Seattle sails past Vancouver in cruise passenger numbers

The Port of Seattle announced that in 2008 it surpassed Vancouver, BC, for the first time, in cruise passenger numbers. Seattle handled 210 cruise calls and 886,039 passengers, while Vancouver reported 854,453 passengers. The 2008 cruise season was the biggest in the port’s history with the Port of Seattle reporting that its cruise business generates $274 million in annual revenue, $8 million in annual state and local taxes and 2,380 jobs.

Seattle’s newest cruise facility at Pier 91 will be opening in 2009. It will replace a terminal on the waterfront near Safeco Field, which will be converted to cargo use. Current projections for next year are 211 cruise calls and 801,080 passengers, with 11 ships based in Seattle including the Pacific Princess, a new homeport ship for Seattle.

Tay Yoshitani, Port CEO said; “The growth we’ve seen in just ten years is remarkable. I’m gratified that the passengers who visit Seattle gave us such high marks in customer service. The port is honoured to welcome so many people to this beautiful place.”

The cruise season for Seattle begins in late April and extends through mid-October. Most of the cruises from Seattle travel to Alaska though a few repositioning cruises go to California and other destinations.