If you’re planning a cruise from New Orleans, one of the most important things to know is where the ships depart from. Luckily, there are a few different options to choose from depending on which cruise line you’re traveling with.
The Port of New Orleans
The main departure point for cruises in New Orleans is the Port of New Orleans, located along the Mississippi River just a few miles from downtown. This port is home to two different cruise terminals:
Erato Street Cruise Terminal
The Erato Street Cruise Terminal is located at 1100 Port of New Orleans Place and serves as the primary departure point for Carnival Cruise Line ships. It features two berths and a 1,000-foot wharf, making it capable of accommodating some of the largest cruise ships in the world.
Julia Street Cruise Terminal
The Julia Street Cruise Terminal is located at 920 Port of New Orleans Place and primarily serves Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International. It features one berth and a smaller wharf than the Erato Street terminal but still provides easy access to all of the amenities available in downtown New Orleans.
Other Departure Points
While most cruises departing from New Orleans leave from the Port of New Orleans, there are a few exceptions:
- American Queen Steamboat Company operates river cruises that depart from Algiers Point, just across the river from downtown New Orleans.
- Riverboat cruises operated by companies like Creole Queen and Steamboat Natchez also depart from docks along the Mississippi River in downtown New Orleans.
Getting There
No matter where your ship departs from, getting to your departure point is easy thanks to a variety of transportation options:
- Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout New Orleans and can take you directly to the port.
- The city’s streetcar system also provides convenient transportation from many areas of the city to the port.
- If you’re driving, both cruise terminals offer on-site parking for a fee.
Conclusion
Whether you’re embarking on a Caribbean cruise or exploring the Mississippi River, New Orleans is a great place to start your journey. With multiple departure points and easy access to transportation options, getting to your ship has never been easier.