What Cruise Lines Go Out of Baltimore Top Picks for 2024

Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are the top cruise lines sailing out of Baltimore in 2024, offering convenient departures from the Port of Baltimore to popular destinations like the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. With year-round itineraries and modern ships, these cruise lines provide a seamless vacation experience for East Coast travelers looking for value, comfort, and exciting on-board amenities.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line: Top choice for year-round Caribbean and Bermuda cruises from Baltimore.
• Royal Caribbean: Offers seasonal sailings to Bahamas and Canada with innovative ships.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Best for flexible itineraries to New England and the Caribbean.
• Book early: Secure cabins on popular summer and holiday sailings before they sell out.
• Check ports: Confirm departure terminal and parking options to streamline embarkation.
• Shorter cruises: Ideal for first-timers; 4-7 night trips available from Baltimore.

Why Baltimore Is a Hidden Gem for Cruise Enthusiasts

Cruising from the East Coast has never been more accessible, and Baltimore, Maryland, is emerging as a top-tier departure point for travelers seeking convenience, value, and variety. Nestled along the scenic Chesapeake Bay, the Baltimore Cruise Terminal—located in the vibrant Locust Point neighborhood—offers a seamless embarkation experience just minutes from downtown and major highways. With no passport required for many itineraries and a growing number of cruise lines choosing Baltimore as their home port, the city is fast becoming a favorite among seasoned cruisers and first-timers alike.

What sets Baltimore apart isn’t just its proximity to Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia—it’s the strategic advantage of avoiding the congestion and high costs of larger ports like New York or Miami. The terminal, housed in a historic converted steel mill, blends industrial charm with modern amenities, offering free Wi-Fi, ample parking, and efficient check-in processes. For travelers in the Mid-Atlantic region, Baltimore represents a time- and cost-saving gateway to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, and even transatlantic voyages. In 2024, the lineup of cruise lines sailing from Baltimore is more robust than ever, catering to diverse tastes, budgets, and vacation goals.

Top Cruise Lines Operating from Baltimore in 2024

The 2024 cruise season from Baltimore is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, with a diverse mix of major brands offering itineraries that span tropical escapes, fall foliage tours, and even repositioning voyages. Here are the top cruise lines you can book directly from the Charm City:

1. Carnival Cruise Line – The King of Fun and Value

Carnival Cruise Line continues to dominate the Baltimore market, operating year-round sailings with its Carnival Legend and Carnival Pride ships. These mid-sized vessels are perfect for families and budget-conscious travelers, offering everything from water parks and comedy clubs to Broadway-style shows and 24/7 dining options.

Key Itineraries (2024):

• 7-Day Eastern Caribbean: Ports include Nassau (Bahamas), Half Moon Cay (Carnival’s private island), and Freeport. Departures: April–November.
• 4- to 5-Day Bahamas Getaways: Perfect for long weekends. Visits Nassau and Princess Cays (Carnival’s other private island).
• 9-Day Bermuda: Sails round-trip to Kings Wharf, with two full days on the island. Ideal for beach lovers.

Why Choose Carnival? Carnival is ideal for first-time cruisers, families, and those who want non-stop entertainment. Their “Fun Ships” are packed with activities, and the value is unbeatable—especially with early-booking perks and bundled drink packages. Pro tip: Book a balcony cabin on the starboard side for the best views when docking in Nassau.

2. Royal Caribbean International – Innovation Meets Adventure

Royal Caribbean has made a strong return to Baltimore with its Vision of the Seas, offering a mix of Caribbean and Bermuda voyages. While not a mega-ship, the Vision class is known for its intimate feel, modern amenities, and innovative features like rock climbing walls and outdoor movie screens.

Key Itineraries (2024):

• 6-Day Eastern Caribbean: Stops in San Juan (Puerto Rico), St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), and Philipsburg (St. Maarten). Departures: May–October.
• 9-Day Bermuda & Bahamas Combo: A unique hybrid itinerary combining Kings Wharf and Nassau. Great for maximizing destinations.

