Carnival Cruise Line began its longest-ever sailing season from Norfolk, Virginia on Sunday, as the 4,000-guest Carnival Magic set sail on the first voyage during a season of cruises from the city through October.
“Sunday marks the beginning of a pinnacle year for our cruise program, but it’s also a real opportunity for our entire region,” said Nauticus executive director Stephen Kirkland in a recent press release. “An expanded cruise ship season means many guests will be arriving from throughout the Mid-Atlantic and beyond, and that’s an opportunity for us to showcase all Hampton Roads has to offer. This really is a regional tourism win.”
Carnival Magic‘s 26-cruise schedule from Norfolk will include mostly six-day Bahamas and eight-day eastern Caribbean voyages, as well as some six-day Bermuda cruises, five-day Bahamas voyages, an eight-day Canada/New England sailing, and a 10-day eastern Caribbean cruise.
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“It’s wonderful to be back in Norfolk, our home for this extended season over the next five months,” said Carnival Magic Captain Bruno Palomba.” All of our Carnival Magic team members are looking forward to welcoming guests on board and ensuring they have a great vacation.”
Carnival’s six-month season in Norfolk this year will see the city welcoming 100,000 guests embarking at the Half Moone Cruise Center. Cruise activity and passenger spending in Norfolk and the surrounding area is expected to bring in nearly $25 million to the local economy.
Carnival Magic has been sailing from Norfolk since 2022. Carnival Cruise Line is planning to begin operating year-round from the port starting in 2025.
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