A new report says cruise tourism is bringing over $31 million US dollars into the Vanuatu economy each year.
240414. Photo RNZ. Vanuatu. Port Vila, Port Vila harbour, Iririki, tropics, sailing, yachting Photo: RNZ
The study was commissioned and funded by the Carnival Australia cruise company, along with the Australian Government and the World Bank group member, the International Finance Corporation.
The Vanuatu Prime Minister, Joe Natuman, says there are twice as many visitors arriving in Vanuatu by ship than by air, which validates the importance of cruise tourism on the country's economic growth and job creation.
According to the Assessment of the Economic Impact of Cruise Tourism in Vanuatu, each cruise ship arriving in Vanuatu brings around $240,000 US dollars worth of direct benefits to a range of businesses and organisations.
It's also estimated to provide around 3000 jobs in Vanuatu.
The data for the study was provided by Carnival Australia and Royal Caribbean, as well as passengers, businesses and government.