Tourism outlook shows increase in visitors

The outlook for tourism in Petersburg this summer is showing an increase in cruise ship passengers, while the rate of independent travelers is still unclear.

Dave Berg, co-founder of Viking Travel Inc., says cruise ships are scheduled to make 133 stops in Petersburg this summer, which is up from 110 last year.

"More stops, more passengers," Berg said.

That could mean more dollars spent in downtown businesses.

"More sales tax," Berg said. "Which basically trickles down to the economy and it's really great for the community."

About 9,000 passengers are expected to visit Petersburg, that is if th...