Prince Edward Island's tourism industry today reported a dramatic increase in the number of visitors during the 1997 tourism season.
Between the months of May and October, the number of pleasure and business travellers who visited Prince Edward Island totalled 1,238,300. In comparison to 1996 statistics, this is an increase of 57 per cent. Business visitations increased by 10 per cent over 1996 business travellers. An increase in visitors was also indicative of an increase in visitor spending. Visitors to the Island spent approximately $262.7 million, an increase of 53 per cent over 1996.
"The increase indicates the enormous success one of Prince Edward Island's leading industries has had in developing the local economy," said Wes MacAleer, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism. "A substantial increase such as this translates into job creation and continued investment in the Island economy which benefits all Islanders."
A "typical" pleasure tourist to Prince Edward Island is 40 years of age or older, spends an average of four nights on the Island and comes from either the Maritimes or Ontario. Primary activities these tourists participate in include sightseeing, souvenir and crafts shopping and beach visits. Other popular activities include Anne attractions, lobster suppers, visiting historical attractions and shopping for general merchandise.
"On Prince Edward Island, 1997 was clearly a year to remember. The Confederation Bridge opened doors for the Island which will ensure the continued growth and development of the Island's tourism industry," said Minister MacAleer.
The 1997 Tourism Exit Survey is an annual study conducted by the research section of Enterprise PEI. The information was collected through telephone and personal interviews from people who exited PEI by the Confederation Bridge, Northumberland Ferries and the Charlottetown airport. Copies of the survey will be available at Island Information Service by mid-January.