Carnival Announces Two Ships Sailing From New Orleans in 2027

Carnival Cruise Line is doubling down on its commitment to New Orleans, unveiling the first wave of its 2027–2028 cruise schedule.

Carnival Dream is returning to Port NOLA in May 2027, joining Carnival Liberty to offer cruisers even more choice for fun-filled getaways. With fresh itineraries, upgraded ships, and exclusive destinations, Carnival is ensuring the Big Easy remains a top hub for cruise travel in the years ahead.

The Carnival Dream cruise ship glides across the ocean at sunset, its blue hull and red-and-white funnel illuminated by the golden light, showcasing the grandeur of cruise vacations. — Carnival Dream

Bigger Fun Returning to the Big Easy

Carnival remains the only cruise line with two ships homeported year-round in New Orleans. Beginning in May 2027, the larger Carnival Dream will make her long-awaited return to the city, joining Carnival Liberty to offer an expanded selection of cruise options from Port NOLA.

“Fun is on the move,” said Carnival President Christine Duffy, highlighting the increased capacity and variety now available to Gulf Coast travellers.

Carnival Dream Comes Home in May 2027

Before heading to New Orleans, Carnival Dream will wrap up two final sailings from Galveston in May 2027: a Western Caribbean cruise to Belize, Cozumel, and Isla Tropicale, followed by a Bahamas itinerary visiting Celebration Key, Key West, and Nassau.

On May 16, 2027, the Dream returns to New Orleans for the first time since 2019. She’ll offer a series of four- and five-day cruises to Mexico, providing quick, adventure-packed holidays from the Gulf Coast.

With space for more than 4,600 guests, this Dream-class ship promises a lively experience with crowd-favourite venues like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Bonsai Sushi, and evening entertainment from Broadway-style shows to Punchliner Comedy Club performances.

Carnival Liberty Expands Offerings Through 2028

Carnival Liberty cruise ship sails near a mountainous coastline, its signature red, white, and blue funnel marking its presence against the natural landscape. The ocean is calm, reflecting the overcast sky, as the ship adds a touch of human innovation to the serene, natural setting.

Carnival Liberty will continue sailing from New Orleans through April 2028, featuring an extended line-up of seven-day cruises to the Western Caribbean and Bahamas. Guests can look forward to popular stops including Celebration Key, Key West, Nassau, Grand Cayman, Belize, Cozumel, and Isla Tropicale.

Special eight-day holiday sailings over Thanksgiving and Christmas will include both Celebration Key and RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay, while a standout 14-day Panama Canal Carnival Journeys cruise departing 28 November 2027 offers bucket list destinations like Aruba, Cartagena, Colon, Curaçao, Cozumel, Limon, and Montego Bay.

What’s New Onboard?

Following a major dry dock in Europe, Carnival Liberty has returned with upgraded features that elevate the onboard experience. The highlights include a brand-new WaterWorks aqua park, now home to exciting new waterslides, and the Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, a welcoming space for military personnel, veterans, and their families.

These additions join a lineup of returning favourites – award-winning live shows, youth programming, the peaceful Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, the indulgent Cloud 9 Spa, and lively bars like RedFrog Rum Bar and Alchemy Bar.

More Ship Moves and Itineraries Coming Soon

Carnival’s latest announcement is just the beginning. The cruise line has confirmed that more ship redeployments and new homeports will be revealed in the coming weeks, covering voyages through spring 2028. Travellers can expect fresh routes, exciting destinations, and expanded options from key U.S. cities.