What If My Hotel Doesnt Offer Shuttle Transportation What Do I Do
Although there are some hotels that provide a way to get you to and/or from the cruise terminal, many of the hotels in the area leave you to fend for yourself. What you do now all depends on how close your hotel is to the port.
There are many hotels located within walking distance to the hotel. This is why many of them dont offer shuttle service, as you can just walk to the port.
Other options including calling a taxi, Uber, or Lyft. You can also rent a car if you want, which would eliminate the need for parking.
New Orleans Hotels With Cruise Shuttles
Before the health crisis, several hotels in the city offered shuttle rides over to the cruise port. Now the numbers are far fewer. For most spots, a quick Uber/Lyft is your best option to get to the ship.
Hampton Inn & Suites Convention CenterAs for location, it really doesnt get much better than this. While the Hampton Inn at the Convention Center is within walking distance of the port, it also offers a shuttle to the cruise terminal as part of a package. While we didnt see the offer online, a call to the hotel told us it was available.
There is not a shuttle from the airport, so youll need to find your own method of transportation if flying in. If driving, the Hampton Inn offers a cruise package with parking for $14 a night a little cheaper than the parking rate at the official port parking lots.
- Distance to Port: 0.5 miles
- Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
- Cruise Port Shuttle: Free
Transportation And Parking At The Cruise Ports
Disneys bus transfers to and from the port are convenient, but also pretty expensive, especially for a family:
Disneys transfers must be booked a minimum of 3 days before the start of the trip through your travel agent . At the airports, a Disney rep will be at the baggage claim area to help direct guests to the bus. Your luggage will go directly to your stateroom you just need take your day bag with you to the cruise terminal.
One down side of using the Disney bus system is that you will arrive at the port with a big group of people and at a time dictated by Disney. The result is often a long wait in the check-in lines. You may also miss lunch on the ship, since the buses tend to arrive in the afternoon.
Below are alternate options that may be cheaper and/or more convenient.
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Port Canaveral Shuttle By Happy Limo
Happy Limo, a private car and limo service we have recommended for years, offers a great shared-shuttle option for trips between Orlando International Airport and the Disney Cruise Line terminal at Port Canaveral. The base price per person is $30/person each way , plus a $20 port fee . The minimum booking is 4 people. Tips are at customers discretion . For shared service for a family of 4+ to Port Canaveral, this is a better deal than Disney, and gives you more control over when you want to travel.
Airport to Port Canaveral
Port Canaveral to Airport
Port Canaveral Rental Car
Port Canaveral Cruise Port Parking
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San Diego Hotel Options
The San Diego hotel below can be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation. If you have booked through a travel agent, contact your agent to add a pre-cruise and/or post-cruise stay. If you have booked directly with Disney Cruise Line, call them.
Pre/post-cruise stays can be added up until 31 days prior to check-in date . If you stay both before and after the cruise, both portions must be booked at the same hotel. Pre/post-cruise stays that are added to a cruise reservation must be purchased for ALL guests in the same stateroom.
Alternatively, you can book directly with the hotel through the link below, which may be less expensive:
- The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is on San Diego Bay between the San Diego Convention Center and the Seaport Village. It is approximately 3 miles from San Diego International Airport and just a few blocks from the San Diego Cruise Terminal.
- The Intercontinental San Diego is a modern 4-diamond tower hotel just across the street from the cruise terminal, with sweeping views of San Diego Bay. Its about 3 miles from San Diego International Airport.
What Are The Best Hotels Near New Orleans Airport
Why stay near New Orleans Airport?
New Orleans International Airport is in Kenner, Jefferson Parish. Interstate 10 conveniently links the area with the cruise terminals and central New Orleans. Staying at a hotel at or close here gives you the added convenience of being close to the airport, especially if you are arriving on a late flight. The cruise port of New Orleans can be reached in 20 minutes.
1. Hilton New Orleans Airport
This good value hotel offers a free shuttle service to the nearby airport. The multi-storey complex has lounge and dining areas with large windows providing panoramic views of the grounds and garden terrace. Throughout the hotel there is a relaxing color scheme of gray and cream. Wood panelling in the bar makes it particularly cozy and welcoming.
The comfortable, spacious guest rooms are tastefully furnished in a minimalist style. The hotel is located 11.5 miles to the west of the French Quarter, but it is close to several shopping centers and golf courses.
Why Stay Here
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Hampton Inn And Suites
1201 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA
Located within walking distance to the cruise port, Hampton Inn and Suites has a lot to offer cruise passengers. You get a $25 discount on parking for the duration of your cruise, and theyll shuttle you to and from the cruise port for free.
- Average starting rate: $148
New Orleans Hotels Near The Cruise Port
Prytania Park HotelIf you want a unique New Orleans hotel instead of a cookie-cutter chain, this is your spot. Its affordable and has only 60 rooms in a variety of styles. Situated in a neighborhood, it definitely offers a different and more laid-back vibe that what youll find staying in the heart of the entertainment district. As a bonus, youre just over a mile from the port. It also boasts a small courtyard perfect for sipping your morning coffee.
