The Norfolk cruise terminal — the Half Moone Cruise & Celebration Center — sits at One Waterside Drive in downtown Norfolk, right on the Elizabeth River. Its central, walkable location makes it one of the easiest mid-Atlantic cruise ports to reach, whether you are driving in, flying into a nearby airport, or arriving by rideshare. This guide covers every way to get to the port and how to plan your arrival on embarkation day.
Where Is the Norfolk Cruise Terminal?
The terminal is in the heart of downtown Norfolk, beside the battleship USS Wisconsin and the Nauticus museum. It is just off Waterside Drive and minutes from Interstate 264, which connects to I-64 and the wider Hampton Roads highway network. Because it is downtown, hotels, restaurants, and parking are all close by.
Driving to Norfolk Cruise Port
Most cruise passengers arrive by car. From the north or west, take I-64 to I-264 East toward downtown Norfolk, then follow signs for Waterside Drive and the cruise terminal. From the south, I-64 and Route 460 both feed into the downtown core. Once you are downtown, the terminal and its parking garage are well signposted. Plan to drop luggage curbside at the terminal first, then continue to the garage to park.
Getting There from Norfolk International Airport (ORF)
Norfolk International Airport is the closest airport to the cruise terminal, a short drive away on the east side of the city. Rideshare, taxi, and hotel shuttles are all readily available at the airport, and the trip downtown is quick outside of rush hour. If you are flying in, an airport-area or downtown hotel the night before your cruise is a smart way to avoid any travel-day stress.
Other Airports Within Driving Distance
Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) and Richmond International Airport (RIC) are both within driving range of Norfolk and can sometimes offer more flight options. Both require a longer transfer to the terminal, so factor in extra time and ground transportation if you fly into one of them.
Rideshare, Taxi, and Drop-Off
Uber, Lyft, and taxis operate throughout Norfolk and can drop you directly at the terminal entrance, which is ideal if you are staying at a downtown hotel and do not want to park. On embarkation morning, allow a little extra time, as drop-off areas are busiest during the assigned check-in windows.
Arriving by Train or Bus
Amtrak serves Norfolk with a downtown station a short rideshare or taxi ride from the terminal, and regional bus services also reach the city. If you are arriving without a car, plan a short connection from the station to the waterfront.
Planning Your Arrival on Embarkation Day
Arrive within the check-in window printed on your cruise documents, with your ID and boarding documents ready. Because the terminal is compact and centrally located, the final approach is usually quick once you reach downtown. On busy turnaround days, when a ship is both disembarking and boarding, give yourself extra time for traffic near the waterfront.
Things to Do Near the Terminal
If you arrive early, downtown Norfolk is yours to explore on foot. For attractions, dining, and short itineraries near the cruise terminal, see our companion site Norfolk Shore Excursions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Norfolk cruise terminal located?
The Half Moone Cruise & Celebration Center is at One Waterside Drive in downtown Norfolk, on the Elizabeth River beside the USS Wisconsin and Nauticus. It is just off I-264 in the heart of downtown.
What is the closest airport to the Norfolk cruise port?
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is the closest airport, a short drive from the downtown terminal. Newport News (PHF) and Richmond (RIC) are also within driving distance but require a longer transfer.
How do I get from Norfolk airport to the cruise terminal?
Rideshare, taxi, and hotel shuttles are all available at Norfolk International Airport, and the drive downtown is quick outside of rush hour. Many travelers stay at a hotel the night before to simplify embarkation morning.
How do I drive to the Norfolk cruise port?
Take I-64 to I-264 East toward downtown Norfolk and follow signs for Waterside Drive and the cruise terminal. Drop luggage curbside first, then continue to the adjacent parking garage.
Can I take a rideshare or taxi to the Norfolk cruise terminal?
Yes. Uber, Lyft, and taxis can drop you right at the terminal entrance, which is convenient if you are staying downtown and prefer not to park. Allow extra time during peak check-in windows.
How early should I arrive at the Norfolk cruise port?
Arrive within the check-in window on your cruise documents and allow extra time on busy turnaround days. The downtown terminal is compact, so the final approach is usually quick once you are in the area.
Once you arrive, review your options for parking at Norfolk Cruise Port, or if you are staying the night before, browse hotels near the cruise terminal. For the full picture of embarkation morning, see what to expect on your Norfolk cruise day.