The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission’s Tourism Thunder Bay welcomes the arrival of Victory II, today at 11 am, the first ship to kick off the local 2026 cruise shipping season.
This year, ten vessel visits are confirmed from four vessels representing three cruise lines. In addition to Victory, the city will also welcome Pearl Mist for two visits later in June and Viking returns with both Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris for a total of six day stops. In total approximately 3000 guests and over 400 individual crew are anticipated to visit the community. Cruise activity including passenger and crew spending and vessel servicing is expected to generate approximately $1.5 million in the local economic impact.
“Discovery and expedition cruise ship visits elevate Thunder Bay’s international reputation as a cruise destination for educated, curious and influential travelers drawn here by our stunning geography, culture, history and welcoming locals. This combination creates unique and memorable shore excursions for all guests,” said Paul Pepe, Manager, Tourism Thunder Bay. “Cruising will contribute to a busy summer travel season ahead, with the City’s Terry Fox Visitor Centre open 8 AM to 8 PM daily and Pagoda Waterfront Centre operating from 10AM to 4 PM daily. Tourism Thunder Bay is ready to welcome guests from around the globe.”
The second and third cruise visits of the year occur when both the Viking Polaris and Victory II are in port on the same day with Viking Polaris docked at Pool 6 Cruise Terminal and Victory II docked at Keefer Terminal.
For more information on the 2026 Cruise Schedule, visit Cruise Port Thunder Bay – Thunder Bay Tourism
