Great Lakes Cruises To Deliver $200M Economic Boost In 2024

The Great Lakes region is set to continue its impressive trajectory in the cruising industry, according to the latest forecast by Cruise the Great Lakes for the 2024 season. This announcement comes on the heels of a record-breaking 2023, highlighting the sector's resilience and its significant contribution to regional economies through passenger visits and onshore spending.

Cruise the Great Lakes has projected an ambitious schedule for 2024, with vessels expected to make nearly 600 port visits. This surge in activity is anticipated to bring over 20,000 individual passengers to explore the beauty and charm of Great Lakes cities. This figure represents a doubling of cruise passenger numbers compared to a decade ago, with total estimated cruise passenger visits reaching over 140,000 in 2024.

The economic footprint of cruising in the Great Lakes is poised for substantial growth. The anticipated regional economic impact is expected to exceed US$200 million in 2024. This projection is underpinned by an increase in passenger numbers, port visits, shoreside spending, and the expanding appeal of Great Lakes cruises both domestically and internationally. Remarkably, this represents a nearly 50% increase in economic impact compared to 2022.

Welcoming a Diverse Fleet

The 2024 season will see the return of Ponant’s Le Champlain, among other notable cruise lines such as Pearl Seas Cruises, Viking Cruises, St. Lawrence Cruise Lines, Hapag-Lloyd, and Plantours Cruises. This diverse lineup underscores the region's growing prominence as a cruising destination.

Anna Tanski, Tourism Director of Cruise the Great Lakes, expressed enthusiasm for the future: "As we look ahead to 2024, we remain committed to sustaining the vitality of our region’s cruising sector." She highlighted the significant growth in cruise passengers over the past decade and the thriving nature of Great Lakes ports as visitor hubs.

Anne Sayers, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism and Chair of Cruise the Great Lakes, also commented on the enduring appeal of the region: "The history of Great Lakes cruising extends back over 150 years...the rich natural beauty of our region continues to captivate passengers in 2024." She emphasized how cruise passengers contribute to the economic vitality of both large and small destinations across the Great Lakes.

This optimistic outlook for 2024 not only underscores the enduring allure of the Great Lakes but also highlights the significant economic benefits cruising brings to regional destinations. With a record number of port visits and passengers expected, the Great Lakes are set to solidify their position as a premier cruising destination.