New Orleans is a popular destination for cruise passengers, with its bustling port serving as the gateway to various Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico itineraries. If you’re planning to embark on a cruise from New Orleans, one of the important things to consider is how far the port is from the airport. In this article, we’ll delve into the different transportation options available and their respective travel times.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is located approximately 16 miles away from the Port of New Orleans. The distance between the two locations can be covered by various modes of transportation, including taxis, ride-sharing services, shuttles, and public transit.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
Taxis are available at MSY on a 24/7 basis from outside Level 1 baggage claim belts 1 and 14. The average fare for a taxi ride from MSY to the Port of New Orleans is around $36-$40 plus tip. Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available at MSY and can be cheaper than taxis depending on demand.
Pro Tip: It’s always best to check with your driver ahead of time if they can accommodate your luggage requirements before booking your ride.
Shuttles
Shuttle services like Airport Shuttle New Orleans offer shared-ride shuttles that operate between MSY and the Port of New Orleans for around $24 per person each way. This option may be more cost-effective if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.
- Pros: Affordable option for solo travelers or small groups
- Cons: May take longer due to multiple stops along the way
Public Transportation
The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides public transportation options between MSY and the Port of New Orleans via bus and streetcar. The Airport-Downtown Express (E-2) bus route connects the airport to the central business district, where you can then hop on a streetcar to Canal Street.
From there, you can take the Riverfront streetcar line to the port. The total cost for this option is around $2 per person each way.
- Pros: Budget-friendly option for solo travelers or couples
- Cons: May not be convenient if you have a lot of luggage or limited mobility
Conclusion
In summary, there are several transportation options available for getting from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to the Port of New Orleans. Taxis and ride-sharing services are convenient but may be more expensive than other options.
Shared-ride shuttles and public transportation offer more affordable choices but may take longer and require some extra planning. Whatever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to factor in enough time to account for traffic and other unforeseen delays so you don’t miss your cruise departure!