The Ultimate Guide To Parking For Portsmouth Cruises

If you don’t do your research in advance and leave everything to the last minute, cruise parking can be a nightmare in any city. Portsmouth’s no different.

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. 

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, whether you’re after the cheapest option or the most convenient (if only they were the same…)

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 are available

2. Portsmouth Marriott Hotel

• Approximate 10-minute drive to the port
• Features an on-site restaurant and fitness centre
• Secure on-site parking facilities (for up to 15 days)

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.

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