Introducing Baltimore

Baltimore is positioned in central Maryland, on Chesapeake Bay. A port was constructed on the bay in the early eighteenth century to ship out the produce of the many tobacco growing farms clustered around the region. The port was a magnet for commerce, and Baltimore came into life when a small town grew next to the quays. The town expanded as more products like corn from the adjoining district, and molasses from the Caribbean, passed through the port.

In the Revolutionary War, congress assembled in Henry Fite House during December 1776 to February 1777, making the city the US’s capital for a brief period until congress returned to Philadelphia. After the Revolutionary War, Baltimore developed into an important ship building center, producing tall masted privateer clipper ships. In 1812 the British attempted to nullify this threat by storming the city, but they were eventually repulsed in the heroic Battle of Baltimore.

Built in the years 1828 to 1853 the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad enabled the transport of corn from the mid-West to the port and gave a huge boost to the economy of the city. The 20th century started with disaster when in 1904 a great fire destroyed hundreds of buildings in the city center. A time of reconstruction followed, this time using fire-resistant bricks and paving. In the late 20th century Baltimore again saw a time of busy renovation as its run-down Inner Harbor shoreline received a complete overhaul.

This waterfront district is today a big hit with tourists, and attractions include the American Visionary Art Museum, the Historic Ships Museum, the Maryland Science Center, Harborplace shopping center, the Baltimore Museum of Industry and the National Aquarium.

Baltimore has become the US’s eighth biggest port, stretching over 20 miles of shoreline. As well as goods, Baltimore port has long welcomed passengers. The city was the 2nd biggest destination for migrants in the early 20th century. Local steamship cruises were all the rage in the 1950s and 1960s. Today there’s a warmer pick of cruises on offer, though, as cruise ships sail to the beautiful Bahamas and Caribbean.

Baltimore Cruise Terminal

The Mayland Port Authority, in 2004, decided to relocate the Dundalk cruise ship port. The Maryland Cruise Terminal, a converted paper-shed building was opened in 2006 on the South Locust Point shoreline.

The terminal building offers the basic services like restrooms, pay phones, vending machines, check-in desks and an ATM. A large parking area for passengers’ use is situated next to the terminal building.

The quay is 1139ft long and 35ft in depth, which restricts the cruise port to just one cruise ship.

Baltimore Sightseeing

Baltimore has plenty to offer the tourist, with many exciting attractions. Stop by at the Inner Harbor Visitor Center where you’ll find trail maps, leaflets and information to aid the planning of your day. The Baltimore Water Taxi, which ferries passengers around the Inner Harbor, is a good method of traveling around the sights.

Fort McHenry

Just half-a-mile from the cruise port stands historic Fort McHenry commanding the bay. In the War of 1812, US soldiers based at Fort McHenry triumphed when defending the city from attack by British forces in a furious fight. The Battle of Baltimore was observed by Francis Scott Key from a ship floating in the bay, and he was moved into penning the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner.

Baltimore Museum of Industry

The rooms exhibit early era machines, tinted photographs and old documents celebrating the history of industry and commerce in Baltimore.

Federal Hill

Federal Hill was named after a day of rejoicing to celebrate Maryland’s inclusion in the US constitution. Today it’s a a small green space, offering spectacular views over Inner Harbor. To its south lies the smart neighborhood of Federal Hill, with stylish townhouses and streets. It makes a good spot for a wander with a refreshment break at a homely coffee shop.

American Visionary Art Museum

This curious museum is devoted to the work of the untrained artist, if perceived of having an exceptional personal approach. Of course untrained does not mean untalented, and the sculptures and the paintings are surprising, enjoyable and engaging.

Harborplace shopping center

A shoppers’ dream with over 100 shops and 15 food outlets. The central area is often busy with buskers.

Historic Ships in Baltimore Museum

At the Historic Ships Museum see the USS Constellation (a clipper ship), the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse (the oldest screw pile lighthouse on the Chesapeake), the Lightship Chesapeake, the USS Torsk (a sub) and USCGC Taney (the last remaining war ship from pearl harbor).

Fell’s Point

About a mile east of Inner Harbor stands the historic district of Fell’s Point. In the first part of nineteenth century US ships were legally allowed to loot British vessels, and Fell’s Point was the base of several shipyards making privateer vessels. The narrow streets, period townhouses and cramped market squares still evoke those bygone years. Today the tourist will also find many restaurants for a relaxing stop from sightseeing.

Picking A Cruise From Baltimore

Favorite all-year itineraries include the Bahamas and the eastern Caribbean. This far south you’ll get away from the miserable Maryland winter, as you sail into warm temperatures.

During the summer, cruises to Bermuda generally include a one-night stopover, so passengers can experience the great nightlife. Also on offer in the summer months are northward-bound cruises following the north-eastern states and Nova Scotia, with historic and charming ports.

Traveling To The Cruise Terminal

From Baltimore Airport

BWI airport offers frequent services from many cities in, and from abroad. Baltimore cruise terminal is around 5 miles from the airport, ten minutes by taxi or the cruise shuttle express.

By Car

The cruise terminal is around an hour by car from both Annapolis and Washington.
From the North
Drive along I-95 southwards under the Ft McHenry tunnel. Keep in the right side lane as you exit the tunnel. Turn off at Exit 55, signed Key Highway and Ft McHenry. Drive under the highway. Turn left at the light onto East McComas street. Follow the signs to the South Locust Point Cruise Maryland Terminal.
From the South
Follow I-95 north to Exit 55, Key Highway. From the ramp, stay straight ahead on East McComas Street. The South Locust Point Cruise Maryland Terminal is to the right.