Cruises departing from Baltimore, MD offer a convenient way to access a wide range of exciting destinations. This guide will help you plan a smooth adventure, whether you’re sailing across the Atlantic to Europe or exploring nearby islands in the Caribbean. The Fun Cruise Crew will help you choose the right cruise line, discover the best local attractions, and provide you with helpful tips to make the most of your vacation.
The Cruise Maryland Terminal
Baltimore is a fantastic starting point for your cruise adventure. The Cruise Maryland Terminal, located at 2001 East McComas Street, is easy to access and designed to make your departure smooth and stress-free. Nearby, you’ll find a range of hotels to fit any budget.
Once you’re settled, take some time to explore Baltimore. The Inner Harbor, located on the Chesapeake Bay, is a scenic spot perfect for walking, jogging, or relaxing. You can visit the National Aquarium, which features a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits. History buffs will appreciate a visit to Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key wrote the Star-Spangled Banner. Sports fans have plenty to enjoy too. Check out Camden Yards, home of the Baltimore Orioles, for a baseball game, or catch the Baltimore Ravens in action if you’re visiting during football season.
Don’t miss out on Baltimore’s charming neighborhoods. Little Italy offers delicious dining and a cozy atmosphere, while Mount Vernon features historic architecture and cultural sites. The Maryland Science Center is great for families and anyone interested in interactive science exhibits. Exploring Baltimore before your cruise adds to the excitement of your trip and helps you start your vacation on a high note.
Parking at the Port of Baltimore
When cruising from the Port of Baltimore, you’ll want to find convenient and secure parking.
The Cruise Maryland Terminal offers ample parking close to the departure area, and the lot is well-lit, secure, and monitored. Parking fees are around $20 per day, and you can pay with cash or credit card. The lot is designed for long-term parking, and it has accessible spaces for passengers with disabilities.
If the terminal’s parking lot is full, you can find alternative parking at nearby private facilities, but keep in mind that these facilities may charge a higher fee than the terminal’s lot.
Cruise Lines Departing from Baltimore
Baltimore’s cruise terminal is home to several top cruise lines. Here’s a closer look at three popular choices:
Carnival Cruises
Carnival Cruise Line is famous for its fun and family-friendly cruises, and the Carnival Pride is a great example of this. This fun ship offers a little something for everyone, making it a top choice for an enjoyable cruise vacation.
Carnival Pride has a variety of dining options, from gourmet meals to casual fare. There’s always something delicious to choose from.
For entertainment, Carnival Pride has it all, from comedy shows to dancing at the nightclub to unwinding at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Families will love the water park with slides and splash zones, the mini-golf course, and the sports court.
The ship’s staterooms are designed to be comfortable and relaxing. You can choose from cozy interior staterooms or upgrade to more spacious suite category cabins with private balconies for extra comfort.
Carnival Pride also offers other great amenities, including an onboard spa, gym, and age-appropriate youth clubs and activities.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Departure from Baltimore – Set sail in the late afternoon.
- Day 2: At Sea – Enjoy the water park, comedy shows, or relax by the pool.
- Day 3: Nassau, Bahamas – Explore Nassau’s historical sites, relax on Cable Beach, or visit Atlantis Resort.
- Day 4: Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos – Swim in the Grand Turk pool or snorkel among colorful coral reefs.
- Day 5: Freeport, Bahamas – Shop at local markets or visit Lucayan National Park.
- Day 6-7: At Sea – Continue enjoying onboard activities, dining, and entertainment.
- Day 8: Arrival in Baltimore – Return to Baltimore
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line is a fantastic choice for a flexible and luxurious cruise experience, and both the Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun are standout options. These ships are designed to offer you freedom and comfort throughout your journey.
Staying active on board is easy with the fitness center and rock climbing wall. After a workout, you can relax and rejuvenate at the luxurious spa, which offers a variety of treatments and therapies.
Entertainment on both ships is diverse and engaging. Enjoy live performances, music shows, and themed parties that make every night exciting.
The staterooms on the Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun are spacious and well-appointed. You can choose from cozy interior cabins to luxurious suites with private balconies. Each room is designed to provide comfort and relaxation, making your stay enjoyable.
Both ships also offer a range of additional amenities. You can take advantage of the onboard pools, participate in organized activities, or enjoy family-friendly programs and youth clubs.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Departure from Baltimore – Embark in the early evening.
- Day 2: At Sea – Enjoy Freestyle Dining, visit the fitness center, or try the rock climbing wall.
- Day 3: Kings Wharf, Bermuda – Relax on Bermuda’s pink sand beaches or explore the Royal Naval Dockyard.
- Day 4: Hamilton, Bermuda – Discover the capital city or visit South Shore beaches.
- Day 5: St. George’s, Bermuda – Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Day 6-7: At Sea – Take advantage of the ship’s amenities and dining options.
- Day 8: Arrival in Baltimore – Return to Baltimore
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International is an excellent choice if you want a cruise that mixes innovation with adventure. The Vision of the Seas offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making it a great option for a memorable cruise experience.
Onboard the Vision of the Seas, you’ll find a variety of activities to keep you entertained, including rock climbing, sports courts, and an outdoor jogging track.
If you prefer relaxation, head to the full-service spa for a soothing treatment or relax by the pool.
When it comes to dining, Vision of the Seas offers something for everyone, from casual meals at one of the many dining venues to fine dining at the ship’s specialty restaurants.
For entertainment, the ship features live music, Broadway-style shows, and themed parties that ensure there’s always something exciting happening. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively night out or a quiet evening, there’s plenty to choose from.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Departure from Baltimore – Set sail in the afternoon.
- Day 2-3: At Sea – Enjoy rock climbing, sports courts, and diverse dining.
- Day 4: Aruba – Relax on Eagle Beach or visit Arikok National Park.
- Day 5: Curacao – Explore Willemstad or snorkel in the coral reefs.
- Day 6: Bonaire – Dive or snorkel in Bonaire’s marine park.
- Day 7-8: At Sea – Enjoy more ship activities and entertainment.
- Day 9: At Sea – Spend your final full day at sea enjoying the ship.
- Day 10: Arrival in Baltimore – Return to Baltimore
The Best Times to Cruise from Baltimore
Choosing the right time for your cruise can make a big difference. Here’s a quick guide:
Spring (March to May)
Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make spring a great time for a cruise. You might also find the best deals.
Summer (June to August)
Warmer weather and larger crowds mean higher prices. Summer is perfect for family vacations and exploring cooler northern destinations.
Fall (September to November)
Enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Prices often drop, and you can enjoy the beautiful fall foliage.
Winter (December to February)
Quieter and cheaper, winter is ideal for visiting warmer destinations and finding great cruise deals.
Get Ready for Your Baltimore Cruise Adventure
Planning a cruise from the Baltimore cruise port can be exciting but overwhelming. Don’t go it alone! The Fun Cruise Crew is here to help make your cruise experience smooth and enjoyable.
We specialize in helping you choose the perfect cruise line and itinerary based on your preferences and needs. We also offer insider tips on the best things to see and do in Baltimore, so you can make the most of your pre-cruise time.
From selecting the ideal stateroom to navigating parking options at the port, we provide personalized advice and support. Our goal is to ensure that every aspect of your journey, from planning to departure, is smooth sailing.
Contact The Fun Cruise Crew today for expert guidance and to make your cruise vacation a memorable and hassle-free experience. Let us help you set sail with confidence and excitement, knowing that your trip is in expert hands.
