The Port of Boston welcomed MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia, the largest ship that will dock at the Massachusetts port during the Canada/New England cruise season in 2023. The ship’s call was her first post-pandemic visit to the historic city, as she makes her way north along Canada’s Atlantic coast.
MSC Meraviglia Calls at Historic Port
A 16-day Canada/New England cruise with a two-day visit to Bermuda brought a 4,500-guest mega-ship, MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia, to Boston on September 26, 2023. The 171,598-gross ton ship is the largest to visit the port during the popular fall foliage season, and will sail three additional voyages in the region through October.
MSC Meraviglia’s current cruise plus her upcoming 10, 11-, and 21-day Canada/New England sailings are expected to deliver roughly $2 million in local spending by guests and crew, who together bring the ship’s total capacity to about 5,700, revenue estimates from Cruise Line International Association show.
The ship, which launched in 2016, is sailing roundtrip from New York and will also call at Saint John, New Brunswick; Portland, Maine; Sydney, Nova Scotia; and Prince Edward Island, Canada, before returning to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.
Like the many sightseeing attractions in Newport, such as the famous 20th-century mansions that dot the coastline, Boston offers many historic, architectural, and cultural landmarks that cruise guests can explore, including the Freedom Trail, the famous Quincy Market, the New England Aquarium, and many museums.
Along the New England and Canadian coasts, guests can enjoy the autumn colors as MSC Meraviglia sails past forested areas, now highlighted with the bright hues of fall.
An Expanding US Presence
The 2023 season marks the first time MSC Meraviglia will sail Canada/New England itineraries from New York, and her deployment enhances the cruise line’s ongoing expansion in the US market.
The ship deployed to New York in summer 2023, sailing a series of Bermuda cruises that began on August 21. Her Canada/New England itineraries launched in September.
MSC Seaside in Port Canaveral (Photo Courtesy: Port Canaveral)
MSC Cruises currently has ships home-ported in three destinations, New York, Miami, and Port Canaveral, and in late 2022 signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to possibly develop a cruise terminal at the Port of Galveston, in Texas.
The cruise line currently homeports MSC Seascape in Miami, and also will operate MSC Magnifica and MSC Divina from PortMiami this year. MSC Seaside is home-ported in Port Canaveral.
Onboard MSC Meraviglia
Guests sailing aboard MSC Meraviglia have a choice of 10 stateroom categories, including the luxury level MSC Yacht Club, the line’s ship-within-a-ship experience that features exclusive dining and lounge areas, and butler service.
The ship features 12 dining venues, including Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, Ocean Cay, and Teppanyaki, and 20 bars. Her extensive waterpark area offers three slides and a ropes course. For relaxation, guests can visit the MSC Aurea Spa, where a wide variety of treatments and therapies are available.
MSC Meraviglia Arrives in New York (Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
An entertainment area offers the MSC Formula Racer, a flight simulator, and an expansive Sportsplex where guests can play several court games.
Based in Switzerland and with a historic footprint in Italy, MSC Cruises operates 23 ships and is known for European-style cruising. Its newest ship, MSC Euribia, debuted in June 2023.
The 184,011 gross ton ship that can accommodate up to 6,334 guests is considered the industry’s most energy-efficient cruise ship, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and low-sulfur marine gas oil.
If you’re planning a cruise out of Baltimore, Maryland, you’ll probably need information on the best options for Baltimore cruise port parking. We’ve rounded up everything you need to know, including both official port parking and cheaper lots nearby.
You’ll find lots of helpful info, such as the address, distance from the cruise port, shuttle availability, and the cost to help you find the best possible cruise parking option.
The most convenient cruise parking is onsite at the Baltimore cruise port, but it’s also the most expensive. By choosing parking lots further away and using the shuttle service to 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 free cruise parking as part of a Stay and Cruise Package. We’ve covered all the info below.
Located on the northwest shores of the Patasco River, the Port of Baltimore is one of the largest and busiest cargo and container ports in the USA. Located within the historic Inner Harbor, the South Locust Point Cruise Terminal is also known as the Cruise Maryland Terminal.
The official address is 2001 E. McComas St, Baltimore, MD 21230
Baltimore port and onsite cruise parking are easy to reach being just 0.8 miles from the I-95 Exit 55 (Key Highway). The cruise terminal is close to restaurants, shops, and attractions, including the National Aquarium and the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail.
Close to Baltimore cruise port, Harborplace is a waterfront shopping and dining hub and major events space. The port is also just a 10-minute drive from Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) .
One of the best things about the Port of Baltimore is that it has plenty of affordable cruise parking options. There are several different parking types near the Baltimore Cruise Port, including dedicated parking lots and hotels that offer cruise parking packages with a shuttle service.
Baltimore Cruise Port Parking Options
Onsite parking at the Baltimore Cruise Port is one of the easiest options. There’s usually plenty of space and no need to book in advance. The cruise terminal parking lots on either side of the terminal are very convenient being just steps from the cruise check-in.
Apart from the official Baltimore cruise port parking lots there is very little competition. Any secure long-term parking lots that aren’t right on the port offer a shuttle service to 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 cheapest cruise parking option.
