The Impact of Cruise Lines’ Program on Tourism Industry in Incheon

Purpose: This research explores possibilities for unique tourism programs in the Port of Incheon that would bring tourism benefits from the cruise line industry to Incheon. This research also tries to find practical strategies and principles for the cruise line industry by reviewing the current itinerary in the cruise line industry. Research design, data, and methodology: Because this study is exploratory research, it first reviews trends in global tourism, ocean tourism, and the cruise line industry. Then, this study compares the current status of cruise line industry in South Korea with those in Japan. Lastly, existing cruise itineraries are reviewed for practical strategies and principles. Results: Based on reviewing the example of a cruise ship itinerary from the cruise ship company, possible cruise line programs at stopover places are suggested for the Port of Incheon and if the program is planted, it will boost Incheon's economy and tourism industry. Conclusion: Basic data about tourism in coastal regions and data analyses are lacking. Therefore, this study not only recommends further research in itinerary development or evaluation of cruise stopover programs, but also future research should explore the impact of the cruise industry from many different perspectives.