First cruise ship of 2017 spends day in Santa Barbara waters

The Ruby Princess cruise ship brought an economic boost to Santa Barbara today.

It was the first cruise ship stop of the season.

Ten are set between now and mid June. (The second ship, set for Friday has been cancelled due to weather issues.)

The city says when cruise ships arrive, and guests come ashore there is a big spike in business including touring trips, shopping, dining and visits to museums.

Santa Barbara’s visitors center also sets up a table at the waterfront with many guides, maps, and discount coupons for those coming ashore.

For more cruise ship information in Santa Barbara go to: http://www.santabarbaraca.gov/gov/depts/waterfront/events/cruiseship.asp