Port sees steady rise in visitors as post-COVID travel surges
The Maritimes’ cruise tourism industry is setting sail on a new high. Halifax, one of Canada’s premier port cities, is seeing record cruise ship traffic, drawing global visitors back to its shores in droves. For travelers and tourism operators alike, the revival is a welcome sign that post-pandemic travel is not just back—but booming.
Cruise Ships Dock Daily Along Halifax Waterfront
“We’re now getting a ship almost every day,” said Dennis Campbell, President and CEO of Ambassatours Gray Line, a leading local tour company.
Over the next week and a half alone, 10 cruise ships are expected to dock in Halifax. That’s thousands of passengers walking the boardwalk, shopping at local stores, snapping photos, and immersing themselves in the local culture.
For passengers like Art Barrett from Louisville, Kentucky, the return to Halifax is both nostalgic and refreshing. “We were here 20 years ago and it’s still just as nice,” he said.
Tourism Growth Anchored by Cruise Industry
Cruise ships now bring more than 350,000 passengers annually to the Port of Halifax, spread across more than 200 ships. This wave of travelers contributes significantly to the local economy—from guided tours and restaurants to retail shops and cultural attractions.
According to Norman Yee, visiting from Calgary, cruises offer a seamless travel experience. “The hotel travels with us,” he laughed, “and we get to sample different destinations without repacking every night.”
This ease of travel is one reason why cruise tourism has gained popularity again—especially among international travelers exploring Canada.
Halifax Visitor Numbers See Major Jump
Compared to 2023, Halifax tourism grew by over 18% last year, signaling a strong post-COVID rebound. Campbell attributes much of this rise to the diverse cruise clientele now coming ashore.
“Americans are still our top visitors,” he noted, “but we’re seeing a rise in Canadian, British, and German tourists too. Europeans, in general, are coming in larger numbers than we’ve seen in a long time.”
Cruise Season Stretches Beyond Summer
While most tourism in Canada peaks in summer, Halifax’s cruise season stretches into mid-November. This extended window allows travelers to experience the region’s fall beauty and maritime charm well into autumn.
As the cruise sector sails ahead, it’s not just a win for ports and passengers—it’s fueling economic activity, cultural exchange, and a renewed global interest in Canada’s East Coast.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for more stories on Canada’s evolving tourism and travel landscape.
