by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 1:15 PM ET, Wed July 22, 2026
Erie, Pennsylvania, is on tap to become the Midwest’s newest cruise destination.
Victory Cruise Lines plans to begin sailing there in July 2028, bringing thousands of tourists to the destination during its Great Lakes cruises, according to the Erie Times-News.
"This is so exciting," said Julie Slomski, executive director of the Erie Port Authority, at a recent news conference. "Everyone is so excited for folks to embrace Erie and see what we have to offer.”
Victory Cruise Line leaders first began exploring the possibility of stopping in Erie last year. After lots of research and behind-the-conversations, they decided to make it official.
“It became obvious that we needed a cruise ship in Erie,” said Shelly Hartfield, vice president of destinations for Victory Cruise Lines. “But it was really working on an itinerary that would allow us to do that. All five Great Lakes and eight states is the perfect opportunity to start in Erie with that itinerary. We’re very excited to bring guests to Erie.”
Tourism officials are excited about the potential economic impact of the cruise line’s port calls in Erie. They also hope travelers will feel compelled to return to the city again, after their voyage is over.
"Presque Isle, our sunsets, all of our local businesses." said Christina Vogel, Erie County executive. "We have the Hagen History Center, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, all of these things will help them experience a part of Erie and want to come back."
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