When a giant cruise ship bound to or from Alaska stops at Prince George, the population increases by 20%. This boost in tourist traffic along with the newly completed container port has triggered a surge in the local economy, according to Mayor Herb Pond. Tourism executive director Bruce Wishart says that the cruise industry has brought in at least $10 million worth of spending into the local economy, including whale watching services and fishing charters. So far the city has been leaving visitors with positive opinions. “Our exit surveys show the cruise passengers like the fact that we’re a real twon with friendly people,” says Wishart.