Maine wishes to shift its approach to cruise ship industry in order to generate more economic benefit, rather than just promote the state as a cruise destination.
This change reflects a move by Office of Tourism to grow the number of vessels coming to Maine via coordinating the marketing efforts of the state and adding new products and shore excursions for cruise traverlers.
Image: Port of Portland, Maine
The focus had been previously put on increasing the number of ships making the state of Maine a destination. However, there was little attention paid to enhancing visitors’ experience, or encouraging guests to come to Maine again.
The effort comes at the time some Down East cities are enacting moratoriums on cruise visits due to concerns that the ships will spoil the quiet nature of the communities.
To better capitalize on cruise industry’s interest, Maine is recasting its strategy via an administrative shakeup. In July, Maine Office of Tourism awarded Soli DG a contract to manage cruise marketing, coordination & outreach. The company is owned by Patrick Arnold and runs Portland's International Marine Terminal.