By
Elizabeth Robinson |
The city of Ketchikan in Alaska has, for the first time, welcomed one million cruise ship visitors in a single season.
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Alaska president John Binkley was joined by local officials and residents of Ketchikan to surprise the one millionth visitor, Candy Borda, and her family as they disembarked from Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jewel on 25 September.
The New Path Dancers greeted Borda, who received a basket filled with Alaska-themed gifts from the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau and local shops.
“Ketchikan has welcomed visitors traveling to Alaska by ship for over 100 years and we are excited to break a record today. One million passengers this summer is a milestone for our city,” said Lew Williams III, Mayor of the City of Ketchikan. “Ketchikan is proud of its reputation for friendliness and hospitality and looks forward to each and every visitor who steps off of a cruise ship.”
“The visitor industry plays a vital role in the economic wellbeing of the community of Ketchikan,” said Stephen Bradford, Vice Mayor. We have invested millions of dollars in infrastructure, safety and enhancements for our visitors and welcome our one millionth visitor with great enthusiasm. It’s a very exciting time for Ketchikan.”
Norwegian Cruise Line’s 4,000-passenger Norwegian Bliss, which is specifically built for cruising in Alaska, will enter Alaskan waters for the 2018 season.
“It’s wonderful to be able to show our great state, and Ketchikan, to over one million people annually and we look forward to another record-breaking year in 2018,” said Binkley.