Carnival Cruise Line launched year-round cruising from Norfolk with Carnival Sunshine’s inaugural departure on Wednesday, Feb. 12.

This marks the transition of Norfolk’s Half Moone Cruise Center from a seasonal port to a year-round homeport, accommodating 150,000 guests annually.

Ahead of the ship’s first embarkation, Carnival Cruise Line Vice President of Port Operations David Candib joined Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Alexander and Nauticus Executive Director Stephen Kirkland to mark the occasion.

“Carnival’s 23-year partnership with the City of Norfolk and Nauticus has been a great success, and we’re honored to build on our relationship by making Norfolk the newest year-round cruise port on the East Coast,” said Candib. “Year-round cruises mean more options for fun adventures and unforgettable vacations for our loyal guests as well as more tourism and economic impact for the Norfolk community both before and after each cruise.”

The City of Norfolk invested $12 million in upgrades to improve capacity and the guest experience. Enhancements include a new debarkation ramp for smoother customs processing, a larger seating area set to open this fall and other terminal improvements.

“Norfolk’s maritime legacy enters an exciting new chapter with year-round cruising,” said Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Alexander. “This expansion strengthens our economy, brings more visitors and creates new opportunities for our community. We’re proud to partner with Carnival and look forward to a thriving future together.”

Carnival Sunshine’s first cruise from Norfolk marks its return to service after a month-long dry dock for maintenance and updates to public areas and staterooms. The 3,700-guest ship features about 500 balcony staterooms and amenities like a three-level Serenity retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, and Alchemy Bar.

Carnival Sunshine’s Feb. 12 cruise to The Bahamas will include calls to Freeport and Bimini. As part of its year-round schedule, the ship will sail to The Bahamas, Bermuda and the Eastern Caribbean. Starting in September, the Sunshine will visit Celebration Key, Carnival’s new exclusive destination on Grand Bahama.