Port information & tips for Paranaguá
Paranaguá is the maritime gateway to the Brazilian state of Paraná and, as one of the country's oldest cities, captivates with a fascinating blend of history and untouched nature. The charming port city delights with its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant South American flair. Cultural highlights include the Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia, housed in a historic Jesuit college, and the Mercado Municipal do Café; furthermore, the city serves as an ideal starting point for boat trips to the paradisiacal Ilha do Mel. Cruise ships dock at the Terminal de Passageiros de Paranaguá, which is located in the central port area and, thanks to its location, is just a short walk from the historic center.
Paranaguá, a significant seaport in the Brazilian state of Paraná, serves as an important port of call for cruise ships. The terminal is primarily a commercial cargo port and is located somewhat outside the city center, which makes organized transfers recommended.
Airplane
The nearest major airport for arrival from the DACH region is Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB) in Curitiba. This international airport is located approximately 82 to 111 kilometers from the Port of Paranaguá. The flight time from Europe requires a layover; therefore, arriving at least one day before embarkation is advisable to ensure a relaxed journey.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Curitiba Airport (CWB), you can comfortably reach the Port of Paranaguá by taxi or ride-sharing service. A taxi ride takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 8 minutes and costs approximately R$350–420 (Brazilian Reais). Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available, with an estimated travel time of about 89 minutes and average costs of R$215. Additionally, there are bus connections from Curitiba to Paranaguá departing from the Rodoferroviária de Curitiba, which take between 1.5 and 3.5 hours depending on the connection.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region and the distance from the airport to the port, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel in Curitiba or Paranaguá is recommended. This allows for a stress-free arrival and embarkation the next day. In Paranaguá, you will find hotels such as the Camboa Hotel Paranaguá or the Hotel Monte Libano, which offer a comfortable base.
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 generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same 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 may change at short notice.
