Carnival Cruise Line Mobile — “Carnival Spirit, Sydney 2013” by Martinvl is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The carnival is coming to town—not the ferris wheel and funnel cake type, though. Carnival Cruises is cruising back to Mobile, this time with an extended agreement. Here’s what you need to know about the cruise ships’ return to the Port City.

A new agreement between the City of Mobile and Carnival Cruise Line

Mobile Is Saying No To Plastic — Mobile, Alabama is known as the “Port City” for a reason. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

In the past, the City of Mobile and Carnival Cruise Line have had year-to-year contracts. However, the new agreement authorized on September 12, 2023 is different—in a good way.

The new agreement is a five-year one, with an option for two one-year extensions in addition.

So, what does this mean for Mobile? In short, revenue.

“They are invested in our city, and this new arrangement will be a win-win for all parties!

For the city, it will mean an increase in revenue generated from parking and wharfage when Carnival ships are in port. Restaurants, retailers, and hotels downtown and beyond will all feel a positive economic impact…”
Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson,

Where Mobile’s Carnival Cruise Line is heading

On October 6, 2023 the first Carnival Cruise Line ship a part of the new agreement will depart from the Port City. A new, larger ship called the Carnival Spirit will offer 5-, 6-, 8- and 12-day trips to some amazing destinations: