The port of Gaspe in Quebec will see 31 calls for the 2017 cruise season, according to Escale Gaspésie.

Those 31 calls represent international cruise lines, and in addition are 11 domestic calls and four visits from tall ships, adding up to over 40,000 passengers.

“This year’s cruise season is going to be remarkable in more ways than one,” said Bruno Bernatchez, acting chairman of the board of directors. He noted an increasing portfolio of international cruise ships calling, and the presence of the tall ships for the 150th anniversary of Canada celebration.

The season kicks off on May 24 with the Pearl Mist calling, and ends with the Mariner on October 24.

Stéphane Sainte-Croix, executive director, said: “Six months of ship calls is very important for the visibility of our industry and its benefits. From an organizational stand point, 2017 marks an important step forward in achieving our objectives  for the development of the spring-summer season segment. It is a motivating factor and quite exciting for the organization.”

Three cruise ships will make first time visits: Le Soleal, the Silver Muse and the Crown Princess.

Six days on the calendar feature double ship calls.