The 2025 cruise season in Milwaukee is underway, and the Pearl Mist is a frequent visitor! This year, Port Milwaukee anticipates a total of 22 cruise ship calls, equating to 44 individual itineraries running between late April and mid-October. Approximately 11,000 passengers are expected to pass through the city during this time.
The Pearl Mist, operated by Pearl Seas Cruises, is a regular feature of Milwaukee’s cruise schedule. This smaller, more intimate ship, accommodating around 210 guests, offers Great Lakes cruises and often makes Milwaukee a turnaround port, meaning one cruise ends and another begins here.
Recently, FOX6 News provided a look inside the Pearl Mist while it was docked at Pier Wisconsin. The tour showcased the ship’s lounges, dining area, library, and top deck. The ship’s operations manager highlighted Pier Wisconsin as a particularly beautiful stop on their Great Lakes itinerary. Passengers aboard the Pearl Mist often have the opportunity to explore Milwaukee during their stop.
Other cruise lines visiting Milwaukee in 2025 include Viking Cruises (with the Octantis and, in 2026, the Polaris) and Victory Cruise Lines, which is returning to Milwaukee after a seven-year break.
Looking ahead, the construction of a new cruise dock on the South Shore East is expected to be completed for the 2026 season, which could bring an estimated 18,500 passengers to Milwaukee.