Why Choose Royal Caribbean? Royal Caribbean excels in adventure and variety. Their ships are designed for active travelers and families, with activities ranging from zip-lining to ice skating. The “Royal Genie” service (on select sailings) offers personalized concierge experiences. Insider tip: Book a “Royal Up” bid to upgrade your cabin at a fraction of the cost—Baltimore departures often have high availability.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Freestyle Cruising from Charm City

Norwegian Cruise Line brings its signature “Freestyle Cruising” concept to Baltimore with the Norwegian Jewel, a mid-sized vessel offering flexible dining, relaxed dress codes, and a wide range of entertainment options. NCL’s 2024 schedule focuses on seasonal sailings, particularly during summer and fall.

Key Itineraries (2024):

• 7-Day Canada & New England: Departs in September and October. Ports include Boston, Bar Harbor, Halifax (Nova Scotia), and Saint John (New Brunswick). Perfect for leaf-peeping and coastal scenery.
• 5-Day Bermuda: Shorter sailings ideal for a quick getaway. Overnights in Kings Wharf allow for deeper exploration.

Why Choose NCL? NCL is perfect for travelers who want freedom and flexibility. With no fixed dining times and over 20 restaurants (including specialty options like Cagney’s Steakhouse), you can eat when and where you like. Their “Free at Sea” promotion often includes perks like free shore excursions, specialty dining, and beverage packages. Pro tip: Book a spa cabin for access to the Thermal Suite—worth it for the heated loungers and aromatherapy showers.

4. Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Luminosa – A Newcomer with Global Appeal

In a strategic move, Carnival introduced the Carnival Luminosa to its Baltimore roster in 2023, and it’s returning for a full season in 2024. Originally built for Costa Cruises, the ship was rebranded with Carnival’s signature fun-focused vibe while retaining elegant European touches.

Key Itineraries (2024):

• 12-Day Transatlantic: Departs Baltimore in late October, sailing to Barcelona with stops in Ponta Delgada (Azores) and Malaga (Spain). A rare opportunity for a one-way cruise from Baltimore.
• 7-Day Eastern Caribbean: Similar to Carnival Legend’s routes but with a more cosmopolitan onboard experience.

Why Choose Carnival Luminosa? This ship offers a unique blend of Carnival’s fun and Costa’s sophistication. Think Italian-inspired decor, a grand piano bar, and a more refined dining experience—yet still with water slides and comedy clubs. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of Europe without the long flight. Insider tip: The “Serenity Adult-Only Retreat” is one of the best at sea—book early for the best cabanas.

5. Smaller & Niche Operators – Hidden Gems for Specialty Cruises

While not operating year-round, several niche cruise lines use Baltimore for seasonal or repositioning voyages, offering unique experiences:

• Oceania Cruises: The Oceania Marina offers a 12-day “Autumn in New England” cruise in October, with ports in Portland, Boston, and Quebec City. Focus on culinary excellence and cultural immersion.
• Holland America Line: Occasionally sails repositioning cruises through Baltimore, such as a 14-day “Canada & New England Discovery” in September, featuring scenic cruising of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: While not based in Baltimore, Viking sometimes includes the city as a departure point for select “Great Lakes & Eastern Seaboard” itineraries, combining Great Lakes ports with East Coast stops.

Why Consider These? These lines offer smaller ships, fewer crowds, and deeper cultural experiences. They’re perfect for travelers seeking a more refined, destination-focused cruise. Pro tip: Book repositioning cruises (like Oceania’s) early—they’re often priced lower and include unique ports.

Popular Itineraries from Baltimore: Where Can You Go?

One of the biggest advantages of cruising from Baltimore is the diversity of destinations available within a short sailing time. Unlike ports that require long flights to reach the Caribbean, Baltimore’s mid-Atlantic location allows for efficient itineraries to both tropical and temperate regions.

Caribbean & Bahamas – The Classic Escape

The most popular choice for Baltimore cruisers, Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries are offered year-round by Carnival and Royal Caribbean. These sailings typically last 4 to 9 days and focus on sun, sand, and relaxation.

• Eastern Caribbean: Stops in Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and St. Maarten. Ideal for snorkeling, beach days, and exploring colonial architecture.
• Bahamas & Private Islands: Carnival’s private islands (Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays) are highlights, offering pristine beaches, water sports, and all-inclusive beach bars. Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay is also accessible via connecting flights (not direct from Baltimore).
• Best Time to Go: December–April for peak weather, but May–October offers lower prices and fewer crowds.

