The port's successful 2024 also saw continued commitment from the cruise industry. Carnival finalized a five-year agreement to keep the Valor and Liberty sailing from New Orleans year-round.

Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Cruises’ newest vessel, will introduce new dining and entertainment offerings aimed at couples.

The port will join the bigger cruise hubs of New Orleans, Galveston, Texas, and Tampa, Fla. in offering Caribbean getaways from the Gulf Coast all year long beginning in 2027. For many cruisers ...