Among the two thousand passengers disembarking from the Royal Princess cruise ship in Victoria were a special couple from Seattle.
Jesus and Rosa Mores have been on more than 230 cruises, many of them to Victoria. In fact, they’ve been to Victoria so many times they’ve lost count.
“About thirty, forty times.”
On Friday, after disembarking, the couple found out they were the nine millionth cruise ship passengers to arrive at Ogden Point in Victoria over the past 20 years.
Ian Robertson, chief executive officer with the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority, said called their arrival a milestone for the city’s cruise ship industry.
“We’re here today to welcome the nine millionth cruise ship passenger that’s come to Victoria.”
To the Mores, the fact that they’re the nine millionth to roll through Victoria’s harbour is big.
“Nine million, that’s a huge number.”
According to Darlene Hollstein, chair of Destination Greater Victoria, cruise ship passengers are key to the local economy.
“We missed them the last two years. So, again, having them back in town is very appreciated by Destination Greater Victoria, and all of our members.”
Although the cruise industry shut down during the pandemic, Robertson said this season is expected to match 2019 with 331 ships scheduled to arrive in Victoria, carrying more than 790,000 passengers.
“It’s a real significant event for the community, all the operators and businesses that rely on cruise to be able to celebrate the nine millionth guest, is a real indication that cruise is back.”
The chair of the James Bay Neighbourhood Association, Marg Gardiner, said residents’ main concern is congestion and noise.
“JBNA has always welcomed daytime ships. and want them staged so you don’t get them arriving at the same hour, or leaving the same hour. that way you avoid traffic surges.”
Meanwhile, the Mores are planning to head to their favourite stops including Butchart Gardens — and are celebrating their arrival with a pedicab trip into town.
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Mary Griffin
