Newfoundland and Labrador’s cruise ship industry continues to ride the wave of success thanks to a significant boost from federal and provincial governments. With strategic investments charting a course for growth, this dynamic sector is set to welcome even more visitors, showcase this province’s world-renowned coastline, and fuel local economies across the province.

“More cruise ships bring more visitors and more customers for small businesses on the west coast of Newfoundland. Investing in this growing industry means more jobs, more opportunities and more folks to experience the magic of the area.”
     - The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“The growth of the cruise ship industry is a testament to Canadian innovation and resilience, as well as the country’s welcoming, hospitable spirit. This investment not only strengthens the tourism sector but also highlights the incredible potential of our communities from coast to coast to coast to drive economic development, provide memorable experiences and share their unique stories.”

     - The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“Our government is proud to support Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador as it works to promote and grow the province as a destination of choice for cruising year-round. Newfoundland and Labrador is a unique cruising destination that offers breathtaking scenery and geography, generous hospitality, and distinct cultural experiences. These assets make Newfoundland and Labrador well-suited to the expedition segment of the cruise industry and presents a promising future for ports and communities around the province.”

 - The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“With record-breaking seasons and more visitors than ever discovering Newfoundland and Labrador’s unmatched charm, our cruise industry is thriving like never before. Strategic investments like today’s announcement are key to ensuring we remain a world-class destination, ready to welcome expedition vessels, luxury liners, and their passengers with unforgettable experiences that highlight the best of our province.”

 - Christa Norman, Chair, Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador

 

“The incredible growth we’ve experienced at the Port of Corner Brook is a testament to the hard work of our team and the collaborative efforts of our partners. Since 2019, we’ve doubled the number of passengers and crew welcomed to our port. Each visitor not only enriches our local economy but also becomes an ambassador for the vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality that define Newfoundland and Labrador. This milestone demonstrates the potential of the cruise sector to drive sustainable growth in our region.”

 - Jackie Chow, CEO and Port Manager, Corner Brook Port Corporation

• Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador is an incorporated not-for-profit organization (since 2002) that represents the link between ports, destinations, tour operators, ship agents and cruise lines. This communication aims to ensure that visitor needs are met, quality shore excursions are created, and itinerary development is strengthened.

• Between 1998 to 2023, the cruise industry brought nearly 1.2 million visitors into Newfoundland and Labrador, making more than 2,061 port calls within the province.

• In 2023, Newfoundland and Labrador had a record-breaking season, welcoming 116 cruise ship calls into 17 distinctive ports throughout the province. More than 88,000 passengers and 52,000 crew had the opportunity to disembark and explore Newfoundland and Labrador scenery, culture, and hospitality.

• In 2023, cruise passenger numbers in Canada rose by nearly 40 per cent, compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. By 2027, the number of cruise passengers in Canada is projected to reach 990,000 annually.

• The support announced today is provided through ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.

Associated links

• Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador
• Corner Brook Port Corporation
• Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI)

Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca  

Paul McGrath
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
709-689-5731
Paul.Mcgrath@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Audrey Milette
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
audrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca

Brodie Thomas
Media Relations Manager
Department of Industry, Energy and Technology
709-725-3759
brodiethomas@gov.nl.ca

Christa Norman
Chair
Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador
709-570-2186
cnorman@stjohns.ca

Jennifer Crane
Business Development Manager
709-640-1399
jcrane@cornerbrookport.com