The Volendam is one of several ships to use shore power technology, which makes it possible for docked vessels to turn off their engines, reducing GHG emissions. In 2023, nine cruise ships connected to the Port of Montreal’s shore power system. 

A Successful Season 

Cruise the Great Lakes (GTGL), which promotes the Great Lakes cruise industry, projects vessels will make nearly 600 port visits this year. An estimated 140,000 cruise passengers are expected to visit the region.  

The regional economic impact generated by cruising is expected to surpass $200 million USD in 2024. Cruise lines operating on the Great Lakes in 2024 include Pearl Seas Cruises, Viking Cruises, St. Lawrence Cruise Lines, Ponant, Hapag-Lloyd and Plantours Cruises. 

“We remain committed to sustaining the vitality of our region’s cruising sector,” said Anna Tanski, tourism director of Cruise the Great Lakes. “In just a decade, the number of cruise passengers has more than doubled, and Great Lakes ports continue to thrive as hubs for visitors. We are focused on maintaining this momentum as we navigate the future.”