Canada and United States to Witness Record-Breaking Cruise Traffic as Vancouver Prepares for Unprecedented 2026 Season

Published on February 26, 2026

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Vancouver, Canada, is gearing up for an extraordinary 2026 cruise season, poised to break passenger records and drive economic growth. The city is on track to welcome over 1.4 million passengers throughout the year, surpassing its previous record set in 2024 by an impressive 5 percent. This milestone is a result of a combination of factors, including increased ship calls, new cruise lines, and growing investments in port infrastructure. The Port of Vancouver, renowned for its status as the gateway to Alaska’s Inside Passage, is primed to experience a vibrant surge in cruise tourism, injecting more than $1 billion into the local economy and creating thousands of job opportunities. With nearly 360 ship calls scheduled, Vancouver will be one of the busiest cruise hubs in the world in 2026. This record-breaking season is anticipated to bolster Vancouver’s reputation as a top cruise destination.

Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers Expected

Vancouver’s cruise season has officially commenced, and expectations for the year are high. By the end of 2026, the Port of Vancouver is expected to handle 1.4 million passengers, a figure that marks a notable increase over the 1.2 million passengers recorded in 2025. The surge in numbers can be attributed to several strategic initiatives by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, including the arrival of new cruise lines and ships that will make their inaugural calls to Vancouver.

In addition to the growing number of passengers, the port is also anticipating nearly 360 ship calls, which represents a 20 percent increase from the previous year. As the Disney Wonder makes its first stop in February 2026, it marks the beginning of a bustling cruise season that will see ships arriving almost daily, especially from late April through September, as part of Alaska-bound itineraries.

New Cruise Ships and Unprecedented Arrivals

A standout feature of the 2026 Vancouver cruise season is the arrival of five new cruise ships making their first-ever visits to the port. These include luxury offerings such as Azamara Pursuit, Star Seeker from Windstar Cruises, the fresh Brilliant Lady from Virgin Voyages, and the Luminara from Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. The inclusion of Virgin Voyages and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection further demonstrates Vancouver’s expanding appeal to a wider range of cruise travellers. The Disney Magic, alongside Disney Wonder, will also homeport in Vancouver, increasing the city’s capacity for Alaska sailings.

The Port of Vancouver is well-prepared for this increase in cruise traffic, with robust infrastructure and streamlined passenger services designed to handle growing numbers. Disney Cruise Line has expressed its enthusiasm for continuing to work with the port, recognizing the strong connection between Vancouver and Alaska and the importance of providing a seamless, memorable experience for travellers.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The economic benefits of the 2026 cruise season are far-reaching. The increase in passenger traffic is expected to contribute an estimated $1 billion to Vancouver’s economy, with 17,000 jobs supported by cruise-related activity. This influx of visitors will have a ripple effect on the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and service industries across the city.

Each cruise ship that visits the port generates an average of $3 million in local spending, primarily from passenger expenditures, crew spending, and cruise line provisioning. These spending figures reflect the positive impact that the cruise industry has on Vancouver’s economy, as it continues to serve as a key tourism pillar for the region.

Upgraded Port Infrastructure to Support Growth

The Port of Vancouver is not only growing in terms of passenger traffic but is also undergoing significant infrastructure enhancements. One of the most important upgrades is the continued development of shore power infrastructure, aimed at ensuring more ships can connect to British Columbia’s hydroelectric grid while docked. This initiative is part of Vancouver’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By late 2026, the port is expected to expand its shore power capabilities, ensuring that more cruise ships can plug into clean, renewable energy during their stay at the dock.

This move toward sustainability is essential, as more than 80 percent of cruise ships calling at Vancouver were already shore-power enabled in 2025. With the expansion of shore power infrastructure, Vancouver is positioning itself as a forward-thinking cruise destination that balances tourism growth with environmental responsibility.

The Role of Technology in Streamlining Operations

In addition to the physical upgrades to the port, technology improvements are playing a key role in facilitating the growing number of passengers. The introduction of facial biometric screenings at Canada Place in 2024 has significantly reduced processing times, allowing the terminal to handle large volumes of guests efficiently. This technology has proven particularly useful during peak embarkation days, enabling smoother check-ins and quicker border control processes for passengers.

The continuous investment in technological advancements will help Vancouver maintain its high standards of operational efficiency, ensuring that both passengers and cruise lines enjoy a seamless and hassle-free experience at the port. With these systems in place, Vancouver is well-equipped to handle the increased number of cruise calls expected in 2026 and beyond.

Vancouver’s Bright Future as a Cruise Hub

The 2026 cruise season marks a new chapter in Vancouver’s thriving cruise industry, setting the stage for further growth in the years to come. With a record-breaking number of passengers, new cruise ships, and a substantial economic impact, Vancouver is poised to solidify its position as one of the world’s premier cruise destinations. The city’s strategic investments in infrastructure, sustainability, and technology are ensuring that the port will continue to meet the demands of a rapidly growing cruise market.

With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse tourism offerings, and welcoming atmosphere, Vancouver remains an indispensable gateway for travellers exploring Alaska and the broader Pacific Northwest. The city’s cruise industry, driven by innovative advancements and sustainable practices, will undoubtedly continue to play a central role in Vancouver’s future as a global tourism hub.