Economics

The Facts

• Cruise related activity in Canada generates substantial economic growth.
• During the 2019 cruise season, Canadian ports received more than 3 million passengers on hundreds of cruise calls. 

The Figures

• Direct spending by cruise lines in Canada totaled $1.99 billion in 2019, including items such as goods and services necessary for cruise operations, shore-side staffing, port fees & services, equipment, and advertising & promotion a 36% over 2016.
• Direct spending by cruise passengers – including lodging, tours & transportation, food & beverage, and retail – totaled just nearly $780 million dollars in 2019, a 55% increase since 2016.
• The number of jobs generated by the industry in Canada – direct and indirect – is estimated at just over 30,000 a 32% increase over 2016, paying $1.4 billion in salaries and wages a 44% increase over 2016.

Economic Benefits to the Canadian Economy

Spending by cruise passengers and crew:

• shore excursions
• restaurants
• retail goods
• travel to and from the port
• hotels and entertainment before and after the voyage

Spending by the cruise lines to maintain cruise operations:

• food and beverage
• port services
• fuel
• vessel maintenance and repair 

Shore-side benefits:

• local employment
• land transportation for passengers and crew
• supporting local tourism