If you’re planning to stay in town for a day or two before or after your cruise, you should also check our hotel cruise parking deals. These Stay, Park and Cruise Packages usually include one night’s stay, breakfast, parking for the duration of your cruise and a courtesy shuttle to 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 of Baltimore cruise port parking within walking distance of the Cruise Maryland Terminal, the official onsite parking lot is your best option.
No advanced reservations are necessary. Secure parking at the Baltimore cruise port is located within easy walking distance of the terminal. Overflow parking is located close by, and there will be a shuttle provided.
Parking is from $15 per day and is payable by credit card. Cash is no longer accepted. Parking fees are paid upon entering the parking facility. The type and size of vehicle you are driving/ parking will make a difference to the cost of parking, and prices are listed below.
This cruise parking lot can hold up to 1,500 cars at a time. It caters to SUVs and all sizes of recreational 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 main cruise parking lot 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 overflow parking lot because the main port parking lot is full.
This parking lot is certainly the most convenient, being right on the port itself. There are shuttles going from the parking lot to 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 the tent marked Cruise Luggage Tags as you leave the parking lot. This tent is where you’ll drop off your luggage to be checked and screened, loaded onboard the ship, and eventually delivered to your cabin door.
Address: 2001 East McComas St, Baltimore
Distance from cruise port: steps from the terminal
Shuttle? Yes if required
Cost per night: $15 for passenger vehicles and SUVs
$30 for recreational vehicles under 30 feet
$40 for buses and recreational vehicles over 30 feet
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 the airport. Despite the distance being a little further from the cruise port, that doesn’t make these parking lots any less popular.
The Econopark cruise parking lots are fully fenced, which gives your car some added security while you’re away. The company offers a regular shuttle service to and from the cruise terminal. They also offer a valet service and an optional carwash.
Shuttles run 24/7 when needed, but you should plan a little extra time for travel. You should allow for the transit time in the shuttle itself, and in case you miss the first available shuttle, or it’s too full.
Like the parking lot by the cruise 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 complimentary shuttle can be more of an issue.
The Parking Spot, Baltimore
Complimentary water bottles are available on all shuttles, 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 the parking lot at the port, the Econopark Express often fills to capacity. While there are other parking options if 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 the parking lot. The two Econopark locations are shown below:
Ridge Road, Baltimore cruise port parking lot is 12.5 miles from the cruise port and is cheaper as it offers uncovered parking:
Address: 7188 Ridge Rd – uncovered parking only
Distance from cruise port: 12.5 miles
Shuttle? Yes
Cost per day: Prepay $6.91 Pay later $7.25
South Camp Meade Road car park is 8.6 miles from the Baltimore cruise port and has covered and uncovered parking. Prices are shown below:
Address: 790 S. Camp Meade Rd – covered and uncovered parking
Distance from cruise port: 8.6 miles
Shuttle? Yes
Cost per day uncovered: Prepay $8.45, Pay later $8.75
Cost per day covered: Prepay $8.95 Pay later $9.25
Fast Park Pay and Relax (BWI)
Fast Park Pay and Relax offers Baltimore cruise port parking lots close to the airport. Both sites offer a shuttle service to the airport, but not to the cruise port.
If you book your Baltimore cruise port parking 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.
Address: 1718 W Nursery Rd, Linthicum Heights
Distance from cruise port: 9.2 miles
Shuttle? No
Cost per day: $10 per day plus a $4.95 reservation fee
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.
Cost per day: $11 per day plus $4.95 reservation fee
Baltimore Hotel Cruise Parking Options
Most hotels offering a Stay and Cruise Parking Package are situated around BWI airport, which is roughly 10 minutes from the port. There are also a couple of closer options near the Baltimore Downtown/Inner Harbor area.
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 and shuttle options. This can be one of the most convenient options since you don’t have to worry about hopping from the parking lot to parking lot when you’re in a serious time crunch.
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 restaurant downtown before boarding.
There are lots of hotels in Baltimore that offer a cruise shuttle 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 cruise shuttle and parking services.
Even if there isn’t a shuttle, you may be able to pay for extended parking and take an Uber or taxi to the port.
Sleep Inn and Suites Downtown Inner Harbor
Sleep Inn and Suites Downtown Baltimore offers mid-range hotel accommodations just a short walk from the harbor and Baltimore 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 tea/coffee and a free breakfast.
Address: 301 Fallsway, Baltimore
Distance from cruise port: 3.0 miles
Shuttle? Yes
Park and Cruise package: $190
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 offer free 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 complimentary shuttle to Baltimore downtown every hour.
Cruise parking is 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 paid parking lots.
Shuttles to 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.
Address: 5625 O Donnell St, Baltimore
Distance from cruise port: 3.9 miles
Shuttle? Yes
Park and Cruise package: $190
Best Western Plus BWI Airport Arundel Mills
Best Western BWI Airport Hotel might 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 complimentary shuttle service to the port.
The rooms themselves offer free 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 nearby parking lots.
Address: 6755 Dorsey Rd, Elkridge
Distance from cruise port: 13.0 miles
Shuttle? Yes
Park and Cruise package: $199
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott
Fairfield Inn and Suites in Linthicum Heights receives good ratings for their room quality and other amenities. Close to BWI 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 a complimentary breakfast, shuttle transport, and free parking.
