Check bags on the ship-- then explore NO?

[Lulubelle6805]

We're taking a Western Caribbean cruise on the Spirit in a few weeks and booked a hotel near the airport for our flight in (arriving late Saturday night with a 2-year old, so we figured the sooner we could be in bed, the better). But we'd like to see a bit of New Orleans before getting on the ship the next day, and I'm wondering if there's a way to do this that doesn't involve lugging our bags around with us all day.

 

I was thinking we could maybe get a taxi to the port Sunday morning, give our bags to the porters, and then do a bit of sightseeing before boarding. Has anyone ever tried something like this? The earliest we've ever gotten in line for boarding is 11 a.m., so I don't even know if it's possible to hand off your bags earlier than that, or if this plan is more of a hassle than it's worth. Any input would be much appreciated!!

[jgmpuma]

You turn your luggage over to the portwes before you check in, so there's no reason not to explore a little. The French Quarter is an easy walk, or you can take the trolley. There is a trolley stop at Julia Street, a couple of blocks from the terminal.

[2112]

I'm planning on doing the same thing. I haven't decided yet if we'll drop our bags off early at the port or just leave the bags with the hotel. If it's raining we'll do the aquarium. If the weather is nice we'll do the French Quarter.

[Lulubelle6805]

I'm planning on doing the same thing. I haven't decided yet if we'll drop our bags off early at the port or just leave the bags with the hotel. If it's raining we'll do the aquarium. If the weather is nice we'll do the French Quarter.

 

I would leave the bags at the hotel if I could-- that option's probably easier if your hotel is close to the French Quarter. But it's good to know someone else is considering taking them to the the terminal ahead of time. I just can't imagine lugging bags around for 4 adults and a kid while we try to do some sightseeing. I wonder how early is too early to drop bags off, though?

[Budget Queen]

I would leave the bags at the hotel if I could-- that option's probably easier if your hotel is close to the French Quarter. But it's good to know someone else is considering taking them to the the terminal ahead of time. I just can't imagine lugging bags around for 4 adults and a kid while we try to do some sightseeing. I wonder how early is too early to drop bags off, though?

 

The porters are there very early. Think about it, they are available for the disembarking travelers.

 

For a drop off, I do suggest you consider tipping well.

[Sargent_Schultz]

If you store them at your hotel, they can also store your carry-ons so you don't have to lug them around. Just a thought.

[World Gallery]

I just called the port and yes, you can drop off your luggage as early as 10:00 and they said that they will have porters out there. They will take your luggage, process it and you are free to leave without actually checking in. Later, you come back, get in line, and check in. They said it was easy. The person I spoke with direct line is 504-528-3219. His name is Johnny and he is very nice and helpful.

I think it is worth the hassle. So much to see. Also, Mardi Gras World is right down the street. You will pass it when you enter the port terminal. This is probably a great time to visit because they are in high gear making the floats for the upcoming parades.

[Lulubelle6805]

I just called the port and yes, you can drop off your luggage as early as 10:00 and they said that they will have porters out there. They will take your luggage, process it and you are free to leave without actually checking in. Later, you come back, get in line, and check in. They said it was easy. The person I spoke with direct line is 504-528-3219. His name is Johnny and he is very nice and helpful.

I think it is worth the hassle. So much to see. Also, Mardi Gras World is right down the street. You will pass it when you enter the port terminal. This is probably a great time to visit because they are in high gear making the floats for the upcoming parades.

 

Wow, thank you so much for calling about this! This really puts my mind at ease. So we can definitely get to the port early enough to do some sightseeing before boarding the ship-- what great news! Really, thanks so much for checking on this. I'm sure others will be glad to know that it's possible to drop off bags early, too. And that's a great suggestion about Mardi Gras World. We went there in 2006 and really enjoyed it, but this will be our first time in New Orleans with our son and I think it will be a lot of fun for him.

[World Gallery]

Your son will enjoy it. You may want to call them to see what is the best time to go in regards to when the artisans will be working on things (you can watch them in action). The last time we went, we went at the very end of the day and the artisans has already left for the day but we were able to see many things.

