The American Heritage, one of the 20 cruise ships that visited Marietta this summer, docks on the Ohio River Levee on Monday morning. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

Riverboat cruise tourism brought a record number of visitors to Marietta this summer, with more than 20 vessels docking in the city, according to the Marietta-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Shannon Beacham, marketing director for the bureau, said the increased traffic has benefited downtown businesses.

“Most of the shops that passengers can walk to have reported higher sales this summer,” Beacham said. “Visitors also frequently comment on Marietta’s history, attractions, and appearance.”

Local business owners reported steady business from cruise ship passengers and staff. Liz Johnson, co-owner of Jeremiah’s Coffee House, said her shop often receives calls from crew members as soon as the boats dock.

“Whenever the boats are in town, the staff usually come in before noon to place their coffee orders,” Johnson said. “It’s become a regular part of the season.”

At Whit & Whimzy, a gift shop featuring regional artists and small makers, owner Lisa Pytlik said extended layovers gave customers more time to explore.

“Passengers have told us they had more flexibility to visit historic sites and still shop downtown,” Pytlik said.

Tourism attractions also reported an uptick. The Castle Museum hosted 11 cruise groups this summer, averaging about 50 visitors per tour, according to Education Director Kyle Yoho. The museum also offered excursions to Mound Cemetery and the city’s ancient earthworks.

“Guests were able to learn about the area through different experiences,” Yoho said. “Feedback from the tours has been positive.”

Visitors cited Marietta’s size and history as part of the appeal. Jerry and Peggy Lucas, of San Diego, who traveled on a sternwheeler, said the town provided a full day’s worth of activities.

“There was enough to do, and it felt manageable,” Peggy Lucas said.

Zane Carter, a deckhand with one of the cruise lines, said many passengers seek out smaller stops.

“Smaller towns often have more history and unique sites,” Carter said.

Tourism officials said the increased number of cruises has added visibility and activity to Marietta’s downtown and cultural sites. The season has now ended, but officials expect cruise traffic to remain a regular part of the local economy in future years.