Rockland study estimates $1.7 million in 2025 cruise spending
Eight cruise calls in 2026 could generate about $1.27 million in direct local activity and city revenue if last season’s spending patterns continue.
Cruise visitors and cruise lines spent an estimated $1.7 million in the Rockland area during 2025, according to research conducted by Digital Research, Inc. for the City of Rockland. The study was based on surveys of 373 passengers and crew members across 11 ship arrivals.
The research attributed about $975,000 in direct local spending to passengers and crew, with cruise lines contributing another $700,000 through port and municipal fees, marine services, and Maine-sourced food and entertainment. Average visitor spending was reported at $62 per trip ashore, including $24 for food and beverages and $21 for shopping.
The study estimated that the overall spending generated approximately $1 million in Maine gross domestic product, supported 20 full-time-equivalent jobs and produced $115,000 in state tax revenue.
Rockland has eight remaining cruise calls for 2026 after the second of two planned Seabourn Ovation visits was canceled because of an issue transiting the Cape Cod Canal. Those calls have a combined published lower-berth capacity of about 13,574 passengers.
Using the 2025 methodology, the report projected roughly $710,000 in potential passenger spending in 2026. If prior spending patterns broadly continue, the eight-call season could account for approximately $1.27 million in direct local economic activity and city revenue.