Port NOLA: Celebrating Nine Consecutive Years of Over a Million Cruise Movements
At the end of 2025, the Port of New Orleans, or Port NOLA, recorded a total of 1,067,407 cruise passenger movements. This marks the ninth consecutive year where the port’s annual total surpassed one million passengers, excluding the atypical pandemic years of 2020 and 2021. This consistent growth underscores the port’s status as one of the top cruise departure points in the United States. The reported figures include both embarkations and disembarkations, indicating a thriving local cruise industry as ships utilize the Mississippi River gateway.
The trend at Port NOLA mirrors the rebound of the cruise industry across various U.S. ports, where passenger numbers have exceeded pre-pandemic levels. In 2024, the port saw over 1.2 million movements, with March 2025 alone witnessing more than 165,000 passengers, setting a new record for the port. This increase suggests robust demand and greater ship capacity.
Port officials highlight that Port NOLA uniquely accommodates both ocean-going liners and river cruise vessels. This versatility attracts diverse traffic, maintaining a steady stream of activity that bolsters the local tourism economy. With major cruise operators planning to enhance services and introduce larger ships in the upcoming seasons, Port NOLA is well-positioned to accommodate further increases in passenger traffic and related economic benefits through expanded cruise offerings.
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Editorial Team
At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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