Vancouver Prepares for a Summer Like No Other with Peak Cruise Season Overlapping FIFA World Cup 2026™, Bringing Record Numbers of Tourists

Published on February 26, 2026

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Vancouver is preparing for an unprecedented cruise season in 2026, with the city expecting record numbers of ships and passengers to pass through Canada Place. The first vessel of the year, the Disney Wonder, is scheduled to dock on February 26, marking the official start of a season that promises to be Vancouver’s busiest yet.

The Disney Wonder’s early stop is part of a repositioning journey from Hawaii to San Diego, but the ship will return in May to launch weekly Alaska sailings. This dual presence underscores Vancouver’s growing importance as a Pacific cruise hub, offering travelers a convenient starting point for scenic voyages along North America’s western coast and into Alaska’s dramatic wilderness.

Shortly after, Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam will arrive on April 11, ushering in the heart of the Alaska season. From late April onward, the port is expected to host cruise ships nearly every day until the season winds down in mid-October, when Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Encore will depart. Overall, Vancouver is set to welcome nearly 360 cruise calls in 2026, with more than 1.4 million passengers anticipated—a substantial increase over previous years.

The 2026 season brings a wave of first-time arrivals and new additions. Virgin Voyages and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will make their Vancouver debuts, while Disney Cruise Line will homeport a second ship, the Disney Magic, alongside the Disney Wonder. Ships such as the Azamara Pursuit, Star Seeker, Brilliant Lady, and Luminara will also visit Canada Place for the first time. This expansion reflects the city’s growing popularity among cruise operators and the increasing diversity of itineraries on offer.

Cruise tourism has long been a cornerstone of Vancouver’s economy. Passengers contribute to local businesses, from dining and shopping to cultural attractions, while cruise lines rely on local suppliers for food, fuel, and other services. With nearly 360 ship calls planned, 2026 is expected to inject over $1 billion into the local economy, highlighting the sector’s significant role in supporting jobs and business activity.

Port infrastructure has evolved to handle this influx. Canada Place features state-of-the-art terminals designed for simultaneous docking of multiple large ships. Technological improvements and operational enhancements ensure smooth embarkation and disembarkation, even during peak periods. These upgrades are essential as Vancouver anticipates nearly daily ship visits during the busy summer months.

This year’s cruise season overlaps with the FIFA World Cup 2026™, during which the city will host seven matches. The combination of a peak cruise season and a major international sporting event is expected to create exceptionally high demand for accommodations, making early bookings essential for visitors. The convergence of these two global draws presents a rare and exciting opportunity for Vancouver’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

Vancouver’s cruise season also strengthens the city’s international appeal. Passengers from across the globe arrive, exploring urban neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and natural landscapes. The mix of travelers fosters a vibrant cultural exchange and reinforces Vancouver’s reputation as a must-visit destination on the Pacific coast.

Sustainability remains a priority. Many cruise lines are implementing low-emission engines, advanced wastewater systems, and other environmentally friendly practices. The port monitors and manages operational impacts to protect local ecosystems, ensuring that the city’s natural beauty remains a draw for future travelers.

From the Disney Wonder’s February arrival to the Norwegian Encore’s October departure, Vancouver’s 2026 cruise season is poised to set new benchmarks for passenger traffic, ship visits, and economic impact. With a mix of returning favorites and first-time visitors, along with overlapping global events, the season promises to be one of the most remarkable in the city’s history—showcasing Vancouver as a thriving, world-class cruise destination.