Plymouth’s economy enjoys £1.5m boost from cruise ship industry

Plymouth’s growing cruise business has seen bookings double – bringing in an extra £1.5m to the city this year.

Industry data found that on average each cruise visitor spends around £90, however, Plymouth and the surrounding economy also benefit further financially from additional income including port and pilotage fees and the spin-off spend associated with excursions.

Destination Plymouth Chief Executive Amanda Lumley said: “This is a fantastic boost to the local economy and it is growing by the year.

“We’re delighted to see so many passengers and crew enjoying our city and spending on everything from visiting the attractions and taking tours, to the gift shops and other retail outlets, cafes and restaurants.”

Post-pandemic the city welcomed seven cruise ship visits in 2022 and this year bookings doubled to 14, equating to a potential 10,500 passengers and more than 5000 crew.

The ships range from smaller vessels with a capacity of fewer than 300 passengers to those carrying upwards of 1,500.

Plymouth’s Cruise partnership of AB Ports, Cattewater Harbour, the City Centre and Waterfront Business Improvement districts and the City council along with a  team of volunteer cruise ambassadors work together to attract and create a world class welcome experience to the city for all the visiting cruise guests.

Glen Gardner, Cruise New Business Development Manager, Destination Plymouth said: “There are cruise ships from German, British, American and French cruise operators with brands representing the premium, luxury, and expedition markets.

“Ten of these cruise ships are first time visitors to Plymouth and, during such inaugural visits, it’s a long maritime tradition to exchange plaques between the Master of the vessel and the Port’s Harbour Master or local representative, so a plentiful supply of plaques is needed for this year.”

Next year looks just as busy with ten vessels already confirmed and a further four pending.