Port of Montreal begins 2026 season, Crystal to return after seven-year hiatus

The Port of Montreal kicked off its cruise season on Friday (April 24), in collaboration with Montreal Cruises and Tourisme Montréal, with the arrival of the Victory I from Victory Cruise Lines. 

From now until October 31, 2026, the city will welcome nearly 50,000 passengers across 39 operations, reads a press release. In 2026, the Port of Montreal will host 17 ships from 16 different cruise lines, ranging from the smallest (Le Bellot, 184 passengers, from PONANT) to the largest (Volendam, 1,440 passengers, from Holland America Line).

In total, the Port will record nine port calls and 30 embarkation and disembarkation operations, with itineraries connecting Montreal to a wide range of destinations including Germany, Iceland, the Great Lakes, Florida and New England. 

Notably, five ships will extend their stay at berth, allowing passengers to fully experience the city--creating direct economic benefits for local businesses and tourism stakeholders: 

• Viking Mars (September 11–13 and October 5–7)
• Amera (September 12–13) 
• Scenic Eclipse (September 23–24)
• Vista (September 24–25) 
• Crystal Symphony (October 2–3) 

In addition, four roundtrip cruises departing from Montreal will be offered this season--great news for Montrealers looking to set sail without flying: 

• Volendam, from May 30 to June 9 and from September 1 to 12 
• Seabourn Ovation, from September 25 to October 7 
• Star Pride, from September 25 to October 9 

The trend toward high-end cruising continues, with a significant increase in luxury ships calling at Montreal – up more than 220 per cent since 2019, the port says. 

The destination will notably welcome Crystal Cruises and its flagship vessel, the Crystal Symphony, marking a return after seven years. 

Two prestigious new ships will also make calls: 

• Scenic Eclipse (September 23 and 24) 
• Seabourn Ovation (three visits: September 25, October 7 and October 31)

"Welcoming prestigious ships and the strong growth of the high-end segment demonstrate Montreal's appeal to international travellers seeking authentic experiences. These extended stays allow visitors to fully discover the city's cultural, culinary and event offerings, generating significant benefits for the entire tourism industry. Wishing everyone a great season!" said Yves Lalumière, president and CEO of Tourisme Montreal, in a statement.

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