U.S. Coast Guard officials are optimistic vessel traffic could resume at Southwest Pass on Sunday when weather conditions improve in New Orleans.

The Carnival Elation, which was scheduled to arrive this morning, and the Carnival Conquest, scheduled to arrive Sunday, remain a safe and comfortable distance west of the storm and await reentry into the River.

“We have high hopes all cruise ship passengers will be back in port as soon as possible,” said Gary LaGrange, Port President and CEO. “Port officials are ready to handle cruise passengers as soon as the Coast Guard and pilot associations deem it is safe to do so.”

Nine cargo vessels remain at Port docks, some still working cargo, and seven are scheduled to arrive Monday.