50,099 cruise tourists had visited Jeju by March 26, arriving on four ships which called a total of 24 times. The figures are up 280 percent on last year and tour officials believe the figures are a sign the industry will reach its 500,000 target for the year.

Cruise visitors by year

Much of the growth has been due to the frequent calling of the Costa Atlantica since the turn of the year, despite it being the off-season for cruise tourism. This suggests Jeju can perform well as a cruise tourism destination year-round.

There are also a number of projects to ensure cruise tourism benefits the local economy. Cruise ships will be supplied with Jeju food and agricultural products as well as Jeju Samdasoo, the local bottled water.

Since late last year, the local water along with cabbage, white radish, flounder, eggs, and ice cream have been sold to cruise liners after an agreement between four organizations: Jeju Special Self-Government, JPDC, NongHyup, and a local food enterprise.

There are plans to further grow the local cruise industry and improve the local economy. Officials hope Jeju can become a cruise tourism hub for Northeast Asia and the local government have been collecting local residents' opinions on how best to develop the industry and benefit the local economy.