Luxury cruise liners boosts local economy
THE MS Queen Elizabeth and the MSC Musica luxury cruise liners docked at the Cape Town harbour bringing in a much-needed economic boost for the city.
The Queen Elizabeth cruise carries 2 068 passengers and 996 crew members. The MSC Musica has 1 268 passenger cabins, which can accommodate 2 550 passengers in double occupancy and is served by about 990 crew members.
Mayco member for economic opportunities and asset management James Vos said: “Cape Town is fast becoming the preferred port of call for inbound and outbound international cruise travellers to South Africa.
“We had the honour of welcoming the Aida Aura from her world cruise last week and she was carrying 1 200 passengers and 390 crew members. Today, we welcome two cruise liners who have collectively brought in over 4 000 visitors to our shores. We trust they will enjoy the day in Cape Town and take time out to visit some of the city’s world-class tourist attractions.”
He said the cruise industry has experienced significant growth from just 6 050 passengers in 2012, to 29 269 passengers in 2016, and 31 035 passengers in 2017.
During the 2016/17 cruise season, approximately 19 vessels visited the Cape Town harbour. There is also a significant increase in local cruising along the South African coastline, he said.
“This sector has the potential to grow even further with huge economic spin-offs for the city and its residents… For every 12 tourists visiting our shores, one job is created. We will continue to invest in tourism programmes and projects that drive demand and make business sense, as tourism sustains about 150 000 jobs in Cape Town,” Vos said.
The average spend by an international tourist per trip is R8 400 in-destination (while in Cape Town), and a R10 600 prepaid spend (before a traveller arrives on our shores).
Vos said the cruise industry had the potential to provide substantial economic benefits.
“These economic benefits arise from a number of sources such as the spending power by cruise passengers and crew, the shore-side staffing by cruise liners for tour operations.” |