The 2023 cruise season at the Port of Vancouver was a resounding success, with a record 1.25 million passengers and 332 cruise ship calls. This marks a significant rebound for the local cruise industry, which had been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in recent years.

The Canada Place cruise terminal, which was recently recognized as North America’s Leading Cruise Port 2023, saw 15 of its 20 busiest days ever for cruise passengers. Cruise ship occupancy rates averaged 95% for the season, returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The strong performance of the cruise sector has been a boon for the local tourism and hospitality industries. The port authority is committed to working with the cruise industry to achieve its goal of making the Port of Vancouver the world’s most sustainable port.

Highlights of the 2023 cruise season include:

• The last cruise ship of the season, the Koningsdam, departed Canada Place on October 24, 2023.
• The average cruise ship passenger occupancy rate for 2023 was 95%, compared to 69% in 2022.
• Nearly 75% of cruise calls were shore power enabled, compared to 70% in 2022 and 50% in 2019.
• Six inaugural vessels docked at Canada Place in 2023.

The port authority is optimistic about the 2024 cruise season and expects to see a similar number of cruise ship visits. With Holland America Line’s ‘Explore with More’ promo guests can receive a shore excursion credit valued up to $400 and bring the kids free on select Alaska cruises and cruise tours departing from Vancouver.