Car Parking

Liverpool Cruise Terminal is just a short stroll from the city centre, and the good news is – parking nearby doesn’t have to break the bank. From convenient walkable options to cheaper car parks with shuttle buses, there’s something to suit every budget.

If you’re planning to stay the night before your cruise, some local hotels even offer parking packages. This guide covers all the best parking choices, so you can find the perfect spot for your trip.

Where The Cruise Ships Dock In Liverpool

Liverpool Cruise Terminal is located on Prince’s Dock in the River Mersey. The cruise terminal is almost adjacent to the Liver Building, which you’ll recognise from the Liver bird statues that sit on top.

The cruise terminal is the small building with the white roof, in the bottom left of the photo above. Yes, it’s really small and feels a bit like a marquee.

Where To Check In At Liverpool Cruise Port

The small size of the Liverpool Cruise Terminal means that usually only smaller cruise ships depart from Liverpool with check-in at the terminal.

On the rare occasions that larger ships depart from Liverpool, check-in is processed at a different building nearby, such as the Liverpool M&S Bank Arena. So, you’ll want to pay close attention to your cruise documents to see exactly where you need to go.

If you check in at the arena, there will be a complimentary coach ride to the ship.

The Best Cruise Parking In Liverpool

When it comes to choosing where to park in Liverpool for a cruise, you have three main options:

Which is the best will depend on your budget, how long your cruise is and your mobility requirements.

1. Parking Near Liverpool Cruise Terminal

Parking near your cruise ship in Liverpool means that you can walk from your car straight to the baggage drop area.

Liverpool Cruise Terminal doesn’t have an official long-stay car park. However, you can find car parks nearby that allow you to leave your car for several days or weeks.

To do this, you’ll need to use the Your Parking Space website.

I’ve used this to book Liverpool cruise parking several times, and it’s always cost me less than £10 per day to park within a few minutes’ walk of the port.

I have used different car parks each time as there are several in the area, but all have been easy to find and secure.

How To Find the Nearest Car Parks With Your Parking Space

1. Go to yourparkingspace.co.uk

2. Do a search

• Select ‘Hourly’
• Enter ‘Cruise Liverpool’
• Select your dates and times
• Hit ‘Search’.

3. Use the map to find the nearest car parks

4. Take a closer look

• The blue flag is your destination
• Zoom in and out
• Check prices
• Check the description and reviews

5. Choose and book your parking

• Enter your vehicle registration and payment info
• Your booking details and entry instructions will be sent via email and text message

Find More Car Parking With Just Park

If you don’t have any luck with Your Parking Space, then you should also check out Just Park.

This website is very similar and works in exactly the same way, but often has different car parking spaces.

To find the cheapest and nearest car parking to Liverpool Cruise Terminal, it’s a good idea to check both sites.

I sometimes find that the same car park is listed on both sites, but is cheaper on one of them.

2. Liverpool Park and Ride Companies

Sometimes, the cheapest option can be to park your car a mile or two from the cruise port and take a shuttle bus or taxi.

Car Park and Shuttle Bus – CPS

You can currently only book your parking with Cruise & Passenger Services (CPS) if you’re cruising with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

The official car parking partner for these cruise lines, CPS, has a secure car park which is located a ten-minute bus ride from the cruise terminal.

CPS asks drivers to drop off passengers and luggage at the baggage drop area at Liverpool Cruise Terminal before proceeding to the car park. After parking your vehicle, you will then take a shuttle bus back to the cruise terminal.

Disabled drivers can opt for valet parking at no extra cost. If you have a blue badge, you can simply drive to the cruise terminal and a member of staff will drive your car to the car park for you.

You can pre-book CPS parking here. It usually costs more than the nearby car parks and you’ll need to allow time for the shuttle bus, but this is a good option for anyone who has a car parking voucher as part of their cruise booking.

Car Park and Taxi – King Park

Many cruisers recommend King Park as a cheap option for parking in Liverpool. This short- and long-stay car park costs just £20 for two to five days and £25 for seven days.

The car park has CCTV and good lighting in the evening. An Uber from King Park to Liverpool Cruise Terminal costs about £9 and a taxi will cost a little more.

It’s not possible to pre-book parking at King Park. however, the car park is very large and is rarely full to capacity.

3. Liverpool Hotels With Cruise Parking

There are several hotels in Liverpool that offer parking for cruise passengers.

If you intend on driving for more than a couple of hours to reach Liverpool, it can be a good idea to drive the night before and enjoy a hotel stay before your cruise. When pre-arranged, you can leave your car in the hotel car park for the duration of your cruise.

There are currently no ‘Stay, Park and Cruise’ deals advertised. However, it’s worth contacting the hotels as they will be able to advise whether they have parking available for your dates.

Hotels With Parking Near Liverpool Cruise Port:

1. Crowne Plaza – 0.1 miles from Liverpool Cruise Terminal
2. Delta Hotels Liverpool City Centre – 0.8 miles from Liverpool Cruise Terminal
3. Hampton by Hilton – 0.9 miles from Liverpool Cruise Terminal

The Best Place To Park In Liverpool For A Cruise

The best place to park in Liverpool for a cruise is the Capital Car Park, which is just a five-minute walk from Liverpool Cruise Terminal.

