Where do I park my car when I go on a cruise?
Yes — parking is available at virtually every major US and Canadian cruise port. You have three options, and choosing the right one can save you $100 or more on a week-long cruise.
Option 1: On-Site Port Parking
Every major US cruise port has a parking garage or lot connected directly to the terminal. This is the most convenient option — no shuttle, no wait, just walk straight to check-in. The downside is cost. Expect to pay $20–$35 per day depending on the port, which adds up quickly on a 7-night sailing.
On-site lots often fill up on peak departure days, so book in advance if your port allows it. Miami, Port Canaveral, and Seattle in particular get congested on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Option 2: Off-Site Private Lots
Most busy port cities have private parking companies offering long-term cruise parking at lower rates — typically $10–$18 per day — with a shuttle to the terminal included. The tradeoff is time: you'll park first, then wait for the shuttle, which may need to drop off others before you. On embarkation day this is usually fine. On disembarkation day when you're eager to get home, the shuttle wait can feel longer.
Look for lots with good reviews and clear shuttle frequency information. Most reputable off-site lots run shuttles every 15–30 minutes.
Option 3: Hotel Park and Cruise Packages
If you're flying in the night before or want to avoid rush-hour departure day stress, a park and cruise hotel package is worth considering. These typically bundle one night's stay with parking for the duration of your cruise. At many ports the total cost of a hotel + parking package works out to less than paying for port parking alone for a week. Plus you arrive at the terminal rested.
Most packages include a shuttle to the port in the morning and pickup on return. Book these well in advance — spots are limited and popular hotels fill up months ahead of peak sailings.
Find Parking at Your Specific Port
Rates, availability, and options vary significantly by port. See our port-specific parking guides:
- Port of Miami Parking
- Port Canaveral Parking
- Port Everglades Parking
- Galveston Parking
- Seattle Parking
- New York (Manhattan) Parking
- Baltimore Parking
- Tampa Parking
- New Orleans Parking
- Boston Parking
- Cape Liberty (Bayonne) Parking
- Vancouver Parking
- San Juan Parking
For a full overview of all parking options by port, see our Cruise Port Parking Guide.
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