By
Alex Smith |
Cruise Newfoundland and Labrador has reported a record 2025 cruise season for the Canadian province, running from 16 January to 22 October and becoming the longest in its history.
During the season, the province hosted a mix of contemporary, expedition and luxury cruise lines operating Canada–New England, Arctic, transatlantic and circumnavigation itineraries.
In total, more than 180 cruise ship calls were recorded across 24 ports and destinations, including 22 calls to Saint-Pierre et Miquelon. Nearly 100,000 passengers and more than 40,000 crew members went ashore during the season, supporting cruise-related activity in both urban centres and smaller coastal communities.
“Cruise continues to be an important driver of economic activity for communities across Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Katelyn Budgell, managing director of Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador. “The 2025 season demonstrated the strength of our product, the value of collaboration across ports and communities, and the growing demand for immersive, place-based experiences that our province delivers so well.”
“The 2025 cruise season was a very positive one for the Port of St. John’s, with strong vessel activity highlighted by nine inaugural calls, eight turnarounds, and several overnight stays,” said Bob McCarthy, vice president of development at Port of St. John’s and past chair of Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador. “These extended visits allowed guests to fully experience the destination and continue to reinforce St. John’s role as a key gateway delivering a high-quality guest experience.”
Key milestones during the 2025 season included the province’s first winter cruise calls in Corner Brook and Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, a record year for cruise activity in St. Anthony, and the addition of two newly certified cruise ports at Trinity and Bonavista. The season also featured a province-wide circumnavigation itinerary operated by Adventure Canada, calling at 15 destinations in a single sailing.
“Cruise visitors in 2025 brought a welcome boost to Corner Brook, with several ships making their inaugural visits and supporting local businesses, restaurants, and tour operators,” said Glenda Simms, supervisor of tourism for the City of Corner Brook and director of Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador. “These visits showcased our city as a vibrant and welcoming destination, and we’re especially proud to host our first-ever winter cruise, giving more visitors the chance to experience all our region has to offer.”
The year also saw the introduction of a remote digital clearance pilot programme, developed in collaboration with federal partners, aimed at streamlining vessel clearance procedures and expanding cruise access to remote and northern communities. Early adoption supported new and expanded calls in Labrador and improved operational flexibility for cruise operators.