Atlantic Canada Cruising into Another Prosperous Season

April 3, 2024

– more than 600 ship calls bound for Atlantic Canadian ports in 2024 –

Cruise Atlantic Canada acknowledges the ancestral land and waters that connect our regions. Learn more.

Halifax, Nova Scotia – On the heels of a record-breaking 2023 cruise season, the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) is diligently preparing to reach even greater heights in 2024.

“We are thrilled to welcome over 600 cruise ship calls to Atlantic Canada this year,” said Sarah Rumley, ACCA Executive Director. “Visitors are drawn to our region for its unique culture, hospitable nature and breathtaking landscapes. It is through embracing these differences that ACCA has successfully positioned Atlantic Canada as a premier cruise destination. With a forecasted growth of 10% in cruise passenger visits for the upcoming season, we are optimistic that the cruise industry will continue to flourish well into the future.

On April 6, the Atlantic Canada cruise season will begin when the MSC Poesia calls the Port of Halifax. Cruise Atlantic Canada is delighted to welcome a diverse array of cruise lines representing contemporary, premium, luxury and expedition brands to the region. Further amplifying the appeal of cruising in Atlantic Canada, several vessels will make their maiden voyage in port this year.

The Port of Halifax is gearing up for 204 calls, including 12 vessels making their inaugural visit, an uptick in overnight stays, and a 35.7% increase in calls during June, July and August.
The Port of Sydney will look to break records in back-to-back years, with 119 calls anticipated for 2024, including seven ships making their inaugural visit and a 17% increase in calls during the summer months.
On Prince Edward Island, Port Charlottetown is forecasting 96 calls to welcome over 166,000 passengers. Their season will feature five inaugural calls, 18 double-ship days, three triple-ship days, and a remarkable four-ship day scheduled for October 1.
In New Brunswick, Port Saint John is poised to welcome over 170,000 guests across 75 calls. This includes 10 vessels making their inaugural visit and 11 vessels making overnight calls in the city.
Following its record-breaking 2023, the Port of Corner Brook is set to welcome 37 ships, including 10 inaugural calls and 57,000 passengers.
The niche ports of Newfoundland & Labrador and Nova Scotia continue to be popular among the growing luxury and expedition markets this year.

ACCA is committed to leading the strategic, responsible growth of cruise while showcasing the best of Atlantic Canada through business development, innovative marketing, and destination stewardship.

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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 2024 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 works diligently to promote the responsible growth of Atlantic Canada as a cruise destination through strategic leadership, collaboration, partnerships, and innovative marketing.