MEMBERS of the Highland tourism community were given an overview of the developments within the cruise industry over the last 12 months and given a positive outlook for the next year.
Highland Tourism CIC hosted the online event, entitled Highland Tourism Talks: Cruising, where members were updated by representatives of Port of Cromarty Firth. The presentation from cruise manager Allison McGuire was welcomed by attendees keen to learn and ask questions about the industry and recovery plans.
McGuire said: “With a high level of demand for port calls for 2022 and work ongoing by the Scottish Government for the safe reintroduction in 2021 when restrictions are lifted, we are confident that we will see this sector bounce back.”
Attendees heard that 60% of all passengers to Invergordon were from Germany and the USA in 2019, with a growing desire to have unique and authentic Highland experiences including more food and drink and adventure offerings.
It is predicted that next year the cruise business will be worth in the region of £20 million to the local economy and passenger numbers will exceed 2019 levels of 167,000.
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