The official word is that Carnival’s 2,052-passenger Carnival Elation will sail from the Port of New Orleans on Friday as originally planned. At first Carnival thought the Mississippi River may not be open because of Isaac and have to sail out Mobile, Alabama, but that’s no longer the case.

Vessels will be allowed back in the river on a prioritized basis starting Friday morning.

Carnival sent a text message out to passengers sailing on Carnival Elation that stated, “The Port of New Orleans will reopen tomorrow (Friday) morning. Check-in for your cruise will take place from 6pm to 9pm at the Erato Street Cruise Terminal in New Orleans.”

Passengers taking this cruise will be on an abbreviated three-night voyage. According to Carnival’s website, guests who opt to sail tomorrow will receive a 50% refund.

Initial reports are minimal damage to the port and cars parked at the pier are unharmed.

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