Cruise shuttle times vary, but you can count on a shuttle leaving 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 the parking lot.
Address: 1020 Andover Rd, Linthicum Heights
Distance from cruise port: 8.0 miles
Shuttle? Yes
Park and Cruise package: $254
What to Expect from Baltimore Cruise Port Parking
Things to consider when choosing the best Baltimore cruise port parking 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 a shuttle service to and from the port.
While hotel parking can 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 options downtown, and others at the airport.
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 covered parking options. The lots we’ve talked about are mainly open parking 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 covered parking options in Baltimore itself, they generally aren’t convenient to the cruise 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 the parking options we’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 electric parking 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 only parking lot we 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 Port Parking Tips
Once you’ve sorted out your cruise 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 the Baltimore Cruise Port will 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 at Baltimore 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 the cruise ship to 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 nearby Downtown Baltimore. 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 near Baltimore cruise port.
Baltimore Cruise Port Parking 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 nearby cruise parking lots with a dedicated shuttle to the port.
Alternatively, many of the local hotels offer a Stay, Park and Cruise service that can take care of your car.
What cruise lines offer cruises out of Baltimore?
Right now you can expect to find cruises from Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line operating out of the Baltimore cruise port. Norwegian Cruise Lines will be operating form Baltimore cruise port from late 2023. However, that may change as the port grows, or if their contracts with major cruise lines change.
How much is parking at the Baltimore cruise port?
Parking at the Baltimore cruise port costs $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 your Baltimore cruise port parking. You can either park in the official parking lot at the port, book with cruise parking companies such as Econopark, or you can take advantage of the cruise parking packages 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 a free shuttle service to 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.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) recently sent a letter to guests, alerting them to a significant hike in costs for sailings in Spanish waters or departure from Spanish ports.
This move will affect all boutique purchases, now with a Value Added Tax (VAT) added to the onboard pricing. All food and beverage purchases, including unlimited open bar and specialty dining packages, will also incur VAT.
What does it all mean? Those who have spent hundreds of dollars or euros on all-inclusive beverage and dining packages will still be handed a bill at the end of the cruise.
Spanish VAT Will be Added to Your Bill on NCL
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that guests sailing onboard its ships out of Spanish ports, such as the hugely popular Barcelona cruises or even cruises sailing through Spanish waters, will see VAT added to their bill at the end of the cruise.
All purchases in the onboard shops will incur a 21% VAT, while all beverage and dining purchases will incur a 10% VAT charge.
The notice was sent to guests and travel partners and outlined the changes in onboard costs. Guests who opt for the popular Free at Sea packages, including all-inclusive drinks packages, will still find themselves paying an additional tax for every drink purchased while the vessel is in a Spanish port or sailing in Spanish territorial waters.
This puts a damper on the all-inclusive experience and raises questions about how NCL plans to market such packages in the future.
The value-added tax that Norwegian Cruise Line is passing on to guests comes from a new law that the Spanish government passed, which aims to ensure guests onboard ships in Spain pay the same taxes as those who vacation ashore.
The letter from Norwegian states:“Due to local tax regulations, please note that a 21% Spanish VAT will be added to applicable retail items purchased on board for sailings departing from Spain and calling to European port cities.
Additionally, a 10% VAT will be applied to all food and beverage purchases made onboard, including purchases made under our Unlimited Open Bar or Specialty Dining packages, for certain sailings departing from Spain or any European itinerary while in Spanish waters.”
With cruise tourism accounting for a significant portion of Spain’s tourism industry, these new regulations mark a crucial turning point in how the industry operates within the country. It’s an issue that affects the experience of guests aboard Norwegian Cruise Line and impacts the broader cruise industry’s relationship with one of Europe’s major tourist destinations.
Spain’s Relationship with Cruise Tourism
Barcelona, along with Civitavecchia and Southampton, has emerged as one of Europe’s cruise industry strongholds over the past two decades. The city became one of the largest homeports in the Mediterranean, attracting 2.7 million cruise guests in the 2022/2023 season. Yet, this surge in tourism has come with its challenges.
Cruise lines have operated in European waters for many years with minimal regulatory intervention. However, there’s been a recent drive by authorities to establish new laws that directly influence the cruise industry in Europe. These laws do not just levy new taxes; they also affect how, where, if, and when cruise ships can enter a port.
While Spain is reassessing its relationship with the cruise sector, imposing new taxes on cruise guests, Barcelona is scrutinizing the environmental and societal impacts of cruise tourism. The city has earned the dubious distinction of being Europe’s most polluted cruise port, prompting a ban on ships docking at its northern piers starting October 22, 2023.
That Spain is reacting to the cruise industry is not surprising in itself. Of the ten cities in Europe most affected by pollution from cruise ship emissions, the country features three times, besides Barcelona, which includes Palma de Mallorca in the Balearic islands and Tenerife in the Canary Islands.
The recent tax law enacted by Spain indicates the growing need for the cruise industry to conform to local rules and societal issues.
Although regulatory shifts are understandable from several perspectives, the economic influence of the cruise sector is often underestimated. In 2019 alone, more than ten million cruise guests arrived at Spanish ports, supporting over 31,000 jobs and contributing 1.48 billion euros to the economy.
