Orleans Place
Airport Transportation Options
If you are not planning on driving yourself, there are several simple and affordable transportation options:
Public Transit Bus
Direct bus service is provided between the airport and the Central Business District of New Orleans through the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority.
By taking Airport Express Route 202, you can be dropped off within walking distance of the Erato Street Cruise Terminal for just a $1.25 one-way fare, making it the most affordable method of transportation.
Taxis and Ride-Share Vehicles
Taxis charge a flat rate of just $30 for transportation between the airport and either of the main Port NOLA cruise terminals. There is an extra $5 surcharge during rush hour (7 am – 9 am, and from 4 pm – 6 pm). The ride takes about 30 minutes, but this time is traffic-dependent.
Uber and Lyft are also available, providing a convenient and budget-friendly link between the airport and port. Just be aware of surge rates, as this can increase costs beyond the $30 flat rate offered by the taxi providers.
Shuttle Bus
Direct airport shuttles cost $24 per person, and tickets can be pre-purchased online. Carnival Cruise Line offers a complimentary shuttle service between the airport and Erato Street Cruise Terminal, but it is only available for Carnival passengers between 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Cruise Lines Operating from Port NOLA
Since Port NOLA is an important hub for cruise voyages throughout the Caribbean, Yucatan Peninsula, and the Bahamas, it serves a wide variety of cruise lines, including some of the world’s most well-known:
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Disney Cruise Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean International
- American Queen Voyages
- Viking River Cruises
- American Cruise Lines
Caribbean and Mississippi River Cruises
As mentioned, Port NOLA’s unique position along the Mississippi River allows it to serve as an embarkation point for two very different types of cruises.
The two main cruise terminals are used for larger cruise ships setting off on 4- to 10-day itineraries to destinations throughout the Caribbean, including Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and the Bahamas.
The two nearby wharves that fall under the Port NOLA umbrella serve smaller cruise ships designed to navigate rivers. These more intimate experiences along the Mississippi River have itineraries ranging from a couple of days to a couple of weeks, visiting cities such as Memphis, St. Louis, and Vicksburg.
The focus tends to be more on experiencing American culture, history, and cuisine first-hand rather than enjoying the tropical vacations offered by the Caribbean-bound cruise ships.
Best Time to Visit New Orleans
The stretch between February and May is widely considered to be the best time to visit the city. It’s also the busy season for tourism in New Orleans, as the weather is pleasant, and some of the city’s most popular events are also hosted during these months, including Mardi Gras, New Orleans Jazz Fest, and French Quarter Fest.
Seasonal Weather Conditions
New Orleans can be a fun city to visit throughout the entire year, but you have to know what to expect. During the spring months, temperatures are relatively mild, ranging from the low 50s to the upper 70s.
During the summer, hot and humid temperatures that regularly exceed 90°F can make it uncomfortable to explore the city. Plus, hurricane season is at its peak.
During the fall, temperatures dip, and the weather becomes less wet and humid. By the time winter hits, temperatures dip down to the 45°F to 65°F range, and these cooler temperatures are also met with an increase in rainfall.
Safety Concerns in the City
While New Orleans is one of the most exciting cities in the country and has a thriving nightlife and party scene, high crime rates in certain neighborhoods mean that visitors should practice basic precautions. Here are just a few tips we recommend to stay safe during your visit:
- Avoid Dangerous Neighborhoods: Stay in well-traveled, tourist-friendly areas, like the French Quarter, rather than straying into the Tremé Lafitte, 7th Ward, and other neighborhoods where crime rates are much higher.
- Avoid Walking Alone: Travel in groups rather than wandering off on your own, especially at night.
- Avoid Carrying Valuables: If you can, leave your valuables in your hotel room or on the cruise ship, as pickpocketing can be fairly common in the most crowded areas.
- Carry a Contact List: You should always carry a list of emergency contacts, including the number for your cruise line. Numbers saved on your phone do not count.
- Avoid Getting Overly Intoxicated: The city has a great nightlife, but you increase your risk of running into an unsafe situation if you are overly intoxicated in public.
Outside of staying safe while you explore the city, it’s also important to remember that hurricane season runs from June until November in Louisiana. If you are traveling during these months, monitor the weather and listen to instructions provided by your cruise line.
What to Do Near the Port
One of the reasons why New Orleans is such a popular tourist destination is the wide range of attractions crammed into a relatively small area. Here are just a few of our top picks for nearby things to do while you are visiting the port:
The National World War II Museum
For history buffs, the National WWII Museum is a must-see. Located only 1.1 miles away from Port NOLA, the museum and its numerous interactive exhibits are easy to reach by foot.
