Cruise-goers from Atlanta and the state of Georgia will have another option when looking to set sail to the Caribbean and warmer climates. Mobile is less than a six hour drive from most places in the Peach State.
The Carnival Fantasy starts sailing out of the renovated terminal in Mobile, Ala. starting today, November 9.
Those in the metro Atlanta area can reach the Carnival Fantasy, which is due to cruise out of Alabama’s Port City on Nov. 9, carrying more than 2,000 passengers and ending a five-year hiatus in regular cruise service out of Mobile. The terminal will be full of activity. From the deck where cruisers will park, to the warehouse-like ground floor where their baggage will be collected and loaded, to the hall where they’ll check in, to the wharf where the ship will await them.
“This is going to show a bright new future for this place,” said Sheila Gurganus, director of the terminal. “It’s going to be better than it was before … It’s going to be more of a first-class facility.”
Mobile is actually one of America’s oldest port cities, and you can see its diverse history reflected in its architecture, its culture… and everywhere in between. Mobile was a crossroads for Spanish, French, African and Creole people, and its heritage distinguishes this centuries-old city from much of Alabama. Mobile’s inviting climate and southern hospitality — along with 300 years’ worth of historic sights and fun attractions — make it a rewarding, out-of-the-way gem for the curious visitor.
Four and five-day cruises to the Western Caribbean will initially be offered out of Mobile. Ports of call will include Cozumel, the Yucatan and Costa Maya. Different cruises will stop at different ports, as well as offer days at sea. Check here for more information.
This is a shot in the arm for the economy in Mobile. Mobile will feel a positive impact, as cruisers stay in Mobile hotels and visit local attractions before or after their cruises. But many of them coming from out of state will make other stops along I-65. And he has no doubt they’ll take that route.
“Mobile is the straightest shot from the Midwest and the Deep South into the Gulf,” says Alabama Director of Tourism, Lee Sentell.
Four and five-day cruises from Mobile commence on November 9.
