Future of Cruising in Alaska

Posted by
Renee Ruggero
Jun 16, 2009

This year Alaska is celebrating its 50th anniversary of statehood. Just what should we expect for the next 50 years? What effect will government policy have on cruise lines and their ships on Alaska itineraries in the future?

In 2006, a $50 per passenger head tax was imposed on ships sailing on an Alaska Cruise. This, of course is still being passed directly onto the passenger. Then there’s the waste-water dumping regulations. Strict regulations limit the amount of dissolved metals in the cruise ships’ discharged treated gray water. But strangely enough, independent studies reveal that the Alaskan ports’ potable water (drinking water) contain higher levels of the same dissolved metals. If these stringent restrictions force cruise ships to go 12 miles offshore to dump their grey water this would equate to an increase in fuel costs. (More costs to be passed onto the passenger?)

Earlier this year, Royal Caribbean Cruises confirmed that one of their ships originally scheduled for Alaska would be heading to another market instead. And, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line also plan to reduce their Alaska sailings in 2010 by 10%.

For further resources on Alaska Cruises: