The last cruise ship of the 2026 season arrived in Vancouver Monday, marking an end to what the industry is touting as another record-setting year. Over 350 ships carrying more than 1.4 million passengers arrived at Canada Place between February and October—representing a 20 per cent year-over-year increase, a statement from the Port of Vancouver said. “We are thrilled to celebrate another successful cruise season, with more than $1 billion injected into the local economy as cruise lines and passengers increasingly make Vancouver a core part of their Alaska adventure,” said Jeff Scott, vice president of operations. “Vancouver’s cruise sector continues to thrive as an economic engine that drives local tourism, brings countless visitors to our beautiful city, and supports businesses and jobs across the region thanks to the hard work and dedication of all those involved.” According to the Port of Vancouver, more passengers are spending time and money in the city before and after their cruises than they did a few years ago. In 2023, 70 per cent of cruise passengers reported spending time in the city, and last year the percentage rose to 76. Travelers from outside North America are spending an average of 2.6 nights in the city, according to the statement from the port.
