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Record visitation in Alaska driven by strong cruise market
A record number of tourists visited Alaska last year, credited largely with the state’s booming cruise industry, according to a detailed report published by the Alaska Division of Economic Development.
It says 1.96 million out-of-state visitors came during May 2013 to April, 5,000 more than the previous best year of 2007-2008.
This is the third consecutive year of growth and up 12% compared to the last 12-month period.
The state report cites an increase in Alaska cruise calls which welcomed almost one million visitors last year.
A reduction in the cruise passenger head tax has made a positive difference, with ships returning to Alaska and new vessels entering the market, says Commerce Commissioner Susan Bell.
"For example, Holland America increased its presence in Alaska with more departures and more guests than in 2012," she said.
"Celebrity Cruises also expanded capacity by sending one of its new Solstice Class ships to Alaska for the first time."
Air passenger volume is also up with JetBlue, United and Delta all adding more flights over the last year.
Virgin America also recently launched flights to Anchorage and the increased competition is already resulting in lower average fares.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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