Cruises from New Orleans, Louisiana
Cruise from New Orleans, one of the most vibrant and culturally rich departure ports in the United States. With its central location along the Mississippi River and easy access to Louis Armstrong International Airport, getting to Port NOLA is convenient and stress-free. Known for its jazz music, Creole cuisine, and historic French Quarter, New Orleans sets the stage for an unforgettable journey before you even step aboard.
Cruises from New Orleans primarily sail to the Western Caribbean, with itineraries that often include Cozumel, Costa Maya, and the Cayman Islands. You'll also find select options to explore the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, as well as longer voyages that venture through the Panama Canal. Most itineraries range from 4 to 12 nights, offering the flexibility of a quick escape or an extended adventure tailored to your travel style.
In addition to ocean voyages, river cruises departing from New Orleans provide a completely different experience. These itineraries explore the charm of the Mississippi, stopping in historic cities like Baton Rouge, Natchez, and Memphis. A river sailing allows you to discover the cultural richness of the region while enjoying a relaxed and intimate onboard atmosphere.
Major cruise lines sailing from New Orleans include Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean, with additional itineraries offered by Disney Cruise Line and American Cruise Lines. Whether you're planning a family-friendly vacation, a romantic getaway, or a luxurious retreat, cruises from New Orleans deliver a wide range of experiences. And if you have extra time before or after your sailing, the city itself is a destination worth exploring - stroll through the French Quarter, listen to live jazz on Bourbon Street, or indulge in beignets at Cafe du Monde for the perfect start or finish to your trip.
Popular Cruises From New Orleans
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All Sailings By Month | $384 | $319 | $379 | $434 | $464 | $489 | $679 | $609 | $409 | $389 | $414 | $399 | $409 | $434 | $449 | $544 | $534 | $534 | $739 | $624 | $469 | $449 | $459 | $459 | $459 | $424 | $424 | $509 | $509 | $3,990 | $3,720 | view sailings | $3,630 | $4,255 | |||
| Bahamas | $659 | $964 | $594 | $599 | $629 | $994 | $1,064 | $724 | $714 | $704 | $1,169 | $684 | $714 | $834 | $774 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Caribbean | $384 | $319 | $379 | $434 | $464 | $489 | $679 | $609 | $409 | $389 | $414 | $399 | $409 | $434 | $449 | $544 | $534 | $534 | $739 | $624 | $469 | $449 | $459 | $459 | $459 | $424 | $424 | $509 | $509 | ||||||||
| Rivers - Mississippi | view sailings | $3,499 | $4,255 | $3,720 | $3,990 | $3,990 | $3,720 | $8,999 | $6,799 | $6,499 | $3,630 | $3,499 | $3,799 | $4,255 | $3,720 | $3,990 | $3,990 | $3,720 | $10,499 | $8,999 | $4,880 | $3,630 | $3,799 | $4,255 | $3,720 | $3,990 | $3,990 | $3,720 | view sailings | $3,630 | $4,255 | ||||||
| Trans Atlantic Cruises | $982 |
Top Cruise Destinations From New Orleans
The Bahamas are the picture of tropical paradise, with sparkling turquoise waters and soft white-sand beaches that seem to go on forever. Spend your days snorkeling through colorful reefs, swimming with vibrant marine life, or unwinding under the island sun. Step beyond the shoreline to discover lively markets, lush parks, and a welcoming culture that makes it easy to slip into the relaxed rhythm of Bahamian life.
View Bahamas CruisesThe Caribbean is the ultimate cruise escape, where clear blue waters and endless sunshine set the scene. Snorkel reefs in Cozumel, chase waterfalls in Jamaica, or explore Old San Juan's cobblestone streets. Between island adventures, enjoy local flavors like jerk chicken and fresh seafood before returning to your ship for dining, entertainment, and relaxation.
Cruising the Mississippi River is a journey through America's heartland, where scenic landscapes meet rich history and culture. From the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans to Civil War landmarks and Mark Twain country, each stop offers a story to discover. With elegant riverboats, regional cuisine, and immersive excursions, it's a uniquely American way to travel.
View Mississippi River CruisesThings To Do And See In New Orleans
The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans and a must-see for any visitor. Famous for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful architecture, and jazz-filled streets, this historic district captures the city's unique charm. Stroll along Bourbon Street to experience lively nightlife, or wander Royal Street for art galleries, antique shops, and street performers. Stop by Jackson Square to see local artists at work and don't miss Cafe du Monde for beignets and cafe au lait. Day or night, the French Quarter is always buzzing with energy.
