Many of the states are threatened by the oil slick, so the oil company has offered to support any marketing efforts by donating millions of dollars.

The Governor of Florida, Charlie Crist was given a cheque for $25million, which will pay for a three-month tourism advertising campaign aimed at combating the recent negative publicity caused by the oil spill.This is great news for the major cruise lines who have their ships permantly based in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Mr. Crist told Travelweekly.com "I am grateful to Tony Hayward, CEO of BP, for answering our call for help. We will use every marketing resource available to spread the word that our beaches are clean, our fish are biting and Florida is open for business."

The Florida State chief marketing officer Will Seccombe also echoed Charlie Crist’s words saying: "We know many visitors are concerned about the oil slick’s potential to affect their vacations. We want to do all we can to ensure their vacations are worry-free."

Florida is a popular destination for both cruisers and non-cruisers alike. Any problems caused by the oil slick could have a devastating effect on the State’s economy. BP’s intervention is timely.

Guests visiting the area are also being given guarantees. In Panama City Beach, holidaymakers will be given a full refund if the beach is closed due to the oil slick.Other areas and States such as Alabama are also giving similar guarantees.