Does VisitScotland promote Scotland as a cruise destination?
VisitScotland recognises the importance of the cruise market to local economies. Where the cruise market is reflected as a key priority in Area Tourism Partnership Plans, we will work at the local level to consider how we can maximise the current value of the cruise market to those local economies.

What will VisitScotland do at the national level to promote the cruise market?
At the national level, the cruise market is not yet a priority market for Scotland. Recent research has shown us that for Scotland to fulfil its potential as a cruise destination, significant investment will be required in Leith to establish Edinburgh as a major hub for the cruise market. Until that investment is made, the revenue generated from the cruise market does not justify it becoming a priority at the national level - £23m compared with, for example, £80m for fishing, £400m for walking.

Why has Leith been suggested as the location for a hub?
The research has identified that Edinburgh is vital to the Scottish product. It suggests that Edinburgh should be developed to compete with other key destinations such as Barcelona and Dublin.

Will VisitScotland invest in new developments in Leith to establish Edinburgh as a cruise hub?
As a marketing organisation it is not within VisitScotland’s remit to invest in infrastructure development. However, we would certainly encourage investment from the appropriate bodies so that Scotland can fulfil its potential as a cruise destination in the longer term.

What would the benefits be of Edinburgh becoming a major hub for the cruise market?
If Leith, Edinburgh became a major hub, we would expect expenditure per person to rise as visitors would start and end their cruise from there. It is likely that they would extend their visit at the beginning and / or the end of the cruise and therefore bring additional spend into the economy.

If this investment goes ahead, what will VisitScotland do?
Once the investment is made and there is a marketable product, VisitScotland will develop appropriate marketing programmes to capitalise on the potential of this market.