Port of New Orleans Sets New Record for Cruise Passenger Movements

In March 2025, the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) reported a significant achievement by recording 165,000 cruise passenger movements, exceeding the previous high of 155,000 set in March 2023. This milestone follows a successful year in 2024, during which the port facilitated over 1.2 million passenger movements.

Port NOLA stands out among U.S. ports by offering both deepwater/ocean and river cruise options. Its two terminals, Erato Street and Julia Street, are conveniently located in downtown New Orleans, close to the vibrant French Quarter.

A striking 90% of cruise passengers come from out of state, with approximately 70% of these guests opting to spend one or two days in New Orleans before or after their cruise. This influx generates over 300,000 hotel room nights and contributes more than $125 million to the local economy annually.

In 2024, Carnival Cruise Line secured a five-year agreement to position two ships—The Valor and The Liberty—at Port NOLA year-round, marking their 30th anniversary of operation from this location. Additionally, Royal Caribbean returned with the Brilliance of the Seas and has plans to introduce the Mariner of the Seas in 2026. Norwegian Cruise Line also extended its five-year agreement and expanded service to include the Norwegian Escape, alongside the Norwegian Getaway.

The river cruise sector at Port NOLA includes six homeported vessels, with services provided by American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises. Notably, Viking’s North American cruise launched in 2022 was constructed in Louisiana.

Port NOLA’s continuous expansion of cruise line partnerships reflects the rising global demand for New Orleans as a premier cruise destination.

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Brilliance of the Seas
• Mariner of the Seas
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Viking River Cruises

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