We know you have lots of questions, so let us give you the answers to those most frequently asked.
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially in the busy summer months. Parties of 10 or less are often able to walk up and purchase tickets on the day of the cruise, but only if space is available. Groups of 20 or more should always make reservations in advance.
What is the best way to make a reservation?
For individual tickets, you can call our reservation lines at 1-800-695-2628 from 9am to 5pm.
For a group of 25 or more, please call us at 1-800-695-5239.
On-line reservations are available here.
Our local phone number is 410-727-3113. Reservations can also be made in person at our ticket windows at 561 Light Street (between the new Visitor's Center and the Maryland Science Center) between the hours of 9:00am and 5:00pm Monday through Friday. Saturday and Sunday hours begin at 10:00am.
How far in advance should I make reservations?
If you’re planning for a large group, call us as soon as possible. A few months will make it easier to accommodate your preferred dates. Individuals should try to book within 30 days of the desired dates. Of course, reservations can be made right up to the day of the cruise, provided we still have space available. We recommend calling as early as you can, especially for special cruises such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, July 4th, New Year’s Eve and all other holidays.
Can I make reservations by phone and pay at the ship?
No. For individual parties, payment is required in full at the time of the reservation. We accept most major credit cards, traveler’s checks, money orders, and certified checks and of course, cash! For our groups, our payment policies are discussed below.
Which credit cards do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.
Do I pay a gratuity or is it included in the ticket price?
The ticket price does not include any gratuity on either the beverages purchased, or for the excellent service provided by your server. If you would like to offer a tip, they are always greatly appreciated.
How many people make a group and what is the payment policy for group reservations?
A minimum of 25 passengers is considered a group. A non-refundable deposit of 25% of the ticket price, per person, is due within two weeks of making the reservation. Full payment is due 30 days prior to the cruise date. If you reserve a date for a cruise within 45 days, payment in full is due within 3 business days.
Where should we park?
Parking is conveniently located in the garage at the Harbor Court Hotel, which is across the street from the ships. Parking ranges from $5.00-$10.00 per vehicle.
Is the ship accessible by the Metro?
Yes, we are approximately 4 blocks from the Charles Center Metro Station.
How early should I arrive for my cruise?
You may pick up your tickets any time before the cruise time. We generally board the vessel 1/2 hour prior to the cruise.
Do you sail in the rain?
Almost always. Our ships are fully enclosed and climate-controlled for your comfort. We sail "rain or shine" year round.
Will I get seasick?
It’s unlikely. The Patapsco River experiences very minimal wave action. What’s more, our ships are large and fully stabilized, so in most cases, you will hardly know you are moving.
What should I wear?
For evening cruises, appropriate attire is casual to dressy. Men traditionally wear sport shirts, slacks and sport coats, with or without ties. Women wear dresses or nice pants. We do not recommend T-shirts, jeans, shorts or sneakers in the evening. Afternoon cruises are more relaxed so casual attire is fine. If you are cruising on an excursion to Annapolis, you will want to wear comfortable, casual clothes and good walking shoes.
Casual dress is fine for our daily harbor excursions aboard the Prince Charming and our friday night Crab Feasts.
What kind of food is served?
Our dinner cruises feature a 90-minute buffet with delicious choices prepared by our executive chefs and their galley staff. Selections include beef, poultry and seafood with fresh vegetables, salad, rolls with butter, dessert, coffee, tea and decaf and soft drinks. With advance notice, we can accommodate requests for vegetarians and people with food allergies. Our specialty menus are available for deck or full-ship charters.
Is there any entertainment?
Professionally mixed dance music is standard on our lunch and dinner cruises. It is a lively mix of dance music from the ‘40s through today. Our DJ’s are receptive to requests so please feel free to ask for a favorite tune.
How is seating arranged on board?
Our ships feature cabaret-style seating, with the majority of tables accommodating 8-10 people. We cannot guarantee specific seating on the deck.
How long is the cruise?
The lunch cruises run 2 hours from 12noon-2pm and the dinner cruises are from 7pm-10pm. The dinner cruise runs from 5pm-8pm on Sundays. There is also a Sunday brunch from 12noon-3pm. We also offer moonlight cruises on Friday and Saturday from June to September, from 11:30pm to 2:00am.
Do you offer Sightseeing tours?
Yes, our Prince Charming offers 60-minute scenic narrated tour of Baltimore’s famous Harbor. The boat conveniently sails from 11:30am-12: 30pm, 1:00pm-2:00pm, 2:30-3:30pm and 4:00pm-5:00pm.
In an emergency, could someone reach me while the ship is on the water?
Yes, they can. Cell phones will work while we are sailing. If you need to be reached and do not carry a cell phone, the caller can contact the Marine Police Department and asked them to call the specific vessel on which you are cruising.
So get started planning your next cruise! Our sales associates can’t wait to get you on board. Please check out our website at www.harborcruises.com for other details like menus, directions, and pricing.
