Orkney Islands Council has backed plans to give local authorities the power to impose a levy on visiting cruise ships.
The decision comes as part of the council’s response to an upcoming Scottish Government consultation on the issue.
A series of discussions took place in September and October 2024, including a round table event in Orkney on 5 September, where stakeholders explored the potential impact of a cruise ship levy.
The Scottish Government is expected to launch a 12-week public consultation this month, giving communities and businesses a chance to have their say.
At the latest Policy and Resources Committee meeting, councillors were asked to agree on the council’s consultation response.
Christie Hartley, the council’s Team Manager for Sustainable Tourism, explained that a draft response had already been prepared to ensure the council’s position was clear within the consultation timeframe.
She confirmed that the response had been shaped in collaboration with the Harbour Authority and with input from councillors and council officers.
Once the consultation is complete, the Scottish Government will decide whether to proceed with legislation enabling local authorities to implement a cruise ship levy.
Council Leader Heather Woodbridge highlighted that during previous discussions on an overnight visitor levy, there was strong support for exploring a similar charge for cruise passengers.
She acknowledged that Orkney’s cruise industry is thriving but stressed the need for additional funding to maintain vital services and infrastructure as tourism grows.
A cruise ship levy could help improve visitor management while ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism.
Woodbridge also made it clear that such a levy should supplement, not replace, existing funding sources.
If the proposal moves forward, she expects further opportunities for local authorities and stakeholders to fine-tune the legislation before it takes effect.
She added that upcoming local engagement on the feasibility of an overnight visitor levy in Orkney will also consider views on a cruise ship levy.
A seminar in May 2025 will present the findings of these investigations to councillors and discuss the potential impact of both levies.
For updates, residents and businesses are encouraged to visit the council’s Visitor Levy webpage
