The Port of Seattle wrapped up its 2025 cruise season this week, announcing new records set for passenger volume, economic impact, and environmental changes.
According to the Port, this year’s cruise operations generated an estimated $1.2 billion in regional economic benefit and supported more than 5,120 jobs. Nearly 1.9 million passengers sailed through Seattle during the season – the highest in the port’s history – across 298 ship calls and 14 ships from eight homeport cruise lines.
All three of Seattle’s cruise berths are now equipped with shore power for the first time, allowing ships to plug into the local electrical grid instead of burning fuel while docked. About 96% of the Port of Seattle’s electricity comes from hydropower, wind, and solar.
In addition to Alaska itineraries, 23 sailings ventured to destinations such as Mexico, Hawaii, New Zealand, Asia, and along the Pacific coast.
This season brought a new homeport arrival: Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, which completed 11 roundtrip Alaska voyages from Seattle after its maiden call on June 12. The ship will return in 2026.
Seattle’s Port Valet program, which transfers passenger luggage directly from ships to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, handled more than 200,000 bags this season, allowing visitors to explore the city luggage-free before departing.
Looking ahead, the Port reported continued growth next year with the arrival of two new homeported ships: Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady and MSC Cruises’ Poesia. A preliminary 2026 cruise schedule is now available on the Port’s website.
