In 2023, Duluth welcomed four cruise ships that brought over 4,000 passengers to the city. These cruises had a significant economic impact on the region, contributing nearly $600,000 in direct spending to the city. This spending supported a variety of businesses, including shops, restaurants, transportation providers, tour operators, and small businesses in Duluth and other Great Lakes ports.
The influx of visitors to Great Lakes ports was more than 25% higher than the previous year, with nearly 25,000 passengers making over 800 visits to these destinations. This growth is attributed to Cruise the Great Lakes’ commitment to promoting unique cruising experiences in the region.
Dan Hartman expressed his excitement about the influx of visitors to Duluth as Executive Director of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. He noted that many of them would not have come to Duluth otherwise but have discovered its appeal thanks to these cruises.
Anna Tanski emphasized Cruise the Great Lakes’ dedication to promoting Great Lakes cruises as a destination and highlighted its role as a platform for various stakeholders collaborating towards common goals. These stakeholders include states and provinces, cruise lines, ports, conventions, visitors bureaus, chambers of commerce, and associations.
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