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Weather diversion brings early start to cruise season in Saint John

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Port Saint John’s cruise season is docking early this year.

The port announced on Monday that Virgin Voyages’s Valiant Lady is arriving Wednesday at 6:30 a.m. after sailing from New York — more than two months ahead of schedule.

The cruise ship, carrying over 2,000 sailors, was originally bound for Bermuda but diverting to Saint John due to weather conditions.

Despite the short-notice arrival, Becky Knox, the port’s manager of public affairs and executive communications, said the port and its tourism partners are working to provide the best experience for passengers.

“We are really pleased about the response of our tourism ecosystem so far,” said Knox. “They’ve done a lot of work to ensure that they are opening earlier for tourists this season.”

Knox said passengers will be able to enjoy a quick stroll to Saint John’s City Market, visit the  developments around Fundy Quay, as well as take part in tours by shore excursion company Aquila Tours.

However, some tourism attractions will not be available during the ship’s stay.

In an email statement, Ray Gracewood, owner of Area 506, said the container village will not open with the start of the cruise season, and will maintain its original opening date in mid-May.

The ship will stay for a day, sailing out on Thursday at 4 a.m., Knox said.  

She also said the port has been working to make sure that operational needs are met, including preparing terminals, putting fenders into the water and calculating the high-water window.

Knox said the port is looking forward to welcoming the ship, which she characterizes as “an innovative, newer cruise line.”

“They are kind of flipping the cruise industry on its head,” she said.

According to Knox, this is the second time one of the “infamous” Lady ships visited the port, and she said the port is “excited” that its first call to the city is happening earlier than anticipated.

Knox added that the port still anticipates its next scheduled cruise ship arrival in June but prides itself on being ready to assist vessels diverted from their planned itineraries.

Virgin Voyages in SJ_Alex Allan_Acadia Broadcasting_Image 3

Atlantic Canada marks big year for cruise ships

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It was a dynamic season for cruise ships in Atlantic Canada in 2025.

According to a release from the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association, the season was defined by inaugural visits, significant milestones and strong collaboration across the region.

Ports in the region welcomed 610 vessel visits and more than 845,000 passengers.

“Atlantic Canada has long been known as a premier cruise destination in the fall,” said ACCA executive director Sarah Rumley. “Its central role in Canada-New England itineraries, along with other sailings, continues to highlight the region’s appeal throughout the cruise season.

“While the beauty of autumn will always be a remarkable draw, guests are discovering the vibrancy of our summer season, the depth of experience offered across our ports, and the regional cuisine that makes Atlantic Canada welcoming in every season.”

Several cruise brands and vessels made their first trips to Atlantic Canada this year. One highlight was Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady making stops in Saint John and Halifax.

Saint John welcomed a record 83 cruise ships in 2025, bringing more than 196,000 passengers to the city and surrounding areas.

The port, working with community and tourism partners, also supported several weather-related diversions. That contributed to the busiest week on record from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3, when 15 ships and more than 32,000 passengers arrived.

Halifax hosted the Cruise Canada New England Symposium from June 9 to 11. The event was a chance for collaboration between cruise lines, ports, tourism partners and government stakeholders. Discussions focused on future opportunities and the responsible development of cruise tourism in Atlantic Canada.

Other highlights in Atlantic Canada were Sydney, N.S., welcoming more than 100 ships, including days with as many as four vessels at a time.

Charlottetown welcomed its two millionth visitor during Holland America Line’s Volendam call on July 4.