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New Gulf Coast Cruise plans stop in Gulfport, announces kickoff date, details

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Key Takeaways

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  • American Cruise Lines adds Gulfport stop on Gulf Coast Cruise route in 2026.
  • First sailing set for March 2026 with future dates through December 2027.
  • Planned Gulfport excursions include Ship Island trips and TrainTastic visits.

An American Cruise Lines ship will be stopping at the port of Gulfport on a Gulf Coast Cruise from Pensacola to New Orleans.

The first Gulf Coast Cruise will be in March 2026, a news release from the port says, with additional dates in December 2026, March 2027 and December 2027.

“This partnership with American Cruise Lines demonstrates our strength as a working port and a welcoming gateway for visitors,” port CEO Jon Nass said in a news release. “By bringing travelers to Gulfport, American is helping us to boost local tourism and showcase the hospitality and charm of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”

The American Symphony, built in 2022, will carry passengers on the voyage. The small ship holds 180 guests. The company said the coastline, the area’s history and all the communities along the way provide an excellent route for small-ship cruising.

American also noted the Gulfport attractions its guests can visit, including Jones Park, the Mississippi Aquarium, and shops and restaurants.

The news release also says, “Planned excursions while docked at the Port of Gulfport will include a fishing expedition, visits to the TrainTastic museum and cruises to Ship Island.”

Anita Lee
Sun Herald
Anita, a Mississippi native, graduated with a journalism degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and previously worked at the Jackson Daily News and Virginian-Pilot, joining the Sun Herald in 1987. She specializes in in-depth coverage of government, public corruption, transparency and courts. She has won state, regional and national journalism awards, most notably contributing to Hurricane Katrina coverage awarded the 2006 Pulitzer Prize in Public Service. Support my work with a digital subscription
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