Port Metro Vancouver says it expects the number of
passengers embarking and disembarking at its cruise terminals during the 2012
cruise season to modestly exceed the 2011 season.
The port estimates 670,000 passengers, a slight increase from
2011’s 663,000, will take part in 191 vessel calls at the port’s Canada Place
and Ballantyne cruise terminals.
“Port Metro Vancouver continues to grow sustainably,” Robin
Silvester, the port’s President and Chief Executive Officer, said in a
statement announcing the projection. “The 2012 cruise season builds on a very
successful 2011.”
Vancouver’s cruise industry has estimated that it stimulates
more than $2 million in economic activity to the regional economy for every
cruise ship call at the port.
“Cruise ships are a vital aspect of tourism in British
Columbia,” British Columbia Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation Pat Bell said.
“In 2011, the cruise industry contributed $1.3 billion to our economy, $50
million in provincial taxes and provided over 7,000 jobs.”
Vancouver’s 2012 cruise season began April 16.
