If you’re planning a cruise to Hamburg, you might be wondering where the ships dock. Hamburg has several cruise terminals, each with its unique features and attractions. Here’s a rundown of the different locations where ships dock in Hamburg.
Steinwerder Cruise Center
The Steinwerder Cruise Center is located on the south bank of the river Elbe, just a few miles from the city center. This modern terminal opened in 2015 and can accommodate some of the world’s largest cruise ships. The terminal’s facilities include check-in counters, immigration and customs desks, baggage handling, and security control.
Facilities:
- Check-in counters
- Immigration and customs desks
- Baggage handling
- Security control
Attractions:
The Steinwerder Cruise Center is located near several attractions that are easily accessible by public transport or taxi:
- The Elbphilharmonie concert hall – one of Hamburg’s most iconic buildings
- The Fish Market – a traditional market selling fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables.
- The St. Michaelis Church – a beautiful baroque church with stunning views over the city from its tower.
HafenCity Cruise Terminal
The HafenCity Cruise Terminal is also located on the south bank of the river Elbe but closer to the city center than Steinwerder. This terminal opened in 2011 and features modern facilities with easy access to public transportation.
The HafenCity Cruise Terminal is located in the trendy HafenCity neighborhood, which has plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The nearby attractions include:
- The Elbphilharmonie concert hall
- The Miniatur Wunderland – the world’s largest model railway exhibition
- The Speicherstadt – a historic warehouse district that’s now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Altona Cruise Center
The Altona Cruise Center is located on the west bank of the river Elbe and is closest to the city center. This terminal is smaller than Steinwerder and HafenCity but has a more intimate atmosphere.
The Altona Cruise Center is within walking distance of several attractions, including:
- The Fish Market
- The St. Pauli neighborhood – Hamburg’s famous entertainment district with bars, clubs, and theaters.
- The Reeperbahn – Hamburg’s red-light district with a mixture of bars, clubs, and sex shops.
In conclusion, Hamburg has several cruise terminals where ships dock with modern facilities and easy access to public transportation. Depending on your preferences, you can choose a terminal close to attractions that interest you or one that offers a more intimate atmosphere. Regardless of which terminal you choose in Hamburg, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.