The first cruise ship of the 2012 season will arrive in Prince Edward Island this weekend, launching another record season, says Tourism and Culture Minister Robert Henderson.
“The cruise sector is an important partner in strengthening the province’s tourism industry,” said the minister. “Cruise ship passengers support our local economy by visiting our province’s many unique attractions and shops.”
Holland America’s Maasdam will arrive in the port of Charlottetown Sunday, May 6, with 1,266 passengers and 557 crew members. In total, 57 ships with nearly 80,000 passengers and more than 35,000 crew members are expected to visit Prince Edward Island this year.
There are eight ships planning their inaugural visit to Prince Edward Island this year, the largest of which is the Emerald Princess with 3,100 passengers.
“A strong cruise sector plays a key role in extending the province’s tourism season as the majority of ships visit Prince Edward Island in the spring and fall,” said the minister.