First Cruise Ships of 2026 Roll Into Green Bay Bringing NEarly $330K Of Economic Impact
Victory Cruise Line’s Victory II will arrive at Leicht Park in Downtown Green Bay on June 9 at approximately 7:00 a.m. Passengers will then embark on tours with stops including the National Railroad Museum, Green Bay Botanical Garden, and Lambeau Field.
In total, Green Bay expects 785 passengers to visit the area from 6 cruise ship stops this season, resulting in $327,000 in direct economic impact.
This spending supports shops, restaurants, transportation providers, tour operators, and other small businesses in Green Bay and across the Great Lakes region, underscoring the growing economic importance of cruising to the region.
In 2026, Cruise the Great Lakes, the region’s cruise marketing program, says that cruising will generate an economic impact of over $310 million (US), a 30% increase from 2025. Seven cruise lines will bring 10 cruise ships and nearly 25,000 people to the Great Lakes. Over the course of 150 itineraries, that equates to nearly 900 visits to Great Lakes ports and nearly 180,000 passenger visits – all increases over 2025.
“This is a landmark year for cruise ships here in Green Bay,” said Brad Toll, President & CEO of Discover Green Bay. “We’re thrilled to welcome back Victory Cruise lines and their passengers, as well as American Cruise Lines’ newly built American Patriot later this season. They are about to experience Green Bay’s hospitality, and we hope they are inspired to return to the region.”
After docking passengers are welcome to explore the area or join tour busses that will hit major attractions in the Green Bay Area. The ship is expected to depart at approximately 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 10.
Due to construction and for public safety reasons, Leicht Park is closed to non-emergency vehicle traffic on weekdays. Public can view the ship from the east bank of the river, including the Fox River Trail.