Louisiana State Museum
Unlike most state museums, the Louisiana State Museum consists of a statewide system of historical landmarks. New Orleans is home to some of the network’s most impressive, like the Presbytere and Cabildo buildings. These properties were constructed in 1813 and have a long-storied history.
Today, they are packed with artifacts that will fascinate all visitors. They’re also only 1.7 miles from the port in the city’s French Market neighborhood, so they are easy to visit by cab or on foot.
Royal Carriage Rides
Enjoy a New Orleans tradition by taking a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city’s French Quarter. These narrated tours will take you back in time, pointing out some of the city’s more modern features.
There are several options, but the most famous provider is the French Quarter Mule Tours Company, which has pickup locations just 1.5 miles from port.
Stroll Down Royal Street
Take in the atmosphere New Orleans is so famous for by walking down picturesque Royal Street. It’s only 2 miles from the port, and the street is dotted with art galleries, boutiques, historic architecture, restaurants, cafés, bars, and so much more.
Jazz Museum
If you want to learn about the history of the music the city is world-famous for, the Jazz Museum is just 2.3 miles from the port. Not only is it packed with interesting artifacts, but it is also housed in the historic Old US Mint building.
Audubon Zoo
If you don’t mind taking a taxi, Audubon Zoo is just 6 miles away from the port. The city zoo dates back to 1914 and currently hosts over 2,000 animals.
It also has a Louisiana swamp-themed exhibit, where you can safely view some of the state’s notoriously dangerous animals, like alligators, cougars, black bears, snapping turtles, and numerous types of snakes.
Dining Near New Orleans Cruise Port
New Orleans is the ideal destination for food lovers. With a unique blend of cultures, the city has some truly unique dishes that have put the city and state on the map.
Whether you want to sit down to an authentic bowl of gumbo or jambalaya at a more formal restaurant, or you want to try a few po-boys and a plate of boiled crawfish at a food stand, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in the French Quarter, especially if you wander down Bourbon Street.
If you’re looking for some specific recommendations, here are just a few of our top picks:
Drago’s Seafood Restaurant is known for its fresh oysters, seafood chowder, and boiled lobster. Located a short walk north of Julia Street Cruise Terminal, it’s a great option for those looking for a modern restaurant that offers traditional New Orleans cuisine and some more basic American favorites.
Mother’s Restaurant is a more casual option under a mile from the port. Enjoy a po’boy, a serving of red beans and rice, or a big bowl of sausage gumbo in a casual eatery that has been a top choice for locals and tourists since 1938!
The Ruby Slipper Café is one of the most famous brunch and breakfast spots in the entire city, and it is located just over 1 mile from the port. Don’t forget to try their fresh-baked butter biscuits if you want an authentic taste of Southern cooking!
Nearby Shopping Recommendations
If you want to do some shopping while you’re in New Orleans, you’re in luck! Plenty of options within walking distance of the port, including the New Orleans Riverwalk Outlets.
This series of premium outlet stores are located adjacent to Julia Street Terminal. The outlet mall is just steps away and has everything from designer sunglasses to casual beachwear. It even has a food court with various dining options for those hoping to enjoy a quick bite before boarding their cruise ship.
The French Market is a must-visit if you’re willing to travel a little further. This historic market is ideal for finding locally-made souvenirs. Not only is it fun to see, but you can also score some amazing deals. It’s also just 2.5 miles from the port, so it’s easy to get to.
Magazine Street is another option if you want something closer. It’s just over a mile from port and home to many boutiques and antique stores.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where do you board cruise ships in New Orleans?
You board cruise ships at Port NOLA’s Erato Street Cruise Terminal or Julia Street Cruise Terminal, which are both located near the downtown core of New Orleans. River cruises are usually boarded at one of the two nearby wharves.
How long does it take a cruise ship to get from the Port of New Orleans to the Gulf of Mexico?
Depending on the cruise line you are traveling with and the size of the vessel, you should reach the Gulf of Mexico in about 6 to 8 hours after departing from Port NOLA.
What is the best month to cruise from New Orleans?
If you have booked a Caribbean cruise itinerary, most people agree that the stretch between November and May is the best time to travel. With pleasant weather, a much lower risk of hurricanes and storms, and mild temperatures, departing from New Orleans is a great time.
