A DECISION by Royal Caribbean Cruises to shift a ship from Alaska to another destination has state tourism officials calling for steps to stay competitive.

John Binkley, president of the Alaska Cruise Association, says the redeployment of the Serenade of the Seas will mean a $55 million loss in revenue and a reduction of 42,000 visitors.

The vessel had 20 Alaska trips scheduled this year.

David Kasser of the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau told Holidayinsiders.com: "Alaska must work to provide a better environment for cruise lines.

Binkley added: "It would be appropriate to make adjustments to the 2006 cruise ship initiative that created a $50 per passenger head tax and wastewater dumping regulations that industry officials say are too stringent".


 

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