[Abear2]

I just wanted to let ya'll know that most of the time youcan actually bring your luggage as early as 9:30 and the porters will gladly take your luggage. Just slip them a nice little tip and you are on your way. If ya'll are all of age they have a Harrah's Casino very near the port. I would take a little taxi ride, but it is walkable. Mardi Gras World is around $25.00 per person and personally, it's not worth it to me. I would spend my money on something else. The Aquarium is close to Harrah's and they also have an Imax. Also, you can take the little trolley to the French Market. It's like a huge flea market where you can buy lots of souvenirs for cheap. I love going there. I bought some #1500 sheets for my King Size bed for $30.00. I know men aren't interested in this, but I think the women are ! LOL;) :D Lots of those knock off purses too. Also, ya'll can go to Cafe du Monde for some beignets and coffee. They are sooooo good. They usually start boarding people on the ship around noon. I like to be on there early to get my moneys worth ! :p

[World Gallery]

I just doubled checked the prices for Mardi Gras World. They are: $18.50 adults, $14.50 seniors and $11.50 children (3-11). It may not be worth it to some, but for those that like to see the unique way in which floats are created, it may be worth it. Also, some kids may love it. My kids were amazed at just how big some of the pieces are on the floats (ex. The King Kong) when you are so close to them. If you have a child that loves art and creating, they may really enjoy this. Again, I would call to make sure the artisans are working at the time you visit.

All the things Abear2 mentioned are great places to visit also!

[pawpaw02_1]

I just called the port and yes, you can drop off your luggage as early as 10:00 and they said that they will have porters out there. They will take your luggage, process it and you are free to leave without actually checking in. Later, you come back, get in line, and check in. They said it was easy. The person I spoke with direct line is 504-528-3219. His name is Johnny and he is very nice and helpful.

I think it is worth the hassle. So much to see. Also, Mardi Gras World is right down the street. You will pass it when you enter the port terminal. This is probably a great time to visit because they are in high gear making the floats for the upcoming parades.

 

As of 08/13/2012. I'm staying at hotel with free parking but no transportion to port. So I called 504-528-3219 today and everything is the same as above no problem. I can drive over drop my bags off and return to hotel to park free. Also I called RTA 504-248-3900 and the Riverfront street cars do go all the why to the terminal port. They did said it is best not to bring luggage due to space. SOOOOO enjoy New Orleans.

[mrsdoc3]

As of 08/13/2012. I'm staying at hotel with free parking but no transportion to port. So I called 504-528-3219 today and everything is the same as above no problem. I can drive over drop my bags off and return to hotel to park free. Also I called RTA 504-248-3900 and the Riverfront street cars do go all the why to the terminal port. They did said it is best not to bring luggage due to space. SOOOOO enjoy New Orleans.

 

This is an interesting idea. Will you be taking the trolley to the port? Where are you staying with free parking? Most of the places I have looked that are trolley-rides to the port charge for parking.

[pawpaw02_1]

This is an interesting idea. Will you be taking the trolley to the port? Where are you staying with free parking? Most of the places I have looked that are trolley-rides to the port charge for parking.

 

hello,

Sorry for the long delay with answer.

We are staying at Hampton Inn on St. Charles Av. in Garden Dist. for $129 a night 9/28-9/30. I plan to drop bags off and go back to hotel too park. Then we have from 10 - boarding to check out stuff that we missed. Be sure to check out the web page below about Hamptom Inn. There are several hotel that have free parking but no way to port.

Yes, the street cars go to the port just don't plan on taking bags on, I called.

 

http://www.neworleanshamptoninns.com/new-orleans-cruising.php

[atog254]

You must try a Mufallata before leaving NO!

 

And say hello for me to Chad Martin p mgr of Pat O'Brian's piano bar on Bourbon St. Attended his wedding a few years ago and learned to say - "Le se le bonton roule!" from a true "Coon Ass"!

 

I agree with taking the baggage to the port especially if you are staying out by the airport, however if in the Big Easy, you could leave them at your hotel.

 

With the arrival of Isaac tomorrow, PLEASE be safe!