New Orleans is one of the busiest cruise ports on the Gulf, and for Northshore families it's practically in the backyard. The ship is the easy part. Getting a car full of suitcases across the lake, through downtown and into the terminal drop-off line on boarding morning is where the stress lives. Here's how to make it simple.
Know your terminal
Most ships sail from the Julia Street or Erato Street cruise terminals on the riverfront, right next to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Your cruise line's boarding documents will name your terminal and your check-in window. Put both in your booking so your driver goes to the right door.
How long the drive takes
- Mandeville and Covington: about 45 minutes to an hour via the Causeway and I-10.
- Slidell: about 45 minutes to an hour via I-10 and the Twin Span.
- From MSY: about 25 to 40 minutes, depending on downtown traffic.
On boarding mornings, the last few blocks are the slowest part. Taxis, shuttles and family cars all funnel toward the same terminal lanes, so we build in a cushion.
Flying in to sail?
If you're flying into MSY the day you sail, give yourself room for a delayed flight. A lot of cruisers fly in the day before and stay in a downtown hotel or on the Northshore. We can take you from the airport to your hotel, then from the hotel to the ship the next morning. Staying downtown? See New Orleans CBD airport transportation.
Parking vs. a ride
Port parking is convenient, but you're paying for every day the ship is at sea, and you'll drive home tired on the last morning. A door-to-door ride means one less thing to manage. Your driver loads the bags at home, drops you at the terminal curb, and on return day meets you after you're off the ship.
Boarding-day checklist
- Confirm your terminal and check-in time with your cruise line.
- Book your ride with your ship name and sailing date.
- Keep passports, boarding passes and medications in a carry-on, not your checked luggage.
- Text us when you're off the ship on return day so your driver can pull up.
FAQ
Yes, directly to the Julia Street or Erato Street terminal.
Yes. Tell us how many people and bags when you book and we'll send the right vehicle.
Yes. Return-day mornings are busy, so book both directions at once.
Ready to sail?
Book your cruise transfer online, or call or text us any hour.