The threat of swine flu has several major cruise lines diverting ships to San Diego to avoid previously scheduled stops in Mexico -- and that could mean millions of dollars in revenue for the local economy.
San Diego Port officials said as many as a dozen cruise ships may be rerouted to San Diego in the coming weeks -- the first arrived Thursday morning.
John Gilmore, communications director for the Port of San Diego said there are nine cruise ships confirmed to be diverted to San Diego in the next two weeks and three other ships that may also be headed here and that means thousands of tourists.
"We expect they're going to be shopping, spending money, enjoying some of the glorious sights of San Diego," Gilmore said.
Gilmore said every cruise liner equals about 1 million dollars in revenue for San Diego businesses.
The Princess Sapphire cruised into San Diego Bay around 6:30 a.m. Thursday. The ship docked in Ensenada, Mexico Wednesday but passengers weren't allowed to get off.
The port of San Diego has posted signs at the cruise terminal reminding passengers to use good hygiene.
Some cruise lines said they will give future passengers the option to reschedule their cruises if they're not happy with the change in destinations. Passengers should contact the cruise lines directly.
Local
If you have any concerns about swine flu or would like more information, dial 211 for the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services hotline or you can also call 858-715-2250 for San Diego County's Swine Influence Information Line.
