As an area that hosts many military bases, businesses, and tourism guests, the need for a cruise port has been greatly overlooked. Carnival recognized that need years ago. 250,000 passengers were hosted out of Norfolk in 2023 per Nauticus. Finally, Norfolk will become a year-round cruise port starting in 2025. The Half Moone Cruise Center has undergone ~12 million dollars worth of upgrades, to include: expansion of the walkway, circular through traffic lane and driveway, inclined walkways, seating for boarding guests, and improved ground transportation.
If you cannot wait until next year, there are a few cruises departing this year. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Crystal Cruises, and American Cruise Lines are all setting sail. If you are on one of these sailings, the City of Norfolk’s website has details on parking, embarking and debarking until the port is finished. There are traffic safety restrictions in front of Nauticus. Ubers, Lyfts, limousines, and taxis must drop off passengers on Main Street or Waterside. Construction was scheduled for June, but the additional traffic from the Francis Scott Key bridge collapse in Baltimore has added a few complications since the terminal was slated to be closed during this time frame. Stephen Kirkland, who is the executive director of Nauticus has stated that although they were able to support the Royal Caribbean ships that were diverted, there will not be a delay in June.
Carnival is one of the world’s largest cruise lines, and for Norfolk to become one of their home ports will impact the area economically. There will be an influx of passengers to the area. As a result, flights, hotels, and traffic will all be affected. If you are planning to travel via the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel (HRBT) which is also undergoing expansion, please plan accordingly. The year-round schedule begins on February 15th with the Carnival Sunshine. It will be departing from Norfolk weekly carrying over 3,000 passengers. The Sunshine is home to Carnival WaterWorks™, SportSquare™, Guy’s Burger Joint™, the Havana Bar™ and many other spots to help you enjoy your 6 or 8 day cruise.
