The Port of New Orleans cruise terminals handled more than 1-million passengers in 2015, totaling 1,023,700, up 1 percent compared to 2014, according to a prepared statement.

The total marks the fifth consecutive record year and with new and larger ships on tap for 2016, Port officials expect another robust cruise season.

“Year-end numbers illustrate how popular the Port and the City of New Orleans are with cruise passengers throughout the nation,” said Gary LaGrange, Port President and CEO. “The fact our cruise partners are investing in new and larger ships here bodes well for the industry for years to come.”

Miami, Fla-based Carnival Cruise Line is increasing capacity on its year-round four- and five-day itineraries by 34 percent in April when the Carnival Triumph replaces the Carnival Elation in New Orleans. Also, Guilford, CT-based American Cruise Line will add a third riverboat named America to its home-ported fleet in New Orleans. The 185-passenger riverboat was launched in August and will begin sailing Mississippi River itineraries this spring.

“Our cruise partners, which include Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, American Cruise Line and American Queen Steamboat Company, are committed to New Orleans and represent one of the most diversified home ports in the world,” LaGrange said. “Cruise passengers embarking from New Orleans can explore the length of the Mississippi River or visit the best beaches in the world from the Bahamas to Belize on a wide variety of itineraries.”