The number of cruises in Baltimore grew in recent years and peaked at 70 in 2003 but now officials hope a new $13 million terminal will generate new activity.
The terminal is 60,000 square feet with parking for 500 vehicles.
Similar to some smaller US cities, Baltimore became a larger participant in the cruise business after 9-11 when travelers were wary and many cruisers didn’t want to depart from New York.
The new terminal’s advantages include its visibility from Interstate 95 and its close proximity to the airport.
“It improves the possibilities of Baltimore as a cruising destination,” said Mahlon G. Anderson, director of public and government relations for AAA of the Mid-Atlantic.
A 2002 study concluded Baltimore could attract drive-up cruises, but that it would never compete with Miami.
Report by David Wilkening
