Great news is on the horizon for Erie’s waterfront: Victory Cruise Lines has added Erie, Pennsylvania, to its 2028 Great Lakes voyage itinerary, according to reports from the Erie Times-News and the Great Lakes Commission. The announcement marks an exciting milestone for the Gem City, which is poised to become a cruise ship destination for the first time.

The addition of Erie to the Victory Cruise Lines route signals growing recognition of the city’s appeal as a lakeside destination. Travelers aboard the Great Lakes voyage will have the opportunity to step ashore and experience everything Erie has to offer — from Presque Isle State Park’s sandy beaches and scenic trails to the region’s rich maritime heritage and vibrant downtown.

For a city that sits proudly on the southern shore of Lake Erie, the news is a natural fit. Erie has long been celebrated for its stunning waterfront, and inclusion on a major cruise line’s itinerary puts it in the company of other celebrated Great Lakes ports of call. The Great Lakes region has seen growing interest from cruise travelers in recent years, and Erie’s addition to the 2028 schedule reflects that momentum.

Local tourism advocates and residents alike have reason to look forward to 2028, when cruise passengers will disembark and explore the city’s attractions, supporting local businesses, restaurants, and cultural destinations in the process. The ripple effects of cruise tourism — from hospitality jobs to increased visibility for Erie on a national stage — could provide a meaningful boost to the local economy and community pride.

While 2028 may feel like a few years away, the announcement gives Erie’s hospitality community ample time to prepare a warm welcome for visitors arriving by water. It’s a bright signal that Erie’s best days on the lakefront are still ahead.

Sources: Erie Times-News, Great Lakes Commission