I am writing on behalf of the Virginia Tourism Corporation to express our deep concerns regarding the “New Regulatory Rulemaking on Ocean-class Passenger Cruise Ships“ petition, filed October 1, 2024, requesting unnecessary and burdensome regulations on Virginia’s cruise ship industry. These regulations, unique to Virginia, pose a significant threat to the cruise industry that we have long worked to attract and grow, including the scheduled weekly sailings from Norfolk beginning next year.

 

The City of Norfolk is investing $12 million to expand this business, marking a crucial development for Virginia’s tourism sector. Starting in 2025, year-round service from Norfolk will conservatively generate nearly $19 million annually from Carnival passengers alone. This equates to $125 per person with over 150,000 passengers, resulting in 300,000 unique passenger visits. These figures do not account for the numerous jobs supported by the cruise industry, including stevedores, line handlers, CBP, pilots, and various contracted services, which are essential for our local and regional economies.

 

The economic impact of the cruise industry extends beyond direct spending. It supports a wide range of local businesses, including hoteliers, restaurants, and small businesses, thereby enhancing the overall tourism experience in Virginia. These proposed regulations could severely hinder our ability to capitalize on this growing market, undermining the significant investments already made by both the public and private sectors.

 

We urge you to consider the broader implications of these regulations on Virginia’s tourism industry. The cruise industry is a vital component of our economic strategy, driving substantial visitor spending and supporting numerous jobs. We believe that with careful consideration and collaboration, we can find a balanced approach that protects our environment while fostering economic growth.

 

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to working with you to ensure a prosperous future for Virginia’s tourism and cruise industries.