Cleveland Wraps Record Cruise Season — and Looks Ahead to Continued Growth in 2026
Cleveland’s 2025 cruise season officially came to a close on Sunday, October 26, as the final vessel departed the Port of Cleveland — reinforcing the city’s growing reputation as one of the Great Lakes’ premier cruise destinations.
This year, 53 cruise ship calls brought approximately 8,700 passengers to Cleveland, delivering a meaningful boost to the waterfront and local economy. Cruise tourism continues to generate real value for Cleveland’s small businesses and local attractions:
- $150 estimated passenger spending per visit
- $1.3 million in direct local spending in 2025
- $2+ million total estimated economic impact when including dock operations, transportation, and indirect benefits
“These visitors bring real dollars into our city,” said David S. Gutheil, Chief Operating Officer for the Port of Cleveland. “From restaurants to museums to small shops, Great Lakes cruising is now a meaningful part of Cleveland’s tourism economy.”
Cleveland’s emergence as a cruise destination has also captured national attention. The Points Guy, a leading national travel publication, recently named Cleveland the hottest new cruise destination in North America.
Cruise activity has grown steadily since the Port first began hosting passenger vessels in 2017, when just nine ships docked.
David Gilbert, President & CEO of Destination Cleveland, noted, “Every cruise passenger who steps off a ship here discovers a city that exceeds their expectations. Whether they explore our museums, neighborhoods or restaurants, these visitors help spread the word that Cleveland is a welcoming, world-class destination — where residents’ pride and authenticity make visitors feel at home.”
With cruise tourism on the rise, the Port of Cleveland expects continued growth in 2026 as cruise lines expand Great Lakes service and add new itineraries.
“These new and expanded itineraries will bring additional visitors to our waterfront,” Gutheil said. “Every ship call means more hotel stays, more dining, and more people discovering the Cleveland experience.”