Charlottetown, PE – Port Charlottetown officially kicks off the 2025 cruise season today with the arrival of the Viking Polaris, marking the start of what is set to be the second-largest season in its history. This milestone reflects Prince Edward Island’s growing status as a premier travel destination.
This year, the Port is expected to welcome more than 131,000 passengers and 57,800 crew, including six inaugural calls and two overnight stays. The season will run from April 19 to November 3, surpassing the historic 2019 season and coming in just behind the record-breaking numbers of 2024.
The early start to the cruise season highlights increasing demand for Prince Edward Island as a spring and summer destination, helping extend the cruise tourism calendar beyond the traditional fall foliage period and creating new opportunities for local operators and businesses.
“The return of cruise season is always an exciting time for our community,” said Kelly Murphy, Director of Cruise Development at Port Charlottetown. “This year’s schedule reflects the growing global demand for Prince Edward Island as a must-visit destination on the Canada–New England itinerary. It’s a testament to the strength of our tourism industry and the dedicated people behind it—our operators, businesses, and community partners—who help create unforgettable experiences for every guest who comes ashore.”
Coady Campbell, owner and operator of The Water Prince Corner Shop, echoed that enthusiasm: “The cruise season is a highlight for us every year. It brings so many visitors eager to experience the best of PEI, and it’s always a pleasure to be part of that journey,” said Campbell. “For us, it’s not just about serving a meal—it’s about sharing our Island’s story and the spirit of hospitality that defines us. Every season, we see the lasting impact these visitors have on our community and economy, and we’re proud to play a part.”
Cruise visitors are drawn to Prince Edward Island not only for its iconic red cliffs, sandy beaches, and delicious local cuisine, but also for something even more meaningful: its people.
“What sets PEI apart is the feeling visitors get the moment they arrive—it’s genuine, it’s warm, and it’s lasting,” Murphy added. “That spirit has made us a leader in tourism, and we’re incredibly proud to share it with visitors from around the world once again this season.”
To learn more about the role cruise plays in our Island community, visit: www.portcharlottetown.com/cruise-counts
Media Contact:
Kelly Murphy
Director of Cruise Development
Port Charlottetown
kelly@portcharlottetown.com
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Photos of Viking Polaris – April 19, 2025