Plan a CruiseNorfolk Cruise Port Guide
Cruise ships dock at the Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center, a modern 80,000 square-foot facility located in the heart of downtown Norfolk. This terminal offers sweeping views of the Elizabeth River and is conveniently situated adjacent to Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin. Norfolk is historically known as a Navy town, home to the world's largest naval base. However, it also boasts a vibrant cultural scene with museums, opera, symphony, and ballet. The downtown area has undergone significant revitalization since the terminal's construction in 2007, now featuring a variety of gourmet restaurants, shopping, and attractions.
Getting Around from the Port
Many of Norfolk's key attractions are within easy walking distance of the pier. For destinations within the downtown area, you can utilize the free NET (Norfolk Electric Transfer) city buses. Taxis are available at the pier if you plan to venture further, such as to the Ghent historic district. For excursions beyond the immediate downtown vicinity, a car is generally necessary. If arriving by air, a taxi from Norfolk International Airport to the cruise terminal takes approximately 20 minutes and costs around $25. Parking at the port costs $15 per day, with shuttles provided to transport passengers to the terminal.
Attractions and Activities
- Downtown Attractions (Walkable/Free Bus): Explore the area immediately around the pier, including Nauticus and the impressive Battleship Wisconsin. Town Point Park, a waterfront park, is also easily accessible downtown.
- Ghent Historic District (Taxi from Pier): Take a taxi to Ghent, an artsy and fashionable neighborhood adjacent to downtown. Wander its tree-lined streets, admire historic homes and churches. While there, consider catching an indie film at the Naro Theater on Colley Avenue.
- Ocean View Beach (Car Needed): For a relaxing beach experience, head to Ocean View, Norfolk's beach community on the Chesapeake Bay. It offers relatively uncrowded beaches and has seen significant revitalization in recent years.
- Day Trips (45-minute drive): For those with more time, consider a day trip to Colonial Williamsburg or Busch Gardens, both located approximately 45 minutes from Norfolk. Tours can be booked independently or through your cruise line.
Dining & Shopping
Downtown Norfolk offers numerous dining and shopping options. Granby Street is the main downtown thoroughfare, bustling with various restaurants and bars. For a more boutique experience, take a taxi to the Ghent neighborhood. Here, Colley Avenue and 21st Street are primary hubs for shopping and dining, featuring dozens of locally-owned boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, and cafes. Most major retailers and shopping centers in the U.S. typically operate from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with shorter hours on Sundays (generally 11 a.m. or noon to 5 or 6 p.m.). Most stores close on major holidays like Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Safety
For any emergencies, dial 911.
Currency and Language
The official currency is the United States Dollar ($). ATMs are widely available throughout Norfolk, and major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are universally accepted, even for small transactions. Important Financial Notes for Overseas Visitors:
- Taxes: Posted prices for goods and services almost never include sales tax. A sales tax, typically between 4-6% in most states, will be added to your total at checkout.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary and expected for service workers in the U.S. Standard rates include:
- Full-service restaurants: 15-20% of the total bill. Always check your bill, as some restaurants might add an automatic service charge, although this is uncommon.
- Taxi drivers, hairdressers, personal services: 10-15%.
- Bartenders: $1 per drink for inexpensive drinks, or 15% of the total bill.
- Bellhops: $1-2 per bag, with a minimum of $3-5.
- Hotel doorman: $1 per bag if they assist, $1 for calling a cab.
- Tour guides: $5-10 per person for half-day tours or less, $10-20 per person for longer tours.
- Private car & limousine drivers: 15-20%.
- Housekeeping in hotels: $1-2 per day for longer stays, or a $5 minimum for very short stays (optional).
- Food delivery: $2-5, potentially more for large orders.