2025 Cruise Season in Newfoundland and Labrador Brings Record Ship Calls and New Port Expansions

Published on December 20, 2025

Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador has officially wrapped up its landmark 2025 cruise season, and it has been one for the record books. Running from January 16 to October 22, this was the longest cruise season ever for the province, firmly establishing Newfoundland and Labrador as one of Atlantic Canada’s standout cruise destinations. Over the course of the season, more than 100,000 passengers and 40,000 crew members visited the region, bringing welcome energy and economic benefits to communities and local businesses throughout the province.

The season featured an impressive 180 ship calls across 24 destinations, including 22 visits to the nearby French territory of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon. From bustling ports to smaller coastal communities, travellers experienced the region’s unique mix of rugged landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. With ships ranging from contemporary and expedition vessels to high-end luxury liners sailing routes across Canada, New England, and the Arctic, the 2025 season highlighted the growing diversity and global appeal of Newfoundland and Labrador’s cruise offerings.

Economic Impact on Local Communities

As the cruise season came to a close, Katelyn Budgell, Managing Director of Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador, highlighted the vital role that cruise tourism plays in the province’s economy. “Cruise continues to be an important driver of economic activity for communities across Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Budgell. “The 2025 season demonstrated the strength of our product, the value of collaboration across ports and communities, and the growing demand for immersive, place-based experiences that our province delivers so well.”

The Port of St. John’s, one of the most prominent ports in the region, enjoyed a highly successful 2025 season, which included nine inaugural ship calls, eight turnarounds, and several overnight stays. These extended visits allowed guests to fully experience the cultural and natural beauty of the area, further solidifying St. John’s as a key gateway for international and domestic cruise tourism.

New Milestones for Corner Brook and Other Ports

The port of Corner Brook saw a welcoming boost in cruise visits, with several ships making their inaugural visits to the city. Glenda Simms, Supervisor of Tourism for Corner Brook, emphasized the growing impact of the cruise industry on local businesses. “These visits showcased our city as a vibrant and welcoming destination, and we’re especially proud to host our first-ever winter cruise, giving more visitors the chance to experience all our region has to offer.”

Additionally, St. Anthony celebrated a record-breaking season driven by increased ship calls, while two new ports, Trinity and Bonavista, were officially certified for cruise traffic. These new developments are expected to help spread the benefits of cruise tourism to more communities within Newfoundland and Labrador.

Expansion of Cruise Access and New Digital Clearance Program

One of the most notable innovations introduced during the 2025 cruise season was the province-wide circumnavigation itinerary offered by Adventure Canada, which showcased 15 destinations across Newfoundland and Labrador. This route provided guests with a comprehensive view of the diverse landscapes and communities that make the region a unique cruise destination.

Alongside the launch of new itineraries, Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador partnered with federal authorities to introduce a remote digital clearance pilot program, aimed at streamlining the clearance process for vessels and expanding access to more remote and northern communities. This initiative is expected to further boost the region’s cruise industry and offer greater accessibility to travelers seeking to explore these remote destinations.

Looking to the Future: Continued Growth for Cruise Tourism

As the 2025 season wrapped up, the outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador’s cruise industry remains very positive. Interest in the region shows no signs of slowing, with confirmed and potential bookings already stretching well into 2026, 2027, and even 2028. This forward momentum reflects the growing global appeal of Newfoundland and Labrador as a cruise destination, especially as travelers seek experiences that feel authentic, scenic, and less crowded. The extended cruise season has been particularly well received, attracting both first-time visitors eager to discover the region and repeat guests looking for fresh itineraries and deeper cultural connections.

Looking ahead, continued investment in port infrastructure, strong partnerships with local communities, and a clear focus on sustainable tourism are helping Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador build long-term success. These efforts ensure that future growth benefits residents while protecting the region’s striking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant traditions.