For week-long cruises, it can be cheaper to park a little further away and take a taxi or shuttle bus. Alternatively, you may be able to secure a Liverpool hotel and cruise parking deal by calling hotels directly to enquire.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

While Dover is primarily a ferry port, there are also a considerable number of cruise ships departing from Dover each year with cruise lines such as Carnival, Fred. Olsen, Holland America and more.

If anything, the port is only going to get busier – in early 2025 it completed the first part of a major renovation, and can now play host to some of the biggest ships in the world!

Of course, that also means there’ll be more cars needing to find a parking space – and you don’t want to pay over the top for your cruise parking either…

Please note: This guide relates specifically to parking for a cruise. If you’re looking for parking to take a ferry from Dover, you’ll find some info on that here.

Dover Cruise Terminal Locations

Cruise ships dock at one of three cruise terminals in the Port of Dover:

• Terminal 1 – Departures on small and medium ships
• Terminal 2 – Departures on larger ships
• Terminal 3 – Visits on small ships only

Dover’s three cruise terminals are located within the Western Docks – about a mile west of Dover town centre.

Although you can cruise from Dover, the ferry port is much busier than the cruise port. FDS and P&O ferries from Dover to Calais depart from the Eastern Docks which is about two miles away from Dover’s cruise terminals.

Where to Park for Dover Cruises

When it comes to parking your car in Dover for a cruise, you have three options:

1. Parking at Dover Cruise Terminal

Dover Cruise Terminal has over 1,000 secure undercover parking spaces. This is the most convenient place to park for your cruise from Dover as you can walk straight to the ship.

Parking at Dover Cruise Port is arranged by Cruise & Passenger Services (CPS). You can book your parking on the CPS website or by calling 0345 071 3939.

If you have booked a cruise that includes complimentary car parking at Dover Cruise Terminal, you’ll still need to book a space. When you receive your parking voucher, you can enter the code on the CPS website to claim your free parking.

Car parking at Dover Cruise Terminal costs £16 per day. You can expect to pay £112 to park your car for a seven-night cruise.

Parking at Dover cruise terminal is pretty expensive, particularly if you’re cruising for more than a few days. However, there are some much cheaper options that you may also wish to consider…

2. Off-Site Dover Cruise Parking

Parking your car at a specialist off-site cruise car park will sometimes cost less than half of what parking at the port costs. You’ll definitely save by parking near Dover port, instead of right at the terminal.

There are two secure car parks that are recommended. These include a free shuttle bus from the car park to your cruise ship. The ride takes 5-10 minutes each way.

If you need any help with your luggage, staff will be happy to assist. That makes these options great for anyone with small children or mobility difficulties.

As well as car parks which are purpose-built for cruise passengers, there are other places in Dover where you can park your car for as little as £2 per day.

These cheap parking spaces can be found at hotel and supermarket car parks, retail parks and private driveways to rent.

While £2 per day sounds great, you’ll also have to factor in the cost of a taxi to the cruise port. Plus, you’ll need to be able to carry your own luggage. If you’re okay with that, these are the best value car parks for cruises from Dover.

There are two websites that I use to see all of the car parking spaces for a cruise. These are JustPark.com and YourParkingSpace.co.uk. I like to check both of them to find the best deals.

3. Dover Hotels with Cruise Parking

If you need to drive for more than a couple of hours to reach Dover, it’s a good idea to head down the night before. That way you can avoid stressing over the morning traffic and wake up fresh ready to start your cruise in the most relaxed way.

The table below shows the main Dover hotels with cruise parking. These hotels all allow you to leave your car at the hotel while you are on your cruise.

The Best Place to Park Your Car in Dover for a Cruise

The best place to park your car in Dover for a cruise depends on your priorities. If you want to park your car right by the ship and aren’t concerned about the cost, then parking at Dover Cruise Terminal is the easiest option.

If you don’t mind spending an extra five or ten minutes to take a shuttle bus, there are two off-site cruise car parks that can offer parking for less than half of the price of parking at Dover port. These are Dover Port Parking Ltd and Relyon Cruise Parking.

And if you’re travelling from further afield then you might be best booking a hotel option. Then you just need a transfer, with the hotel’s car park serving as your Dover cruise terminal parking.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

I’m ALWAYS looking for cruise bargains! These are the best deals I found this week…

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

In this article, I explore everything you need to know about where to park, how much it costs, and how to make your cruise departure from Portsmouth hassle-free.

Whilst Portsmouth is mainly known for its maritime heritage, it now also hosts a number of cruise ships, from lines such as Virgin Voyages, Norwegian Cruise Line, Azamara and Fred Olsen. 

If you’re lucky enough to be going on a cruise out of Portsmouth and planning on driving to Portsmouth Port, you probably want to know where’s the best place to park.

Since I boarded a cruise ship in Portsmouth, I’ve done a lot of research for you and put together this guide on Portsmouth cruise parking. I’ll review all the options so you can decide which is the best option for you.