As cruise lines face mounting complaints from guests over the new taxes, questions arise about Spain’s continued allure for cruise operators and whether they might redirect their ships to more accommodating ports and countries.
Royal Caribbean International guests, as well as those sailing with other lines in the Royal Caribbean Group family, will soon be subject to a new fee when visiting the US Virgin Islands.
The new Capital Cost Recovery Charge was approved last week, and is likely to be applied to visitors from January 1, 2024 for visits to both St. Thomas and St. Croix.
Virgin Islands Passes New Cruise Visitor Fee
The Virgin Islands Port Authority Board of Governors has approved a $5 per passenger fee for cruise guests sailing on Royal Caribbean Group ships. The fee – a Capital Cost Recovery Charge (CCRC) – is intended to fund essential work to improve cruise port infrastructure that will better support visits from larger Royal Caribbean vessels.
The funds raised from the fee will be used for dredging work in Crown Bay and developing a third cruise pier in St. Thomas, as well as additional dredging and structural improvements in St. Croix.
Only ships that berth at the Austin “Babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal in Crown Bay, St. Thomas and the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility in Frederiksted, St. Croix will be subject to the fee.
Photo Credit: Zoran Atanasoski / Shutterstock.com
“We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Royal Caribbean Group as we move forward in the development of these exciting projects that will benefit the territory and strengthen this U.S. Virgin Islands’ position as a premier destination,”said Carlton Dowe, Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Port Authority.
The next step is for the Virgin Islands Port Authority to negotiate with Royal Caribbean Group as to how to implement the new fee.
All ships in the Royal Caribbean Group that dock at the appropriate berths will be charged the per-passenger fee. The Royal Caribbean Group includes Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, as well as 50% holdings of TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, and 49% of Pullmantur Cruises.
Typically, port taxes and fees are assessed to guests in addition to their cruise fare. Different ports have a wide range of fees that can add up to $100 or more per passenger per cruise, depending on how many ports of call a ship visits on any given itinerary.
New Port Improvements
One of the key improvements the new fee is intended to fund is to complete extensive dredging in St. Croix. At the moment, only Voyager-class ships or smaller vessels can safely dock at the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility in Frederiksted.
With additional dredging, the larger Freedom-class ships would be able to visit the port of call, broadening the scope of itineraries Royal Caribbean International could offer to cruise guests.
Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
Voyager-class ships measure up to 140,000 gross tons, while Freedom-class vessels measure roughly 156,000 gross tons. There are just three Freedom-class ships – Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas.
Increasing the capacity at the dock would also bring more tourism to St. Croix, bolstering the local economy and offering the destination as a highlight to even more travelers.
Why Just Royal Caribbean?
It is interesting that the new Capital Cost Recovery Charge would only be applied to Royal Caribbean Group ships. Other cruise lines regularly visit both St. Thomas and St. Croix.
Cruise lines that are not part of Royal Caribbean Group with St. Thomas on regular itineraries include Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and several others. Similarly, Carnival Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages also visit St. Croix.
It must be noted, however, that for both destinations, the significant majority of visiting ships are part of the Royal Caribbean Group. It is possible that additional fees will also be levied on other cruise lines in the future, depending on how much funding is necessary for the port improvement projects at both destinations.
If you have never been on a cruise vacation, you might be surprised just how flexible they can be when allowing passengers to explore on-land locations via tender ports
While cruise ships certainly can dock in local ports, they are not always big or deep enough to accommodate the gigantic dimensions of a modern-day cruise ship.
This is where tendering at the port comes into play. Unlike conventional ports and docking bays, tender ports allow cruise ships to drop their anchor on the water, so passengers and crew members can be shuttled or tendered to shore.
In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about tender ports and how they differ from standard ports of call. We will also explain why tender ports can quickly emerge as one of any cruise vacation’s most exciting and memorable components. So, if you are ready to unveil the charm of tender ports, let’s get started!
In simple terms, a tender port is a designated off-shore location meant to accommodate ships that cannot enter a traditional port.
Rather than having the cruise ship enter the port and attach itself to a dock, passengers and crew members are ferried to the shore using small, specialized vessels known as tender boats or tenders.
Tender ports can consist of floating docks, which help with boarding, or they can simply be the formal name for the designated area where large ships can drop their anchors so smaller tender boats can shuttle passengers to and from shore.
What Do Tender Boats Look Like?
Whether they are called tender boats, tenders, or simply shuttle boats, these unique vessels can come in various shapes and sizes depending on the occasion’s needs.
The typical tender boat will almost look like an elaborate version of a lifeboat. These boats are designed to ensure maximum buoyancy and stability so that passengers can enjoy a comfortable trip to shore. For the most part, the seating areas are entirely covered and feature large windows that passengers can use to take in their surroundings.
Cruise Ship Lifeboat Being Used as Tender (Photo Credit: Dirk Coppens / Shutterstock)
Open-air tender boats and catamarans can be used when the tender port is close to the shoreline. These cruise ship tender boats provide passengers with a more exciting and immersive experience. Thanks to unobstructed views and their open design, passengers can really embrace the sense of adventure.
Why Are Tender Ports Used Instead of Traditional Ports?
