The funding will support international marketing and strategic initiatives to grow the cruise sector here, as well as build capacity and market readiness to attract and receive yacht and cruise expedition lines from around the world.
Cruise ships bring economic growth, and this morning in Corner Brook, both levels of government gave a financial boost to this thriving sector. Just over $473,000 was allotted for Cruise NL from the federal government while the province chipped in $150,000. The funding will support international marketing and strategic initiatives to grow the cruise sector here, as well as build capacity and market readiness to attract and receive yacht and cruise expedition lines from around the world. Federal Innovation, Science and Industry Minister Francois-Phillipe Champagne says the growth of the cruise ship industry is a testament to Canadian innovation and resilience, as well as the country’s welcoming, hospitable spirit. ACOA and Rural Development Minister Gudie Hutchings says “investing in this growing industry means more jobs, more opportunities and more folks to experience the magic of the area.”Jennifer Crane is the Business Development Manager at the Corner Brook Port Corporation. She says the cruise industry has experienced significant growth over the past few years. Christa Norman is the past chair of Cruise NL. She says the work being done at the Corner Brook Port Corporation is exciting. Chair of the Corner Brook Port Corporation Jackie Chow says this funding will help them continue to promote this province as a cruise destination. Canada is expecting to see one million cruise ship visits per year by 2027.