Author - Jennifer

Setting Sail Into 2024

Following the tremendous achievements of the 2023 cruise season, the Port of Corner Brook is well-positioned for further growth and anticipates achieving significant milestones again this year. The Carnival Pride, making its maiden call on June 5th, will officially launch the 2024 season.

The Port of Corner Brook has thirty-eight scheduled cruise ship calls, with a capacity of 57,000 passengers and 24,000 crew. Aligning with Atlantic Canada’s highly sought-after fall foliage, the peak season will occur in September and October. Originating from England, Germany, Norway, and the United States, passengers from thirteen unique cruise lines will embark on the experience of a lifetime: touring our coastal and rural communities and embracing Newfoundland’s culture, history, and hospitality. The Port of Corner Brook expects eleven inaugural visits and three double-ship days throughout the season with remarkable numbers expected for early fall.

“As the Port’s Cruise Marketing Coordinator, I am thrilled to announce that the Sky Princess and the Norwegian Jade are expected on September 21st, with a combined capacity of more than 6,000 passengers. With the energy and excitement these ships bring, we anticipate surpassing the Port’s single-day passenger record of 4,240 set by the MSC Meraviglia in 2019. Strategically aligning with the City’s Colours of Corner Brook Festival, this day promises to be a momentous occasion for the Port and downtown core, showcasing our ability to accommodate and delight cruise guests. We’re ready to welcome them with open arms and ensure an unforgettable experience.” Patti Ricketts, Cruise Marketing Coordinator

Spanning 316 metres, the Mein Schiff I will be the longest vessel and the Sky Princess, weighing 141,000 metric tonnes, will be the heaviest. The departure of the Insignia on November 1st will signify the end of the 2024 cruise season.

Photo by Dru Kennedy.

The Port extends its gratitude to its regional stakeholders for their steadfast support and invaluable contributions in fostering a welcoming environment for cruise guests. Local businesses looking to enhance their engagement in cruise tourism are encouraged to join the Cruise Network Committee.  

Established over a decade ago, this committee comprises community representatives who share a common goal of enhancing the cruise guest experience. By becoming part of the Cruise Network Committee, you’ll have the opportunity to actively shape the trajectory of cruise tourism in our area, leveraging your insights and passion to create unforgettable experiences for visitors. Let’s continue strengthening our commitment to hospitality and tourism excellence.

A detailed copy of the 2024 cruise schedule can be found here.

Corner Brook Port Corporation (CBPC) is an independent, community-based organization providing high-quality ocean transportation and distribution services through strategic partnerships. Its vision is to create economic value by connecting Western Newfoundland globally through tourism and trade. The Corporation achieves this through its three lines of business: industrial port operations, real estate, and cruise tourism.

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2024 Port Tariff

Notice of Tariff Amendments

The Corner Brook Port Corporation Board of Directors has approved the following proposed tariff amendments that will take effect on March 1, 2024. General tariffs increase by 3% overall with the following exception:

Berthage ChargesThree-year incremental increase.
Passenger TariffIncrease to $8.25 flat rate for all passengers (adults and children).
Security FeeSecurity fee increasing to $32.00 per hour, up by $2.

The Port of Corner Brook tariff document detailing the rates, charges, rules and regulations is available online at www.cornerbrookport.com and may also be obtained from the Port Corporation upon request at 709-634-6600.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the amendments of the tariff rates and fee, please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Crane, Business Development Manager, at jcrane@cornerbrookport.com.

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Port of Corner Brook Sets New Records

We are pleased to announce that the 2023 cruise season was a recording-breaking year for the Port of Corner Brook. Between June 30 and November 3, we welcomed 16 vessels into the port for an impressive 28 calls.

Our portfolio for the 2023 season was diverse, ranging in size from nimble expedition ships and world-class luxury ships to classic, well-loved cruise ships.

With the help of our partners and stakeholders, we have created lasting memories of Newfoundland for 40,948 passengers and 20,246 well-traveled crew members. These numbers represent a dramatic increase of 58% and 36%, respectively, from the 2022 season.

The Port of Corner Brook has made significant investments to elevate its cruise tourism offerings, amenities, and shoreside experiences. Throughout the 2022 and 2023 seasons, the port constructed seven market sheds with accessibility features, enhanced signage incorporating diverse cultural and artistic elements, and introduced designated selfie spots. Additionally, the port has established supplementary seating areas to augment the overall visitor experience. As part of this comprehensive project, the port acquired a new gangway and floating dock, enabling the port to sustain its international container service operations while seamlessly receiving cruise passengers at the port.

“Thanks to the invaluable support from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, we’ve successfully transformed our dockside experience through the cruise enhancement project. Disembarking passengers now enjoy an immediate welcome at our vibrant vendors market, enhanced information kiosk, and additional seating areas—all made possible through this collaborative effort.” Jackie Chow, Chief Executive Officer.

