The 2015 cruise season at the port of Halifax will begin on April 19, 2015 with the arrival of Regal Princess. This will be the first call for Regal Princess at the port, and will be the first of eight inaugural calls during the 2015 season. “This is such an exciting way to start the 2015 cruise season in Halifax,” said Cathy McGrail, Director of Cruise and Corporate Communications for Halifax Port Authority. “Not only is this a spectacular first-time call from one of our longstanding and valued cruise line partners, but this is also a vessel that is equipped to access shore power.” This season, the port is planning to welcome 146 cruise vessels carrying approximately 240-thousand passengers plus crew.
This year also marks the 175th anniversary of Cunard’s first regularly scheduled transatlantic voyage. On July 4, 1840, RMS Britannia left port in Liverpool and made Halifax 12 days later. To celebrate the anniversary, flagship Queen Mary 2 will recreate that historic first crossing including a stop in Halifax, the hometown of Sir Samuel Cunard. “It is very important for us to include Halifax as part of the celebration of the original transatlantic crossing,” said Richard Meadows, President, Cunard, North America. “I think our visionary founder would be proud to see the ties between the line he created and his hometown are still holding strong after all these years.”
“The cruise market is an important contributor to Nova Scotia’s tourism industry and to our economy,” said Economic and Rural Development and Tourism Minister Michel Samson. “The 2015 cruise season will introduce thousands of new visitors to our incredible experiences and renowned hospitality, and encourage a return visit to Nova Scotia for a longer stay.”