In 2023, four cruise ships brought over 4,000 passengers to Duluth, including the Ocean Navigator, Octantis, Polaris, and Hanseatic Inspiration. The influx of visitors had a significant economic impact on the city, contributing nearly $600,000 in direct spending. This spending supported a variety of businesses in Duluth and other Great Lakes ports.

Anna Tanski, Tourism Director of Cruise the Great Lakes, highlighted the organization’s commitment to promoting the unique cruising experiences available in the region. She emphasized that while many passengers would not have come to Duluth otherwise, they are now discovering the city’s appeal.

Dan Hartman, Executive Director of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center expressed enthusiasm about the influx of visitors. He noted that with more than 25,000 passengers making nearly 800 visits to Great Lakes ports in 2023 (representing a more than 20% increase from the previous year), there is no doubt that Great Lakes cruises are gaining popularity as a destination.

Cruise the Great Lakes serves as a platform to bring together various stakeholders such as states, provinces, cruise lines, ports