2023 was nothing short of a celebration. The Port of Corner Brook successfully welcomed six inaugural calls, facilitated three double ship days, and commemorated the 150th anniversary of the Holland America Line with visitors of the Zaandam.

This cruise season also marked a significant milestone as the port celebrated the arrival of its 300,000th passenger since the commencement of cruising in Corner Brook in 1976. The Port of Corner Brook also set a provincial record for the highest number of cruise passengers in a single season among all ports in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“The arrival of our 300,000th cruise passenger is a momentous occasion. These significant passenger increases and milestones reflect the resilience and growth we’ve experienced since the inception of cruising in Corner Brook, highlighting our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for travellers.” Jennifer Crane, Business Development Manager.

The port secured two unexpected bookings during the Thanksgiving weekend. As a result, from October 7th to 9th, we welcomed more than 14,000 passengers and crew, an impressive 23% of our total visitors for the season. The positive feedback from cruise passengers undoubtedly reflects the community’s hospitality and openness.

The economic benefits generated by the local cruise industry extend across diverse sectors, leaving a profound impact on the community. Increased cruise tourists spark economic activity, benefitting many sectors including retail, transportation, security, and various small business owners. We estimate that the total economic impact for the region is $14.1 million between direct and indirect expenditures.

As cruising grows in popularity and gains momentum worldwide, it is unsurprising that our 2024 cruise season reflects continued growth. 

“Although it is too early to disclose the 2024 schedule at this time, we can confidently say that we anticipate a considerable increase in port calls and passenger and crew numbers. We are pleased by the anticipated growth and deeply grateful for the dedication and commitment of our community and stakeholders in supporting and fostering cruise tourism in the region. The collective effort to ensure the industry’s continued success and expansion is inspiring.” Patti Ricketts, Cruise Marketing Coordinator.

Corner Brook Port Corporation (CBPC) is an independent and community-based organization that provides high-quality ocean transportation and distribution services through strategic partnerships. Its vision is to create economic value by connecting Western Newfoundland globally through tourism and trade. The Corporation achieves this through its three lines of business: industrial port operations, real estate, and cruise tourism.

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Job Opportunity at the Port of Corner Brook

Cruise Marketing Coordinator

Job Type: full-time, permanent

Salary: $55,000-65,000

Location: Corner Brook, NL

Due to the Port of Corner Brook’s significant business growth, there is an immediate need to expand the team. The Corner Brook Port Corporation (CBPC) is seeking a dynamic and motivated Cruise Marketing Coordinator. Reporting to the Business Development Manager (BDM), the ideal candidate will play a crucial role in supporting the planning, execution, and analysis of the cruise line of business. This role requires an outgoing person who can collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, communicate clearly, and contribute to the growth of the port’s cruise business.

Key Responsibilities:

  • oversee the planning and coordinating of cruise-related events and attending trade shows and exhibitions to showcase our offerings and engage with cruise lines, while enhancing the Corporation’s profile.
  • Represent CBPC on various industry boards and committees and participates in meetings.
  • establish good working relationships with cruise line executives, ship agents, itinerary planners, reservation agents, and tour operators.
  • oversee the hiring and training of annual cruise staff and manage operations during cruise ship visits.
  • prepare and give PowerPoint presentations and write reports including funding proposals, annual reports, marketing report, etc.
  • identify potential partnerships and promotional opportunities to enhance the visibility of our cruise offerings and expand our reach.
  • manage the port’s social media accounts, creating and scheduling posts, monitoring engagement, and responding to comments and messages.
  • create compelling and engaging content for cruise marketing materials, including brochures, website content, and social media posts.
  • assist BDM with tasks related to the industrial and real estate lines of business, such as tracking cargo statistics and other reporting.
  • perform other duties including but not limited to data entry, answering phones, scheduling meetings, and addressing general inquiries.

Qualifications and Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in marketing, Business, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in marketing, preferably in the travel or hospitality industry.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in social media platforms and content management systems.
  • Detail-oriented and well-organized, capable of multitasking and meeting deadlines.
  • Knowledge of cruise industry and tourism are a plus.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Flexibility to travel and participate in events as needed.

About CBPC

CBPC is an independent and community-based organization that provides high-quality ocean transportation and distribution services through strategic partnerships. Its vision is to create economic value by connecting Western Newfoundland globally through tourism and trade. The Corporation achieves this through its three lines of business: industrial port operations, real estate, and cruise tourism.

To Apply

If you are interested in joining our team, we encourage you to submit your application in person, by mail or email. CBPC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We strive to create a culture of inclusivity where individuals feel comfortable and empowered to contribute their unique talents and skills to our team.

Please enclose a cover letter, resume and two references.

