When the Key Bridge collapsed, it looked like Baltimore cruising adventures would collapse right along with it. Thanks to a lot of hard work by a lot of brave people, the debris is cleared, the channel is open and cruise ships are back in Baltimore. Baltimore Strong is not just a slogan; it is the city’s reality.
Another reality: cruising from Charm City makes even international getaways easy to reach. Park your car, check in and walk onto your traveling hotel.
“One of the things people like is we are a drive-to market. If you are a family of four and live in the mid-Atlantic or Midwest, you can drive to the Baltimore port,” says Cynthia Burman, deputy director of business development and Cruise Maryland for the Maryland Port Administration. “For locals, when the ship returns back to port after a cruise, they can be home in time to catch a Ravens or Orioles game.” She says if traveling by air, BWI is just 20 minutes away.
Even to those who say, “I’m not a cruiser,” the thought of traveling slowly, savoring the journey as well as the destination is compelling. Let’s face it, flying isn’t fun. Or relaxing. Instead, traveling via a spacious cruise ship makes getting there pleasurable.
Three major cruise lines offer cruises from Charm City—Carnival, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean. The best way to decide which ship works for you is to spend time on each website comparing departure dates, destinations, length of trip, prices, adult and children amenities, sports and spa choices, dining options and on-board experiences. And don’t ignore reviewing shore excursions.
What ship goes where:
Carnival Pride
The Carnival Pride travels from Baltimore to Bermuda and lots of islands in the Caribbean. While Bermuda is only 21 square miles in size, it is big on things to do including visits to historic forts, postcard perfect beaches, great shopping plus vibrant neighborhoods to roam. For those who prefer to do their touring underwater, shore excursions include shipwreck sightseeing or scuba diving.
The Bahamas is another Carnival option and one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations. In addition to stellar beaches and water sports, some itineraries include a chance to spend a day at the famous Atlantis Resort that connects to Paradise Island.
Dining choices on board feel endless. Zen-like simplicity at Bonsai Sushi, the art deco inspired Normandie Restaurant, a traditional American Fahrenheit 555 Steak House and more.
When the sun goes down, the ship heats up at Beauties Dance Club or the Comedy Club.
For some quiet time, head to the spa or adults-only pool with a retractable roof. Fitness devotees take note: In addition to a massive gym, there’s an on-board pickleball court.
Shore excursion choices include swimming with the dolphins, experiencing a water park, lounging on a catamaran or reef snorkeling.
For more adventurous destinations, in January 2026, Carnival Cruise Line will depart from Baltimore for a 14-day cruise to Panama with stops in Ocho Rios, Costa Rica, Panama City and Grand Turk.
Prefer a chillier experience? Board the Carnival Pride for a 14-day journey to the Arctic Circle and visit two countries on one cruise. While Greenland is huge and mostly icy, there are lots of places on the southernmost tip that are ideal for cruising. Additional stops include scenic port towns with lots of history in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia.
Norwegian Sky
Head north on the Norwegian Sky to Quebec City, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Boston, Bar Harbor and other laid-back destinations. Even after 400 years, Old Quebec (a UNESCO Heritage Site) is amazingly well-preserved and ideal for wandering. Meander cobblestone streets lined with shops and cafes that have the look and feel of a small French town—English and French are spoken everywhere.
The ship is a destination unto itself. Recently refurbished from bow to stern, the Norwegian Sky offers 10 dining options, a variety of bars and lounges, a casino plus on-board spa.
When it’s showtime, the Stardust Lounge provides first-rate entertainment at sea.
Stay fit on board with the help of a fitness center with jaw-dropping views thanks to the gym’s floor to ceiling windows. Join aerobics or spinning class or shoot some hoops at the basketball/volleyball court. Golfers should check out the golf driving net. Clubs are provided.
Royal Caribbean Vision of the Seas
Rock climbing on a ship? An arcade and carousel? Add those unique experiences to the water slides and dozens of family-friendly kids activities on board.
While the Vision of the Seas has plenty of activities for children, it doesn’t forget about adults who crave quiet time. The Solarium, an adults-only oasis with a pool, whirlpool and full-service bar, provides plenty of room to chill out in the sun or shade. Destinations include Bermuda and the Bahamas.
When ships return to the Baltimore Port after a cruise, Burman says the process is customer friendly and there is “no hassle getting back on 95 to head home.” As for adding more cruise ships and destinations from Baltimore in the future, Burman says, “We are constantly communicating with all cruise lines about coming to Baltimore.”
The post Charm City Cruises: Leave on a Ship From Baltimore, and Explore Destinations Around the World appeared first on Baltimore Style.