The 2024 cruise season in Vancouver, British Columbia, embarked on an exciting journey with the early arrival of the Disney Wonder, heralding a period of robust growth and economic revitalization for the local tourism sector. On a crisp Monday morning, just before 7 a.m., the Disney Wonder made its grand entrance at Canada Place, marking the beginning of what is anticipated to be a historic season for Vancouver’s cruise industry.
This year, Vancouver is set to welcome 239 cruise ships by the end of October, a clear indicator of the cruise industry’s vigorous recovery and expansion. The Disney Wonder’s arrival not only adds to the city’s vibrant tourism scene but also signifies the start of a record-breaking season. With more than 1.27 million passengers expected to pass through the Vancouver terminal, the economic implications for the region are substantial.
The Port of Vancouver has estimated that each cruise ship contributes approximately $3 million to the local economy, a testament to the industry’s significant role in fueling economic growth. The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s cruise services manager, Mandy Chan, emphasized the importance of pre- and post-cruise stays, noting that passengers often extend their visits to explore Vancouver’s rich offerings, thereby injecting further revenue into the local economy through hotel stays and city explorations.
Legal adviser for the Cruise Lines International Association, Barry Pener, highlighted the industry’s resurgence post-COVID, forecasting a season of growth that surpasses pre-pandemic levels. According to Pener, the economic benefits to British Columbia are expected to exceed those of 2019, a year when the cruise industry supported over 17,000 jobs across the province and contributed between $2.6 billion to $2.7 billion to the provincial economy during the cruise season.
The early arrival of the Disney Wonder serves as a preparatory phase for what promises to be a bustling season, with Canada Place preparing to host its next cruise ship in early April. As the season concludes on October 29, Vancouver stands ready to showcase the enduring appeal and economic vitality of its cruise industry, positioning itself as a leading destination in the global tourism landscape.
Join us in experiencing the marvels of the 2024 Vancouver cruise season, a testament to the resilience and growth of the cruise industry and its pivotal role in enhancing British Columbia’s tourism and economy.
Leave a Reply