Port of Charlottetown upgrades infrastructure for cruise passengers
News release
Federal investment will allow capital city harbour to welcome larger ships
April 23, 2026 · Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
The first ship has landed this week in the Charlottetown Harbour, kicking off another busy cruise season in Prince Edward Island. As passengers disembarked the Victory I, they were welcomed into the city through newly upgraded boarding facilities supported by federal investments.
Today, Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown, announced a federal contribution to the Charlottetown Harbour Authority that supported this key infrastructure to accommodate more cruise visitors ($350,000, non-repayable).
Updates included the installation of heavy duty bollards, a new passenger boarding platform, and other accessibility and safety improvements to the Port of Charlottetown. With close to 80 ship calls expected in 2026, carrying more than 165,000 passengers, these upgrades build on previous ACOA investments with the Seaport Centre and Founders’ Food Hall to help extend the cruise ship shoulder season and improve the visitor experience.
Today's announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to fostering economic growth in Atlantic Canada by building on the distinct strengths of the region’s businesses and communities.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
Quotes
“The Port of Charlottetown has helped develop our historic downtown into a vibrant marine hub with events and experiences year round for residents and visitors alike. This federal investment, through ACOA, supports a path of continued, sustainable growth and greater opportunity for our tourism industry.”
- Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown
“Cruise tourism continues to be a significant driver for our province, generating $62 million in total economic output, including $40 million in direct spending. That impact extends well beyond the port, supporting local businesses and creating valuable export opportunities for Island producers through cruise line purchasing. With more than 70 new ships on order globally over the next decade, many of them larger and more advanced, this investment ensures Prince Edward Island is well positioned for continued growth and ready to meet the evolving needs of cruise partners and passengers alike.”
- Mike Cochrane, CEO, Charlottetown Harbour Authority
Quick facts
-
Charlottetown Harbour Authority Inc. (CHAI) board and staff work to grow economic and business opportunities along the Charlottetown waterfront and to develop a long-term sustainable strategy for operating the Port of Charlottetown in partnership with stakeholders.
-
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.
-
The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund.
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
Kelly Murphy
Director of Marketing and Cruise Development
Port Charlottetown
kelly@portcharlottetown.com
Stay connected
Follow ACOA on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram