The Oasis of the Seas cruise ship visits Port Saint John in June 2022. Image: Submitted/Port Saint John

The Atlantic Canada Cruise Ship season came back strong this year with over 470 ships and over 670, 000 passengers who visited our region, after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

Having the cruise ships in port, really helps out the tourism industry that relies on them for businesses, attractions and creating jobs.

The Atlantic Canada Cruise Ship Association says the industry would have seen an even bigger success if not for Hurrican Fiona.

“Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Fiona, 2022 was a strong cruise ship season in Atlantic Canada. More and more, visitors around the world are appreciating the culture, heritage and wide-open spaces found in Atlantic Canada. We saw more opportunity for sustainable growth and the economic impact it will bring to our communities,” said Mike Cochrane, Chair of ACCA.

Many players are involved in creating a strong cruise ship season including tourism operators, stakeholders and all levels of government.

“Atlantic Canada was making strong progress as a cruise ship destination before the pandemic shut the industry down. Our focus now is regaining that momentum and working with our community partners to build a sustainable industry that delivers real economic benefit to the region as cruise guests get a chance to experience the enviable quality of life we enjoy here.” said Sarah Rumley, ACCA, Executive Director.

Looking ahead to 2023 an even more promising season is expected, with hundreds of cruise ships already scheduled to arrive.