Large cruise ships won’t be banned from docking in a major US capital after a controversial vote.
People living in Juneau, Alaska, had been asked to provide their thoughts on whether cruise ships should be turned away on certain days.
A dramatic measure known as “ship free Saturdays” would have stopped vessels with more than 250 passengers from docking on Saturdays and America’s independence day of July 4.
But after 9,633 votes were cast, 5,788 residents voted against the measure. It means defeat for anti-tourist complainers who voted in favour.
About 1,000 ballots still need to be processed but confirmation is expected in the middle of October.
Despite a ban being voted down, the results will have sent a message to city bosses who have been asked to take action on overtourism.
Last year Juneau saw a record 1.65 million visitors — despite having just 32,000 permanent residents. On some days, up to 20,000 passengers can disembark from cruise ships ready to explore the city’s famous glaciers.
Nestled in the rugged Alaskan panhandle, it is only accessible by boat or plane. The whale-watching hotspot attracts tourists for its proximity to the Mendenhall Glacier and stunning wilderness.
Karla Hart, one of the locals who put the initiative up for a vote, said she was disappointed by the lack of support. She told Alaska News Source she was concerned about the impact shore excursions and overcrowding were having on Juneau.
“The helicopter tours are my number one nemesis,” Ms Hart said. “They drive me away from my house in the summer because the noise is incessant.
“[There are] so many tourists and seasonal workers. When you go downtown, you’re just trying to get yourself to whatever you need to do and get out. The civility has totally diminished in that downtown core area.”
