This section covers general questions on cruise arrivals and departures. If your question is not listed on this page, please email [email protected] for assistance.
Location
Where can I catch public transport?
Britomart Transport Centre for bus and train services is directly across the street from Queens Wharf, and only a five minute walk from Princes Wharf. The Downtown Ferry Terminal is located between Princes Wharf and Queens Wharf for ferries to Devonport, West Harbour, Half Moon Bay, Pine Harbour, Waiheke Island, and many tourist destinations. A taxi rank is also located at both Cruise Ship terminals.
Arriving Cruise Ship Vessels
What time will the ship arrive alongside the berth?
The arrival time of the ship as noted on the Ports of Auckland Cruise Schedules page shows the Pilot boarding time. The ship then takes approximately an hour and a half to arrive alongside the berth. For example, if the Pilot boarding time is 5:30am, the ship should be alongside the berth and tied up around 7:00am.
What time do passengers start disembarking the cruise ship?
Passengers will generally start leaving around 30 minutes after the ship has arrived alongside the berth. This can vary between ships.
Vehicle access and parking at Queens Wharf
Vehicle access and parking at Princes Wharf
Am I able to drive onto Princes Wharf to collect passengers outside the terminal?
Yes, public access to the wharf is permitted for pick-up and drop-off only. There will be traffic control in place, and you will be given directions. Parking is restricted so you may not be able to stop.
Is there long-term parking available on Princes Wharf?
There is currently no long-term parking available at Auckland Cruise Terminals for passengers. However, please see below 'Car and Luggage Storage' section for options available nearby.
Contacting and meeting passengers on-board a cruise ship
Am I able to pick up family/friends from the ship itself?
No - due to the Maritime Security Act 2004 and the Customs and Excise Act 1996, public access to the working areas of the port is restricted to those on port business.
Safety and security measures mean that access to ships is restricted to staff, passengers and crew only. Members of the public meeting passengers can do so outside these working and restricted areas.
Viewing the arrival/departure of a cruise ship
Where is the best place to view the arrival or departure of a cruise ship?
Any of the public areas on Queens Wharf and Princes Wharf, as well as along Quay Street near the Ferry Terminal will give good views of the ship. Other public areas that offer good views include the public walkway beside the helicopter terminal/Mikano restaurant, Fred Ambler Lookout, Mt Victoria, North Head, Devonport Wharf and East Coast Bays beaches.
Car and Luggage Storage
Can I drop-off my luggage at the Cruise Terminal?
Luggage drop-off is from 9:00am on the day of embarkation. Please note that no personal effects will be held. Once your luggage is checked in it will be taken directly to the ship and you will not have access to it until moving into your cabin.