Statement on the Cancellation of the Princess Pilot Program

On the York County website (yorkcounty.gov) it was announced that the Princess Cruise Line pilot program has been cancelled. We are cautiously optimistic but recognize the importance of continued engagement and seeking information on the future of cruise ship tourism in Yorktown and the Commonwealth. Preserve Yorktown is grateful for the change in direction and believes this is the right decision for our small historic community. We also recognize that not all citizens and those who worked towards bringing Princess Cruise Lines to Yorktown will agree with the program cancellation. For those who worked hard with noble intent and others that feel the cancellation is not the right course of action, we acknowledge your efforts and position. 

The focus of Preserve Yorktown has always been responsible tourism. We will continue to be vigilant while advocating for and promoting approaches that align with the tenets of our position statement on responsible cruise ship tourism (preserveyorktown.org/position-statement). It is our hope that we can share the rich history of Yorktown in ways synergistic with its character and bring benefits to both businesses and residents in the future. 

We would like to thank those who stand for responsible tourism and shared our message to help affect this change. Your emails, posts, letters, phone calls, meetings, public comments, and other efforts are what made the difference – this is greatly appreciated. 

Despite recent developments, it is important to continue to stand against the mega-cruise industry. The cruise industry continues to expand in Virginia and we have not yet received assurances that they will not try again. Stay vigilant!