The conclusion of British Columbia’s $1 billion cruise ship season is on the horizon as the final vessel is scheduled to arrive on Tuesday. Despite not achieving record-breaking numbers in 2025, the port has seen substantial activity with 301 ships and 1.2 million passengers since early March. However, there has been an 11% decrease in passenger volume and an 8% decline in ship visits compared to previous years.
Shri Madiwal, the Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, remains optimistic about the tourism industry rebounding to pre-pandemic levels. Looking ahead, Madiwal anticipates a more promising 2026 season with 355 scheduled ship calls and an expected 18% increase in passenger numbers.
Madiwal highlights the significant economic contributions of the cruise industry, noting that cruise lines invest up to $660 million annually in local goods and services, while passengers spend an average of $450 each on various expenses during their visits. He acknowledges that geopolitical tensions and decisions made by cruise lines have influenced the season’s outcomes.
In light of the challenges faced by the cruise industry, the Port of Vancouver has seen an uptick in business activity, helping to mitigate any economic gaps left by the decline in cruise ship revenue. Madiwal emphasizes the importance of trade diversification and ongoing port expansion projects to secure the port’s future as a vital economic hub.
One such expansion project is the Roberts Bank Terminal 2, which aims to enhance container capacity by 50% in the port gateway and 30% nationally. This multi-billion-dollar project involves the construction of a new island with a three-berth container terminal, poised to significantly boost import and export cargo capacities. Construction is expected to commence in early 2028, with operations slated for the mid-2030s.
Madiwal underscores the Port of Vancouver’s crucial role as a key economic driver, supporting over 115,000 jobs and facilitating the movement of $300 billion worth of goods. As the federal government seeks to diversify trade options amid ongoing global challenges, the port remains a vital player in international trade, handling a substantial portion of Canada’s import and export activities.