Ports at a Crossroads: Bans, Builds, and Bigger Ships

This episode of Cruise News examines a fascinating split-screen moment in the cruise industry, where major ports are moving in completely opposite directions. The Port of Los Angeles has selected Pacific Cruise Terminals to build a next-generation outer harbor terminal designed for the biggest ships afloat, complete with shore power and a waterfront destination experience. The port set records in 2025 with 241 cruise calls and 1.6 million passengers.Meanwhile, the Port of New Orleans continues its remarkable consistency, topping 1 million cruise passenger movements for the ninth consecutive year. The city's unique position as the only US home port supporting both ocean and river cruises gives it a distinctive edge.On the other side of the Atlantic, Amsterdam is weighing a dramatic proposal to ban ocean-going cruise ships entirely by 2035. City officials have calculated that eliminating ships is actually cheaper than relocating the terminal, while improving livability. The episode explores what this growing European pushback means for the future of city-center cruising.