Port Saint John celebrated the conclusion of another favorable cruise season on Nov. 4, 2024.

With 74 cruise ship calls spanning seven months, the season boasted 163,251 passengers and 68,865 crew members visiting the Bay of Fundy region, the port said in a press release.

“We’re proud of the far-reaching impact that cruise tourism has throughout our entire Bay of Fundy region,” says Craig Bell Estabrooks, president and CEO at Port Saint John.

“It’s undeniable that our mainstay cruise sector has been a driving force behind the revitalized Saint John waterfront we’re enjoying today,” added Estabrooks.

Natalie Allaby, director of cruise excellence at Port Saint John, said: “Our successful 2024 cruise season is a testament to the strong collaboration between our port team, cruise line customers, sector stakeholders and our welcoming local community.”

“Together, once again, we showcased our vibrant Bay of Fundy region and ensured that every cruise guest had an unforgettable experience,” added Allaby.

According to the port, 2024 featured many unique milestones and highlights, including 11 overnight calls, 10 inaugural calls, 15 double ship days and six triple ship days.

This year also saw the grand openings of Ihtoli-maqahamok / The Gathering Space and Long Wharf Landing on Harbour Passage.

The AREA 506 Waterfront Container Village, adjacent to the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal, installed several additional passenger experience enhancements, including village-wide art installations and a large selfie mural showcasing the story of the Bay of  Fundy tides.

2024 also marked the groundbreaking of a new provincial museum. Set to open in  2027, the New Brunswick Museum will provide further cultural attractions.

Cruise tourism generated an estimated $68 million in economic impact for the province of New Brunswick, the port added.

Preparations are underway for January’s release of the 2025 season schedule.