VCL-Victory Cruise Lines has confirmed that Erie, Pennsylvania, will become an official port of call on its Great Lakes cruise programme from July 2028, following more than 18 months of planning with local and regional partners.
The announcement was made during a joint event hosted by Victory Cruise Lines, the Erie-Western Pennsylvania Port Authority, Erie County officials, VisitErie and representatives from Presque Isle State Park.
According to Victory Cruise Lines, Erie has been incorporated into a new Great Lakes itinerary that will operate across all five Great Lakes and eight U.S. states. The company indicated that developing a route capable of including Erie required extensive itinerary planning after its initial visit to the city in March 2025. Following a series of subsequent evaluations and discussions with local stakeholders, the cruise line concluded that Erie offered a suitable addition to its Great Lakes programme.
The first scheduled call is planned for July 21st, 2028.
Officials from the Erie-Western Pennsylvania Port Authority welcomed the decision, noting that the destination had been under consideration for an extended period and that the collaboration with Victory Cruise Lines required only limited local infrastructure investment. Preparations have instead focused primarily on operational planning and security arrangements to ensure the port is ready to receive cruise passengers.
Victory Cruise Lines expects each call to bring ~190 guests, most of whom are experienced travellers with an interest in local culture and regional heritage. The company believes Erie's waterfront, attractions and cultural offerings make it a strong fit for its Great Lakes itineraries.
VisitErie also highlighted the opportunity to introduce the destination to a new segment of visitors and to showcase the region's hospitality, attractions and tourism sector. Local tourism officials noted that Great Lakes cruising generates a significant economic contribution across the region and expressed confidence that Erie's inclusion would provide additional benefits for local businesses.
County officials emphasised that visitors would have the opportunity to experience a broad range of attractions, including Presque Isle State Park, the Hagen History Center, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, local restaurants, wineries, breweries and the city's waterfront, while also enjoying the area's well-known sunsets.
Beyond the immediate economic impact of cruise calls, local authorities hope that introducing Erie to Great Lakes cruise passengers will encourage repeat visits, strengthening the city's profile as an independent leisure destination after guests have experienced the region during their cruise stop.