Shetland seeks local input on cruise tourism impact
A council-commissioned study will assess the income, benefits and pressures associated with cruise ship visits across the islands.
Consultants working for Shetland Islands Council are asking local businesses and organisations to share their experiences of Shetland’s cruise tourism market. The study is intended to estimate the economic impact of cruise ship calls while identifying challenges and opportunities for communities to increase the benefits.
McGregor Solutions is carrying out the work. Consultants Anne Byers and Naomi Bremner are meeting businesses, visitor attractions and community groups across Shetland as part of the research.
The assessment will examine how cruise visitor activity generates income for local businesses, where economic benefits are experienced and what pressures the sector creates. Shetland Islands Council economic development manager Tommy Coutts said cruise tourism had not previously been assessed at a local level.
An online survey will remain open until the end of September. According to the study information, responses will be kept confidential and presented only in aggregate, preventing individual people, businesses or organisations from being identified.