The Cruise Ship Dock

In Portsmouth, both cruise ships and ferries dock at Portsmouth International Port. This is just under two miles from the main city centre attractions, such as Gunwharf Quays and the Spinnaker Tower. 

As well as cruise ships and ferries, Portsmouth Port is used for cargo from around the world.

Free Parking

There is no free parking at Portsmouth Cruise Terminal. Some free parking may be available in residential streets, but many require a permit, and it’s important to consider the security of your car during your cruise.

While some streets in Portsmouth do allow parking, they aren’t typically suitable for long-term stays. For cruise bookings, it’s recommended to secure a designated car parking spot for safety and convenience.

The Best Car Parks For Cruises From Portsmouth

When it comes to choosing the best place to park in Portsmouth for a cruise, you could park at the port. However, if you park further away, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to the port or stay at a nearby hotel and leave your car there.

Which type of parking is the best will depend on your budget, how long your cruise is, mobility requirements and your preference for convenience, such as the proximity of the car park to the cruise terminal.

Next, I’ll explain each of the options for you…

1. On-Site Valet Parking

Cruise and Passenger Services (CPS) offers a private and secure on-site valet parking service that’s right outside the cruise terminal building in Portsmouth. If you have a lot of luggage and want a really easy experience, this is a good choice.

Once you reach the cruise terminal, a CPS marshal will guide you to the correct vehicle lane. Here, someone will greet you, register your vehicle, and perform the necessary inspections, such as taking a photo of your car and giving you a barcoded receipt.

When you have checked in your car, the driver will park it for you in the secure multi-storey car park nearby. You can then head to the terminal to check in for your cruise.

The valet service is very convenient, but it is pretty expensive, particularly if you’re on a longer cruise. Another downside is that you have to hand over your car keys – something that not everybody is comfortable with.

However, there are other options for you, including a much cheaper way to park in the exact same car park…

2. On-Site Self Parking

It’s possible to park your car yourself in the very same multi-storey car park that CPS uses. This is right by the terminal, less than a five-minute walk.

I’ve parked here myself and it’s very easy and safe. The address of this car park is George Byng Way, Portsmouth, Hants, PO2 8QN.

The entry procedure involves automated number plate recognition without barriers, and payment is due upon arrival based on the expected duration of stay. Cruise passengers will be greeted upon arrival and shown where to park.

Depending on your cruise, this option can be a little cheaper than the valet option in the same car park, but not always.

You can book your parking on the Portsmouth International Port website for £13 per day. However, when I parked here, I booked the exact same car park via Your Parking Space, where it costs just £9.50 per day!

You get the exact same experience, it just costs less. I’ve used Your Parking Space many, many times and always had a great experience.

3. St Mark’s Church Car Park

St Mark’s Church in Portsmouth has a secure car park at the rear that’s locked at night and has CCTV. The car park is just a 9-minute walk from Portsmouth Cruise Port, or you can get a taxi or Uber for around £2.50.

You can book this car park online on the Just Park website. You’ll then be given a code which you can use to access the car park 24 hours per day.

At just £5 per day, this is a really cheap, safe and relatively convenient place to park for your cruise from Portsmouth. The only downside is that the car park isn’t huge, but if you book in advance, you are guaranteed a space.

Hotels With Parking Near Portsmouth Port

If you don’t live near Portsmouth, you could extend your holiday by staying in a nice hotel beforehand. This approach can provide a more leisurely start to your holiday, eliminating the worry of potential traffic delays that could risk missing your cruise departure.

Numerous hotels near Portsmouth provide special packages, including pre-cruise overnight stays and parking facilities. Surprisingly, these packages can often be more cost-effective than opting for port parking.

1. Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth – North

• Only a short drive to Portsmouth International Port (4 miles)
• Complimentary breakfast and free WiFi
• Offers spacious rooms, great for families
• Secure parking facilities available

2. Portsmouth Marriott Hotel

3. Solent Hotel & Spa

• Situated approximately 25 minutes away from the port by car
• Features a spa and fitness centre
• On-site parking is available (for up to 15 days)

4. Macdonald Botley Park Hotel & Spa

• Located about 20 minutes drive from the port
• Features a spa, golf course, and on-site dining
• Secure parking facilities offered (up to 15 days)
• Return transfer to and from the port

Please note that the proximity of these hotels to Portsmouth International Port may vary slightly depending on the exact route taken and traffic conditions. It’s always advisable to confirm travel times and parking arrangements directly with the hotel before your trip.

My Recommendation

Determining the best car park in Portsmouth for your cruise depends on your personal priorities and requirements. If you want the convenience, I would personally park at the terminal, as within a few minutes, you’ll be able to check in for your cruise.

You can opt for valet parking, but it’s so much cheaper to book the same car park through Your Parking Space, so that’s what I do.

However, if you’re travelling a long way to reach Portsmouth and prefer a more relaxed start to your holiday, I would definitely recommend booking a hotel that provides a transfer service or one within a short taxi ride. Opting for this approach means you can drive to the hotel at your leisure the day before, with the knowledge that your transfer to the cruise terminal is taken care of.

Related Posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me