Great Lakes Cruises Surge, Boosting Toronto Tourism in 2025

URGENT UPDATE: The Great Lakes cruise industry is set for explosive growth, significantly boosting Toronto’s tourism scene. As the inaugural season wraps up, Victory Cruise Lines has announced a staggering $250 million annual revenue from the Great Lakes, with plans for 48 cruise ships visiting Toronto in 2025.

Just today, CEO John Waggoner highlighted that the cruise market is expanding rapidly, growing by 20 percent each year. “You’ve got five boats currently operating on the Great Lakes, with two more making stops,” he stated, emphasizing the untapped potential of this lucrative market.

Toronto is becoming a key player in this thriving sector. The city is a turnaround port for cruise travelers, meaning they often start or end their journeys here. Kelly Jackson, vice-president of Destination Development at Destination Toronto, noted that this fosters longer stays, making it a prime destination for tourists.

According to RJ Steenstra, president and CEO of Ports Toronto, approximately 21,000 high-end tourists are expected to contribute to the local economy. “They spend money in our hotels, dine at our restaurants, and visit attractions,” Steenstra explained, underscoring the economic impact of these visitors.

Despite limited awareness about the burgeoning cruise industry, demand is surging among American travelers eager to explore the Great Lakes. Victory Cruise Lines is now targeting Canadian travelers, aiming to raise awareness about this exciting opportunity right in Toronto.

“This is a vital part of what makes Toronto a global destination,” Steenstra added. Specially built for navigating the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway, Victory’s ships are uniquely equipped for this market.

Cruise season in Toronto typically runs from May to October, and the anticipated influx of visitors next year signals a promising future for the city’s tourism sector. As preparations ramp up, expect further announcements from Victory Cruise Lines regarding their expanding operations and marketing initiatives.

Stay tuned for more updates as Toronto gears up for a record-breaking cruise season!