What's Happening?
The Victoria Harbour Authority is anticipating a busy cruise season in 2026, with 331 cruise ship visits expected. The season will commence on April 10 with the arrival of Holland America's Nieuw Amsterdam.
This marks an increase from the 310 calls received in 2025, which brought nearly 990,000 passengers to the city. The upcoming season will feature inaugural visits from Virgin Voyages and MSC Cruises, as well as the largest ship, Anthem of the Seas, which can carry nearly 5,000 passengers. The season is set to conclude on October 13 with the Norwegian Encore.
Why It's Important?
The anticipated increase in cruise ship visits to Victoria highlights the city's growing appeal as a cruise destination. This influx of visitors is expected to boost the local economy, benefiting businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The presence of major cruise lines like Virgin Voyages and MSC Cruises indicates confidence in Victoria's infrastructure and attractions. The increase in cruise traffic also underscores the importance of the cruise industry in regional economic development, providing opportunities for job creation and increased revenue for local businesses.
