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.
