For the first time in its history, the Port of Québec welcomed cruise ships from the depths of winter to the peak of fall, marking an exceptionally long and varied 2025 cruise season. Between January 28 and November 2, the Port saw international cruises calling almost every month, cementing Québec City’s status as a true year-round destination.
The 2025 season built on the momentum of previous years, confirming Québec City’s stability and appeal as a cruise destination on the St. Lawrence. From January to November, the Port of Québec welcomed nearly 140,000 cruise passengers on 103 calls made by 35 different ships from 22 different lines. It was also the first or last port of call for 21 cruises, speaking to cruise lines’ continued confidence in the Port and its passenger experience.
This first cruise season to stretch from the depths of winter to the peak of fall reflects the transformation of the Port of Québec. By spreading the season out, we’re showing that our Port can be a major contributor to the development of winter tourism in the Capitale-Nationale. Together, with our partners and teams, we’re shaping a port that lives up to our vision for Québec City: ambitious, with our eyes firmly on the horizon.
The arrival of the Ponant Commandant Charcot was a fitting start for this season. The polar class expedition vessel arrived in Québec City in January, allowing passengers to see the city in its winter finest – an experience like no other on the St. Lawrence. The line has also confirmed that the Commandant Charcot will be returning to Québec City in 2027, a sign of the strength of the partnership and renewed interest in Québec winters.
The 2025 season also saw the arrival of Virgin Voyages, which chose Québec City to welcome its newest ship, the Brilliant Lady. The Port also saw several other maiden calls by ships like the Celebrity Silhouette, the Seven Seas Splendor, the Oceania Cruises Allura, and the Princess Cruises Majestic Princess, further testifying to the destination’s growing appeal to major names in the industry.
(Photo of Brilliant Lady of Virgin Voyages)