The Port of Montreal announced it is expecting 46,000 cruise passengers for the fall foliage season, extending from August 31 through October 22 with 29 ships expected to dock at the temporary cruise terminal located in Eastern Montréal and at the McKay pier in Old Montréal. A new terminal is under construction and will be open for the 2017 season.
The big day before then, however, will be October 1 when the port will have three ships berthed at once.
Among first time calls this fall is the Azamara Quest, which is calling on Sept. 23, as well as the Regent Seven Seas Mariner, which is making two visits to the port. Another highlight is a Sept. 17 visit from the Europa 2.
“Cruises account for a major economic sector in the tourism industry. That’s why we have developed promotional campaigns to position Montréal as an essential stop for cruise lines. The Montréal Cruise Committee will continue its promotional efforts to encourage tourists to stay in Montréal before or after their cruises. The goal is to exceed our tourism projections for 2017,” said Yves Lalumière, President and CEO of Tourisme Montréal.
We are really noticing the financial impact from these passengers, which has been significant since last year. As soon as a cruise ship docks in Montréal, local businesses benefit with increased sales. It’s very positive for our economy,” said Mario Lafrance, General Manager of Vieux-Montréal SDC and member of the Montréal Cruise Committee.
Due to restoration work on the Alexandra pier and Iberville maritime terminal, most cruise operations will take place on piers 34 to 37, located approximately seven kilometres east of Old Montréal.
“Everyone at the Montréal Port Authority and the Montréal Cruise Committee has made a major effort to ensure that cruise lines and passengers receive outstanding quality service and the warm welcome that Montréal is known for. We are very pleased with the positive feedback we received during the first half of the season and we are ready for the large volumes of passengers expected during the high season,” said Sylvie Vachon, President and CEO of the Port of Montréal.
