Cruise ship tourism on the Danube in Vojvodina Province as a segment of global tourism

Abstract

Tourist packages based on cruises on the Danube river through Central and Eastern Europe represent a joint tourist offer of the countries in the area. The aim of the paper is to explore the potential benefits for the receptive countries and regions, particularly Vojvodina (Province of Serbia) by launching this tourist product to the world market. The results of the analysis have shown that the Danube cruises have positive impact on Vojvodina Province, primarily the riparian area of the Danube. Although the benefits exclude food and accommodation expenditure, they are noticeable within the following segments: tourism promotion (broadening the scopes of Vojvodina Province as a receptive area for the foreign market through its cultural heritage and natural values); increase in foreign tourist turnover, other expenditures; new job opportunities (adequate infrastructure and superstructure - rendering services to ships, crew and passengers) - harbors, carriers, souvenir shops, etc. The results of the research may initiate further studies on the cause and effect connections between this type of traveling and resources of receptive countries, upon which the travels are based, both aiming at adequate design and launching of the tourist offer, i.e. the optimal development of receptive countries through sustainable tourism.