Yes, New Orleans remains one of the busiest cruise hubs in the United States in 2026, serving as a gateway to the Western Caribbean and the Mississippi River. Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) are the primary year-round operators from the Port of New Orleans (PortNOLA), offering 4- to 7-night sailings to destinations like Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Roatán. Royal Caribbean also frequently stations ships there during the winter and spring seasons. Beyond ocean cruises, New Orleans is the undisputed capital of river cruising in America; companies like American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises operate luxury paddlewheelers and modern riverboats that travel north toward Memphis and St. Louis. The "Erato Street" and "Julia Street" terminals are conveniently located near the French Quarter, allowing travelers to easily pair a cruise with a stay in the Big Easy. In 2026, the port continues to see record passenger numbers as more travelers opt for the unique "pre-cruise" culture of New Orleans.