Port Charlottetown (Canada) reflects on the conclusion of an eventful 2023 cruise season and looks ahead to a potentially record-breaking 2024 for Prince Edward Island's/PEI's cruise industry.
This year signified a notable return to stability after three tumultuous years marked by the global crisis and Hurricane Fiona. Port Charlottetown accommodated a total of 89 ships and 119,488 passengers, marking one of the Island's most substantial cruise seasons.
Mike Cochrane, CEO of Port Charlottetown, expressed satisfaction with the steady growth of PEI's cruise industry:
"This year marked our largest ship count to date, with 89 calls to port and visitor numbers almost at par with pre-pandemic levels. We’re proud to play a role in the extension of PEI’s tourism season, with ships calling from the end of April until the beginning of November."
The cruise industry continues to be a significant economic contributor to the Island, positioning PEI as an appealing tourism destination for cruisers.
Cory Deagle (Minister of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport, and Culture) noted that the cruise industry is a vital component of the province's economy.
"The direct economic impact of this year’s cruise visitation, which totalled 176,456 including crew, was approximately $18.2 M. This is proof the cruise sector has fully rebounded and is seeing amazing growth. We anticipate the 2024 season is an even bigger success."
As Port Charlottetown concludes its 2023 operations, PEI's busiest working port gears up for an unprecedented 2024 season.
In 2023, the Port collaborated with business associations and destination marketing organizations to highlight PEI's cultural offerings, including waterfront live music, local shopping, live theatre, and other city attractions. Additionally, partnerships with local aquaculture associations helped promote Canada's Food Island to a national audience.