It was a big day for the city when the Viking Octantis docked May 25 at Pool 6, kicking off cruise ship season.
This marks the second year the cruise ship line has gone through the great lakes and docked in Thunder Bay. Last year was the first year a ship of its size had ever cruised the great lakes.
Speaking to the ship's captain, Håkan Gustafsson, told TBNewswatch that there have been vast improvements on the dock compared to last year, especially the added feature of the fenders for the boat, making docking the vessel a lot easier. He even went on to say that this is the "best one" and that it's the most smooth.
The city's tourism manager, Paul Pepe, says having the ships come to the city is a large economic boost, especially since this will be the first full season after Covid.
Pepe said "visitors, staff and crew are spending while they are docked." He continued that there will be vendors at future dockings.
The Transportation Museum of Thunder Bay will be offering market days on the next vessel visit on June 5. Vendors are being invited to set up at Pool 6."
The ongoing updates to Pool 6 have contributed to a more welcoming space for visitors and crew, and Pepe says "credit goes to the city's infrastructure and engineering department, they lead the way on the continual improvements. This is probably the most practical and functional marine terminal in the Great Lakes in its ability to accommodate coaches, vans buses, service vehicles and be walkable to the downtown"
A total of 14 ships are expected to stop in Thunder Bay, including the Octantis' sister ship the Viking Polaris.
- TBNewswatch
