'This new port terminal will allow Trois-Rivières to shine, while positioning itself advantageously to attract and serve international cruise lines,' said Mayor Yves Lévesque, who was accompanied at the opening by Julie Boulet, minister of tourism and minister responsible for the Mauricie Region.
Trois-Rivières has welcomed international cruise ships for the past five years, with more than 9,500 passengers invited to discover the charms of this pretty city nestled at the confluence of three waterways. The city has an 87% satisfaction rating from cruisers.
Innovation et Développement économique Trois-Rivières initiated the process that led to the new terminal, built at a cost of $630,000, with the city of Trois-Rivières contributing $382,000, the Ministère du Tourisme du Québec $168,000 and the Port of Trois-Rivières $80,000.
'I could not be prouder to participate in the inauguration of the Trois-Rivières port terminal, a project supported by my government,' Boulet said. 'Through the tourism plan in our Maritime Strategy, we are aiming to make the St. Lawrence River a world-renowned tourism destination that will be the pride of Québecers, enjoy a high profile among foreign visitors, and reap the considerable economic benefits of sustainable development.'
Gaétan Boivin, president and ceo of the Port of Trois-Rivières, said the money invested in the terminal is in keeping with the port’s goal to facilitate access to the river for citizens and visitors alike and enhance the city-port interface.
In recent years, he added, the port has created Hector-Louis-Langevin Park on the banks of the river and a pedestrian walkway to give easier access to the park.
'All of these improvements further enhance our reputation for hospitality and enable us to surpass our clients’ expectations,' Boivin said.
