Port Saint John has officially wrapped up its 2025 cruise season, marking a year of unprecedented success and regional resilience. The final vessel, Crystal Serenity, docked on November 6, concluding a season that saw a record 83 cruise ships bring nearly 200,000 passengers to the Bay of Fundy.

A Season of Records

Between April and November, Saint John welcomed a total of 196,626 passengers and 81,560 crew members. According to a press release from Port Saint John, this activity solidifies the city’s position as a premier cruise destination. The season also featured five inaugural vessel calls, including the much-anticipated arrival of a ship from the new cruise line, Virgin Voyages.

Resilience Shines During Busiest Week Ever

The port’s busiest week on record occurred between September 29 and October 3. During this intense five-day period, 15 vessels, including some unexpectedly diverted by a hurricane, brought over 32,000 passengers to the city. This test of logistics and hospitality highlighted the strength of the local tourism community.

“Our 2025 cruise season was one full of tests that our tourism partners and cruise operations team passed with flying colours,” said Natalie Allaby, Director of Cruise, Marketing, and Engagement at Port Saint John. “Our focus on elevating the passenger experience continues to pay off, and we salute our cruise community for raising the bar yet again in 2025.”

Boosting the Local Economy

The cruise industry is a significant economic driver for the region. Port Saint John reports that since 1989, it has welcomed over 3.5 million cruise passengers. This activity now generates over $85 million in economic impact across the Bay of Fundy region each year, supporting local businesses, tour operators, and artisans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cruise passengers visited Saint John in 2025?

Saint John welcomed 196,626 cruise passengers during the 2025 season.

What was the busiest period of the 2025 cruise season?

The busiest period was the five-day span from September 29 to October 3, when 15 ships and over 32,000 passengers arrived in the port city.

What is the annual economic impact of the cruise industry on the region?

The cruise sector generates over $85 million in economic impact for the Bay of Fundy region annually.

When did the 2025 cruise season officially end?

The season concluded on November 6, 2025, with the arrival of the Crystal Serenity.