Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport Near Port of New Orleans
Getting from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to Port of New Orleans — 25 min, 15 miles
Transfer Options
Hotel Shuttle Services
Several nearby hotels offer park-and-cruise packages with port shuttles. The Mercantile Hotel, Wyndham French Quarter, and Hilton Garden Inn Convention Center all offer packages that include parking during your cruise and a ride to the terminal.
The Mercantile Hotel's Stay, Park & Cruise package is a local favorite -- includes breakfast and up to 8 days of parking. Book directly with the hotel for the best rates.
Uber/Lyft from Anywhere
Rideshare is widely available throughout New Orleans. Both terminals have designated drop-off areas accessible from Port of New Orleans Place.
Saturday embarkation days can see surge pricing around 10-11 AM. Check prices early in the morning for cheaper rates. The port area drop-off is straightforward -- drivers know where to go.
Taxi
Traditional taxis are readily available in the French Quarter and at the airport. New Orleans taxis use meters downtown and flat rates from the airport.
The airport flat rate is a solid deal -- no surprises regardless of traffic on I-10. From the Quarter, it's short enough that the meter won't run up much. United Cabs and NOLA Cab are reliable local companies.
From Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
MSY is about 20 miles west of the port, roughly a 30-minute drive without traffic. The airport completed a brand-new terminal in 2019 and is well-connected to the city via I-10.
The flat-rate taxi is often the best deal for couples -- $36 total regardless of traffic. For groups of 3+, an Uber XL is usually the move. Airport shuttles stop at multiple hotels en route, so they take longer but are reliable.
Driving & Port Parking
From I-10, take Exit 234A (US 90 W) at Tchoupitoulas St. Follow the ramp, turn right onto Tchoupitoulas, left onto Henderson St, and left onto Port of New Orleans Place. Cross the railroad tracks to reach the terminals. Do not try to enter from Julia St or Poydras St.
Erato has 1,000+ spots in its own garage -- very convenient. Julia Street passengers need to park at 100 Poydras and take a shuttle. Neither terminal requires advance parking reservations, but arrive early on busy sail days. Credit cards and cash accepted.
Streetcar from Downtown Hotels
If you're staying in the French Quarter or along Canal Street, the St. Charles or Canal streetcar lines can get you close to the port area. The Riverfront streetcar runs along the river near the Convention Center, dropping you within a 10-minute walk of the terminals.
This works great if you're traveling light. With heavy luggage and kids, take an Uber instead. The streetcar is iconic and fun, but it's not fast.
Cost Comparison
| Option | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Shuttle Services | Packages typically run $150-250 total for one night + 7 days parking + shuttle | Cruisers who want to bundle a pre-cruise night with parking and transport |
| Uber/Lyft from Anywhere | French Quarter: $8-15. Airport: $25-40. Garden District: $10-18. Metairie: $18-30. | Flexibility and door-to-door service |
| Taxi | Airport to port: $36 flat rate (1-2 passengers). French Quarter to port: $10-15 metered. Add $1/extra passenger after 2. | Cruisers who prefer predictable pricing over surge-based rideshare |
| From Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) | Uber/Lyft: $25-40 depending on traffic and surge. Taxi: $36 flat rate for up to 2 passengers, $15 per additional person. Airport shuttle: $24/person one-way. | Most cruisers flying in |
| Driving & Port Parking | Erato Terminal garage: $25/day ($175/week). Julia Street passengers use 100 Poydras Garage: $25/day ($175/week). | Cruisers driving from Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, or elsewhere in Louisiana |
| Streetcar from Downtown Hotels | $1.25 per ride, exact change or Jazzy Pass ($3/day unlimited) | Budget-minded travelers staying downtown who don't have heavy luggage |
Local Tip
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is about 20 miles from Port NOLA, roughly a 30-minute drive on I-10. The flat-rate taxi at $36 for up to 2 passengers is often the best deal for couples, while groups of 3 or more should grab an Uber XL for $25-40. Airport shuttles run $24 per person one-way but make multiple hotel stops. Avoid the I-10 drive during evening rush hour if possible, and remember the port entrance is from Tchoupitoulas Street, not from the downtown side.
Once you arrive, find your terminal:
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