In some cases, the immense dimensions of a cruise ship can make it difficult to dock in a traditional port. Not only can the port be too small, but it might not offer the appropriate water depth for such large ships.
In other cases, a local port might be too busy to accommodate a full-sized cruise ship. Rather than completely alter the cruise ship’s itinerary, passengers can be shuttled to the shore for excursions and various land-based activities. Once these activities and experiences have concluded, passengers can re-board their designated tender boat and return to the cruise ship.
Photo Credit: Feng Cheng / Shutterstock
In certain situations, cruise ships are not allowed to enter a port or even come within a specified distance of the shoreline. This is usually regulated to protect delicate marine ecosystems like coral reefs.
In these cases, tendering allows passengers to visit the shore or even just get a closer look at the coastline from the water without the ship needing to violate local rules and regulations.
What Are the Main Differences Between Tender Ports and Typical Ports of Call?
Tender ports differ significantly from the standard ports you may visit as part of your cruise’s regular itinerary. The main difference is the way the ship docks.
With a standard cruise port of call, the cruise ship docks like any other type of vessel, meaning it enters the port, saddles beside a dock, and then is secured in place using ropes and cables.
On the other hand, when it comes to tender ports, the ship never has to enter a port. Instead, the ship’s navigation crew will drop the anchor in the designated tender port area.
Cruise Tender
From there, tender boats are either lowered from the cruise ship itself or local tender boats are dispatched to the cruise ship’s location. In some cases, floating docks make it easier for guests to board the tender boats and return to the cruise ship afterward.
Naturally, a standard port of call will have all the equipment and features you would expect from a permanent port, including piers, docks, slips, and cranes for loading and unloading supplies. By contrast, tender ports are very basic and may feature little more than a few buoys.
What Is the Charm of Tender Ports for Cruise Ship Passengers?
While tender ports serve a practical purpose for cruise lines, they also offer plenty of charm and excitement for cruise ship passengers. In fact, some people find that the tendering experience is one of the most memorable experiences of their entire cruise vacation.
Here are some of the reasons why so many seasoned cruise travelers enjoy tender ports so much:
The Sense of Adventure and Exploration
Even boarding a tender boat can be incredibly exciting and adventurous. Disembarking from a full-sized cruise ship and boarding a small boat on the water can be exciting and a completely new experience.
Once on board the tender boat, cruising towards the shoreline can make you feel like an explorer. The sensation of feeling the waves crash against the front of the tender boat and the smell of the salty air is very different from the experience of looking out from a cruise ship’s observation decks.
The experience of boarding and traveling on the tendering boat is also just the beginning. Once the tendering boat has reached its destination, you can set foot on land in a new country or region. In other words, you can have a miniature adventure by experiencing new cuisines, cultures, and landscapes.
Tendering Offers a More Exclusive and Intimate Experience
Where most passengers will leave the cruise ship when it stops at a standard port of call, deciding to board a tender boat and visit locations off limits to the main ship can make for a much more exclusive experience.
With fewer passengers opting to use tendering ports, you will not have to deal with the crowds when you get to the shore. This also means you will not have to feel like more tourists than locals surround you.
Tender Port
In short, tendering allows you to leave your comfort zone and interact with the destination. Unfortunately, this is not always the case with bustling and crowded ports where numerous cruise ships are loading and unloading passengers at the same time.
The Chance to Interact with Nature and Take Incredible Photographs
While cruise ships provide passengers with plenty of stunning ocean views, it can be challenging to feel like you are genuinely interacting with nature when you are floating around in such a massive vessel. By tendering, you can visit remote shorelines far less spoiled by human interaction than large-scale permanent ports.
Even traveling in a tender boat gets you close to the tropical waters you might only see from a distance if you never choose to leave the cruise ship.
Unfortunately, the waters in some standard ports of call are heavily polluted and relatively free from marine pollution. This is not the case if you take a smaller vessel to a more secluded location.
Cruise Tender
Not only do you get to experience all of this nature more authentically and intimately, but you will also be presented with incredible opportunities to take breathtaking photographs.
Photograph stunning landscapes, small coastal towns, and wildlife. You can even turn around and photograph the cruise ship from the water, which can be an incredible memento from your cruise vacation.
Tips for Cruise Ship Tendering
If tender ports sound appealing to you and the passengers you will be traveling with, it always helps to be prepared. By taking the time to prepare appropriately, you can ensure that your tendering experience is a fun and stress-free experience.
Here are our top tendering tips for those hoping to experience a tender boat adventure for the first time:
1. Consider Packing a Small Bag
Like any adventure or day trip, you should pack a small bag that you can carry comfortably if you plan on boarding at a tender port.
Consider bringing bottled water, sunscreen, sunglasses, local tender, nutritious snacks, identification information, medication, a swimsuit, flip flops, and maybe even a change of clothes.
2. Book Shore Excursions Ahead of Time
If you hope to have an adventure onshore, look into booking excursions ahead of time. Just like standard ports of call, tender ports often allow cruise passengers to visit designated areas where various excursions and experiences are available.
