CEDEC backs development of Collaborative Venture to expand experiential tours on the Magdalen Islands

The Magdalen Islands International Cruise Ship Tours Venture has developed two new experiential tours featuring the people, history, and traditions of the people on Grosse-Île. The purpose of the Venture is to generate economic benefits for communities on the archipelago.

Enabled and guided by CEDEC and its Collaborative Economic Development approach, Venture Partners are working together to unlock the creativity and innovation required to increase international cruise ship visitor traffic and spending on the islands, while seeking to add more seasonal jobs to the local tourism industry.

Key public, private, and civil society players in the Magdalen Islands’ tourism space are focusing on promoting Grosse-Île’s rich history, culture, and its heritage sites to enhance the experience of international cruise ship passengers visiting the Island.

Developing and sharing stories about the livelihood and lifestyles of Magdalen Islanders, and specifically the important contribution the fishing industry makes to the local Grosse-Île economy has been a central focus of the Venture’s efforts. 

Magdalen Islanders know the people, history, and traditions of the islands are a hidden treasure and a critical asset upon which to build a more vibrant local tourism industry. Leveraging the bilingualism of the local tourism industry has been essential in this regard.

Many moving parts are being considered and linked together to promote and sell the two new experiential tours. This effort has benefited from ongoing collaboration, determination and perseverance across the community to succeed.

CEDEC will continue to report regularly on the collaborative economic development work and progress being made by the Magdalen Islands International Cruise Ship Tours Venture.