Invergordon's 'record' cruise ship year wrecked by coronavirus crisis
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What would have been a record year for cruise ship numbers at the Port of Cromarty Firth has been almost completely wiped out by the coronavirus crisis.
Just three of the 106 cruise ships that had been expected to dock at Invergordon in 2020 will visit the Highlands by the season's end.
Scotland's busiest cruise liner port had expected to see more than 250,000 passengers, along with crew, disembark at Invergordon to explore the Highlands this season.
What had been a growing sector for the Port of Cromarty Firth has come to account for around 20 per cent of its revenue and its loss will have a major impact on the Port, which has been investing heavily to cater for larger cruise ships.
However, the absence of the cruise sector will also have a wider impact on the Highland economy with cancelled tours to local attractions, towns and villages.
Local coach operator D&E Coaches has estimated facing a £1.5 million loss as cruise ship tours account for almost all its summer hires.
Related: Invergordon port authority to put cruise visits on hold over coronavirus fears
