Promotion Saguenay has marked its 20th anniversary of international cruising, a milestone celebrated on September 15, 2026. The journey began with the inaugural call of Holland America Line’s Amsterdam in 2006, and over the past two decades, Saguenay has grown to become the second-largest international cruise port on the St. Lawrence, welcoming nearly 700,000 passengers and hundreds of ships.
Priscilla Nemey, the President and CEO of Promotion Saguenay, reflected on the achievement, noting that Saguenay is now recognized as a key destination on the Canada–New England cruise itinerary. She credited the success to the collaboration and dedication of numerous partners, employees, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to provide an exceptional visitor experience.
Carl Laberge, the President and CEO of the Port of Saguenay, echoed this sentiment, stating that the port has been integral to the success of international cruising in the region since its inception. He expressed pride in the ongoing collaboration among Promotion Saguenay, the Port, and the City of Saguenay, which has showcased the area’s beauty to visitors worldwide.
The anniversary event featured the captains and officers from several cruise ships including Sapphire Princess, Viking Mars, and Seven Seas Splendor, alongside partners and dignitaries. This celebration officially launched a series of festivities that will extend through the winter cruise season in early 2027.
Notable achievements in Saguenay’s cruise history include the opening of an international cruise terminal in 2009, receiving the Best Port Welcome award, and the development of a port village in 2015. The prestigious Queen Mary 2 made its inaugural call in 2016, followed by visits from Disney Magic in 2018, further solidifying Saguenay’s reputation as a premier cruise destination.
In recent developments, Saguenay was awarded international Biosphere certification for sustainable development in 2024 and initiated the first winter cruise season in Quebec and North America in 2025. This combination of achievements marks a significant evolution for Saguenay over its 20 years in the international cruise sector.
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