The Port of New Orleans enjoyed a record year for cruise traffic, handling 1.2 million cruise passenger movements in 2024.
It surpassed last year’s all-time record.
“We are grateful to our cruise and hospitality partners, including New Orleans & Company, for their role in helping Port NOLA achieve a record-breaking number of passengers,” said Port NOLA CEO Beth Branch.
“These valued partnerships continue to drive strong demand and promising growth projections for both ocean-going and river cruising from Port NOLA.
The port also houses a river cruise terminal.
The port has inked several new homeporting deals recently.
Five-year agreements were signed with Norwegian Cruise Line and a deal for two year-round ships with Carnival Cruise Line.
Port NOLA is also a major hub river cruise ships including Viking Mississippi.
It is the sixth largest cruise port in the US.
“Our team at New Orleans & Company works daily to ensure New Orleans remains a highly popular cruise destination for both travelers and the cruise lines,” said Walt Leger III, president and CEO of New Orleans & Company.”
This month, Port NOLA welcomed a maiden call from Explora Journeys’ ship Explora II.
The port will also this year welcome two UK based ships P&O Cruises’ Ventura and Saga Cruises’ Spirit of Discovery.