Photo Credit: Philip Schubert / Shutterstock
If they are offered through your cruise line, the local staff will fully understand the tendering process, and they will be able to ensure that your excursion is completed in time for you to be ready for the return trip to your cruise ship.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothes and Footwear
Once you have boarded a tender boat, you cannot return to the cruise ship until the tendering trip is complete. Make sure that you are wearing clothing that you will be comfortable in.
This is particularly important regarding footwear, as you must ensure that the footwear you have chosen will be comfortable for walking around the shoreline.
4. Pay Attention and Always Follow Instructions from the Crew Carefully
While the crew will try their best to ensure that the tendering process goes smoothly for passengers, it is still important that you pay close attention to their instructions.
Photo Credit: Kyle Lee / Shutterstock.com
They will explain exactly how to board and debark the tender boat. They will also provide precise details regarding when you must return to the tender boat station for your return trip to the main cruise ship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it possible to enjoy tendering if you have mobility issues?
Tendering with mobility issues depends on how accessible the cruise line’s tendering situation is. Given that the level of accessibility can vary depending on the cruise ship and the destinations it is traveling to, the best thing to do is contact the cruise line ahead of time.
They will be able to discuss your specific needs and provide information about the tendering process and any mobility aids they can provide.
2. Will every cruise ship offer tendering experiences?
While tendering is becoming more common, it is not always an option for every cruise line or cruise ship. Tendering options can depend on where the cruise ship is traveling to, its itinerary, and whether or not the vessel has the necessary equipment to facilitate tender ports.
Again, your best options are to check your chosen cruise itinerary or contact the cruise line for more information. They will be able to address all of your questions.
3. Will I get seasick on a tender boat?
If you suffer from seasickness, make sure that you bring motion sickness medication. Over-the-counter motion sickness medication or wristbands should do the trick.
Remember, the side-to-side movements that trigger seasickness will be far more perceptible on the tender boat than on the main cruise ship.
Even if you do not regularly suffer from seasickness, you should ensure you adequately hydrate before boarding a cruise ship tender boat. Dehydration can increase your likelihood of experiencing seasickness and even worsen your symptoms.
Final Words
Tender ports enable cruise ships to offer their passengers a different experience. Enjoy the sense of adventure and excitement you can get from boarding a small vessel and traveling toward land.
Take in the shoreline’s stunning views and the local culture if your tendering experience takes you to the shore. You might even get the chance to try a shore excursion you never even imagined!
Even if tendering is not the main reason you planned your cruise vacation, you might be surprised just how memorable and exhilarating the experience can be.
Newport, Rhode Island, known for its colonial charm and picturesque coastal landscapes, welcomed the biggest cruise ship to visit the port this year, MSC Meraviglia, on September 25. The call is part of the ship’s inaugural voyage in its Canada & New England season of cruises out of New York City.
Fall cruises to New England and Canada are incredibly popular, drawing in thousands of guests each year who want to explore the region. MSC Meraviglia‘s visit is part of MSC Cruises’ expansion in the US market, with the cruise line now operating cruises from New York City, Miami, and Port Canaveral.
Newport Welcomes MSC Meraviglia
MSC Cruises has kicked off its 2023 New England and Canada season of cruises onboard MSC Meraviglia with a call to the charming Rhode Island city of Newport. Although Newport is probably best known for the America’s Cup, the city is becoming increasingly popular with visiting cruise ships.
The 171,598 gross tons Meraviglia-class cruise ship is the biggest cruise ship to visit Newport this year, bringing up to 5,700 guests to the city.
Evan Smith, CEO and President of Discover Newport: “This is not only the largest cruise ship to make a port call in Newport this season, but also the most guests arriving on one vessel to this city.”
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase our coastal destination, Newport, Rhode Island, to the MSC Meraviglia guests and to be part of this memorable coastal Canada and New England itinerary.”
The call by the MSC Cruises ship, which sailed from New York City on September 24, means a significant financial boost for Newport, with cruise organization CLIA stating it could bring in more than two million USD in local revenues. Guests will be able to explore the city’s charming colonial center and try out the region’s famous seafood.
“For our hospitality partners; retail shops, restaurants, and attractions, the economic impact from this one-day visit will be significant and a welcome boost going into the fall months,” Evan Smith said.
Besides Newport, MSC Meraviglia will also visit Boston, Massachusetts; Saint John, New Brunswick; Portland, Maine; Sydney, Nova Scotia; and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The cruise is the first of three voyages MSC Meraviglia will sail along the New England coastline this fall.
MSC Building US Presence
The cruises from New York City to New England and Canada are part of MSC Cruises’ ever-expanding presence in the United States.
Rubén A. Rodríguez, President of MSC Cruises USA: “MSC Meraviglia’s inaugural visit to Newport is a great milestone for MSC Cruises as we continue expanding our presence in the North American market. When we launched year-round cruises from New York City, one of our goals was to allow guests to visit a wider variety of destinations, and Newport is a perfect example.”
MSC Meraviglia Arrives in New York (Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
“The response to these itineraries has been strong, which means we’ll bring thousands of visitors to Newport this season. We look forward to continuing to work with leaders here to provide our guests with a distinctive and immersive cruising experience.”
Besides cruises to New England, MSC Meraviglia also sails on cruises to Bermuda, the Bahamas, and Florida. MSC Cruises now has ships sailing from three major homeports, Miami, Port Canaveral, and New York City.
