Atlantic Canada Cruise Industry Poised for Strong 2025 Season

March 20, 2025

Halifax, Nova Scotia – Atlantic Canada is positioned for another strong and promising cruise season in 2025, with our ports showcasing the best of the region and offering visitors warm and welcoming experiences. Cruise ships will be visiting Atlantic Canadian ports from March through late November, marking our longest season to date and highlighting the continued interest by cruise guests from around the world to visit with us. The introduction of new ships calling on the region shows the attractiveness of Atlantic Canada as a cruise destination and reinforces the long-term resilience of the industry.

2025 Regional Cruise Season Highlights

Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador kicked off its season by welcoming PONANT’s Le Commandant Charcot for its inaugural winter cruise on March 10. The Port anticipates hosting 23 cruise ships and welcoming over 31,000 guests throughout the season. Guests will be amazed by the stunning rugged scenery, warm hospitality, lively Newfoundland culture, and the irresistible coastal charm.

Halifax, Nova Scotia continues to be Atlantic Canada’s marquee port of call and will open its season April 4 with the arrival of Viking Cruises, Viking Polaris. The 2025 cruise season will conclude with the arrival of AIDA Cruises’ AIDAdiva in late November. The port is set to welcome 188 cruise ships and approximately 328,000 guests.

Saint John, New Brunswick is set to welcome 78 cruise ships and approximately 180,000 guests this season. By mid-September, the Port will surpass 3.5 million cruise passenger visits since 1989. Visitors can explore Canada’s oldest incorporated city, known for its vibrant waterfront, rich culture, and natural wonders—from the world’s highest tides to the first UNESCO Geopark in North America.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island is expecting 79 cruise ships carrying approximately 129,500 guests, with seven inaugural calls highlighting its status as a sought-after cruise destination. Guests will be immersed in the island’s rich culture from the moment they step foot into port, with dockside entertainment and immersive culinary experiences that showcase the best of Canada’s Food Island.

Sydney, Nova Scotia is set to welcome approximately 230,000 passengers across 110 cruise calls this season, bringing visitors to experience the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Cape Breton Island. From historic sites to vibrant local communities, guests can explore the island’s unique charm and hospitality.

Atlantic Canada is also home to more than 20 niche ports, with the region’s charming coastal communities complementing its premier cruise destinations, offering unique and immersive experiences that attract the growing luxury and expedition segments.

Exciting First-Time Visits

New cruise brands and vessels are set to make their mark on Atlantic Canada in 2025. Virgin Voyages will debut in the region with Brilliant Lady calling in both Saint John and Halifax, while other vessels will expand their reach across even more of Atlantic Canada. Additional inaugural calls include:

These visits highlight the increasing presence of luxury and premium cruise brands in the region.

Cruise Canada New England Symposium: Driving the Future of Cruise Tourism

A major industry milestone in 2025 will be the Cruise Canada New England Symposium, returning to Halifax, Nova Scotia, from June 9-11, for the first time since 2005. More than 150 delegates, including representatives from ports, cruise lines, tourism operators, marine agencies, and government stakeholders, will gather to discuss the future of cruise tourism in the region.

Looking Ahead

The Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) remains dedicated to fostering responsible growth for the region’s cruise industry. Through strategic partnerships and a focus on destination stewardship, ACCA ensures that the benefits of cruise tourism extend beyond economic impact, fostering lasting positive contributions to local communities and the tourism sector. By prioritizing a balanced approach that supports community interests, economic vitality, and environmental responsibility, ACCA is well-positioned to guide Atlantic Canada’s cruise industry into a strong and thriving future.

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For more information:

Sarah Rumley
Executive Director, Atlantic Canada Cruise Association
director@cruiseatlanticcanada.com
(902) 229-4304

About Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) With its stunning coastline, picturesque towns, and friendly locals, Atlantic Canada offers unique and memorable experiences for visitors. Each port has something special to offer, from New Brunswick’s magnificent Bay of Fundy and Newfoundland and Labrador’s breathtaking scenery to Prince Edward Island’s vibrant culinary scene and Nova Scotia’s rich culture and historic sites. The cruise industry’s continued growth in the region provides local businesses with ample opportunities to grow and thrive, making 2025 an exciting year for the entire Atlantic Canada community. The Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) is a regional partnership between ports, tourism, and cruise ship interests, as well as the four provincial governments and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. ACCA’s mission is to lead the strategic, responsible growth of cruise, showcasing the best of Atlantic Canada through business development, innovative marketing, and destination stewardship. Find out more at www.cruiseatlanticcanada.com.