NOLA - Driving to port parking question and advice needed

[TulaSeoul]

Hi:

 

We are getting ready to cruise (first time) out of NOLA. We will be driving to the port, arriving that morning. Questions....

 

1. I've heard traffic can be iffy, we're used to driving in crazy traffic, but would appreciate any thoughts on this as we are departing on a Saturday....how early should we plan to be in the area if we would like to board around noon?

 

2. Where to park, what is the parking situation at the pier? Cost? Safety? Are there better options than parking at the pier since we are not spending the night at a hotel in New Orleans? There will be four in our party, two adults and two children....we are all fine with walking and are generally efficient at packing....

 

 

 

Thanks so much....I've learned a great deal on these boards, thankfully!

 

Shelly

[must2cruz]

We left on Sat. 2/11/12 on the Elation. There were two ships in port but no traffic problems on that day. We got to the port around 9:00-9:15. We parked at the terminal as it was convenient, secure and we had quick access to our car when we got off. We live in central Illinois so it's a long drive home. $80.00 for a 5 day cruise. We checked our big bags and then walked over to the French Market and got on the ship later.

[maldenmusic]

Have cruised from NOLA 3 or 4 times and never really enountered unexpected traffic problems. We've always parked at the pier but this time we are going to use the Fulton Garage and save $20. We've heard good things about it. NOLA has been a trouble free departure for us so far and hopefully will be when we go again in May on the Elation.

[mfeenker]

I highly recommend Fulton Place Garage for less expensive parking option. Very good Shuttle Service to and from the pier area.

[maldenmusic]

I highly recommend Fulton Place Garage for less expensive parking option. Very good Shuttle Service to and from the pier area.

Good to hear because we've made reservations with Fulton.

[mfeenker]

Good to hear because we've made reservations with Fulton.

Good service, just one hint, suggest dropping your luggage at street level (at or near the shuttles) before entering the garage to park.

[maldenmusic]

Good service, just one hint, suggest dropping your luggage at street level (at or near the shuttles) before entering the garage to park.

Ok thanks-hadn't thought of this

[jeckstein]

Has anyone used the Whale Lot at the New Orleans terminal?

[VideoTech]

Hi:

 

We are getting ready to cruise (first time) out of NOLA. We will be driving to the port, arriving that morning. Questions....

 

1. I've heard traffic can be iffy, we're used to driving in crazy traffic, but would appreciate any thoughts on this as we are departing on a Saturday....how early should we plan to be in the area if we would like to board around noon?

 

2. Where to park, what is the parking situation at the pier? Cost? Safety? Are there better options than parking at the pier since we are not spending the night at a hotel in New Orleans? There will be four in our party, two adults and two children....we are all fine with walking and are generally efficient at packing....

 

 

 

Thanks so much....I've learned a great deal on these boards, thankfully!

 

Shelly

 

You didn't give the date of your cruise, but if it's the weekend of March 31st, be aware that is the weekend of the NCAA Final Four at the Superdome. The city will be more than usually crowded and crazy that weekend.