By the Caribbean Journal staff

Carnival Cruise Line is planning an expansion of cruise offerings from New Orleans, with a focus on shorter getaways.

Beginning in 2019, Carnival will be shifting its Carnival Valor shift to New Orleans to begin year-round four- and five-day cruises from the Big Easy.

The itineraries will begin May 2019, with Carnival Valor the largest ship to offer year-round short cruises from New Orleans.

Four-day cruises will depart Thursday and visit Cozumel, while five-day voyages will depart Mondays and Saturdays calling on Cozumel and Progreso.

“New Orleans is one of our most popular homeports and Carnival Valor is a wonderful short option that provides a wide array of exciting dining, beverage, entertainment and activity choices that our guests are sure to enjoy,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

Carnival Valor has a capacity of 2,974 passengers; it will be replacing Carnival Triumph in New Orleans.

“We are thrilled to welcome Carnival Valor to the year-round cruise offerings from our vibrant and historical city,” said Brandy D. Christian, Port of New Orleans President and CEO. “We value our long-time partnership with Carnival Cruise Line and we look forward to working together to continue to provide new and varied itineraries and a top-notch experience for our guests.”

Carnival is planning a similar short-cruise program out of Galveston.