SAULT STE. MARIE, MI – The 2026 cruise ship season is officially underway in Sault Ste. Marie. The Victory I recently spent several hours at the Carbide Dock with guests visiting downtown shops and attractions.
“This season, there are a total of 65 cruise ships between the Valley Camp and Carbide docks, with each ship ranging from 100-300 guests. Passengers are from all over the world, with a strong representation from the US southwest, Arizona, California, Texas, among others,” said Kyler Reattoir, harbor master.
Victory I arrived at the Carbide Dock last Friday to start the 2026 Cruise Ship Season in Sault Ste. Marie. [Jim Lehocky]
“The newly rebuilt Carbide Dock is expected to significantly strengthen the economic impact of cruise tourism in Sault Ste. Marie is increasing the city’s ability to welcome more cruise ships and visitors. As additional ships choose to dock in the community, local businesses such as restaurants, shops, attractions, transportation providers, and hospitality services will benefit from increased visitor spending and longer visitor engagement. The enhanced dock also positions the city as a more attractive Great Lakes cruise destination, helping to expand tourism opportunities, support local jobs, and encourage continued investment in the downtown waterfront and surrounding community,” Hoath said.
The final cruise ship of the season, also the Victory I, is slated for Oct. 22. Reattoir said he expects to have three freighters unloading road salt in the fall at the Carbide Dock.
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