Tip: Book a balcony room for early-morning views of Nassau’s harbor or the pink sands of Bermuda.

Bermuda – Pink Sands and British Charm

Baltimore’s proximity to Bermuda (just a 4–5 day sail) makes it a top choice for this island paradise. Carnival and Royal Caribbean both offer round-trip sailings with 2–3 days docked in Kings Wharf.

• Why Bermuda? The island offers pink-sand beaches, historic forts, and a blend of British and American culture. Don’t miss the Crystal Caves, Horseshoe Bay Beach, or the Royal Naval Dockyard.
• Best Time to Go: May–October, when the weather is warm and the water is swimmable.

Pro tip: Rent a moped to explore the island—it’s the most popular (and fun) way to get around.

Canada & New England – Fall Foliage & Coastal Towns

From late September to mid-October, Baltimore becomes a launchpad for leaf-peeping cruises to New England and eastern Canada. Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival lead the charge with 7–10 day itineraries.

• Port Highlights: Boston (historic sites), Bar Harbor (gateway to Acadia National Park), Halifax (lighthouses and seafood), and Saint John (Bay of Fundy tides).
• Best Time to Go: September 20–October 15 for peak foliage. Book early—these sailings sell out fast.

Insider tip: Pack layers! Temperatures can drop quickly, especially in Halifax and Quebec City.

Transatlantic & Repositioning Cruises – Crossing the Pond

For adventurous travelers, Baltimore offers rare one-way transatlantic voyages in the fall. The Carnival Luminosa’s 12-day crossing to Spain is a standout, combining relaxation with European exploration.

• Why Take a Transatlantic? These cruises often have 4–5 days at sea, perfect for unwinding, enjoying onboard lectures, and stargazing. Plus, you end in a new country—no return flight needed!
• Best Time to Go: Late October–November. Fewer kids, lower prices, and crisp autumn air.

Pro tip: Book a suite for extra space and access to the concierge lounge—ideal for sea days.

What to Expect at the Baltimore Cruise Terminal

The Baltimore Cruise Terminal is more than just a departure point—it’s a well-oiled machine designed for efficiency and comfort. Located at 2001 E. McComas Street, the terminal is easily accessible by car, rideshare, or public transit.

Terminal Features & Amenities

• Parking: On-site parking is available for $15–$20 per day (book in advance via the Port of Baltimore website). Off-site lots (like Park ‘N Go) offer lower rates with shuttle service.
• Check-In Process: Arrive 2–3 hours before departure. Security is TSA-style, so pack accordingly (no liquids over 3.4 oz, etc.).
• Terminal Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, charging stations, restrooms, and a small snack bar. No full-service restaurants, so eat beforehand.
• Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant, with wheelchair rentals and accessible restrooms.

Tip: Download your cruise line’s app (Carnival HUB, Royal Caribbean App) before arrival for mobile check-in and real-time updates.

Transportation Options

• By Car: I-95 and I-83 lead directly to the terminal. GPS address: 2001 E. McComas St.
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Designated pickup/drop-off zones outside the terminal.
• Public Transit: MTA bus routes 27 and 30 stop nearby. The closest light rail stop is Hamburg Street (0.8 miles away).
• From BWI Airport: 15-minute drive. Many hotels offer free shuttles to the terminal.

Pro tip: If flying in, consider staying at a hotel with a cruise shuttle (e.g., Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor) to avoid parking fees.

What to Do in Baltimore Before or After Your Cruise

Don’t miss the chance to explore Charm City! The Inner Harbor is just 10 minutes from the terminal and offers:

• National Aquarium: One of the top aquariums in the U.S.
• Historic Ships in Baltimore: Tour the USS Constellation, a Civil War-era warship.
• Fells Point: Cobblestone streets, waterfront bars, and boutique shops.
• Food: Try a crab cake at Phillips Seafood or a pit beef sandwich at L.P. Steamers.

Insider tip: Visit the American Visionary Art Museum for a quirky, unforgettable experience.

Booking Tips: How to Score the Best Deals from Baltimore

Booking a cruise from Baltimore is easier—and often cheaper—than you think. Here’s how to maximize value:

1. Book Early (or Last-Minute)

• Early Booking: Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer “Early Saver” rates with price locks and free upgrades. Book 9–12 months out for the best selection.
• Last-Minute Deals: Check 30–60 days before departure for discounts on unsold cabins. Ideal for flexible travelers.

