Princess Cruises announced that for the first time ever it will call at Yorktown-Williamsburg (Virginia's Historic Triangle that also includes Jamestown), as part of summer 2024 custom-curated itineraries themed on the region's colonial history.
Princess is planning a total of 5 (day-long) calls with two ships - 3x by Island Princess and 2x by Emerald Princess. The scheduled visits will significantly boost the region's economy.
Additional details, such as specific sailing itineraries, dates, and shore excursions, are due to be announced in the coming weeks.
John Padgett (company's President) said Princess was already well known for their unique itineraries that appealed to their guests who gravitated toward interesting cultural and historical opportunities and Yorktown was perfectly in tune with that philosophy, "offering not only a glimpse at the Revolutionary War but also dining, shopping and activity options with wide-ranging appeal. It's a win-win for everyone."
Padgett added that the new itineraries were even more significant as interest built ahead of festivities across Virginia to commemorate the 250th anniversaries of the Revolutionary War and the Declaration of Independence.
Kristi Olsen-Hayes, Director, York County Economic & Tourism Development said their community was rooted in history and was an important part of the visitor mix. They were honored that Princess saw the value in bringing their tourists to Yorktown.
"Additional visitors coming to our area via the cruise line would contribute to the region's economy, benefiting retail, restaurants, and regional attractions, as well as generating revenue for both the Commonwealth and multiple local governments."
As the first major cruise line to call on the region, Princess appreciates the significant role it plays in boosting tourism. As it does with other homeport/port of call communities, the line revealed it will work with local tour operators in order to showcase the attributes of the fascinating historical region while benefiting locals.