A guide to parking at Portsmouth Cruise Terminal

There’s plenty to think about before setting off on a cruise, and if you’re driving to Portsmouth, deciding where to leave your car is an important part of the planning. Sorting out your parking ahead of time means one less thing to worry about on departure day. Portsmouth International Port has several parking options for cruise passengers, but it helps to know how they work before you travel. From where you can park and booking in advance to arriving at the terminal, this guide covers the key things you need to know about parking for your Portsmouth cruise. 

Portsmouth International Port, George Byng Way, Portsmouth, PO2 8SP
There are a couple of convenient parking options available for cruise passengers departing from Portsmouth International Port. The port has an on-site long-stay multi-storey car park, which is open 24 hours a day and just a few minutes’ walk from the terminal building. You can book self-parking in advance, allowing you to park your own vehicle before making the short walk to the terminal. Alternatively, Cruise and Passenger Services (CPS) offers a valet parking service for cruise passengers. Simply drive to the terminal, where a member of the CPS team will meet you and check in your vehicle before taking it to a secure compound. When you return from your cruise, your vehicle will be parked at the terminal, ready for collection. Whichever option you choose, it’s strongly recommended that you book your parking in advance, as spaces cannot be guaranteed if you arrive without a reservation.

Getting to Portsmouth International Port by car is straightforward, with the M275 providing a direct route towards the port. If you’re travelling from London or the east, follow the A3(M) south towards Portsmouth, before joining the M27 and then the M275. From Southampton or destinations further west, take the M27 eastbound before joining the M275 towards Portsmouth. As you approach the city, continue along the M275 and follow signs for Portsmouth International Port. You can also use the port’s postcode, PO2 8SP, for sat-nav directions. 

Once you arrive at the port, where you need to go will depend on the type of parking you’ve booked. For self-parking, follow the signs and instructions provided for the long-stay multi-storey car park. If you’ve booked CPS valet parking, continue towards the cruise terminal and follow the directions for your vehicle handover. Port signage and staff will help direct you to the correct area when you arrive.

1. Book your parking in advance: Portsmouth International Port strongly recommends pre-booking cruise parking, as spaces cannot be guaranteed on arrival. Decide whether you would prefer to self-park or use the valet service and make your reservation before you travel.
2. Arrive at your allocated time: Check the embarkation information provided by your cruise line and aim to arrive at your allocated boarding time. This can help you avoid unnecessary waiting and congestion around the terminal.
3. Plan your journey and follow directions: Check your route before setting off and leave plenty of time for traffic or unexpected delays. As you approach Portsmouth, follow signs for Portsmouth International Port and the cruise terminal.
4. Check your vehicle height: The multi-storey car park mentioned has a maximum vehicle height of 2.1 metres, so make sure your vehicle is suitable before travelling. 
5. Prepare your documents: Keep your cruise documents, identification, and parking confirmation in an easily accessible place, so you have everything you need when you arrive at the port. 
6. Pack carefully before leaving your car: Make sure you have removed everything you’ll need for your cruise before leaving your vehicle, particularly if you’re using the valet parking service.
7. Do a final vehicle check: Before making your way into the terminal, check that your windows are fully closed and that you haven’t left any valuables or important belongings behind.