Regional development agency One NorthEast has launched a Cruise Tourism Regional Action Plan designed to help the area capture a greater share of the £15 billion global cruise market.
The number of cruise passengers visiting the Port of Tyne increased by a third over the last year, the agency said. Next year, more ships are booked to visit the port, including a visit from the QE2.
As well as the Port of Tyne, the agency also plans to further develop Hartlepool and Blyth, as well as smaller scale development for Berwick, Holy Island and Seahouses.
Louise Davis, head of tourism at One NorthEast, said: “The success of cruise tourism in north east England will have a very positive impact on the region and will aid increased promotion of the region’s natural, heritage and cultural assets. It has the potential to bring £6.5 million and a minimum of 100 jobs to the region by 2010.”