Research Note: An Analysis of Cruise Ship Impact on Local Hotel Demand — An Event Study in Charleston,South Carolina

Abstract

This study examines cruise passenger demand for hotel accommodation in Charleston, South Carolina, prior to embarkation and after debarkation. The findings reveal that cruise passengers are significant drivers of room night demand around embarkation and debarkation. In addition, cruise passenger demand for room nights was not isolated to non-tourist districts of the greater metropolitan area, suggesting that a cruise from Charleston was coupled with a short vacation. This research is particularly important to destination managers, port authorities, municipalities and other stakeholders as they examine and negotiate the frequency, type and timing of passenger cruise service that provides the most positive benefit for the community.

Keywords

event study economic impact cruise ship industry Charleston SC

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