Canadians Booking More Expedition Cruises

More and more Canadians are choosing to stay home and explore the remote coasts of our beautiful country, according to Adventure Canada.

The small-ship expedition cruise line is reporting increasing numbers of Canadians booking journeys. For 2025 bookings, 71 percent of passengers are domestic, a number that goes up to 78 percent when looking at 2026 bookings.

“We welcome anyone with an open mind and a spirit of adventure,” says Cedar Swan, CEO of Adventure Canada. “It’s inspiring to see more Canadians eager to experience the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and incredible people that make our country so unique. For nearly 40 years, we’ve navigated these waters with those who know them best, fostering education, exploration, and camaraderie along the way. We’re proud to share these experiences and deepen connections to Canada.”

These statistics reflect a growing interest in expedition cruising that is being seen globally. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reported expedition itineraries to have the fastest growing rate of demand in its 2024 State of the Industry Report, with a passenger increase of 71 percent from 2019 to 2023. 

A bump in Canadian domestic travel is also being anticipated in some circles, with fewer Canadians travelling to the U.S., some are choosing to stay and spend their vacation dollars here instead.

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