ACOA floats funds to cruise ship industry

The Atlantic Canada cruise industry, which turned in a strong performance in 2009, is receiving renewed support from the Government of Canada to implement its ongoing international marketing strategy.

"Our government is pleased to support the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association's work in promoting and developing Atlantic Canada as a premier travel destination," said Rob Moore, minister of state for small business and tourism. "Our investment of $247,000 through ACOA will assist the association in implementing its marketing strategy over the next two years as it builds on the unique qualities and strengths of Atlantic Canada as a tourism destination."

In 2009, the ACCA reported 383 port of call visits in Atlantic Canada. This is an increase that tops the 320 ports of call visits in 2008 and the 296 visits in 2007. The ACCA estimates that the total economic impact of direct spending associated with industry in 2009 is $80 million.

"The region can attribute much of its success to education and training programs, and marketing initiatives delivered by the association," says Jackie Chow, chair of the
Atlantic Canada Cruise Association. "A strong partnership between governments, ports and industry stakeholders has been instrumental in the overall success and growth of the
cruise industry in the Atlantic region."

The goal of ACCA's marketing plan is to position the Atlantic Canada as one of the top ten cruise destinations in the world.

The plan, amongst other things, calls for joint marketing initiatives with the cruise lines; continued focus on travel trade and tavel media; support for industry education and training initiatives; familiarization tours for industry representatives; association website
enhancements; integration of e-mercials, and development of promotional materials, all focused on bringing cruise lines and passengers to Atlantic Canada tied to the industry
theme of "Journey through Our Mystical Land."

The Atlantic Canada Cruise Association is a partnership between ports, tourism and cruise ship interests in each of the four Atlantic Provinces, ACOA and Parks Canada. The Mission of the Association is to grow demand by further promoting Atlantic Canada as a premiere cruise destination to travel trade, travel media, cruise lines and the consumer.