November 14, 2024

The ports of Halifax and Sydney had successful 2024 cruise seasons, welcoming visitors from around the world.

The seasons for the ports started in April and wrapped up on November 2 (Sydney) and November 3 (Halifax). In both port cities, cruise has achieved new levels with additional calls in the spring and summer months.

In Halifax, the season started early on April 6th with the MSC Poesia, setting the stage for a vibrant spring and summer. Canada Day was celebrated in grand style with the iconic Queen Mary 2 gracing Halifax Harbour. As well, the Port successfully started tender operations, managing nine calls at anchor.

“These accomplishments are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our cruise stakeholders, service providers, and our staff,” says Paul MacIsaac, Senior Vice President at the Halifax Port Authority. “We also extend our congratulations to our Atlantic Canadian cruise port partners, and in Nova Scotia to the Port of Sydney, for their tremendous efforts to provide exceptional maritime hospitality.”

In Sydney, the cruise season kicked off on April 7th—our earliest start to date—and concluded on November 2nd. A highlight of the season was October 2nd, when we welcomed four ships into Sydney Harbour, including the iconic Queen Mary 2 at the Main Dock, creating an exciting day for the community.

Lorna Campbell, CEO, Port of Sydney says, "The 2024 cruise season was another record-breaking year for the Port of Sydney.  We are very proud of this success, which is only possible with the hard work and dedication of our many stakeholders across Cape Breton Island.  We are also thankful for our strong and collaborative relationships with the Port of Halifax and all our partner ports across Atlantic Canada as we continue to promote and grow a sustainable cruise industry for our communities.”

Once onshore, cruise guests in Nova Scotia enjoy the best the province has to offer in excursions to sites and attractions, visits to shops and museums and dining in local restaurants, boosting the local tourism sector.

Season highlights for Halifax:

• 201 vessel calls
• More than 350,000 passengers
• More than 150,000 crew
• 28 cruise lines
• 11 inaugural calls (first time that a vessel has visited the Port of Halifax)
• Increase in cruise calls during spring and summer June, July, and August

Season highlights for Sydney:

• 117 vessel calls
• 213,297 passengers
• 20 cruise lines
• Increase in summer calls
• 1 overnight call
• 30 double ship days, 3 triple ship days, and 1 quadruple ship day

Planning for the 2025 season is already underway in Halifax and Sydney. In Halifax, calls start in early April and end mid-November. In Sydney, we look forward to another exciting year with ships beginning in late April and ending in early November.

Resources for media

Speak with us about video clips of cruise ship passengers talking about their visit to Halifax and photos of the last vessel of the season to visit Halifax and Sydney.

About the Port of Halifax

The Halifax Port Authority stewards key federal infrastructure and waters at the Port of Halifax as spaces for economic growth, innovation, tourism, and community. The port’s three main lines of business are cargo, cruise and real estate. Sustainability is built into every facet of our operations. Visit www.porthalifax.ca

About the Port of Sydney

The Port of Sydney is the ocean gateway to scenic Cape Breton Island. With its gracious and proud people, rich Gaelic heritage, and sweeping landscapes, a visit to the Port of Sydney on Cape Breton Island creates a spiritual awakening that is sure to captivate you and keep you longing to return. Visit www.portofsydney.ca & @portofsydney on Facebook and Instagram.

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Lori MacLean
Halifax Port Authority
(902) 209-7170
[email protected]

Nicole MacAulay
Port of Sydney Development Corporation
(902) 371-5797
[email protected]