Record-breaking cruise season ends with plans already in motion for 2017

Fishguard’s 2016 Cruise Season hailed ‘a success’

Fishguard Harbour's 2016 cruise season has been a record-breaking success with nineteen ships visiting the harbour bringing with them around 5,000 passengers who experienced Fishguard’s cruise programme which has gained a great reputation throughout the cruise industry.

The final ship to leave the harbour, the MV Clio, and her passengers, were treated to an enjoyable welcome and farewell which they will hopefully tell all of their friends and family about, explained Carl Milne, Port Operations Manager, Stena Line.

“Local people, businesses and ‘meet and greet’ volunteers come out every time a ship arrives in the harbour to roll out the red carpet and give them a welcome they will never forget. That has been part of the success of the cruise season and the reason why so many come back,” said Carl.

The passengers who come to Fishguard Harbour enjoy time exploring Pembrokeshire.

Carl continued: “This year we have welcomed four new cruise ships, including the Aidavita, which is the largest cruise vessel to anchor in Fishguard Harbour for many years. The passengers on board this and other cruise ships, enjoyed local choirs and schoolchildren singing, as well as harpists and crafters as they transited to and from the ships.

“2016 has been an excellent year for us in the cruise sectorand we are excited to build on this with many more bookings already confirmed for next year and more to come.

“Looking ahead to next year, a brand new pontoon berth will transform our capabilities and enable us to remain competitive for many years. I’d like to praise the hospitality shown to visitors by local attractions, the whole community, businesses and volunteers and in particular the Refreshing North Pembrokeshire team, and Port Cruise Committee for their input,” concluded Carl.

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MEDIA ENQUIRIES: For further information please contact Michael McCrory of Duffy Rafferty Communications on 028 9073 0880 / michaelm@duffyrafferty.com