Baltimore Cruise Port Parking: Everything You Need to Know

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.

This Baltimore cruise port parking guide will make sure you are fully prepared for what to expect. Hopefully, you will gain a new insight into parking for your luxury cruise vacation.

The most 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 on these below.

Things to Know about Baltimore Cruise Port

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) . 

Currently, Baltimore cruise port serves Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise lines. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) also started offering cruises out of Baltimore starting in September 2023. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

• Address: 786 Elkridge Landing Rd, Linthicum Heights
• Distance from cruise port: 9.7 miles
• Shuttle?  No
• 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.

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.

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.

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.

Read Also: Things to Know About the Baltimore Cruise Terminal

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.