Carnival Extends New Orleans Operations through 2010

Carnival Cruise Lines has exercised its option to extend its berthing agreement with the Port of New Orleans for another two years. The extension will keep Carnival sailing year-round from the Crescent City through October 26, 2010.

“We are thrilled by Carnival’s long-term commitment to New Orleans,” said Port President and CEO Gary LaGrange. “Carnival’s decision further displays confidence in the city’s rebounding tourism industry.”

The 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy sails four- and five-day Western Caribbean cruises year-round from New Orleans. The ship will make a minimum of 70 calls per year to the Port’s new Erato Street Cruise Terminal and Parking Garage.

Port and Carnival officials announced a new contract in July, which was retroactive to October 2006. On the heels of Carnival’s contract extension, the company held its scheduled quarterly sales conference at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans.