Seattle cruises to new cruise record

The Port of Seattle has had a record-breaking cruise season this year, consolidating the Washington city’s strong position in the Alaska cruise market.

The port welcomed 218 vessel calls and 875,433 passengers. 

 “The cruise business is an important source of jobs and economic growth for the city, especially in these tough economic times,” said Port Commission President Bill Bryant.  “Every one of the 218 ships this year has brought over $1.7 million to our economy.  That is money spent on everything from florists and wineries, to hotels, restaurants and wages to the hard working men and women at the cruise terminals.”

2009 also saw the opening of the new Smith Cover Cruise Terminal, a two-berth facility on Pier 91.  For 2010 it is estimated that 222 vessel calls will arrive in Seattle delivering 846,000 passengers.

www.portseattle.org