Atlantic Canada welcomes 2026 cruise season with over $350K investment
News release
Support for Atlantic Canada Cruise Association will enhance marketing, partnerships, and sustainable tourism across more than 20 ports
April 22, 2026 · Halifax, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Cruise ships are setting course for ports across Atlantic Canada, marking the start of the 2026 season and reflecting Canada’s strength as a safe, welcoming destination for visitors from around the world.
Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced federal support to the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) to implement a three-year strategic plan to enhance cruise tourism in the region ($353,000 non-repayable).
This investment will support the Association in delivering targeted marketing initiatives, strengthening relationships with cruise lines and travel agents, and advancing strategic business development opportunities. Through activities such as sales missions, hosted sales visits for cruise operators, market research, and digital online improvements, the project will help attract cruise ships and visitors that are a good fit for the region. It will also help extend the cruise season and support sustainable growth in ports and communities across Atlantic Canada.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to strengthening regional economies, supporting tourism growth, and creating opportunities for communities and businesses across Atlantic Canada.
Quotes
“Investments in tourism organizations like the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association help position Canada as a world-class destination. By strengthening partnerships and expanding market reach, this initiative will support economic growth and create opportunities for communities throughout the Atlantic region.”
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“Cruise is a valuable part of Nova Scotia’s tourism sector, and passengers contribute to local tourism revenues. We’re excited to continue working with Atlantic Canada Cruise Association to promote Nova Scotia’s nine cruise ports and highlight the incredible experiences our port communities offer.”
- Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage as per below, Government of Nova Scotia
“New Brunswick is proud to be part of this important regional initiative. By working with the ACCA, we can help create new opportunities for growth in cruise tourism, benefiting both Atlantic Canada and our province in today’s competitive global market.”
- Isabelle Theriault, Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, Government of New Brunswick
“Cruise tourism connects Prince Edward Island with visitors from around the world and creates real opportunities for growth in our tourism industry. It supports the Islanders and businesses that make PEI such a welcoming place to visit. Through this collaboration, we’re building excitement around Atlantic Canada as a must visit destination and supporting continued success across our tourism sector.”
- Honourable Ernie Hudson, Minister of Fisheries, Rural Development and Tourism, Government of Prince Edward Island
“As we mark 30 years of collaboration, this support reinforces Atlantic Canada’s position at the heart of Canada New England itineraries. Together with our partners, we are focused on growing cruise in a way that benefits our communities, highlights the character of our region, and creates lasting economic opportunities.”
- Sarah Rumley, Executive Director, Atlantic Canada Cruise Association
Quick facts
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Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) is celebrating 30 years of a shared vision for cruise in Atlantic Canada.
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Since its establishment in 1996, Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) has united ports, destinations, and industry partners under a shared vision for cruise tourism. Today, Atlantic Canada remains central to Canada New England itineraries and other signature sailings, offering visitors diverse experiences across vibrant cities, coastal communities, and more than 20 ports throughout the region.
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Cruise tourism plays an important role in Atlantic Canada’s visitor economy. A recent economic impact study by Tourism Economics for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reported $402 million in total economic output and 2,100 local jobs supported by cruise activity in 2023, underscoring the value of continued collaboration across the region.
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The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program.
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As part of this project, the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) also received $36,000 each from Parks Canada, Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador, and the Governments of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick.
Associated links
Contacts
Jeremy Bellefeuille
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Jeremy.bellefeuille@justice.gc.ca
Media Relations
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
mediaroom-salledesmedias@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Sarah Rumley
Executive Director
Atlantic Canada Cruise Association
director@cruiseatlanticcanada.com
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