By
Rebecca Gibson |
Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Equinox made her maiden call at the Port of New Orleans on 26 February, becoming the longest ever cruise ship to dock at the US port.
The 2,850-passenger vessel will remain in port until 28 February to enable guests to enjoy the Mardi Gras Day celebrations.
“The port is thrilled to welcome Celebrity Cruises back to New Orleans for an extended port call,” said Brandy Christian, port president and CEO. “Celebrity’s brand is synonymous with luxury and we hope the company’s guests enjoy all that New Orleans and the surrounding region have to offer.”
New Orleans Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest are part of Celebrity Cruises ‘Signature Event Sailings’, which allow guests to take a cruise participate in optional shore excursions that highlight different world events.
“We are excited to offer our guests the opportunity to experience the deep culture, history and fun that New Orleans has to offer,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “Mardi Gras and the amazing city of New Orleans is a big draw for our guests, and the perfect backdrop for them to create memories.”
New Orleans’ cruise industry grew 4.5% in 2016, the sixth consecutive year of growth. Last year, the port also welcomed 1.07 million cruise passengers – the third year in a row to top one million cruise passengers.
Cruise Lines International Association ranks the Port of New Orleans as the sixth-largest cruise port in the US, as it supports 8,102 jobs, provides US$324 million in wages and generates direct industry expenditures totalling US$404 million for Louisiana.
“New Orleans is one of the most attractive cities in the world for travellers and our cruise partners find the Port of New Orleans to be a natural and efficient homeport and port of call,” Christian said. “We continue to strive to work with cruise lines to provide new and varied itineraries and a top-notch experience for our guests.”