You can expect bigger crowds than usual at the Gastown Steam Clock as Vancouver is now entering peak cruise ship season, and the Port of Vancouver has a warning for residents to “plan ahead.”
Between May 5 and Sept. 22, 35,000 to almost 50,000 people are expected to pass through the Canada Place terminal every Monday to Friday.
The Port of Vancouver expects 300 ship calls and 1.2 million visits from passengers this year.
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The port expects increased pedestrian and traffic volumes at Canada Place and nearby downtown areas. There will also be higher demand for taxis, rideshare services, and public transit. The port says, “A cruise ship is scheduled to berth at Canada Place almost every day between now and late September, with many days and in particular weekends having multiple ship visits.”
Cruise ship season will bring much-needed tourism dollars to businesses in and around downtown Vancouver. Chance McKee, the cruise account representative at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, says it will also help tourism operators.
“Those visiting downtown Vancouver may experience busy crowds as excited tourists explore our beautiful city,” McKee said.
The Port of Vancouver has advice for folks who will be in the downtown area during peak cruise ship season.
“To ensure a smooth experience, anyone travelling downtown between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. is encouraged to plan ahead.”
Vancouver Police will help with traffic on busy days at nearby intersections and pedestrian crossings. The port will also have additional staff to help with public enquiries.
The Port of Vancouver says that “each cruise ship visit to Vancouver generates an average of more than $3 million in direct activity to the local economy.”
Bill Fletcher, the senior director of sales enablement with Holland America Line, expects visitors to spend a ton of money.
“We estimate our guests and crew will spend nearly $18 million at local restaurants, shops, and attractions this season, while our ships will spend even more provisioning at local vendors between trips.”
Additionally, the City of Vancouver will be testing a traffic pilot that should help ease congestion.
“We expect the City of Vancouver’s plan to turn Canada Place into a one-way street this cruise season will provide a huge positive benefit for the area — creating a safer and more vibrant experience for everyone by significantly improving pedestrian and traffic flows,” McKee said.
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