BURSTGeri Skardina’s latest visit to Victoria came with an unexpected distinction, as she became the city’s one-millionth cruise passenger of the 2026 season.
Skardina stepped off Norwegian Encore at Ogden Point on Tuesday (Oct. 13) alongside her husband, Gary, as Victoria marked the milestone for the first time in a single cruise season.
“Geri and Gary, like Chip ‘n’ Dale, but cuter,” Gary joked.
Originally from the suburbs of Chicago, the couple, who now live in Hermosa Beach, California, and have been married since 1982, have visited Victoria approximately eight times since their first trip to the capital city in 1985.
Geri learned of the distinction the previous evening, although Gary was initially expected to be the milestone passenger.
“Well, actually he was supposed to be number one,” Geri said.
“Apparently, whatever, she’s better with that number,” Gary added.
The couple was welcomed at the James Bay terminal by Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto, Destination Greater Victoria CEO Paul Nursey, Melissa Barnhard from Songhees Nation and Norwegian Encore crew members. They received a gift basket before heading out for a VIP tour of the city.
Gary said she was grateful to be part of the milestone, recognizing the many passengers who had arrived before them.
“I was just grateful that we were 999,999 other people here prior to us so that we could enjoy this,” he said.
The couple said Victoria’s scenery and welcoming atmosphere keep them coming back. Gary highlighted the city’s water taxis and an old candy shop among the places he enjoys visiting.
Their latest visit comes during a record-breaking year for Victoria’s cruise industry. The 2026 season began April 10 with the arrival of Nieuw Amsterdam, and the final scheduled call is set for Sunday (Oct. 18), when National Geographic Venture arrives.
Victoria welcomed 989,950 cruise passengers in 2025, 972,268 in 2024 and 970,000 in 2023. The 2026 season also set a new record for ship calls, with the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) anticipating 332, surpassing the previous high of 329 in 2022.
“This is a significant moment for Victoria and for the many people who support each cruise call,” GVHA CEO Jeremy Dunn said.
Now retired, the couple have embraced cruising, taking two trips in the past two months. Their latest brought them to Victoria aboard Norwegian Encore, which was travelling from Vancouver before continuing to Astoria, Oregon.
The couple praised the ship’s hospitality, singling out its captain and general manager.
“They call us family,” Geri said.
“They’re very friendly,” Gary said. “I would highly recommend people enjoy this cruise and come see this beautiful island.”
Before retiring, Geri worked in premium services for American Airlines, assisting dignitaries in Los Angeles. She said it was nice to receive VIP treatment herself for a change.
Gary spent decades in the music industry, building a recording studio in Hollywood before moving into production and songwriting. He recalled working on Donna Summer’s “Bad Girls,” Phil Collins’ “Against All Odds” and the Pointer Sisters’ “Jump.”
“That all helped pay for my cruising,” Gary said with a laugh.
Asked what the unexpected recognition meant to her, Geri summed it up simply.
“It means we’re blessed.”