The 2024 cruise season in Victoria concluded on Ocober 30th as the Norwegian Jewel became the last ship to dock at Ogden Point, marking the 316th cruise arrival in British Columbia’s capital this year. The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) reported that ~970,000 visitors had come to Victoria over the season, underscoring the city's popularity as a cruise destination.
Despite a successful season, the GVHA noted several operational challenges. A key issue was the late arrival of many ships, with a number docking after 6:00 p.m. This timing often meant that downtown businesses were already closed, limiting passengers’ opportunities to explore fully. Emily Henchey, owner of Hidden Victoria Tours, commented on the impact of these late arrivals on local businesses, including her own walking tours. Henchey noted that many establishments, such as those in Chinatown and Fan Tan Alley, were closed by the time passengers disembarked, which limited the city’s vibrancy for visitors.
The GVHA attributed these late docking times to new global carbon regulations, which have encouraged ships to reduce speed to lower their carbon emissions. Slower cruising has introduced logistical challenges to scheduling, noted GVHA CEO Robert Lewis-Manning, although he added that passenger demand for shore activities in Victoria has remained high. Lewis-Manning also emphasized the authority's ongoing work with BC Hydro on a feasibility study to bring shoreline power to Ogden Point. With an estimated 8-kilometer power extension needed from Topaz Park to the terminal, the project, if realized, could potentially support earlier docking times in the future.
In addition to exploring solutions for shoreline power, the GVHA is working with cruise lines to explore possible adjustments to docking schedules next year. Meanwhile, Henchey and her team have adapted their tours to maximize visitor experience despite the time constraints, incorporating alternative routes through areas like Market Square.
Season 2025 will start earlier than usual, with Victoria BC’s first cruise ship scheduled to dock in early March (2025).