The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) reported record-breaking numbers for 2024. The port, which offers both ocean-going and river cruising, surpassed more than 1.2 million cruise passengers for the year.
“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 President & 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. We look forward to building on this momentum for another successful year in 2025.”
The port has two cruise terminals–Erato Street and Julia Street–that are right in the heart of the city and within walking distance of the French Quarter, world-renowned restaurants and boasts of the city’s unique culture. The revenue brought in from cruising is a major contribution to the state and local economy. Port NOLA reported that 90% of cruise passengers come from out-of-state with 70% of those spending time in the city before or after their cruise. Those guests generate more than $125 million in local revenue annually.
“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. “We salute our partners at the Port of New Orleans for a second consecutive year of passenger growth. These results, like tourism, do not just happen. It is the result of innovative strategies and years of relationships. We work to ensure that New Orleans remains the most remarkable, unique, and welcoming city in the world, and we are pleased that visitors from around the world continue to honor us by choosing our city as their top destination for cruising, leisure visits, meetings, and major events.”
Port NOLA attributes its growth to continued homeport commitments from major cruise line partners–Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line. Additionally, the port offers river cruises on America Cruise Line and Viking River Cruises.
Port NOLA has also seen an increase in port calls allowing cruise guests to enjoy the city, its cultures and its activities. The port recently welcomed guests from MSC’s Explora II and P&O Cruises’ Ventura. Also, in 2025, the port will welcome passengers from Celebrity Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Margaritaville at Sea.