by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 9:20 AM ET, Mon April 27, 2026
The 2026 cruise season is officially underway at the Port of Montreal, with the arrival of Victory I from Victory Cruise Lines marking the first call of the year.
Running through October 31, the season is expected to bring nearly 50,000 passengers to the city across 39 operations.
This year, the port will welcome 17 ships from 16 cruise lines, ranging from the 184-passenger Le Bellot from PONANT to the 1,440-passenger Volendam from Holland America Line.
In total, Montreal will see nine port calls and 30 embarkation and disembarkation operations, with itineraries linking the city to destinations including Germany, Iceland, the Great Lakes, Florida and New England.
Five ships will remain in port for extended stays this season.
Viking Mars (Sept. 11–13 and Oct. 5–7)
Amera (Sept. 12–13)
Scenic Eclipse (Sept. 23–24)
Vista (Sept. 24–25)
Crystal Symphony (Oct. 2–3)
“Welcoming prestigious ships and the strong growth of the high-end segment demonstrate Montreal's appeal to international travellers seeking authentic experiences,” said Yves Lalumière, President and CEO of Tourisme Montréal.
“These extended stays allow visitors to fully discover the city's cultural, culinary and event offerings, generating significant benefits for the entire tourism industry. Wishing everyone a great season!”
Montreal will also serve as a departure point for four roundtrip cruises this year.
Volendam (May 30–June 9 and Sept. 1–12)
Seabourn Ovation (Sept. 25–Oct. 7)
Star Pride (Sept. 25–Oct. 9)
Luxury cruise growth accelerates
The luxury segment continues to expand in Montreal, with high-end ship calls up more than 220% since 2019. Among the highlights is the return of Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Symphony after a seven-year absence.
Two newer luxury ships, Scenic Eclipse and Seabourn Ovation, will also make multiple visits throughout the season.
“The launch of this new season reflects Montreal's growing attractiveness on the international stage,” said Marie-Claude Galarneau, Chief Human Resources and Strategy Officer at the Montreal Port Authority.
“Beyond their tourism contribution, cruises generate tangible economic benefits for our local ecosystem and help showcase the St. Lawrence River, our port expertise and the city's distinctive hospitality.”
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