• Historic Regional Economic Impact: The 2026 season generated over 1.2 billion dollars for the local economy, supported 5,120 jobs, and welcomed nearly two million revenue guests across 330 port calls.
• Inaugural Brand Deployments: MSC Cruises introduced MSC Poesia and Virgin Voyages debuted Brilliant Lady from Pier 91, with both lines committing to return in 2027.
• Record Environmental Milestones: Sixty-six percent of berthed vessels plugged into shoreside power, and Star Princess completed the first successful liquefied natural gas bunkering operation in Elliott Bay.
• Convenient Luggage Innovation: Over 187,000 passengers utilized the complimentary Port Valet luggage transfer program to explore Seattle hands-free before departing via Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

The Port of Seattle has officially concluded its record-setting 2026 cruise season, cementing its standing as the leading Pacific Northwest gateway to Alaska and Canada. Delivering an estimated 1.2 billion dollars in regional economic impact and supporting over 5,120 local jobs, the port welcomed nearly two million revenue passengers across 330 ship calls. A diverse roster of 16 homeport vessels representing 10 renowned brands sailed from local berths, highlighting the ongoing expansion and vibrancy of the region’s cruise tourism.

The season marked significant milestones with the successful debut of two major brands in the Seattle market. MSC Cruises introduced its European flair with weekly departures aboard MSC Poesia, while Virgin Voyages debuted its signature adults-only ocean experience in Alaska aboard Brilliant Lady. Both operators enjoyed tremendous traveler enthusiasm and are confirmed to return for the 2027 season. Passenger convenience also reached new heights through the popular Port Valet service, which seamlessly transferred luggage straight to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for more than 187,000 travelers, giving them freedom to explore downtown sights luggage-free.

Environmental innovation took center stage throughout the year, demonstrating that maritime progress and sustainability advance together. A record 66 percent of homeport vessels connected to shoreside electrical grids while berthed across all three cruise terminals, preventing thousands of tons of emissions as Seattle approaches its goal of 100 percent shore power connectivity by 2028. Additionally, Princess Cruises’ new Star Princess completed the first-ever liquefied natural gas bunkering in Elliott Bay, incorporating renewable energy sources into its fuel blend. Looking ahead, Seattle anticipates welcoming roughly two million passengers across 326 calls in 2027, continuing a tradition of maritime excellence.