'These newly released economic impact numbers remind us that the eventual resumption of cruising will be essential to boosting our regional and state economic recovery,' said Rodger Rees, port director and CEO, Galveston Wharves.
Fourth busiest US cruise port
As the fourth busiest cruise port in the US and the only cruise port in Texas, Galveston’s cruise activity contributes significantly to state and regional economies.
Rees said Galveston’s cruise business showed growth in all areas compared to 2018.
The $1.6bn in cruise industry direct expenditures were up 6.5%, and the 1.1m passenger embarkations were 14% higher. The 1.3m passenger and crew onshore visits were an 11% increase. The $125m in passenger and crew onshore spending was up 9%.
The 26,900 employment impact statewide was a 2.5% increase, while the $1.8m in wages statewide represented an almost 3% gain.
Texas ranks third behind Florida and California in total direct cruise expenditures, employment and wage impacts.
Working toward safe resumption
While cruise operations remain suspended in the US, Galveston officials are working with cruise industry leaders and local business and community partners for the safe, sustainable resumption of cruising in 2021.
Rees said: 'With thousands of jobs at stake, cruising with appropriate measures in place and with the support of health authorities will be critical to putting people back to work and fueling the broader economic recovery.'
He added the cruise business generates about 65% of the port’s annual revenue, allowing Galveston to reinvest in business growth and infrastructure improvements to generate more jobs, expand its cargo business and other economic benefits for the region.
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