Email: applicants@cornerbrookport.com

Deadline to apply: August 15, 2023 by 12:00pm

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Safe Boating Around Large Vessels

As Corner Brook welcomes the cruise industry for the 2023 season, there will be plenty of large vessels using the Bay of Islands over the next few months. Along with the weekly arrival of container ships, the Port of Corner Brook has 29 cruise ship calls scheduled to arrive.

Transport Canada’s “Safe Boating Guide” provides important guidelines to follow when operating small boats like canoes, kayaks, or jet skis. To ensure safety on the water, it is important for all watercraft operators to prioritize safety as the Bay of Islands sees an uptick in vessel traffic. Regulations and guidelines exist to help boaters navigate shared waterways and mitigate potential risks associated with operating alongside larger vessels. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Always watch for others on the water and be ready to yield to large vessels in the safest way – keeping a fair distance away from larger vessels at all times. Use radar and radio if you have them.
  • Wear a Canadian-approved lifejacket or PFD (inflatable PFDs are not allowed). Choose a bright colour for better visibility.
  • Navigate in groups of other small boats, when possible, to be more visible.
  • Stay off the water in fog or high winds and be aware of changing wind conditions.
  • Stay clear of docked vessels, vessels in transit, vessels in tow and working fishing vessels.

Blind spots on large vessels can be dangerous as pleasure craft boats or other objects may not be visible from their perspective. This can put small motorized and non-motorized boats at risk when approaching. It’s critical for small pleasure craft boats to remain at a safe distance from large boats, as their power and reduced maneuverability can pose a real threat to others in the water. It takes a significant distance for large vessels to come to a complete stop, so it’s essential that smaller boats yield to them. This is especially important as the engines of large vessels create strong underwater currents which can capsize smaller boats or pull them under the larger vessel. To avoid these potentially dangerous situations, it’s imperative that operators of smaller vessels maintain a safe distance from larger ones.

Staying out of the shipping channel is important for safety and to avoid disrupting the flow of marine traffic. Vessels that stray into the shipping channel risk colliding with other boats, causing accidents, and potentially harming people and the environment. To avoid confrontation within the shipping lane, it’s beneficial for operators of smaller boats to be aware of the signals made by large vessels to aid communication. A large vessel will remind you to give way by giving five or more short blasts of its horn. Additionally, disrupting the flow of marine traffic can cause delays and economic losses for businesses that rely on shipping. It is essential to follow proper navigation rules and stay clear of the shipping channel to ensure a safe and efficient waterway for all.

It is crucial to comply with Transport Canada regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for both large vessels and smaller watercraft (pleasure crafts) over the upcoming months.

Transport Canada’s “Safe Boating Guide” can be found at the following link (https://tc.canada.ca/sites/default/files/migrated/tp_511e.pdf)

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Notice of AGM

Join us for the Annual General Meeting of the Corner Brook Port Corporation on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at 5 pm. The meeting will take place in the second-level boardroom of the R. A. Pollett Building, located at 61 Riverside Drive. All members are welcome to attend. RSVP required. Please contact Jennifer Hartley at 709-634-6600 or jhartley@cornerbrookport.com.

Current Agenda

  • Greetings from Chair
  • Introduction of Board and Staff
  • Adoption of Agenda
  • Approval of Junw 23, 2022 AGM Minutes
  • Approval of 2022 Financial Statements
  • 2022 Annual Report
  • Appointment of Auditor
  • Presentation on CBPC
  • Other business
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Cruise Market – Call for Vendors

The Corner Brook Port Corporation is committed to creating a robust market with inspired entrepreneurs, marketing and selling a versatile mix of products so that we provide the best experience for cruise passengers. Our reputation for having the friendliest people and excellent market offerings gives us a significant advantage.

Photo: Scott Grant, RONIN Photography

Location & Shed Specifications

The cruise market will remain on the south part of the dock for the 2023 season. As passengers disembark, they will walk through the market and again upon returning to the ship. When a ship is at anchor, passengers will tender into the floating dock, proceed up the gangway, and walk along the strategically placed barricades toward the market before they can exit the dock.

The port has two available sheds both 12’x12’ in size for the 2023 season. All sheds are equipped with electricity, windows, and two entrances to minimize congestion and increase the fluidity in the flow of customers in and out of the sheds.

The Corner Brook Port Corporation does not supply tables, shelving, or other accessories for vendors to display their products. Before installing any permanent fixture inside or outside the shed, vendors must seek permission written to the Corner Brook Port Corporation’s business development manager.

Application and Selection

The Corner Brook Port Corporation will examine all submitted application and determine which vendors and products best represent our overarching goals for the cruise market. Following a review of applications from past vendors and if we have any remaining space available, we will welcome and review external applications. Price to rent a 12′ x 12′ shed for the full season is $1,680.00 + HST.

