2007 Cruise season contributes $21 million to local economy
October 31, 2007
October 30th marked the end of the 2007 cruise season at the Port of Halifax with the call of the Norweigan Spirit.The season began on April 18th and featured 13 cruise lines calling the Port of Halifax. Four new cruise ships called Halifax this season: the Crown Princess, the Albatros, the Norwegian Spirit and the MS Fram.
The 2007 season included 92 vessels and approximately 176,000 passengers. The total economic impact from crew & passengers in 2007 is estimated at $21 million dollars.
All the major lines continue to call Halifax and the homeport market is showing signs of strength. The Port of Halifax is becoming a niche cruise market, with several ships starting and finishing their cruises here and more are planned for 2008.
“Homeporting is developing as Halifax continues to be a popular destination on the Canada/New England itinerary. We expect this trend to continue in 2008,” said Cathy McGrail, Manager of Cruise Development for the Halifax Port Authority.
The Halifax Port Authority is a government business enterprise mandated by the Federal Ministry of Transport. The HPA leads in the development of the Port of Halifax, serving as a catalyst for the local, regional and national economies and has a mandate to be financially viable. The Port of Halifax has a total annual income impact of almost $700 million and an employment impact of over 15,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs.
-30-
For more information please contact:
Michele Peveril, Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs
Halifax Port Authority
Tel: (902) 426-1060
E-mail: mpeveril@portofhalifax.ca
