Carnival Cruise Line Celebrates 7 Millionth Passenger Sailing from New Orleans

Carnival Cruise Line recently celebrated hosting more passengers from New Orleans than any other cruise operator.

A group of people stand on a staircase, holding signs that read, "JAZZED ABOUT SAILING 7 MILLION GUESTS FROM NOLA!" Some members of the group are wearing Carnival Cruise Line uniforms while others are in casual attire. A young girl and boy are at the front with an adult in vibrant New Orleans surroundings.
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

On Tuesday, the Florida-based company officially named the Litteral family as their seven millionth guests.

Thomas and Julie Litteral and children Zachary and Zoe were about to embark on a five-night Caribbean cruise aboard Carnival Valor when they received the great news.

A group of people, including children and adults, walk through a corridor while being applauded by ship crew members in uniforms. The Carnival Cruise Line crew holds signs welcoming them aboard, mentioning activities for young guests as they embark on their New Orleans adventure.
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

The ship’s captain, Antonio Modaffari, welcomed them on the vessel amid an impromptu party to commemorate the milestone.

Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy expressed her appreciation for the Litterals’ presence. “Sharing this landmark embarkation in New Orleans with loyal guests, a family that clearly loves the fun they find when they sail with us, makes this moment truly special,” she said.

The Carnival Valor, a large cruise ship from the Carnival Cruise line, is sailing on open waters under a clear blue sky in the Gulf of Mexico.
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

“Seven million guests cruising with us from Port NOLA signifies our unwavering commitment as the market leader in this vibrant city. Just after celebrating 30 years of year-round service here this spring, we’re proud to continue building on our important partnership with the New Orleans community,” Duffy added.

The Littrels had another reason to celebrate. Their 12-year-old son Zachary had just achieved the highest level in Carnival’s loyalty program, the Diamond status in its the VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club.

Carnival’s History in New Orleans

side view carnival liberty
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

Carnival Cruise Line has been offering year-round cruises from New Orleans since 1994. Last May, it celebrated its 30-year history with the port.

The cruise line entertains around 400,000 guests from the Port of New Orleans, or Port NOLA, each year. 

Together with Carnival Valor, Carnival Liberty has been transporting guests to the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas during four—to seven-day roundtrip cruises.

In 2025, Carnival Liberty will add Celebration Key to its ports of call, allowing excited cruisers to be among the first to experience Carnival’s newest Bahamian getaway.