Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center

We are looking forward to the renovations that they're planning at the cruise port in Norfolk. Although we didn't seem to have any issues boarding our ship, they definitely have a need for additional space for check-in, seating, and boarding. They're closing the cruise port for the next year to make those renovations and I'll definitely update my review once that's done because we will definitely come back.

I had the opportunity to check Half Moone Cruise & Celebration Center out for the first time last month for an event. Although the panoramic view is wonderful just off the water it was nothing special in my opinion. The glass exterior however is pretty sweet! Parking is by nearby garage and there is plenty and it's close proximity. The walk up had debris. One of three elevators was broken. There are stairs. The building itself is less than 20 years old. An outside deck makes use of beautiful views. The exterior design is pleasing with lots of glass for water views. Restrooms are close to the front entrance and I found the Men's room clean. The interior is decent size and carpeted. It's an open concept design. The event sponsored by COVA Magazine was a let down overall. It's nice that Norfolk has this water event space. Also the fact cruise ships are back sailing out of the port. That spells great economic impact for the city which is great. I just can't get overly excited. 3.5 rounding down.

I had a chance to enjoy the VisitNorfolk luncheon here last week and I am always impressed with this venue. Overlooking the water, it offers amazingly, scenic views. From this venue, you can see many Norfolk attractions like Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin, the Pagoda, and many other great city landmarks. I have been to a few parties and events here before and I'm always impressed with the experience.

I've only used this place as a cruise terminal, so my rating is reflective of that use of the facility. For embarkation, there are three elevators outside to help cruisers to get to the second floor where boarding passes and such are processed. They added more X-ray scanners so it's not as much of a bottleneck as it was three years ago (2019). Mind you, it's still slow moving, with a queue that rivals those at an amusement park with a new roller coaster. Once that was done, we were able to walk right on the ship after our documents were processed. (We had a scheduled boarding time of 1300.) However, for disembarking, it is grossly lacking in efficiency. There's only one elevator in the building for those trying to disembark so if you have or require a wheelchair, or have a stroller and luggage, you will be waiting in line for 30+ minutes. For those that are able, there's only one escalator down and they will give you a hard time if both hands are full. "One hand on your luggage, one hand on the rail!" It's a liability issue I'm sure, but this gentleman prevented someone from getting on until she combined both bags in one hand, slowing the process further. Escalator is the way to go if possible though. The line for the elevator was still almost to the gangway when I finally made it downstairs over 30 minutes later! There's also stairs next to the escalator.I love the convenience of sailing out of Norfolk, but if Norfolk wants to entice other lines to visit, the city needs to improve the facility.

Dicken's Christmas landed me here today. It's a Christmas town for everyone to enjoy with Christmas carols, train sets and the smell of roasted peanuts in the air. Entry fee was $5 for adults, $4 for kids & 3 under free. With such a bargain it's hours of fun. There were (free) Christmas ornament making, (small fee $) cookie decorating and even a scavenger hunt for a cool prize if you turn in your paper. My group after #2 hunt went A-wall. There's food vendors to grab a bite to eat. One place add Smoke turkey legs and truffle fries...so yummy! Jody's popcorn and Carolina cupcakes was among the vendors I saw.The Dicken characters walked around saying hello to the kids and let them sit on stage while they sang songs. There were even plays/skits that was entertaining. Oh I think the best part of the night was the train ride at the end, everyone really enjoyed that!

At the half Moon for Charles Dickens Christmas town and believe me, it is AWESOME. This year's theme is fairies. As I walked up to the entrance, I was greeted by an awesome host. Her smile rang inside and out. Since I had a guest younger than twelve, I received an abridged copy of A Christmas Carol. The photos opportunities in this place is FANTASTIC. Our first stop was at Jody's popcorn for fresh carmel cashews and the boys has hot chocolate with toppings that rival a good ice cream shop. As the the boys sat, talked, and enjoyed their hot chocolate, I went into the craft room and made a paper snow globe.Next stop was to see Father Christmas. My preteen and teen got a history lesson on Father Christmas, Santa Claus and Pere Noel, a lecture on WHY education is important, and encouragement to be good citizens and children. They then took pictures; pricey but beautiful. They have a package that includes the picture in a snow flake ornament. My package was $30 which I am splitting with a friend.I love the entertainment. Plays, jugglers, carolers, folk music permiated the stage. Each act lasted 20 to 40 minutes. We arrived just in time to catch the puppet version of A Christmas Carol. Quick, to the point and funny. The show ended with snow falling on the audience as we sang We Wish you a Merry Christmas.I am Wren's Pub eating truffle fries ($5) as the boys enjoy chicken tenders and fries ($7). The fooseball table inside the pub is occupied with children of all ages. They come, play, eat, then go. And I'm still here. Bottom line, great place for all ages to visit during the holiday season. Bring a good a good camera...you can't beat the photo opps.!!

Celebrated my cousins wedding here. The venue is amazing. Great back drop with the waterfront and the all glass helps with sunlight throughout the ceremony. Reception area was fantastic as well. Would recommend for any celebration.

Awesome event space overlooking the water and town point park. They have a balcony with wooden chairs. Great wedding location. The food was good, they offered a sushi station with spicy tuna, spicy salmon and Cali roll. They also had burger slider bar with a Mac n cheese station.

I attend the Samoa Sioree here a few Saturday nights ago. From arrival to departure - a wonderful experience. The venue is spacious and the staff very attentive!My guest and I arrived about 615 pm (event time 6pm-10pm). We opted out of the valet parking because the parking garage wasn't far and we were "on time." As a result, parking was available on the 2nd floor and for a few hours of celebrating we only paid $3.00. The walk from the garage was less than 5 minutes. And even though the weather was brisked, no harm no foul. The valet attendants seemed a little all over the place anyway. And I did notice after the event, some guests were waiting (with no heat) for their vehicle. And by 930pm it was super chilly. As a result, if able I would suggest parking in the garage.But once inside, there was a greeter whom pointed us in the direction to register and obtain our souvenir pamphlets. This process was fast and smooth. There was also a coat check (no additional cost). Before you entered the main room, the front room included the silent auction items and hor devours spread (cheeses, fruit and curry chicken sandwiches). Here also included an open bar (beer, wine and water). But once you reached the carpeted area...let the party begin!!This event was pretty much standing room only. I am unsure how many the center holds. However, there may have been about 25 tables that seated 8 and about double that of guests that were not seated. So this is a very comfortably sized room. And this event had a sellout crowd.The room sits on the watefront. Which makes for a great view of the sunset and the view of Downtown Portsmouth and Norfolk. The view beautiful at any time of day. The food was great as well. I am unsure if Nauticus caters it or the catering is outsourced. Nevertheless, this venue is worthy!

Excellent venue for a wedding. Food and service was great! Highly recommend it! Wish parking was better.