By
Alex Smith |
Prince Edward Island (PEI) is a highlight on numerous Eastern Canada and New England cruise itineraries thanks to its distinctive blend of urban and natural attractions, as well as its wealth of historical sites.
“PEI offers the best of both worlds; the port is located in the downtown core, just steps away from exceptional shopping, vibrant culture and fantastic restaurants, while also being just 20 minutes from the stunning coastline and several historic sites,” explains Kelly Murphy, director of marketing and cruise development at Port Charlottetown. “This proximity allows guests to fully experience a shore excursion, while still leaving them ample time to explore the city. Its unique blend of urban and natural attractions makes PEI a hidden gem on any cruise itinerary.”
The island’s capital, Charlottetown, is known as the birthplace of Canada, as it’s where the founding fathers gathered to discuss the Confederation in 1864. The site of this meeting, known as Province House, is currently undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation, set to be completed in autumn 2025. “Guests will enjoy multi-language and audio-guided tours that delve into the rich architectural history of the building and lead them into the very chamber where delegates forged the path to Confederation,” says Murphy. “This immersive experience will allow visitors to connect deeply with the history that shaped Canada.”
Thanks to the island’s compact size, cruise lines and their licensed operators have been able to develop a wide range of shore excursions, many of which are just half-day trips.
“This creates significant revenue opportunities, as it allows cruise lines and operators to double their revenue potential by offering both morning and afternoon or evening departures,” says Murphy. “The excursions available include culinary tastings showcasing seafood, farm visits with local producers, and guided explorations of our breathtaking coastal landscapes. One example is our vibrant welcome programme, which puts the focus on local products. Guests can have a ‘taste’ of what Prince Edward Island offers, from bite-size lobster roll to decadent oysters and more. Bringing local producers and businesses into our port activities not only enriches the visitor experience but also positively impacts our community by fostering economic growth and promoting cultural exchange. With over 100 calls expected from April to October 2025, this collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring our local flavours and culture are front and centre for all guests.”
Port Charlottetown is excited to showcase these partnerships and attractions when the Cruise Canada New England Symposium takes place in Halifax, Nova Scotia in June 2025.
“In collaboration with our partners from Atlantic Canada Cruise, we will host pre-familiarisation trips in the region, providing attendees with an immersive experience of the region’s offerings,” says Murphy. “Participants can expect guided tours of our stunning coastline, firsthand visits at our ports, and insights into emerging new initiatives happening in cruise in Atlantic Canada.”
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