Kingston shortlisted as cruise ship ‘Destination of the Year’

The Pearl Mist visiting Kingston in May 2024. Photo by Garrett Elliott.
Kingston is one of three destinations shortlisted for the ‘Destination of the Year’ award in the 2024 Seatrade Cruise Awards, Tourism Kingston has announced.
According to a release from Tourism Kingston, the Limestone City has been recognized as a “welcoming port of call for Great Lakes cruise ships, offering amazing natural resources, a great culinary scene, and a vibrant and historic community for passengers of these small cruise ships to explore.”
Tourism Kingston said it works closely with Great Lakes cruise ships to offer their passengers a warm welcome to the city, and provide them with memorable, authentic experiences during their stay. Visitors are connected with cultural experiences, including tours of Kingston’s many unique historic sites, like Fort Henry and the Great Lakes Museum.
“Each year, the global cruising industry recognizes excellence in several categories, and to be nominated alongside world-class cruise destinations is a huge honour for our Great Lakes community. Kingston has made a significant effort to create a strong presence in the Great Lakes cruising world and visitors coming ashore are charmed by the unique way in which they are welcomed to the city,” said Stephen Burnett, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Cruise Association.
Travellers on the Pearl Mist greeted by Kingston’s Town Crier in May 2024. Photo by Garrett Elliott.
According to the release, the other two cities shortlisted for this honour are Abu Dhabi and Fowey Harbour, U.K.
Great Lakes cruise ships making their inaugural visit to Kingston are welcomed by Kingston’s Town Crier, a bagpiper, and representatives from the City of Kingston and Tourism Kingston. Upon each ship’s departure, they are treated to a performance by the Ollin drum circle. Ships are also connected to local music and cuisine during their stay in Kingston.
This year, Kingston welcomed the Pearl Mist in May on a Great Lakes cruise. This ship and two others will make stops in Kingston this fall.
The Seatrade Cruise Awards will be given out on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024, in Malaga, Spain at the Seatrade Cruise Med, the largest gathering of the global cruise industry. Informa Seatrade Cruise, the presenting organization, has a portfolio that includes “a range of global exhibitions, conferences, intimate events, awards, news websites, blogs and publications that cover every aspect of the cruise and maritime industries,” according to the Seatrade Cruise Awards website.
Learn more about the Seatrade Cruise Awards on their website.