Key West, Florida is a popular destination for cruise ships due to its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and rich history. However, there has been much controversy surrounding the allowance of cruise ships in Key West. In November 2020, a referendum was passed that limits the size and number of cruise ships allowed to dock in the city.
What is the Referendum?
The referendum limits the number of passengers on each ship to 1,500 and only allows two ships to dock per day. This is a significant reduction from the previous limit of 5,000 passengers per ship and three ships per day. The goal of this referendum is to reduce the negative impact that large cruise ships have on the environment and local economy.
Environmental Impact
Cruise ships are known for their negative impact on the environment. They produce large amounts of waste, including sewage, food waste, and garbage.
This waste can harm marine life and damage coral reefs. The noise pollution from these massive ships can also disturb marine animals’ habitats.
By limiting the size and number of cruise ships allowed in Key West, there will be less pollution and disturbance to marine life. The city can work towards protecting its natural resources while still attracting tourists.
Economic Impact
While cruise ships bring in tourism dollars to Key West, they also have a negative impact on the local economy. Large cruise ships often have their own restaurants, entertainment venues, and shops onboard. This takes away business from local establishments that rely on tourist traffic.
By limiting the size and number of cruise ships allowed in Key West, local businesses can flourish once again. Tourists will be more likely to visit local restaurants and shops instead of staying onboard their ship for meals and entertainment.
What Happens Next?
The referendum still needs approval from Florida’s governor before it goes into effect. It is unclear when this will happen as some lawmakers are calling for the referendum to be overturned.
If the referendum is approved, it will be interesting to see how it affects Key West’s tourism industry. Will visitors still flock to the city even with smaller cruise ships? Only time will tell.
Conclusion
The referendum passed in November 2020 limits the size and number of cruise ships allowed to dock in Key West. This is a significant step towards protecting the city’s natural resources and improving its local economy. While some may argue that this will hurt tourism, it is important to remember that responsible tourism is key to preserving destinations for future generations.