- Rating: 4 out of 5
- Distance to Port: 1.5 miles
Four Seasons HotelAnother well-known name in hotels, the Four Seasons in New Orleans sits right across the street from Harrahs and is just a short walk from the cruise ships. With its location, youll have either a great view of the ships and the Mississippi River, or look back out over the city. Of course, you can also expect modern accommodations that are second to none during your stay.
- Rating: 4.5 out of 5
- Distance to Port: 0.7 miles
Have another hotel youd recommend? Let us know in the comments below.
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Residence Inn By Marriott New Orleans French Quarter
Located within easy walking distance of Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, this hotel near New Orleans cruise terminal is easy to reach by streetcar.
The Residence Inn by Marriott has rooms, studios and suites with separate sitting rooms, sleeping areas and balconies overlooking historic St Charles Ave. Theres free Wi-fi, a free hot breakfast and a fitness center for guests with plenty of restaurants and shops close by.
Residence Inn doesnt provide a shuttle to the cruise port, but they do allow cruise passengers to park for the duration of their cruise as part of a Stay and Cruise package.
- Distance from port: 1.6 miles
- Hotel address: 360 St Charles Ave, New Orleans
Useful Information About New Orleans For Cruise Passengers
If you do plan to stay a night or more in New Orleans, the city has hundreds of options for any budget from landmark hotels in the heart of downtown to quiet inns in beautiful residential neighborhoods.
Many of the citys hotels are a short drive or walk from the cruise terminals and are easily accessible by public transit. Several hotels also offer packages with parking if you are driving and shuttle buses.
New Orleans cruise terminals are close to major attractions, including the French Quarter and Central Business District.
You can travel to and from the terminal by taxi or with an Uber or Lyft. Public transit is also an option, including the Riverfront streetcar line.
Our hotel lists are organized based on distance and amenities, from options within walking distance of the cruise terminals to those with free shuttle service to and from the airport.
You can also look at luxury and unique hotels or search based on location, including the French Quarter and Garden District.
Were confident you will find the perfect place to stay during your visit to New Orleans.
Downtown New Orleans, or the Central Business District area includes soaring office towers as well as the historic Warehouse District with top galleries and museums. Many of the citys landmark hotels are based in the CBD, steps from the French Quarter.
Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.
Related to Port of New Orleans in Louisiana
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Why Dont The Hotels Closest To The Port Offer Rides
While it would be nice if they did, its possible that given their close proximity to the port, maintaining a shuttle for such short drives wouldnt be cost-effective. Its easier for them to offer free parking to their customers, especially since parking around the city and near the port costs so much.
Ramada By Wyndham Metairie New Orleans Airport
The Ramada by Wyndham may be a little far from the cruise port, but its a good place to stay if youre on a budget. Rooms are nicely furnished and very comfortable with air-conditioning, fridge and microwave.
This budget hotel has a pool, fitness center and an iHop onsite for breakfast. Its very handy for those arriving by air, but youll need to book a taxi or private transport from the hotel to New Orleans cruise port when you depart on your cruise.
- Distance from port: 8.5 miles
- Hotel address: 3400 I-10 Service Rd W, Metairie
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Budget Hotels With A Shuttle Service In New Orleans
Vacations, getaways, and weekend trips can be expensive, but there are a few ways to lower the cost and still have a great time. Reserving a hotel that has a low nightly rate and offers a complimentary shuttle service is a fantastic way to save money.A few hotels and motels in New Orleans that are economically priced and provide shuttles are Best Western Plus Chalmette Hotel, Comfort Inn New Orleans Airport, and Best Western Plus French Quarter Landmark Hotel.Contact the hotel for further information on where the shuttle goes and see if any of our favorite landmarks and attractions are on the list like Woldenberg Park, Presbytere, and Louisiana State Museum.The nearby airports are New Orleans, LA, United States , New Orleans, LA, United States , and Houma, LA, United States your hotel might even have a shuttle service to and from the airport for your convenience.
Hyatt Place New Orleans/convention Center
The Hyatt Place New Orleans is in the heart of New Orleans downtown Arts District and surrounded by top restaurants, museums, shopping and Harrahs Casino.
This three star hotel has an Atrium Restaurant, and Fitness Center and includes breakfast in the room rate. Its a great choice as this hotel is near New Orleans cruise port and within walking distance of not just the terminal, but various restaurants, shops, and attractions.
While the hotel itself doesnt offer a cruise package with parking or shuttle service, you should check out Fulton Garage, which is right next door to the hotel. Parking starts from $15 per night and it includes a free courtesy shuttle.
- Distance from port: 0.8 miles
- Hotel address: 881 Convention Center Blvd
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Sheraton Metairie New Orleans
The Sheraton Metairie is an upmarket chain hotel further out of the city but they do provide free garage parking for guests as part of their Park and Cruise deal.
