More than 80 vessels have visited Guernsey in 2006 so far, with about 100,000 passengers going ashore.

The �700,000 is 20% up on the amount spent by ship passengers visiting the island in the whole of 2005.

Another five ships are due to dock before the end of the year. More than 40 will make a stop next year.

Guernsey's Tourist Board said the island had earned an enviable reputation among cruise companies because of its quality port services, professional handling arrangements and a warm welcome.