Seattle’s 2025 Cruise Season Set to Break Records and Boost Local Economy

The Port of Seattle is gearing up for a record-breaking cruise season starting April 12, 2025, featuring nearly 300 scheduled ship calls and an anticipated 1.9 million passengers. This influx of cruise travelers is projected to inject around $900 million into the local economy, supporting a range of businesses in the area. The Director of Cruise Business at the Port of Seattle, Linda Springmann, highlighted this season's milestone with all three cruise berths equipped with shore power, allowing ships to operate with reduced environmental impact while docked. Furthermore, the cruise season underlines significant contributions to local employment, with about 5,500 seasonal jobs expected to be tied to cruise operations, including provisioning and guest services. The excitement surrounding this season is evident with the addition of Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth, which will be making its home port debut in Seattle, alongside established lines like Holland America. With a mix of long-established itineraries to Alaska and new routes, the cruise industry in Seattle reflects a strong rebound post-pandemic. Travelers are increasingly prioritizing experiences over material goods, making cruising an accessible option for many, despite prevailing economic uncertainties. As the new cruise season unfolds, Seattle's waterfront is poised to both welcome visitors and highlight the city's evolving market presence in the cruise tourism sector.