New data published today has highlighted for the first time the full benefits that cruise tourism brings to Scotland.
The new report from Oxford Economics, commissioned by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), highlights the substantial economic value of cruise tourism to Scotland, underlining its role in supporting jobs, businesses, and communities across the country.
The study found that in 2023, cruise tourism:
- Generated £343 million in total economic output in Scotland.
- Contributed £173 million to GDP.
- Supported 4,712 jobs across a wide range of sectors.
- Delivered £145 million in wages to Scottish workers.
- Produced £61 million in tax revenues, benefiting public services and infrastructure.
The report shows that cruise tourism’s impact extends far beyond port towns, benefiting a broad spectrum of businesses and communities. These include:
- Hospitality and tourism operators such as hotels, restaurants, and tour companies.
- Transport providers, including coach, taxi, and rail operators.
- Retailers, including independent craft and gift shops.
- Supply chain businesses, including food and beverage suppliers, fuel providers, maintenance contractors, and port services.
- Local cultural and heritage attractions that see increased visitor numbers.
The report comes as Scotland nears the end of this summer’s cruise tourism season, with the country welcoming over 1 million visits from cruise guests this year alone. Lerwick Harbour has a particularly successful season, welcoming around 134 ships and 140,000 guests. The port is continuing to invest in its cruise operations, including through a major dredging project which is currently underway.
Andy Harmer OBEManaging Director, CLIA UK & Ireland“Cruise plays a vital role in Scotland’s visitor economy. Cruise guests love to visit Scottish cities, remote islands steeped in history and the beauty of Scotland’s highlands and coastline. In doing so, these guests support thousands of jobs across the country and bring with them substantial economic benefits for Scotland.
Melanie HendersonCruise & Marketing Manager, Lerwick Port Authority“As one of the most popular cruise ports in Scotland, this new data highlights the widespread benefits that cruise brings to ports such as Lerwick, and to our local communities. With the majority of cruise ships visiting Lerwick being small to medium-sized vessels, they bring with them visitors who spend considerable sums with local shops, attractions and hospitality providers. As a port, we are continuing to invest in our cruise operations, including through a major dredging project which is currently underway, to help further the crucial contributions of cruise to our local economy.”