Why Stay in Brooklyn Before a QM2 Cruise?
Brooklyn Cruise Terminal serves as the home port for Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, though Princess and Norwegian Cruise Line occasionally use it as well. I’d recommend staying in Brooklyn rather than Manhattan for several practical reasons:
- Proximity eliminates bridge and tunnel traffic to the terminal
- More affordable rates compared to Manhattan accommodations
- Convenient dining and shopping in the neighbourhood
- Quick rideshare access — typically 10-20 minutes to the terminal for under $30
Hotel Recommendations
1. Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown
Best for: Reliable comfort and proximity to restaurants
My personal choice. This 3-star hotel in Downtown Brooklyn delivered exactly what I needed: clean rooms, complimentary breakfast, helpful staff, and excellent location. The Uber fare to Brooklyn Cruise Terminal was approximately $21.
- Distance to terminal: ~15 minutes by car
- Loyalty programme: Hilton Honors
2. Ace Hotel Brooklyn
Best for: Design lovers and a luxe-on-a-budget feel
This 4-star property in Boerum Hill emphasises high ceilings, artistic elements, and laid-back sophistication. The Ace Hotel Brooklyn has high ceilings, raw finishes, thoughtful art and a real sense of place.
- Distance to port: ~12 minutes by car
- Neighbourhood: Boerum Hill
- Note: Not part of a major loyalty programme
3. EVEN Hotel Brooklyn
Best for: Wellness-focused travellers
An IHG property emphasising health-conscious amenities: in-room fitness equipment, wellness-oriented dining, and modern decor.
- Distance to port: ~15 minutes by car
- Loyalty programme: IHG One Rewards
4. Sheraton Brooklyn New York Hotel
Best for: Points collectors and predictable comfort
A dependable 4-star option with above-average room sizes and strong reviews.
- Distance to port: ~14 minutes by car
- Loyalty programme: Marriott Bonvoy
5. NU Hotel Brooklyn
Best for: Boutique fans who still want value
A small, independent 3.5-star property in Boerum Hill known for spacious rooms and genuine hospitality. You’ll feel more like a guest than a number here.
- Distance to port: ~10 minutes by car
- Status: Independent (no chain affiliation)
6. Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott New York Brooklyn
Best for: Budget-conscious cruisers who want a rooftop view
A no-frills 3-star option with clean accommodations, rooftop views, and a small fitness centre.
- Distance to port: ~12 minutes by car
- Loyalty programme: Marriott Bonvoy
Final Thoughts
You don’t need luxury accommodations in Manhattan before a Cunard cruise. The Brooklyn hotels listed here offer convenience, reasonable pricing, and straightforward access to the terminal without sacrificing comfort or safety.
My recommendation is the Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown for its combination of reliability, breakfast inclusion, and location. But if you’re after something with a bit more character, the Ace Hotel or NU Hotel both deliver a more distinctive pre-cruise night.
Pre-Cruise Activities in New York
If you’re arriving a day or two early, here are three suggested tours worth considering:
- Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour — Includes round-trip ferry access to two iconic landmarks
- Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour — Self-paced access to Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building
- Go City New York Explorer Pass — Customisable entry to 90+ attractions including museums, landmarks, and river cruises