Montreal to Launch Winter Cruises in 2027 as Tourisme Montreal and Port Sign New Partnership

Montreal will begin welcoming winter cruises in 2027, marking a significant step in the evolution of the city’s year-round tourism offering and positioning it as a more versatile homeport destination for the North American market.

The first cruises will start in February 2027, with PONANT EXPLORATIONS committing to what is sees as a four-season potential as a cruise destination.

The announcement was made at the inaugural Montreal Cruise Forum on Tuesday, by Tourisme Montreal and the Port of Montreal who have announced a new three-year strategic partnership to support the sustainable growth and long-term development of the city’s cruise sector.

“This Forum marks a turning point for both Croisieres Montreal and Tourisme Montreal. The agreement will help continue positioning our city as a premier cruise destination on the St. Lawrence, while also allowing us to align our efforts around economic development, visitor experience, promotion, and sustainability,” said Yves Lalumiere, President and CEO of Tourisme Montreal.

“This long-term agreement reflects our commitment to working hand-in-hand with exceptional partners to ensure Montréal remains a top cruise destination with a competitive, innovative, and sustainable offering,” added Julie Gascon, President and CEO of the Montréal Port Authority.

Organized by Croisieres Montreal — a joint initiative of Tourisme Montreal and the Port of Montreal established in 2011 — the Forum gathered more than 50 key stakeholders from the tourism, port, and economic sectors to discuss the future of Montréal’s cruise industry and its broader economic impact.

The renewed three-year agreement between Tourisme Montreal and the Port of Montreal will further align their efforts under the Croisieres Montreal banner, strengthening coordination, sustainability initiatives, and destination development to support continued growth in passenger traffic and cruise line partnerships.

The St. Lawrence Cruise Association reported in 2024, cruise-related spending in Montreal reached $52.3 million.