Port NOLA Achieves New Monthly Cruise Passenger Record in March 2025

The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) has achieved a remarkable milestone by recording 165,000 cruise passenger movements in March 2025. This figure significantly exceeds its previous record of approximately 155,000 set in March 2023. This achievement comes after a strong performance in 2024, where the port welcomed over 1.2 million cruise passengers.

As the sixth-largest cruise port in the USA, Port NOLA offers both ocean-going and river cruise options from its centrally located Erato Street and Julia Street terminals, which provide easy access to New Orleans’ historic French Quarter and various cultural spots.

The economic impact of cruising at Port NOLA is substantial. About 90% of cruise passengers come from out of state, with 70% staying one or two days in New Orleans either before or after their cruise, resulting in over 300,000 hotel room nights and contributing more than $125 million to the local economy annually.

In 2024, major cruise lines confirmed their ongoing commitment to Port NOLA. Carnival Cruise Line signed a 5-year agreement to base two year-round vessels: Carnival Valor and Carnival Liberty, marking three decades of their operations from New Orleans. Royal Caribbean resumed services with Brilliance of the Seas and plans to introduce Mariner of the Seas in 2026. Norwegian Cruise Line extended its agreement and will continue using Norwegian Getaway while adding Norwegian Escape later this year.

Additionally, Port NOLA hosts six river cruise vessels, including those operated by American Cruise Lines and Viking. Notably, Viking’s North American cruise, which launched in 2022, was constructed in Louisiana.

The Port continues to broaden its cruise line partnerships, indicating its rising stature as a sought-after cruise destination.

For more information on the Port of New Orleans, visit Port NOLA.

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