Port Saint John Anticipates a Record-Breaking Cruise Season in 2024

Port Saint John is set for a bustling 2024 cruise season, with over 170,000 guests expected and 10 ships making inaugural calls. The season will feature enhanced experiences and extended overnight stays, showcasing the port's growing status as a top cruise destination.

Port Saint John, a premier Canadian cruise destination, is gearing up for an extraordinary cruise season in 2024, with expectations to host over 170,000 guests across 75 ship visits. Starting May 8, 2024, with the arrival of MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia and concluding on November 24 with Oceania Cruises’ Insignia, the port is set to experience one of its busiest years yet.

The 2024 season will be marked by several significant milestones, including 10 inaugural calls from various cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line and Viking Cruises, highlighting the growing appeal of Saint John as a key stop on North American cruise itineraries. Additionally, the port will welcome 11 vessels for overnight stays, providing an extended opportunity for cruise guests to explore the vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty of New Brunswick and the Bay of Fundy region.

Natalie Allaby, director of cruise excellence at Port Saint John, emphasizes the crucial role of local businesses and tourism partners in showcasing the city's charm and hospitality to the world. The increase in overnight calls from just four in 2023 to 11 in 2024 is anticipated to bring new opportunities for local stakeholders to engage with international visitors.

Port Saint John's history dates back to its exploration by Samuel de Champlain in 1604, growing into a formidable port in the 1780s. With two terminals dedicated to cruise ships, the port's strategic location at the mouth of the Saint John River has made it a favorite among cruise lines and their passengers.

The 2023 season set a new record with 172,193 cruise guests visiting through 74 ship calls, including a historic day on May 30 when Royal Caribbean Cruises’ Oasis of the Seas brought nearly 6,000 guests to the city. Popular excursions such as history walking tours, local brewery visits, and boat tours along the Fundy Coast, coupled with unique attractions like Reversing Falls, ensure a memorable experience for all visitors.

The fall months, renowned for their spectacular foliage, remain the peak season, drawing guests eager to witness the region's autumnal beauty. With more than 60 ship visits planned for September and October alone, Port Saint John is poised to further solidify its position as a leading cruise destination.

As Port Saint John prepares for this record-breaking year, neighboring Eastern Canadian ports, Halifax and Sydney, are also anticipating an influx of cruise activity, signifying a robust season for the Canadian cruise industry in 2024.