2. Use Cruise Line Promotions

• Carnival: “Early Saver” + “Free Room Upgrade” promotions.
• Royal Caribbean: “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” deals.
• NCL: “Free at Sea” packages (drinks, specialty dining, shore excursions).

3. Consider Shoulder Seasons

Sail in May, June, September, or October to avoid peak prices and crowds. Weather is still excellent, and you’ll save 20–30%.

4. Bundle with Flights & Hotels

Many cruise lines offer “Air + Cruise” packages. For example, Carnival’s “Fly & Sail” lets you book flights through them—often at a discount.

5. Use a Travel Advisor

A good agent can find unadvertised deals, secure onboard credits, and help with group bookings. Many are free to use (they earn commission from the cruise line).

Comparing Cruise Lines: A Quick Reference Table

Cruise Line	Ships from Baltimore	Best For	Sample 2024 Itinerary	Avg. Price (7-Day)
Carnival	Carnival Legend, Carnival Pride, Carnival Luminosa	Families, first-time cruisers, budget travelers	7-Day Eastern Caribbean (Nassau, Half Moon Cay)	$600–$900
Royal Caribbean	Vision of the Seas	Adventure seekers, active families	6-Day Eastern Caribbean (San Juan, St. Thomas)	$800–$1,200
Norwegian	Norwegian Jewel	Flexible dining, couples, leaf-peeping	7-Day Canada & New England (Boston, Halifax)	$700–$1,000
Oceania	Oceania Marina	Luxury, foodies, cultural immersion	12-Day Autumn in New England	$3,000–$4,500
Carnival Luminosa	Carnival Luminosa	European-style cruising, transatlantic	12-Day Transatlantic (Baltimore to Barcelona)	$1,200–$1,800

Note: Prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to change.

Conclusion: Why Baltimore Should Be Your Next Cruise Departure

In 2024, Baltimore is no longer a “second-choice” port—it’s a first-class gateway to unforgettable vacations. With five major cruise lines offering diverse itineraries, a user-friendly terminal, and easy access from the Mid-Atlantic region, the city provides a compelling alternative to crowded hubs. Whether you’re chasing turquoise waters in the Caribbean, pink sands in Bermuda, or fall foliage in Canada, Baltimore delivers convenience, value, and charm.

From Carnival’s family-friendly fun to Oceania’s gourmet voyages, there’s a ship and a sailing for every traveler. And with smart booking strategies—like early reservations, shoulder-season travel, and bundled packages—you can enjoy luxury experiences without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen (or your sweater), and set sail from Charm City. Your next adventure is just a short drive away.

As the cruise industry continues to grow, Baltimore’s role as a strategic East Coast departure point is only getting stronger. With new ships, expanded routes, and enhanced terminal services on the horizon, the future of cruising from Maryland is brighter than ever. Don’t just dream about your next getaway—make it happen from Baltimore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go out of Baltimore in 2024?

Top cruise lines sailing from Baltimore in 2024 include Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. These operators offer seasonal itineraries to the Bahamas, Bermuda, and New England from the Port of Baltimore.

Is there a Carnival cruise ship that sails from Baltimore?

Yes, Carnival Cruise Line operates regular voyages from Baltimore aboard the Carnival Legend. The ship offers 5- to 14-day Caribbean, Bermuda, and Canada/New England cruises.

Which Royal Caribbean ships depart from Baltimore?

Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas is the primary ship offering cruises from Baltimore in 2024. It features 5- to 9-day trips to destinations like the Bahamas and Bermuda.

Are there year-round cruises from Baltimore?

No, most cruises from Baltimore are seasonal, typically running from spring through fall. Winter sailings are limited, with most major lines offering departures between April and December.

What cruise lines go out of Baltimore for shorter trips?

Carnival and Royal Caribbean specialize in short 5- to 7-day cruises from Baltimore, perfect for weekend getaways. These often visit the Bahamas, Bermuda, or coastal destinations like Charleston and New York.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line sail from Baltimore in 2024?

Norwegian Cruise Line occasionally offers select voyages from Baltimore, though it’s less frequent than Carnival or Royal Caribbean. Check their 2024 schedule for limited-time departures to the Caribbean or Bermuda.