Port information & tips for Inian Islands (AK)
Oak Alley is a fascinating jewel on the banks of the Mississippi and embodies the timeless charm and deep history of the American South. The arrival offers a majestic view of the iconic, 240-meter-long avenue of 300-year-old oaks, which give the historic estate its name. Unforgettable highlights include the magnificent Greek Revival-style mansion, the moving exhibition "Slavery at Oak Alley," and the extensive, well-kept gardens. River cruise ships dock directly at the in-house Oak Alley Levee Landing, from where visitors can reach the heart of the plantation in just a few steps and explore all the sights comfortably on foot thanks to the perfect location.
In Louisiana, the land of Southern romance and jazz, the cruise port of New Orleans is the central starting point for unforgettable river and ocean cruises. Historic Oak Alley, often a highlight of many Mississippi cruises, is easily accessible from there. The terminals in New Orleans are centrally located and easy to reach thanks to good connections, although a pre-cruise overnight stay is recommended due to the long journey from the DACH region.
Airplane
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the nearest airport and is located about 25 kilometers west of the cruise terminals. There are direct flights from Frankfurt, as well as connections via major hubs such as Atlanta or Houston. The travel time to the port is approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Transfer options include taxis, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft, as well as shuttle services provided by various operators directly at the airport.
Transfer & Shuttle
From MSY airport, you can easily reach the cruise terminals in New Orleans by taxi or ride-sharing service. Many cruise lines also offer their own transfer services, which you can add to your booking. Another practical option is private shuttle providers or the Airport Shuttle New Orleans, which offers trips between the airport and hotels as well as the cruise terminals.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region, it is strongly recommended to spend at least one night in New Orleans before embarkation. Hotels in Downtown New Orleans or the French Quarter are ideally located and often offer shuttle services to the port. Many hotels also have parking facilities for the duration of your cruise or work with external Park & Cruise providers that include transfers to the terminal.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