They also offer free shuttle transport to and from the airport. However, it will cost a little more for the taxi ride between the hotel and the New Orleans cruise port. Rooms are furnished to a high standard and include tea/coffee makers, a desk, safe and a hairdryer.
- Distance from port: 8.5 miles
- Hotel address: 4 Galleria Blvd, Metairie
- Shuttle: Yes airport only
Holiday Inn New Orleans West Bank Tower
Looking for something budget-friendly but still with parking options? The Holiday Inn New Orleans West Bank Towercan help! Across the Mississippi River from New Orleans, this hotel is a 6 minute journey by taxi from the cruise port.
The modern circular building offers excellent views across the skyline yet is minutes from the action at Canal Place Shopping Mall. It is particularly family-friendly with kids activities, pool, restaurant and gift shop.
It also serves an excellent hot breakfast buffet before you head off to the cruise port. The hotel offers cruise parking for guests with a Stay Park and Cruise package and they will help you organize transport from the hotel to the cruise port.
- Distance from port: 3.2 miles
- Hotel address: 275 Whitney Ave, Gretna
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Gamble Park And Cruise
Two vacations in one are possible when you spend a night in a hotel that’s close to Harrah’s Casino in New Orleans. The Ambassador Hotel offers a parking package when you present your cruise documents and it’s right next door to the casino. The Royal St. Charles Hotel is only two blocks from the casino, and there are parking and shuttle packages available to guests who are cruise passengers.
San Juan Hotel Options
The San Juan hotel below can be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation. If you have booked through a travel agent, contact your agent to add a pre-cruise and/or post-cruise stay. If you have booked directly with Disney Cruise Line, call them.
Pre/post-cruise stays can be added up until 31 days prior to check-in date . If you stay both before and after the cruise, both portions must be booked at the same hotel. Pre/post-cruise stays that are added to a cruise reservation must be purchased for ALL guests in the same stateroom.
Alternatively, you can book directly with the hotel through the links below, which may be less expensive:
- The Caribe Hilton San Juan is a classic beachfront hotel with panoramic ocean views, right on the edge of Old San Juan. It was the first Hilton to open outside the continental United States, and the birthplace of the Pina Colada, invented by a bartender at the hotel in 1954! The Port of San Juan is approximately 2 miles away.
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New Orleans Hotels Within Walking Distance Of The Cruise Terminal
Given the location of the cruise terminals in the heart of New Orleans, there are a number of hotels that are within walking distance meaning you dont even need a shuttle to get to your ship. Expect to pay a bit more to be in this location, but its worth it to be right next to the ships.
Note that prices can and will change depending on what is happening at the Convention Center.
Hilton New Orleans RiversideOne of the closest hotels to the cruise terminals, the Hilton overlooks the Mississippi River and is within walking distance of not just the port but also the French Quarter, Harrahs Casino, and more. How close is it? The cruise parking lot for the Julia Street Terminal is just a couple of hundred feet away.
- Distance to Port: 0.3 miles
- Review Rating: 4 out of 5
Embassy Suites New Orleans Convention CenterRight across from the Courtyard listed above, the Embassy Suites is another option thats just down Julia Street from the ships. You can be at the Royal Caribbean or Norwegian terminal in about five minutes and to the Carnival ship in about 10 minutes.
- Distance to Port: 0.3 miles
- Review Rating: 4 out of 5
Things To Do While In New Orleans
The city has so much to offer anyone visiting within. While youre waiting for your cruise, or after youve returned, if you have any extra time, we recommend spending it visiting various attractions, museums, or just walking down the historic streets in downtown.
Here are a few locations we recommend visiting while youre in the city.
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What Are The Closest Hotels Near Port Of New Orleans
Several hotels are located really close to New Orleans cruise terminal so dont need a shuttle or other transportation to the port. However the Hampton Inn & Suites Convention Center provide a free transfer service to and from the terminals. Read on below.
1. Hilton New Orleans Riverside
The towering Hilton provides guests with wonderful views of the Mississippi River and the nearby cruise terminal. Inside, the lounges and dining areas are full of characteristic features such as curved ceilings with exposed wooden beams. Elegant lamps, colorful rugs and traditional upholstered armchairs create a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.
The comfortable guest rooms are particularly spacious and welcoming. The polished mahogany furniture and the deep colors of the decor add to the hotels warm, friendly tone. Its one of the best places to stay for exploring the stores in the Riverwalk Marketplace.
Why Stay Here
2. Hampton Inn and Suites New Orleans Convention Center
This luxurious, multi-storey hotel is located directly opposite the New Orleans cruise terminal on the Mississippi River. The exterior of the hotel with rows of uniform windows highlights the buildings former role as a warehouse. The lounges are spacious and sumptuously decorated in warm colors such as burgundy and antique gold.
A free shuttle service is offered to and from the New Orleans cruise port.
Why Stay Here
3. The Mercantile Hotel
Why Stay Here
Why Stay Here
5. Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center