June 1, 2025 –The Cruise Port Thunder Bay partnership is excited to announce the start of the 2025 cruise season, marked by the June 1st return of Viking’s Octantis, carrying 378 passengers and 256 crew members.

Between June 1 and September 8, Thunder Bay will welcome 15 cruise ship visits from Viking, Pearl Seas, and Victory Cruise Lines. With approximately 5,100 passengers and crew visiting the city, the community opens its arms to welcome visitors exploring our natural and cultural attractions. June 1st is a special day that will see both Viking Ships in port on the same day. Viking Octantis will depart the Pool 6 Cruise Terminal prior to 6 PM to make room for the sister ship Viking Polaris arriving at 6 PM for a turnaround call.

“There’s something special about seeing these ships in our harbour and knowing that people from around the world are choosing to visit Thunder Bay,” said Mayor Ken Boshcoff. “When they step off the ship and experience our beautiful waterfront, vibrant culture, and incredible natural surroundings, they’re genuinely impressed. Welcoming these visitors is a great boost to our economy, and their reaction when they arrive is a great reminder of how lucky we are to call this place home.”

The cruise sector is an important element of a diversified tourism economy, contributing both directly and indirectly to local employment and business growth. In 2024, the cruise industry generated an estimated $4.3 million in economic impact. Cruise shipping support local attractions, transportation, accommodation and vessel supply partners. In 2024, Great Lakes cruise tourism generated $26.4 million in global earned media value. Thunder Bay benefits from that exposure as part of a Great Lakes collective of ports working together.

“This season reflects the continued evolution and diversity of our tourism sector,” said Paul Pepe, Manager of Tourism Thunder Bay. “It’s a credit to our local Cruise Port Thunder Bay partners who all work hard to ensure every visitor and crew member has an exceptional experience in our city.” Cruise tourism enhances the city’s appeal to global audiences and delivers meaningful benefits to the local and regional economy—an opportunity Thunder Bay continues to strategically embrace and invest in.