Seattle businesses anticipate $900M boost despite norovirus fears as cruise season begins

As the Norwegian Bliss set sail today, heralding the kickoff of the cruise season in Seattle, local businesses are bracing for an influx of nearly 2 million passengers expected between now and October. The anticipated $900 million economic windfall underscores the significant impact of cruise tourism on the city. Enthusiastic passengers like Stephen Paine expressed excitement about their journey to Alaska, eagerly looking forward to the stunning wildlife. However, excitement is tainted by health concerns stemming from reported outbreaks of norovirus on various cruise ships throughout the year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified over a dozen outbreaks, highlighting the ongoing battle against this highly contagious virus, which can linger for weeks within individuals. Passengers are heeding health advice, emphasizing hand hygiene and other preventative measures as they embark on their voyages. Linda Springmann, the Director of Cruise Business at the Port of Seattle, reassured the public that the Port collaborates closely with the CDC to monitor health conditions and implement sanitation protocols at cruise terminals. Local business owners also echoed sentiments of hope for increased sales, viewing cruisers as generally enthusiastic spenders eager to take a piece of the Pacific Northwest home with them. This year’s cruise season promises to break records with 298 ship visits, further enhanced by the introduction of the Cunard Line’s iconic Queen Elizabeth. As Seattle invests in revitalizing its waterfront and ensuring greener operations through shore power for cruise ships, the city appears poised for a successful season despite the specter of norovirus. The broader implications for Seattle's tourism industry cannot be understated; creating a safe and welcoming environment for visitors will be paramount as the season unfolds. Overall, while the returns from this booming industry can greatly benefit the local economy, the health concerns associated with it cannot be ignored, necessitating a careful balance between economic optimism and public health vigilance.