Known for its grand mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic charm, the Garden District offers a quieter side of New Orleans. Visitors can take a walking tour to admire antebellum homes, ironwork balconies, and lush gardens. Magazine Street runs through the neighborhood, lined with boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants that make it perfect for a leisurely afternoon. It's a great way to soak in the city's Southern elegance away from the crowds.
The National WWII Museum is one of New Orleans' top attractions and a world-class experience. Immersive exhibits, personal stories, and interactive displays bring the history of World War II to life in a way that's both educational and moving. Highlights include restored aircraft, 4D theaters, and galleries that explore the war from multiple perspectives. History buffs and families alike will find this museum unforgettable.
For family-friendly fun, head to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Audubon Zoo. Located along the riverfront, the aquarium features exhibits on Gulf Coast marine life, Caribbean reefs, and Amazon rainforests. The zoo, set in Uptown New Orleans, is home to animals from around the world and offers a relaxed park setting. Together, they provide an engaging mix of education, conservation, and entertainment for all ages.
Downtown New Orleans blends modern attractions with historic flair. Stroll along the Mississippi River at Woldenberg Park, catch a jazz performance at one of the many music clubs, or ride the historic streetcar for a scenic view of the city. The Riverwalk Marketplace offers shopping and dining with views of the water, while Harrah's Casino adds a touch of nightlife. With art, food, music, and culture everywhere you turn, downtown and the riverfront area embody the spirit of New Orleans.
New Orleans Shore Excursions
Cruises From New Orleans FAQs
If you're planning to stay in New Orleans before or after your cruise, you'll find a wide range of hotels close to Port NOLA and the city's top attractions. Spending a night or two here is the perfect way to enjoy the culture, music, and cuisine that make New Orleans so unique.
- Trusted Hotel Brands: Popular choices include the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, located right on the riverfront with easy access to the port and the French Quarter. The Sheraton New Orleans and Marriott New Orleans on Canal Street also offer modern rooms, pools, and walkable locations near Bourbon Street and Jackson Square.
- Stylish & Boutique Hotels: For something more unique, try Hotel Monteleone, a historic landmark in the French Quarter famous for its Carousel Bar. The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery in the Warehouse District blends modern design with New Orleans heritage. Another favorite is Hotel Peter & Paul, a boutique stay in a former church and school with unforgettable charm.
- Luxury Hotels: For a top-tier experience, the Roosevelt New Orleans (a Waldorf Astoria hotel) delivers historic grandeur, rooftop pools, and fine dining. Windsor Court Hotel is another luxury option, known for its elegant suites, spa, and traditional afternoon tea service. With riverfront views, vibrant neighborhoods, and historic properties, New Orleans hotels make extending your cruise a vacation in itself.
If you've got just a short window before or after your cruise, New Orleans offers plenty of quick and memorable activities near the port.
Take a stroll through the French Quarter, just minutes away, where you can enjoy live jazz, historic architecture, and iconic stops like Jackson Square and Cafe du Monde for beignets.
If you'd rather enjoy the riverfront, head to Woldenberg Park or the Riverwalk Marketplace for shopping, dining, and great views of the Mississippi.
History lovers can visit the National WWII Museum, located in the nearby Warehouse District, and spend a few hours exploring world-class exhibits. Or, for a taste of local flavor, hop on a short steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River for sightseeing and live jazz.
New Orleans is one of the world's great food cities, and sampling its cuisine is a highlight of any visit. From Creole classics to modern hotspots, you'll find plenty to enjoy before or after your cruise.
- Casual and Quick: Grab a quick bite at Cafe du Monde, famous for its beignets and chicory coffee, or stop by Central Grocery for an authentic muffuletta sandwich. Cochon Butcher in the Warehouse District is another local favorite for po'boys and charcuterie.
- Specialty: For iconic New Orleans dining, head to Commander's Palace in the Garden District, known for its Creole fine dining and jazz brunch. Brennan?s in the French Quarter is another must, especially for its Bananas Foster. Seafood lovers should try GW Fins, a top-rated restaurant for fresh Gulf catches.
- Hidden Gems:For something more offbeat, visit Coop's Place, a laid-back French Quarter spot serving gumbo, jambalaya, and fried chicken. Try the innovative small plates at Herbsaint or head to Parkway Bakery & Tavern, famous for its roast beef po'boy and local charm.
Port NOLA is a popular departure point, offering a wide variety of itineraries to the Caribbean, Mexico, and beyond. Major cruise lines sail regularly from New Orleans, making it easy to find a trip that fits your style.
For fun and budget-friendly options, Carnival Cruise Line offers year-round sailings to the Western Caribbean and Mexico. Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International provide family-friendly cruises packed with entertainment and onboard activities.
If you?re looking for a more upscale experience, Disney Cruise Line offers seasonal sailings that are perfect for families, while Celebrity Cruises delivers modern luxury with elevated dining and service. For all-inclusive luxury, American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises also sail directly from New Orleans, offering unforgettable river journeys along the Mississippi.
Port NOLA is conveniently located near downtown New Orleans and is easy to reach whether you?re flying or driving. If you're flying into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, the port is about a 30-minute drive. Many cruise lines and independent companies offer pre-arranged shuttles directly to the terminal.
If you're staying at a downtown hotel, the port is only a few minutes away by taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Some hotels also offer shuttle packages, so check before booking.
For those driving, Port NOLA provides secure onsite parking with shuttle service to the terminals. Streetcars and public transit serve the downtown area, but most cruisers find rideshare or hotel shuttles the easiest option. Plan for extra time if traveling during major events like Mardi Gras, when traffic is especially heavy.
New Orleans has plenty of shopping options to enjoy before or after your cruise. Just steps from the port, you'll find the Riverwalk Outlets, home to national brands, local shops, and waterfront dining.
For something more historic, head to the French Market, America's oldest public market, where you?ll find food stalls, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Along Royal Street, explore antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques in the heart of the French Quarter.
If you're looking for upscale brands, The Shops at Canal Place feature designer labels, specialty stores, and a luxury cinema. And for quirky finds, stroll along Magazine Street, a six-mile stretch lined with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cafes.
Cruises sail from New Orleans year-round, but many travelers consider December through April the best time to go. The weather is cooler and less humid in Louisiana, making it more comfortable to explore the city before or after your cruise. These months also line up with peak Caribbean season, though prices and crowds are usually higher.
If you're looking for deals, consider late spring or fall sailings. May and September - November often bring lower fares and fewer crowds, though this period overlaps with hurricane season. Cruise lines are experienced at adjusting itineraries if needed, so flexible travelers can take advantage of the savings.
Summer cruises remain popular with families since school is out and ships are packed with kid-friendly activities. Expect hotter, more humid weather in New Orleans during these months, but also a lively energy both in the city and onboard.
A valid U.S. passport is the most dependable form of identification for cruises from Tampa. It makes international travel easier and guarantees hassle-free re-entry to the United States if you need to fly home unexpectedly. Both cruise lines and U.S. officials strongly recommend having one, even when it's not strictly required.
For many closed-loop cruises that start and end in New Orleans - such as roundtrip sailings to the Caribbean or the Bahamas - U.S. citizens may also sail with a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license) plus an original or certified copy of their birth certificate. This option works for boarding but does not cover international air travel, making a passport the most secure and flexible choice.
New Orleans isn't just for jazz clubs and nightlife - the city has plenty of family-friendly attractions that are easy to enjoy before or after your cruise. Many of them are located right near the port, making them convenient for travelers with kids.
One of the most popular stops is the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, located on the riverfront just steps from the cruise terminal. Families can see sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and even walk through a Caribbean reef tunnel. Nearby, the Audubon Insectarium offers a hands-on look at butterflies, beetles, and other fascinating bugs.
A short ride away, the Audubon Zoo is another favorite, featuring exotic animals, a splash park in the summer, and exhibits that highlight Louisiana's unique wildlife. For families who enjoy history and interactive learning, the National WWII Museum in the Warehouse District has immersive exhibits that are engaging for older kids and teens.
If you'd rather keep things outdoors, hop on a historic streetcar ride down St. Charles Avenue to see grand mansions and shaded oak-lined streets, or enjoy some downtime at Woldenberg Park along the riverfront. With a mix of educational, cultural, and outdoor experiences, New Orleans offers plenty of fun for families cruising from the city.
When cruising from Port NOLA, plan to arrive about 2 - 3 hours before departure. Most cruise lines begin check-in around 10:30 or 11:00 a.m., and all passengers must be onboard at least 90 minutes before sailaway. Arriving early gives you time to check luggage, pass through security, and still enjoy lunch or explore the ship before it departs.
If you're flying in the same day, aim for a morning arrival at Louis Armstrong International Airport, about 30 minutes from the port, though many travelers prefer to fly in a day early to avoid delays. Driving? Allow extra time for traffic, parking, and shuttles, especially during big events like Mardi Gras. Getting there by late morning or early afternoon ensures a stress-free start to your cruise.
