Cruises from Rio de Janeiro

Pier Mauá (also known as Terminal Marítimo de Passageiros Mauá) is a major cruise and passenger terminal located in the downtown area of Rio de Janeiro. It primarily serves as the docking point for large cruise ships. While it is not a massive commercial port like others around the world, Pier Mauá offers a mix of services and amenities to make your time there more comfortable.

Shopping Options: There are several shops at the terminal, including duty-free stores, souvenirs, and local products. These shops cater mainly to cruise passengers and tourists arriving in Rio. You will find items such as Brazilian souvenirs, clothing, and port-related merchandise. There are also some small retail outlets where you can buy snacks, drinks, and basic travel essentials. You can also find local gold jewelry, gemstones, and Brazilian-made pieces that make for unique souvenirs or gifts.

Free Wi-Fi: Some areas of Pier Mauá offer free Wi-Fi for passengers, though it may be limited and not as fast as at more commercial areas. It's useful for checking your emails or messaging friends and family while waiting.

Tourist Information Desk: There is usually a tourist information desk to assist passengers with any inquiries about tours, local attractions, or transport options within Rio de Janeiro. The staff can provide maps and brochures, and help with arranging taxis or private transport.

Operating Hours: The pier itself is operational primarily for cruise arrivals and departures. Typically, the terminal operates from early morning to late evening, depending on the ship schedules. However, the shops, cafes, and facilities inside the terminal usually open around 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though hours may vary during peak cruise times or special events.

For more information please visit Pier Mauá.

To get to Pier Mauá in Rio de Janeiro from the airport, you will typically arrive at Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport (GIG), which is the main international airport serving Rio. The airport is about 20-25 kilometers (12-16 miles) from Pier Mauá in the downtown area, where cruise ships often dock. Below is an overview of how to get to Pier Mauá from the airport, transportation costs, and key flight information for major airlines operating to this airport.

Taxi: 
It takes about 30-40 minutes from the airport to Pier Mauá, depending on traffic conditions. 

Cost: Roughly BRL 70-100 (around USD 14-20) for a standard taxi. This cost may vary depending on the time of day and the route taken. 

Availability: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminals, and the cost is based on a metered rate or a fixed price.

Tip: It’s recommended to use official airport taxis for safety. You can book a taxi at one of the designated taxi counters at the airport. 

Ride-Sharing (Uber or 99)
The duration of this ride is similar to a taxi, about 30-40 minutes.

Cost: Approx. BRL 60-90 (around USD 12-18), depending on traffic and demand.

Note: Ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 (a Brazilian ride-sharing app) are widely available at Galeão Airport. The pricing will depend on demand, time of day, and surge pricing.

Airport Shuttle or Private Transfer
The duration is roughly 30-40 minutes.

Cost: Varies, but private transfer services may cost around BRL 150-250 (around USD 30-50), depending on the provider and the level of service.

Service: Some shuttle services may operate shared rides or private transfers. It’s ideal for those who prefer to pre-arrange transportation and don’t want to deal with taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Airline Connections to GIG: 
There are a number of airlines that fly into Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport (GIG). Airlines from Europe include Lufthansa, Air France, Iberia, TAP, Swiss, KLM, and British Airways. From the U.S., you can fly with American Airlines, Delta, or United. Flights from Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines provide connections from the Middle East and Asia.

Getting to Pier Mauá by train is an option in Rio de Janeiro, though the journey is slightly more complex compared to taxis or ride-sharing. The nearest train station to Pier Mauá is Estação Central do Brasil (Central Station), which is a major hub for both commuter trains and light rail (LRT) lines.

Estação Central do Brasil (Central Station) is the primary station near Pier Mauá. It is approximately 1.5 km (a 10-15 minute walk) from the pier. From Central Station, you can either walk to Pier Mauá or take a light rail (LRT) or bus, depending on your preferences.

Address: Av. Presidente Vargas, 1122 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro.

Getting from Rio de Janeiro-Galeão Airport (GIG) to Pier Mauá by Train:
There isn’t a direct train connection from Galeão Airport (GIG) to Estação Central do Brasil. You will need to combine a bus and train to complete the journey.

• Step 1: Bus from GIG to Estação Central do Brasill
  You can take the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit), a convenient and affordable public transportation option that connects the airport to various parts of Rio.
  BRT Line: Take the BRT TransCarioca line from the airport
  The BRT station at the airport is located on the ground floor of Terminal 2.
  Get off at Estação Vicente de Carvalho (the last stop on the TransCarioca line)
• Step 2: Transfer to Train
  From Vicente de Carvalho, you can take the Metrô (subway). There’s a metro station directly connected to the BRT station, so it’s easy to transfer.
  Take the Orange Line (Line 2) or Green Line (Line 1) toward Estação Central do Brasil.

Total estimated travel time: 40 - 50 minutes. 

LRT (Light Rail Transit) Stations Near Pier Mauá:

The LRT (Light Rail Transit) is a modern and efficient transport system in Rio de Janeiro that connects various parts of the city, including Pier Mauá. The LRT Line 1 (Yellow Line) is particularly useful for getting to Pier Mauá.

If you are flying to join your cruise and book your flight with Cunard, you'll be met at Rio de Janeiro Airport by Cunard representatives, and transferred to your ship by coach.

As with many major cruise terminals, parking facilities are available at Mauá Pier. If you are driving to your cruise at Mauá Pier, please follow directions to:

Estacionamento Netpark
Av. Barão de Tefé, 14 - Saúde, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20220-571, Brazil

Alternative parking: 

173 Central Parking
Av. Rodrigues Alves, 173 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20081-250, Brazil

Venezuela Parking
Av. Venezuela, 163 - 165/167 - Gamboa, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20220-571, Brazil

Parking Fees: Parking fees at Mauá Pier tend to be reasonable, but they may vary depending on the duration of your stay (whether it's a one-day visit or a multi-day cruise). Fees can range from around BRL 30-50 per day (as of recent reports). It’s best to check for current rates with the pier services in advance.

Security: The area around Mauá Pier, like many busy port zones, is under surveillance, and parking areas are typically staffed by security personnel. However, as with any port area, it’s recommended not to leave valuables in plain sight in your vehicle.

For Disabled Passengers: Many of the parking facilities at Mauá Pier provide accessible parking spots for disabled passengers. It's important to inquire ahead of time if special accommodations are required, especially during busy cruise seasons.