Industry group predicts jump in Alaska cruise ship passengers in 2020

Updated: September 20, 2019 Published: September 20, 2019

The Princess Cruise Lines cruise ship Royal Princess is seen in Juneau on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 during the ship's inaugural trip to Alaska. (James Brooks / ADN)

JUNEAU — An industry trade group predicts the number of Alaska cruise ship passengers will break new records in 2020 for the fifth consecutive year.

CoastAlaska reports the outlook comes from Cruise Lines International Association Alaska.

The projections were announced Wednesday at the annual meeting of Southeast Conference, taking place in Sitka.

According to the association’s data, at least 1.44 million cruise ship passengers are expected in Alaska next year. That’s a 6% increase.

Cruise ship traffic increased by about 200,000 passengers between 2018 and 2019.

Next year, 10 new ships are expected, along with 29 additional port calls.

The biggest jump is expected for Hoonah through the Icy Strait Point tourism complex owned by Huna Totem Corp., the village Native corporation for Hoonah.

Other top destinations include Juneau and Ketchikan.

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