) - Just like that -- the Carnival Spirit will soon be departing the Port City after its inaugural season. It’s been six months since Carnival returned to Mobile. You’ll remember FOX 10 Live was there for the big day.
“Carnival was very successful these past few months and I think our stakeholders are feeling the difference of having a ship -- versus not having a ship last fall,” said Clark. “When the passengers come back -- they’re not just immediately leaving the city... And most of them are certainly staying a day or two before.”
They along with their friend’s early arrival -- translating to higher occupancy rates in our hotels and of course spending money at downtown restaurants. From magnets, shot glasses, and Mardi Gras masks -- there and endless supply of trinkets to choose from. Call it a domino effect - but good news spreads fast. Clark along with Mayor Stimpson and other stakeholders are set to travel to Miami Monday for the annual “Seatrade Cruise Global” event -- where they’ll meet with Carnival and other cruise lines about coming to Mobile. Clark says there’s already interest.
“It shows beyond doubt within 12 hours of here that Mobile, Alabama is the best cruise driving destination. The first port that you come to in North Central America -- it’s easy. And when you look at all of the social media and all of our guest reviews -- the cruise team here at our port -- does a really great job at taking care of the customers and so that begins to amplify the message,” said Clark.