The Great Lakes cruises that arrived in Duluth in 2023 had a significant economic impact, contributing nearly $600,000 in direct spending to the city. This spending supported a variety of businesses, including shops, restaurants, transportation providers, tour operators, and small businesses in Duluth and other Great Lakes ports.
In 2023, four cruise ships brought over 4,000 passengers to Duluth, including the Ocean Navigator, Octantis, Polaris, and Hanseatic Inspiration. Regionally, nearly 25,000 passengers made 800 visits to Great Lakes ports, representing a more than 20% increase from the previous year.
The influx of visitors was welcomed by Dan Hartman, Executive Director of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. “We are thrilled to see so many people coming to our city,” he said. “Many of them would not have come otherwise and now have discovered the appeal of Duluth.”
Anna Tanski, Tourism Director of Cruise the Great Lakes also expressed her excitement about the growing popularity of Great Lakes cruises as a destination. “Our organization is committed to promoting these unique cruising experiences available in the region,” she said. “We bring together various stakeholders to collaborate toward common goals.”
Cruise the Great Lakes serves as a platform for states, provinces