The Port of Vancouver (BC Canada) is on track for a record-breaking cruise season, according to mid-year figures released by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.
Between March 30th and June 30th, 2024, 554,546 passengers passed through the Canada Place cruise terminal, marking the highest mid-year performance in the port’s history. This represents a 13% increase over the previous mid-year record of 490,119 passengers, set in 2023.
The port also saw its second busiest day ever on April 29th, when ~20,000 passengers transited through Canada Place. Notably, 5 of the terminal’s 10 busiest days on record occurred in April, May, and June this year.
In an effort to enhance efficiency, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, introduced facial biometrics technology in June 2024. This system is expected to improve the processing of high volumes of cruise passengers as it rolls out fully in early 2024.
Peter Xotta, president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, said:
“Cruise continues to thrive in Vancouver - and this is testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the local industry as much as it is to the region’s natural beauty.
“Being a homeport destination where cruise lines base their ships for the Alaska season means benefits are spread throughout the region, from local food and beverage suppliers to ship fuel and repair providers to downtown restaurants and hotels.”