FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contacts:
Erica Papillion
New Orleans CVB
504-566-5019
epapillion@neworleanscvb.com

Mary Beth Romig
New Orleans CVB
504-566-5019
mbromig@neworleancvb.com

Carnival Corp. Extends Contract in New Orleans
Increase in demand for cruises from the city prompt deal

NEW ORLEANS – Aug. 6, 2007 – In another milestone for New Orleans’ vital tourism industry, the New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau (New Orleans CVB) is pleased to share that Carnival Corp. will keep the 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy in New Orleans at least through 2008.

  • The contract extension, retroactive to October 2006, has a two-year option that would be a positive step forward in keeping Carnival Cruise Lines in New Orleans through 2010.
  • The Carnival Fantasy will make a minimum of 70 calls per year to the Port of New Orleans’ new $37 million Erato Street Cruise Terminal.
  • The Carnival Fantasy makes four- and five-day cruises to the Western Caribbean.
  • Carnival Corp. will also hold its quarterly meeting of national sales managers Sept. 24-25 in New Orleans at the Hotel Monteleone, with an attendance of more than 100.
  • The New Orleans cruise industry contributes $226 million annually to the regional economy and supports more than 2,800 in Louisiana.

Carnival Corp.’s decision to stay in New Orleans is another example of the strength of the city’s most valuable resource, hospitality and tourism. Other recent milestones include ESSENCE Music Festival, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Mardi Gras and dozens of corporate and association meetings, which brought millions of visitors to the city.

“Carnival Corp.’s decision to keep the Carnival Fantasy in New Orleans is an important sign that business is back in the city,” said Stephen Perry, president and CEO of the New Orleans CVB. “When major corporations invest in New Orleans it shows confidence in the city as a travel destination and we couldn’t be more pleased.”

The New Orleans Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau (www.neworleanscvb.com) is the driving force behind New Orleans' most important industry, tourism. Today the cultural riches, sensual indulgences and unparalleled service that define the New Orleans experience continue to flourish, as they have for centuries. The most celebrated and historic core of the city - including the French Quarter, Central Business District, Warehouse and Arts District, Magazine Street and Garden District - not only remains intact, both physically and spiritually, but is thriving. The New Orleans CVB is proudly welcoming visitors and business travelers every day.