Best Cruise Ships from New Orleans
Embarking on a cruise from the vibrant city of New Orleans offers a unique blend of Southern charm, rich cultural experiences, and exciting itineraries. As you prepare to set sail from the "Big Easy," it's essential to choose the best cruise ship that suits your preferences and ensures an unforgettable voyage. New Orleans is a gateway to a variety of exceptional cruise ships that cater to different tastes and desires. Whether you seek a Caribbean adventure, or a thrilling exploration of exotic destinations, the best cruise ships from New Orleans offer a perfect balance of comfort, entertainment, and exploration.
Disney Magic
Overview
If you're considering a cruise aboard the Disney Magic, here's what you need to know. This ship, with a capacity of 2,713 passengers, is the oldest in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, having first set sail in 1998. Its most recent refurbishment in May 2023 brought exciting updates, including a "Soul"-themed lounge, enhancements to concierge-level offerings, and the introduction of a new "Encanto" live show. The ship offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including the thrilling AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for dress-up fun, and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.
Entertainment options are diverse and include live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools, and a splash area for young children. One unique feature is the teens-only Chill Spa. Dining on board offers a variety of choices, including eight eateries, an adults-only specialty restaurant, and buffet options, although recent reviews have been mixed regarding food quality.
Accommodation-wise, around 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are equipped with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas, and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suite accommodations come with extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Service on this ship is reported to meet Disney's high standards, but it's worth noting that this level of quality comes with a corresponding price tag.
The Disney Magic departs from various ports, including Galveston, Texas; San Diego; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; New Orleans; and San Juan, Puerto Rico, offering itineraries to destinations in the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Panama Canal.
Norwegian Getaway
Overview
Launched in 2014, the Norwegian Getaway accommodates 3,963 passengers and a crew of 1,646, with a recent renovation in 2020 that introduced a full-service Starbucks, a new live music venue, and more. What sets this ship apart is its expansive "Waterfront" area, stretching a quarter of a mile and featuring a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants.
The Norwegian Getaway caters to a diverse range of passengers, from younger crowds who can enjoy a multi-story water park and age-specific kids and teens clubs to couples seeking a romantic dining experience at venues like the Ocean Blue specialty restaurant.
Accommodation options include Studio cabins for solo travelers, as well as Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, and Club Balcony Suite category cabins for groups. For those seeking added luxury, The Haven offers cabins with access to a private sun deck and 24-hour butler service.