MSC Seascape operates seven-day cruises to the Caribbean from Miami, while MSC Seaside operates from Port Canaveral. MSC Seashore will begin operating cruises out of Port Canaveral to the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas from mid-November. MSC Magnifica and MSC Divina will also operate from PortMiami this year.
For the second time in just a few days, Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked on an upcoming sailing to notify them that the most popular loyalty benefits for top-tier returning passengers will not be available.
The impacted sailing is the September 29, 2023 Carnival Venezia departure, and while it is a longer sailing, it is not quite so momentous as other cruises where these benefits cannot be accommodated.
Why does this keep happening aboard Carnival Cruise Line, and what might be done to preserve loyalty status on more sailings?
Loyalty Benefits Not Available on Upcoming Cruise
Returning Carnival guests who have achieved Diamond or Platinum level in Carnival Cruise Line’s “VIFP” (Very Important Fun Person) loyalty program will not be getting all their benefits aboard the September 29, 2023 cruise on Carnival Venezia.
The 15-night Southern Caribbean itinerary is a roundtrip “Carnival Journeys” cruise scheduled to call on Grand Turk, Aruba, Curacao, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas before returning to New York on October 14, 2023.
The cruise line’s most loyal guests booked on the cruise, however, have been notified that not all their benefits can be offered on this sailing.
“Due to the high number of Diamond and Platinum guests joining us on this voyage, we will not be able to provide priority embarkation or debarkation (including at any of the ports of call),”the notification email read.
Furthermore, the email also noted that “due to capacity limitations” Diamond guests would not be guaranteed main dining room seating time requests for dinner.
Carnival Venezia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock)
“This operational change is consistent with other Carnival Journeys cruises where we have a very large number of Diamond and Platinum guests,”the email explained.“We apologize for any disappointment and thank you for your understanding.”
In order to reach Platinum VIFP status, a cruise traveler must have sailed with Carnival Cruise Line for a minimum of 75 cruise nights (each night earns one point in the program, and points do not expire). To reach Diamond status, guests must have sailed with the cruise line for at least 200 nights.
The priority embarkation and debarkation benefits are some of the most sought after loyalty rewards in the program, but they are not the only benefits the most experienced cruisers receive. Other benefits, including the loyalty gifts, casino free play, and the special line at Guest Services remain intact for this sailing.
Benefits Not Available on All Cruises
Whenever necessary, Carnival Cruise Line does remove benefits from individual sailings if those benefits cannot be accommodated in a timely and efficient way.
For example, the “Carnival Journeys” cruises – longer sailings to more exclusive destination that often attract more experienced cruisers – regularly get these benefits reduced, because it simply would not be possible to effectively deliver the appropriate service to hundreds of Diamond or Platinum guests.
With more and more travelers reaching the distinct upper levels of loyalty status, however, it is possible that these benefits may be rescinded more and more frequently on a larger number of Carnival sailings. This can make the benefits must less valuable and much less attractive to frequent cruisers.
“The whole loyalty program is being looked at by very smart people and while I have zero news to share on what will or will not happen I know that the program needs a massive refresh so we can do a better job in thanking people for their loyalty and to keep that loyalty alive,” Heald said.
Any adjustments to Carnival’s existing program could be tricky, however, as guests who are already Platinum or Diamond may resent if any existing benefits are removed for a new, higher tier. This could cause ripples with upcoming bookings or cancellations if guests opt to shift to other cruise lines – perhaps lines like MSC Cruises, which offers a status match for competing lines’ loyalty programs.
What new benefits do you think Carnival could introduce for a new tier of VIFP guests? Share your thoughts on the Cruise Hive boards!
A new partnership between luxury line Cunard and a prestigious British film group will bring a special program of short films and movies to the cruise line’s newest ship, Queen Anne. The ship, under construction at an Italian shipyard, is due to launch in May 2024.
Curated Films To Be Showcased on Queen Anne
Cunard, a luxury brand of the Carnival Corporation, entered an exclusive partnership with the British Film Institute (BFI) that will showcase blockbuster movies and films on the outdoor screen in The Pavilion, a two-deck, open-air theater space onboard Queen Anne.
Under the 3-year collaboration, 10 films curated by the BFI will be shown every month on the LED screen in The Pavilion, and also available in guests’ staterooms. Inspired by a glasshouse design, The Pavilion features a retractable glass dome roof.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with the British Film Institute, with our shared dedication to providing immersive experiences aligning perfectly. We’re hugely proud of our long-standing affiliation with the silver screen, with some of Hollywood’s biggest names having sailed in style with Cunard – from Charlie Chaplin to Meryl Streep,” said Katie McAlister, president of Cunard.
Queen Anne Open Deck
The cruise line also announced it will be a sponsor of the 67th BFI London Film Festival, in partnership with American Express, from October 4 to 15, 2023. Additionally, on October 11, 2023, the Cunard Gala will support the European premiere of the movie “The Holdovers” during the film festival. The event will be held at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall.
“We are thrilled to be working alongside Cunard on this partnership and are incredibly thankful for their support of the BFI and the BFI London Film Festival. We are excited to be able to reach audiences in new inventive ways with amazing films and look forward to collaborating with Cunard over the next three years,” said Francesca Vinti, executive director of fundraising and enterprise at BFI.
Queen Anne To Debut in May 2024
The 14-deck, 113,00-gross ton Queen Anne will accommodate 3,000 guests in 1,400 staterooms. Under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy, Queen Anne was floated out in early May 2023, shortly after she received her iconic red and black Cunard funnel.
The glass dome in The Pavilion, where the BFI-curated movies will be featured, was designed by architect Martin Francis, who supported the engineering behind the Louvre Pyramid in Paris.
Other common spaces onboard the new ship include a wellness studio, a Sky Bar and Observation Deck, the tropical-themed Cabana bar, and the outdoor Grills Terrace.
Cunard’s Queen Anne Ship (Photo Courtesy: Cunard Line)
Like the other Cunard ships, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria, the new-build will feature the three accommodations categories of Queens Grill Suites, Princess Grill Suites, and Britannia Club staterooms. Under the category system, certain lounges and dining rooms are reserved for guests who book Queens and Princess suites.
Queen Anne is scheduled to depart on her maiden voyage May 3, 2024, on a 7-day cruise roundtrip from Southampton, UK, with port calls at Lisbon and La Coruna, Portugal. The sailing is already sold out, according to the Cunard web site.
Her inaugural summer season in Europe will feature a mix of Canary Islands, British Isles, Mediterranean, Norwegian Fjord, and Northern Europe/Scandinavia voyages.
Queen Anne’s 14-night British Isles cruise, roundtrip from Southampton on May 24, 2024, calls at destinations such as Edinburgh, Isle of May, Kirkwall, and Inverness, Scotland, plus Belfast, Northern Ireland, Cork, Ireland, and Liverpool, England.
A 14-night Northern Europe sailing departs Southampton on June 30, 2024, calling at Copenhagen, Denmark; Visby and Stockholm, Sweden; Tallinn, Estonia; Helsinki, Finland; and Kiel, Germany.
Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked aboard three different ships sailing this weekend to alert them to potential impacts of a developing tropical cyclone.
While there are no itinerary adjustments confirmed at this time, guests will want to stay in close contact with the cruise line in case of further updates or last-minute changes.
Three Carnival Ships on Weather Alert
With a new tropical storm developing off the southeastern coast of the US and forecast to move north over the weekend, Carnival Cruise Line is notifying guests setting sail on Carnival Venezia, Carnival Legend, and Carnival Magic to stay alert to possible adjustments. All guests received a notification on Thursday, September 21, to stay alert and to sign up for cruise line text messages for updates on their sailings.
The 135,225-gross ton Carnival Venezia is scheduled to depart from New York on Saturday, September 23, for a 6-night Canada & New England cruise that will visit Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Halifax, Nova Scotia before returning to New York on Friday, September 29.
The 88,500-gross ton Carnival Legend is setting sail from Baltimore, Maryland on Sunday, September 24, for a 6-night Bermuda sailing, with no ports of call other than Kings Wharf for an overnight visit.
Photo Credit: Tony Davis
The 128,000-gross ton Carnival Magic is sailing from Norfolk, Virginia on Sunday, September 24, also for a 6-night Bermuda cruise, which will enjoy an overnight port visit to Kings Wharf.
“At present, there is no change to our sailing plan,”the notifications for all three cruises read.“As everyone’s safety is our priority, we will continue to monitor the weather forecast and provide timely updates should there be any impact to your embarkation.”
Guests are asked not to head to the cruise terminal for embarkation until they have received a final update from the cruise line, in case there are changes or delays.
Carnival Magic Reminders
In addition to the notification about the tropical storm – which is not expected to strengthen into a hurricane, but will nonetheless create rough sailing conditions – guests booked on Carnival Magic have received an additional reminder about their embarkation in Norfolk.
The email notes,“terminal arrival appointments will be strictly enforced and guests who arrive before their selected time will be asked to return later.”
Carnival Magic, Norfolk, Virginia (Photo Credit: Nauticus)
Shuttle buses are provided between the parking area and the cruise terminal, which are approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) apart. Parking payments must be made in cash or via credit card, and are due upon arrival.
All guests must also be onboard Carnival Magic no later than 60 minutes before the sailing time, which is currently scheduled for 5:30 p.m. It is possible the ship’s embarkation may be moved earlier to provide a wider margin ahead of the incoming storm, though this has not yet been decided and at the moment, the departure time remains as originally planned.
Tropical Storm Expected
While the rough weather that may impact all three Carnival cruises is currently only a “potential tropical storm” it is expected to strengthen into an official tropical storm on Friday, September 22.
The center of the storm is currently 620 miles (998 kilometers) east of Bermuda, moving north at 14 miles per hour (23 kilometers per hour). The maximum sustained winds are reported at 50 mph (80 kph), though the system does not yet have a defined eye or complete circulation that is necessary for tropical storm classification.
Tropical storm warnings are already in effect from North Carolina north to New Jersey, with the entire region likely to be impacted by strong winds, large waves, and heavy rain.
Any guests sailing in the region over the next few days, including coastal cruises as well as fall foliage sailings, may want to be prepared for less-than-ideal weather and the possibility of itinerary adjustments.
