Cruise milestone celebrated in Victoria
10 millionth cruise visitors welcomed to Victoria
VICTORIA, BC, August 16, 2023 – Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) welcomed the 10 millionth cruise passengers to The Breakwater District at Ogden Point on Wednesday, August 16, 2023. The passengers arrived on the Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth cruise ship, marking 54 years of cruise ships visiting Victoria.
The cruise industry has grown since the first cruise ship arrived in 1969. “Ten million cruise visitors to Victoria is an incredible milestone. Cruise supports the region’s visitor economy and creates jobs that support Victoria’s economic recovery. Engineers, entrepreneurs, accountants, mechanics and others are employed due to cruise tourism in Victoria, with salaries totalling over $40 million annually,” said Robert Lewis-Manning, CEO of GVHA.
Each year, cruise visitors and crew contribute $56 million to the local economy, purchasing tours and local transportation, retail goods and food and beverages. Cruise lines spend $84 million on warehousing, ship agents, repairs and maintenance, port fees and docking services.
“Victoria welcomes and celebrates its 10 millionth cruise ship passenger,” said Mayor Marianne Alto. “The cruise industry is a valued and vital part of a regional visitor industry that continues to create countless career opportunities and support the livelihood of Victorians,” Alto added.
Two couples stepped off the Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth this morning and were presented with a gift courtesy of the Bay Centre. Industry partners and stakeholders gathered at the port of Victoria to welcome these guests. “We’ve been married for 14 years, and we came on this trip to renew our vow,” said Emma Lonergan, a passenger from the UK.
“Victoria is a world-class city because it has something for everyone, from natural beauty, heritage and architecture to fabulous dining options and a warm community,” said Matt Gleaves, Vice President, Commercial, Cunard North America. “It is a much-loved highlight of Cunard’s voyages in this part of the world and holds great appeal for Cunard’s guests as well as from our sister brands across our corporation.”
The Economic Impact Study containing data about the local industry created by cruise ships is available at gvha.ca.
Photo caption from left to right: Lindsay Gaunt (Director of Cruise Development, GVHA); Robert Lewis-Manning (CEO, GVHA); passengers Ryan and Rebecca Fairchild; Darlene Hollstein (GM, Bay Centre & Destination Greater Victoria Board Chair); passengers Emma, Liam and Ava Lonergan; Marianne Alto (Victoria Mayor); Kevin Boag (Hotel General Manager, Queen Elizabeth, Cunard).
-30-
About the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority
Greater Victoria Harbour Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that is committed to the stewardship and sustainable growth of Victoria’s dynamic working harbour. GVHA owns and operates several high-profile community amenities, including the Ogden Point Breakwater, Inner Harbour lower causeway, Fisherman’s Wharf and Ship Point Pier. GVHA is certified as a Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business Silver Member. Silver members recognize the value of working with Indigenous communities and showing outcomes that have made a difference, including investment in communities, people, employment programs and business partnerships.
Media Contact
Stella F. Garcia | Greater Victoria Harbour Authority
Manager, Communications