Baltimore Cruise Port Terminal Information
Baltimore Bridge Collapse
In the early morning hours of Tuesday, March 26, a container ship struck one of the support towers of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, collapsing it.
Royal Caribbean operates year-round from the Port of Baltimore. RC’s Vision of the Seas sailed out of Maryland and is currently on a 12-night Southern Caribbean sailing due back on April 4th.
Carnival Legend is due to return to Baltimore on March 31st after a 7-day cruise to the Bahamas.
At this point, with the bridge in the water, access to the port is completely shut off. The Key bridge is just five miles from the cruise terminal.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge sits about five miles from the cruise port. Its collapse blocks entry to the area. Map data: Google. Image courtesy of Cruzely.
The Key bridge carries Interstate 695 over the river. 31,000 vehicles a day use the bridge and the bay has five public and 12 private terminals.
More than 40 ships were inside the Baltimore port when the bridge collapsed, including small cargo ships, tug boats and pleasure crafts. Those vessels are currently trapped in the harbor.
At this early date, it is unclear when the Patapsco River will reopen.
Baltimore Cruise Terminal Address & Directions
The South Locust Point Cruise Terminal, also called Cruise Maryland Terminal, is located at 2001 East McComas Street.
From the north, the terminal can be reached via I-95 South through Ft. McHenry Tunnel. Sticking to the right lane, you should take Exit 55 on Key Highway and turn left when you reach the traffic light on the corner of East McComas Street. From there, you will see signs that will direct you to the entrance of the terminal on the right.
Baltimore’s port is quite small so check-in can be quite fast and simple. The cruise terminal parking lot is located right next door, within easy walking distance. There is plenty of staff both outside to collect your luggage and inside to check you in so that you are on the ship in no time.
Hotels Closest to the Baltimore Cruise Terminal
Baltimore Embarkation Tips:
– Check your cruise line’s current health protocols for the most up-to-date information!
– Have your luggage tags already attached for quick drop off. If forgotten, a small tent with extras is close at hand. You can park after dropping your luggage off.
– Do not arrive at the port earlier than 2 hours after the ship has arrived from the previous cruise. It is suggested you wait until the embarkation time given you by the cruise line in order to maintain short lines (ie Royal Caribbean suggest wait time may be as long as 25 minutes, which is very short in comparison with other terminals).
– Have your cruise ticket and ID close at hand as soon as you enter the terminal. The building is very small and you will be able to get in a check-in line as soon as you enter.
– Passengers with limited mobility – always ask if there is a line for those with disabilities. While the lines may be short, there is a steep winding walkway used while boarding on some ships, which can be tricky to navigate. Cruise line staff are always willing to help.
– Don’t be late! All passengers must arrive at least 90 minutes prior to the ship’s departure time.
Baltimore Hotels with Park and Cruise Packages
Baltimore Hotels with Fly and Cruise Packages
Cruises From Baltimore
Ships must travel 8-10 hours from open water up the Chesapeake Bay and under two bridges to get in and out of Baltimore’s harbor. Because there is a maximum clearance under the bridges, only smaller cruise ships can sail in and out of Baltimore.
● Royal Caribbean – departs year-round from Baltimore to the following destinations: Canada and New England, Western & Eastern Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Bermuda.
● Carnival Cruises – offers year-round trips to the Bahamas and the Eastern Caribbean.
See Excursions in Baltimore
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