Vancouver’s cruise terminal was abuzz on Monday as travelers eagerly prepared for the last voyage of the season.
The majestic Norwegian Encore embarked on its journey early Tuesday morning, carrying around 4,000 passengers who will make various stops before reaching their final destination in Los Angeles.
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority (VFPA) reported that this season was exceptional, witnessing a 20% increase in the number of cruise ships docking and disembarking in Vancouver compared to the previous year.
“Throughout the year, we welcomed 358 cruise ships and over 1.4 million passengers at the Port of Vancouver,” shared Chance McKee, VFPA’s senior trade development representative.
McKee highlighted the significant economic contribution of cruise passengers to Vancouver, noting that each visitor typically spends an average of $1,100 on accommodations, dining, shopping, and local experiences.
Underscoring the importance of the cruise sector, McKee emphasized that it infuses a staggering $1 billion into Vancouver’s economy every cruise season.
Local businesses near the terminal, like Snowggle Gifts, directly feel the positive impact of cruise tourism. Store manager Akari Minamihama revealed that they align their staffing with the cruise schedule, anticipating an influx of customers from around the globe whenever a ship docks.
In a bid to position Vancouver as more than just a cruise port but a vibrant tourist destination, VFPA and Destination Vancouver have been actively promoting the city’s diverse offerings to visitors.
Jarrett Vaughan, an adjunct professor at UBC Sauder School of Business, stressed the importance of supporting the tourism industry’s growth by embracing developments in accommodations and event venues.
Vaughan emphasized the cruise industry’s pivotal role in driving economic prosperity, benefiting various sectors like hospitality and entertainment while boosting tax revenues and providing employment opportunities in the region.
As passengers boarded the ship, CityNews caught up with a pair of excited sisters who were looking forward to a carefree and joyous voyage.
