For nearly two decades there has been a large effort underway to revive the Great Lakes Cruising Industry. In the Twin Ports that means more than just building a terminal and hoping tourists will come. There are a number security and logistical challenges facing port authority officials in making cruising a regular industry in Duluth-Superior.

Preparing for the Clelia II's arrival and departure on July 4th wasn't an overnight miracle. Port Authority officials along with customs and border protections started preparing more than a year ago.

"The problem is working out a location that fits the requirements for security that's also close to attractions for passengers," said Jim Sharrow, facilities manager for the Duluth Port Authority.

The Port Authority says US customs has very restrictive and definite requirements when it comes to setting up shop.
Especially after 9/11.

"We're setting up terminal operations, because the (Clelia II) is zigzagging from US to Canada," said Ron Johnson, trade development director for the Duluth Port Authority.

A temporary port of entry was established in order to welcome the Clelia II. The first portion is a fenced off area behind the DECC on Harbor drive where the ship docks and passengers are dropped off and picked up.

"It can't just be like a snow fence," said Sharrow. "It has to be cement jersey barriers, eight foot high fencing, and guards at the gate who determine whether a person is qualified or expected to gain access to that restricted area."

The second portion of the terminal is a temporary passenger screening area built in the basement of the Great Lakes Aquarium. The customs area is a lot like one you would find at the airport. Passengers get off the ship, go through the specially renovated room where they are screened through a network of computers, and then they head down the hall to collect their luggage.

" They have to determine if you've brought in goods that might be owed, or you have to pay a duty and that sort of thing," said Sharrow.

Renovations cost the Great Lakes Aquarium $10-thousand dollars, an investment Aquarium officials hope will pay off.

"We're hoping this cruise, passenger ship service opportunity will only grow, and if it grows it provides opportunity that's good for community," said Jack LaVoy, executive director of the Great Lakes Aquarium.

While a vibrant cruise industry could be lucrative for the Twin Ports, it could also create some problems.

"Two ships at once could be an issue," said Johnson. We'd have to work around the DECC schedule, because the roads get blocked off, logistics would an issue."

The Port Authority says it could cost several million dollars to build a permanent cruise dock. For now the system is working and until the industry grows officials hope the temporary setup will suffice.