Labrador Community Honoured for Cruise Tourism Leadership
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Photo Credit Whaler’s Quest Boat Tours
Town of Red Bay Receives 2026 Cruise Vision Award
St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador – March 6, 2026 – Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador is pleased to announce that the Town of Red Bay, Labrador has been named the recipient of the 2026 Cruise Vision Award. The award was presented yesterday evening at the Hospitality Newfoundland & Labrador Awards Gala.
The Cruise Vision Award recognizes a community, organization, or individual that has demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and long-term contribution to the growth and sustainability of cruise tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Red Bay has been an engaged and valued port of call for nearly two decades. Over that time, the community has steadily strengthened its cruise readiness through strategic infrastructure improvements, enhanced visitor amenities, and strong collaboration among municipal leadership, tourism partners, local businesses, and volunteers.
With support from federal investments, including multi-phase funding through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Red Bay upgraded docking infrastructure, enhanced wharf stability, improved public amenities, and installed a floating dock facility to accommodate tendering operations. These investments have positioned the town as a reliable and welcoming destination within Newfoundland and Labrador’s niche and expedition cruise market.
Beyond infrastructure, Red Bay’s success lies in its community-driven approach. Each cruise call is treated as a celebration, with local partners working together to create meaningful, authentic visitor experiences rooted in Labrador’s culture and heritage.
“We are so appreciative of the nomination and the award! We will accept this wonderful recognition and use it to continue to grow our little industry here. Our goal is to continue improving each and every year and become a shining example of how to grow a niche port like ours!” said Keith Pike of the Town of Red Bay.
“Red Bay exemplifies the spirit of the Cruise Vision Award,” said Katelyn Budgell, Managing Director of Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador. “Their leadership, collaboration, and pride of place demonstrate how small communities make a significant impact on our province’s cruise industry. Red Bay continues to elevate Labrador and Newfoundland & Labrador as a whole.”
Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador congratulates the Town of Red Bay on this well-deserved recognition and thanks to the community for its continued commitment to excellence in cruise tourism.
About Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador
Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador is the provincial destination marketing and development organization dedicated to promoting Newfoundland and Labrador as a world-class cruise destination. Working collaboratively with ports, municipalities, tourism operators, and industry partners, Cruise NL supports sustainable cruise growth that delivers meaningful economic and community impact across the province.
Media Contact:
Katelyn Budgell, Managing Director
Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador
Email: director@cruisenl.ca
Phone: 709 640 4557
Photo Credit Alick Tsui + Hospitality NL