Port of Cleveland to Welcome First Cruise Ship of 2026 Season

The Port of Cleveland is preparing to welcome the first cruise ship of the 2026 season, marking another milestone in the city’s continued rise as a premier Great Lakes cruise destination.

The Victory I, a boutique, all-inclusive small cruise ship owned by Victory Cruise Lines, is expected to arrive at the Port of Cleveland on April 28, 2026, officially opening the season. Originally built in 2001 and recently refurbished in early 2026, the vessel accommodates approximately 190 to 202 guests, offering an intimate and upscale cruising experience along the Great Lakes.

The arrival of Victory I will signal the start of what is anticipated to be a record-breaking year for
Cleveland’s cruise industry. Since welcoming its first modern cruise ship in 2017, the Port of Cleveland has steadily grown its cruise operations, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a must-visit destination on Great Lakes itineraries. Continued investments in port infrastructure — including the development of a dedicated U.S. Customs facility — have enhanced the Port’s ability to safely, securely, and efficiently accommodate passenger vessels and their guests.

The 2025 cruise season marked a high point for the Port, with 53 cruise ship calls and approximately 8,700 passengers visiting Cleveland. Those travelers generated an estimated $1.3 million in direct visitor spending and more than $2 million in total economic impact for the region.

Building on that momentum, the Port anticipates exceeding those figures in 2026, further strengthening tourism, supporting local businesses, and showcasing Cleveland’s vibrant waterfront, cultural attractions, and hospitality.

“The first arrival of the season is always an exciting moment for Cleveland,” said David Gutheil, Chief Operating Officer of the Port of Cleveland. “Each ship brings new visitors to experience our city, and we’re proud to play a role in driving economic impact while positioning Cleveland as a key destination on the Great Lakes. ”

Passengers arriving aboard Victory I will have the opportunity to explore Cleveland’s diverse neighborhoods, world-class attractions, and thriving culinary scene, contributing to the region’s growing tourism economy.

The Port of Cleveland looks forward to welcoming thousands of visitors throughout the 2026 cruise season and continuing to build on its success as a gateway to the Great Lakes

About the Port of Cleveland

The Port of Cleveland is a key economic driver for Northeast Ohio, generating over $7 billion in annual economic activity and supporting more than 23,000 jobs. As a leading hub for international and Great Lakes shipping, the Port handles roughly 12 million tons of cargo each year. Established in 1968, the Port also advances regional growth through infrastructure improvements, shoreline resiliency projects, and development financing that supports both public and private investments. Guided by a nine-member board, the Port’s mission is to foster job creation, economic vitality, and global competitiveness for the Greater Cleveland region.

For more information on the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority, visit www.portofcleveland.com.