Port of Québec cruise numbers continue to climb

In 2018 the port welcomed 230,940 passengers, a nearly 15% increase over the 200,000 in 2017. The port's goal is 400,000 passengers by 2025.

Cruise calls reached a record 156 including 14 turnarounds. Eight ships made maiden calls, including Disney Magic in September.

Economic impact

The cruise industry has significant impact on tourism in the Québec City region. A study conducted in April 2017 by Business Research & Economic Advisors estimated the impact at more than $221m for the province, while the impact on Québec City was estimated at $106m, including $73m in cruise line spending and $30m in passenger spending.

'Anyone who’s had the opportunity to sail the St. Lawrence knows that when you arrive in Québec City by water, you’re treated to one of the most beautiful views in our region,' said André Roy, director of Québec City Tourism. 'It’s a view that’s on par with the world’s most beautiful tourist destinations. But it’s more than just the breathtaking scenery—our hospitality and service are what make us the best Canadian port in the Canada/New England market today. The entire region benefits from the long-term economic impact generated by cruise ship passengers and crew members, not to mention the interest that the arrival of these ships generates among the region’s residents.'

Best Canada/New England Port Award

This month, Québec City received the Best Canada/New England Port Award from Porthole magazine as part of its 20th annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

'The Port of Québec is extremely honored to be recognized as the best port in the Canada/New England market,' said Mario Girard, president and CEO of the Port of Québec. 'This recognition is a testament to our ongoing efforts to improve our operations and make the customer experience a priority.'

Partnership for growth

Port development projects will accommodate future industry growth.

Following Québec City’s International Cruise Forum in February 2014, the city’s economic and tourism community rallied together to support the continued growth of the cruise industry with a goal of welcoming 400,000 passengers by 2025. The port and its partners have been actively developing cruise business and their efforts have succeeded in bringing Québec City closer to its objective every year.

These efforts spring from the partnership among the port, the city, Québec City Tourism, Secrétariat à la Capitale-Nationale and Chambre de commerce de Québec, Cruise the St. Lawrence and the Ministry of Tourism.

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