On the sidelines of the first-ever Montréal Cruise Forum, held Tuesday at the Grand Quai of the Port of Montréal, Tourisme Montréal and the Port of Montréal announced a three-year partnership agreement to support the strategic development of the cruise sector in the city. The event also highlighted the economic impact of the industry and confirmed that Montréal will begin welcoming winter cruises as of 2027–a major milestone in the continued growth of this dynamic sector.
Organized by Croisières Montréal, a joint initiative launched in 2011 by the Port of Montréal and Tourisme Montréal, the Forum brought together over 50 key players from across the tourism, port, institutional, and economic ecosystems of the city.
This renewed collaboration will strengthen and coordinate the efforts of Croisières Montréal to ensure the sustainable growth of the city’s cruise industry.
“This Forum marks a turning point for both Croisières Montréal and Tourisme Montréal. The agreement will help continue positioning our city as a premier cruise destination on the St. Lawrence, while also allowing us to align our efforts around economic development, visitor experience, promotion, and sustainability,” said Yves Lalumière, President and CEO of Tourisme Montréal.
“This long-term agreement reflects our commitment to working hand-in-hand with exceptional partners to ensure Montréal remains a top cruise destination with a competitive, innovative, and sustainable offering,” added Julie Gascon, President and CEO of the Montréal Port Authority.
First winter cruises set for 2027
Among the first key milestones to come out of this renewed partnership, Montréal is set to welcome its very first winter cruises starting in February 2027. This development is made possible thanks to PONANT EXPLORATIONS, which sees strong four-season potential in Montréal as a cruise destination.
Strong economic impact
The Forum also served as the venue for unveiling the results of an on-site survey commissioned by the St. Lawrence Cruise Association and focused on the 2024 season. According to the findings, cruise-related spending in Montréal reached $52.3 million, broken down as follows:
- $38.3 million in direct passenger spending (accommodation, dining, transportation, attractions, shopping), with an average daily spend of $632 per passenger–the highest of any cruise destination along the St. Lawrence.
- $14 million in direct spending by cruise lines (refueling, food, goods, and services).
(Photo of cruise vessel at Port of Montreal)