Tourism in Alaska to see growth this year
By Marleanna Hall
The Alaska visitor industry will continue to grow in 2014, according to recent forecasts.
A partnership between the State of Alaska and the visitor industry sponsored an Alaska booth at the annual Cruise Shipping Miami (CSM) convention in March. The “North to Alaska” booth once again drew interest from all over the world at this international event.
Over this year’s cruise season, some 28 cruise ships will bring nearly one million visitors to Alaska, reported the Cruise Lines International Association – Alaska (CLIA), formerly Alaska Cruise Association.
This positive outlook is in part thanks to the improvements in state cruise ship taxes in 2010 legislation. These improvements were necessary to be competitive in the global cruising market.
A CSM panel reported Alaska accounts for less than five percent of the global cruise itineraries, further confirming the importance of Alaska’s continued participation.
Alaska Tourism Industry Association’s President & CEO Sarah Leonard has expressed a positive perspective about the 2014 visitor outlook, “Tourism in Alaska may see more visitors in the summer months, adding positive economic benefits to our economy year round.”
Additionally, a new report by the McDowell Group on the economic contribution of tourism to Alaska’s economy found that the industry accounts for $3.9 billion annually, as well as 46,000 jobs during the peak summer season.
The news couldn’t come at a better time, explained Commissioner Susan Bell. “Decisions are being made right now about tourism marketing funding and investments in related infrastructure,” Bell said.
The report also highlighted revenues of $179 million to state and municipal governments. The report was prepared for the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development and can be found at akrdc.org/tourism.
The historic Kennecott copper mine near McCarthy in Wrangell St. Elias National Park is a popular tourism attraction.
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