Cruise Market Strategic Planning & Stakeholder Engagement

The contract seeks to provide strategic guidance on Hawai‘i’s cruise market by developing and implementing a comprehensive plan that aligns with the state’s tourism and economic goals. The selected contractor will act as a central liaison among international cruise shipping lines, national tourism organizations, and local port authorities to foster collaboration, address operational challenges, and enhance the overall cruise experience for visitors while supporting sustainable growth. This engagement is critical to strengthening Hawai‘i’s position in the global cruise industry and ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned on priorities such as environmental stewardship, community impact, and economic benefits. The contractor will be responsible for delivering actionable recommendations that influence policy, investment, and stakeholder relationships, with a focus on long-term market development. Work will center on analyzing current trends, identifying opportunities for expansion or improvement, and facilitating communication between diverse parties with varying interests. The solicitation is issued as a subcontract under NAICS code 541611 for management consulting services, with responses due by August 12, 2026. The contract is administered by the Hawai‘i Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and will directly influence the future trajectory of cruise tourism in the state.