Seattle’s cruise industry has recorded its busiest season to date, with 330 ship calls, almost two million revenue passengers and an estimated $1.2 billion (£920 million) economic boost for the surrounding region.
The Port of Seattle said the 2026 season also supported more than 5,120 direct and indirect jobs, while two cruise operators — MSC Cruises and Virgin Voyages — made their debuts in the city.
Record shore power use in Seattle
Environmental measures also reached a new high, with 66% of cruise ships connecting to shore power while berthed. The system allows vessels to switch off their diesel engines and draw electricity from the local grid instead.
The port estimated that shore power use prevented 1.52 tonnes of diesel particulate matter and more than 6,189 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions during the season. It aims to have every home-ported cruise ship using the system by 2028.
Star Princess also became the first cruise ship to bunker liquefied natural gas in Elliott Bay. The operation was carried out with support from the US Coast Guard, Seattle Fire Department, Princess Cruises and maritime services firm Seaspan.
Sam Cho, a Port of Seattle commissioner, said the cruise sector remained the port’s fastest-growing maritime business and continued to support communities across the region.
“Seattle’s cruise industry continues to be a powerful economic engine for our region, supporting businesses and strengthening the communities that make this place special,” he said.
The port said 16 home-port ships operated from Seattle across 10 cruise brands during the 2026 season, compared with 14 ships across eight brands the previous year. MSC Cruises is expected to return with Poesia, while Virgin Voyages will bring back Brilliant Lady for another season.
The preliminary 2027 schedule is expected to include 326 ship calls and approximately two million revenue passengers. The port is also continuing work at Pier 91 to expand electrification and allow all cruise vessels to connect to shore power while in port.