Application should be emailed to contact@cornerbrokport.com

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Summer Job Opportunity

Position: Project Administration Officer – CSJ

Joy Type: full-time (12 weeks)

Hourly Wage: $18.00

Location: Corner Brook, NL

Tasks and Responsibilities: Reporting to the business development manager, the project administration officer will help co-ordinate and plan the 2023 cruise season. The successful candidate will:

  • Assist with the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the cruise program at the Port of Corner Brook including the cruise welcome program, shuttle bus service, tour operations, security, and health and safety protocols.
  • Supervise staff and the overall operations during cruise ship visits.
  • Monitor and provide regular updates to the Corporation’s social media channels.
  • Assemble data and prepare special reports, manuals, and correspondence.
  • Oversee and co-ordinate office administrative procedures.
  • Complete other administrative duties including but not limited to data entry, answering phones, scheduling meetings, organizing files, and addressing general inquiries.

Position Requirement: The ideal candidate is an indigenous youth, currently enrolled in a post-secondary institution studying business, marketing or a similar program. The requirements of this position also include:

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and stakeholder engagement.
  • Proficient in MS Office and various social media platforms, and familiar with website content management systems such as WordPress.
  • Strong attention to detail, prioritization, problem solving and organizational skills.
  • Supervisory experience, working with volunteers and/or marketing experience preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to take initiative and work independently to complete assignments with minimal direction.

Eligibility: This position is funded by the Canada Summer Jobs program. The successful candidate must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the grant.

  • Between the ages of 15 and 30 years of age
  • Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
  • Valid Social Insurance Number
  • Legally entitled to work in Canada

How to Apply: Applicates must email a cover letter and resume to applicants@cornerbrookport.com. Application deadline is Friday, May 19 at 4:30 pm.

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Call for Shuttle Bus Proposals

Photograph by Scott Grant, Ronin Photography

The Port of Corner Brook cruise program is serviced by regular shuttles to and from the port and downtown. This is a complementary service that is provided to cruise guests and crew free of charge.

The Corner Brook Port Corporation (CBPC) invites proposals from qualified transportation companies to provide a shuttle bus service for the 2023 cruise season. Proposals must be submitted by email, fax or in-person. The deadline for proposals is Wednesday, April 5.

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Port of Corner Brook expecting record cruise season

The Port of Corner Brook has record bookings for the 2023 cruise season, following a celebratory post-pandemic return to cruise in 2022. 

The 2022 cruise season results exceeded expectations following a two-year pause due to COVID-19 restrictions. The season concluded with 23 cruise ship calls carrying almost 26,000 passengers, up 3.25% from 2019. “Expecting ship capacities would be down, we didn’t anticipate reaching 2019 numbers in the first year of cruise resumption, but I’m happy to report that we surpassed these results,” says Jennifer Hartley, Business Development Manager. The cruise industry provides significant economic value to the region and is essential to the tourism sector. Contributing to the overall success for 2022 was the increase of cruise ship occupancy rate throughout the year as COVID-19 restrictions eased, and consumer confidence in the industry returned. The total ‘spend’ from cruise lines and the 40,879 cruise guests and crew combined with indirect expenditures resulted in a estimated total economic impact for the region of $8.6 million for the 2022 season. 

The focus for the 2022 season was to ensure the safe resumption of the local cruise sector for passengers, crew, port staff and, of course, the community. Creating a positive experience for all stakeholders was a crucial component in helping to make this season a success. During the pandemic, the Port of Corner Brook launched a weekly international container service which would affect the berthing schedule and the cruise welcome program. Throughout last season, the Port added many new upgrades including a 100 ft tender dock and gangway that is positioned along the south part of the wharf to allow vessels to tender guests to shore when the berth is unavailable. Tendering is a standard service in the cruise industry and enables the Port of Corner Brook to be more flexible with berth reservations. We saw three cruise ships take advantage of this service and currently have four cruise ships booked at anchor for next season. 

The Regent Seven Seas Navigator will return in May 2023, officially kicking off the Port of Corner Brook cruise season in their first of five calls. The largest ship to call the Port is the Norwegian Joy, which is 333 metres long, carries 3,800 passengers along with 1800 crew and will make three calls this season. Marking the end of the cruise season will be the Oceania Cruises’ Insignia on November 3. 

“We are pleased to release the 2023 cruise schedule, which features 32 cruise ship calls, six maiden voyages and four double ship days. As we prepare for another busy season, we hope to further transform the passenger experience through additional infrastructure enhancements, and we look forward to our future growth in the industry.”       

Jackie Chow, CEO, Corner Brook Port Corporation

The Port of Corner Brook continues to make improvements to ensure the passengers and crew enjoy the shoreside experience. We look forward to working with our cruise partners and stakeholders to ensure another successful year. From the local businesses to the volunteers, our community continues to come together to provide a warm welcome and positive atmosphere for cruise tourists. Once again, we encourage community members to reach out to see how they can get involved.   

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