Sustainable Transport Network
A Transportation Strategy to Grow Our Industry
For Newfoundland and Labrador, there’s no such thing as an accidental tourist. It takes deliberate planning and determined effort to visit here.
The transportation issues facing tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador are well understood and frequently articulated among industry stakeholders. In short, travel to, from, and around the province, whether by sea, air, or road is constrained by issues of affordability, capacity, infrastructure, and quality.
To compete effectively in an increasingly aggressive global market, we need the ability to bring travellers to the province in an easy, cost-effective, and pleasurable manner – by sea, by air, and by land. There is an immediate requirement for improved, affordable, and efficient access to and within the province. It’s the most critical element to stimulate inbound tourism. And it will have considerable influence on our industry over the next decade.
Access by Air. Air passenger travel accounts for approximately two-thirds of non-resident visits each year. Our response to strategic transport challenges identified in the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s ‘Air Access Strategy’ and through other forums is vital to the future success of our industry.
Access by Land & Sea. Visitors arriving to Newfoundland and Labrador by sea and road form an important part of our industry. Representing almost 27% of all inbound travellers, they stay longer (13.6 nights versus 9.3 nights), and they spread the benefits of tourism to our rural communities and regions. Maintaining growth in the drive travel market requires a significant, coordinated effort from all sectors of government and the industry to support the strategic development of our ferry services.
Along with non-resident auto travel, cruise visitation is also an important economic generator; 2007 was a record year with 55,500 cruise passengers and crew visiting various ports. To maintain cruise growth, we need to manage cruise travel challenges relating to port market readiness and Customs services and regulations.
In-Province Infrastructure. Well-developed and efficient in-province transportation infrastructure must also complement overall ease of access to the destination. This includes well-maintained roads, adequate road and directional signage, public transport, and other infrastructure to meet the needs of travellers. It will help the industry maximize the value of non-resident (and resident) visitors by making it easier for them to explore the province more widely, and spend more during their travels. From a strategic perspective, and to fulfill our economic potential, it is essential that we develop and improve transport infrastructure to a standard that can sustain existing visitor needs and support future growth.
