Antecedents of residents’ support for cruise tourism in the Bahamas during the era of COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to disclose the antecedent factors for predicting support for cruise tourism in the Bahamas. It investigated the relationship between residents’ support for cruise tourism and the four indicators that were the positive/negative impact of cruise tourism on the community, perceived conflicts in sharing information and concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach Using 278 surveys of local residents near major cruise ports in the Bahamas, this study identified the salient variables in tourism impact and conflict factors. The survey questionnaire was adapted and developed from relevant studies and modified to suit the context of cruise tourism. Findings The results revealed that residents’ perceived conflict was insignificantly associated with their support for cruise tourism. In contrast, their concerns about COVID-19 and perceptions of the positive and negative cruise tourism impacts were statistically significant in predicting the likelihood of support for tourism. Originality/value This study suggests implications for enhancing the long-term growth of the cruise industry, which is vulnerable to environmental threats such as Covid-19.