Cruise Destination Honningsvåg: Community care for cruise

The destination of Magerøya, and the town of Honningsvåg have historically not been considered primary destinations for cruise tourism during their short and intense summer season. Instead, they have primarily served as a departure point for tourists visiting the iconic North Cape, which a significant attraction in Northern Europe. The development of cruise tourism industry in the region can be attributed, in part, to the influential position held by the main stakeholders responsible for directing tourists to the North Cape. However, the increasing number of visitors to this attraction has raised concerns regarding both the fragile Arctic environment and the limited economic impact on the surrounding local communities. Many voices within the region have recognized the need to extend the tourism season and shift the focus from mass cruise tourism to land-based tourists experiences. This sift is seen as having the potential to create greater economic value for a more diverse group of tourism providers on the island.

The concerns raised by tourism and service providers in the area highlight several important issues related to the impact of cruise tourism on the local community. These concerns include:

• High reliance on the foreign labour force – the tourism industry in the area heavily depends on foreign workers to meet the demand generated by cruise. This reliance on seasonal workers creates challenges related to language barriers, cultural differences, and turnover rates, which may affect the quality-of-service delivery.
• Traffic congestion – the influx of cruise tourists leads to increased traffic congestion, especially during peak tourism season.
• Lack of clear organisational structure – organisation and coordination of hosting cruise tourists may lack a clear structure, which can result in inefficiencies and difficulties. The absence of a well-defined system can lead to confusion and challenges in managing the arrival, transportation and activities of cruise tourists.
• Logistical challenges in organising experiences are connected to the rising volumes of cruise traffic and the varying demands and preferences of visitors.
• Stress and uncertainty connected to cruise arrivals – the unpredictable nature of cruise arrivals, uncertainties associated with weather conditions can create stress for tourism providers.
• Active disengagement of some entrepreneurs – the monopolistic structure of cruise tourism industry, governed by multinational corporations resulting in limited opportunities for local entrepreneurs to actively participate and benefit from cruise tourism activities. This can lead to disengagement and sense of exclusion among some members of the local community.

The need for transformation and improved collaboration among local hospitality industry, the harbour, municipality, cruise ship industry and DMO is crucial to address challenges and ensure a more equal distribution of economic benefits. The stakeholders recognize the importance of developing a joint “master plan” that outlines a comprehensive and coordinated approach to managing both land-based and cruise tourism in the destination.

By working together and self-organising, the tourism industry stakeholders can aim to create a more balances and inclusive tourism ecosystem where the benefits are shared more equally. While larger players in the industry may currently enjoy the most significant benefits from cruise tourism, it is important to consider the broader impacts and costs associated with the industry. These externalities, such as environmental impacts, infrastructure demands, and public services, need to be acknowledged and addressed collectively by the destination stakeholders. Through collaborative efforts and a shared vision, it is possible to create a more resilient and inclusive tourism industry. This requires ongoing dialog, cooperation and a commitment to long-term planning and management for the benefit of both the local community and visitors.