The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) reported an all-time high for cruise passenger movements in March 2025, logging more than 165,000 passenger moves, surpassing its previous record of 155,000 set in March 2023.
The March milestone follows a record-breaking 2024 when the port saw more than 1.2 million cruise passenger movements, according to Port NOLA.
"Port NOLA has set a new benchmark for our cruise industry, demonstrating the growing global demand for New Orleans as a prime cruise destination,” said Port NOLA President and CEO Beth Branch. “This record momentum solidifies Port NOLA’s position as the 6th largest U.S. cruise port, offering travelers a unique blend of ocean and river cruising experiences.”
Port NOLA noted it is the only U.S. port offering both deepwater ocean cruises and river cruises. Its two terminals, Erato Street and Julia Street, are located in downtown New Orleans, within walking distance of the French Quarter.
The port noted that approximately 90% of cruise passengers are from out of state. Of those, 70% stay in the city for one or two days before or after their sailing, Port NOLA said, before noting this activity generates more than 300,000 hotel room nights and contributes over $125 million in local spending annually, according to port data.
“We are grateful to our dedicated cruise lines and valued hospitality partners, who help us make cruising from New Orleans an unforgettable two-in-one vacation experience,” said Branch.
Port NOLA continues to expand cruise line partnerships. In 2024, Carnival Cruise Line signed a five-year agreement to base two ships—The Valor and The Liberty—year-round in New Orleans. Carnival also marked its 30th year operating from the port.
Royal Caribbean returned to Port NOLA with Brilliance of the Seas and plans to begin sailings with Mariner of the Seas in 2026. Norwegian Cruise Line also extended its five-year agreement and added service with the Norwegian Escape, in addition to sailings from the Norwegian Getaway.
The port’s river cruise activity includes six homeported vessels, with service from American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises. Viking’s North American cruise, launched in 2022, was built in Louisiana.
“We’re also seeing more port calls at Port NOLA with vessels that come to New Orleans for cruise guests to enjoy the city and its many attractions like Mardi Gras,” said Port NOLA Director of Cruise Steven Gauthier. “That’s a testament to our unique way of life in this special city we call home. We look forward to welcoming even more cruise guests in 2025 and showing them that one-of-a-kind Big Easy hospitality.”
