The Port of Seattle’s 2026 cruise season set several records, generating an estimated US$1.2 billion in regional economic benefits, attracting ~2 million revenue passengers and recording 330 ship calls. Cruise activity also supported more than 5,120 direct and indirect jobs, while two cruise lines, MSC and Virgin Voyages, began their first seasons operating from Seattle.
The port reported that 66% of cruise ships used shore power while alongside, a new record. It also completed the safe bunkering of liquefied natural gas for Star Princess, the first cruise ship to receive LNG bunkering in Elliott Bay.
Sam Cho, Port of Seattle Commissioner, said the cruise sector continued to support regional businesses, employment and local communities, while remaining the port’s fastest-growing maritime sector. Renée Limoge Reeve, vice president of government affairs at Cruise Lines International Association, noted that Seattle was strengthening its role as a major homeport for Alaska and Canada itineraries, supported by continued cooperation between the port and cruise lines.
Shore power allows vessels to connect to the local electricity grid while berthed, reducing the need to run diesel engines and lowering associated emissions. According to the port, its use during the 2026 season prevented an estimated 1.52 metric tons of diesel particulate matter and 6,000+ metric tons of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions. The port aims to provide shore power to all homeported cruise ships by 2028.
Looking ahead, the Port of Seattle’s preliminary 2027 schedule forecasts 300+ ship calls and 2+ million passengers.