2012 proved to be a record year for the number of cruise ships visiting Sept-iles.

Destination Sept-iles Nakauinanu and its three partners in developing the area as an international cruise port of call-the Port of Sept-iles, Ville de Sept-iles, and the lnnu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam Council are pleased to report that five cruise ships docked at the city’s cruise terminal in 2012.

In 2012, more than 230,000 international cruise passengers visited St. Lawrence ports of call, a 50% increase over the previous year, with direct economic spinoffs estimated at over $100 million.

Three ships have already confirmed stopovers in Sept-iles in 2013. The Maasdam, a regular visitor from Holland America Line, will kick off the season on May 14, followed by the Astor on August 15, and return visitor Crystal Symphony on September 28. This year marks the first time a ship will visit during the summer season, thanks to efforts made by CSL and Destination Sept-lies Nakauinanu.

Sept-iles is also looking forward to 2014, with eight visits already confirmed, including stops by newcomers Crystal Serenity iin October (three visits) and Silver Whisper (two visits).

The Maasdam will pay a call in May and October, and the Astor will return for a second summer stopover on July 11.

“This activity clearly shows that the port’s solicitation and development work is paying off and bodes well for continued growth,” said Executive Director Mario Sevigny. He also noted that cruise lines have yet to finish planning their itineraries and that more stops will very likely be added in the coming months.