Thursday, June 1, 2017 - 10:02 by ce-press
In 2016 the Isle of Man became the world’s first entire country to be designated with UNESCO’s biosphere status.
In 2016 there were 16 calls to the island with 28 scheduled this year, the highest number of calls since promotion began and a 75% increase on the prior year. Passenger numbers rose by over 115% to 11,500 passengers and crew numbers by 103% to 6,600 in 2017.
On April 21 the season began when Hebridean Princess made a last-minute call, having selected the Isle of Man as one of the surprise destinations on its itinerary.
This year sees continued development in services and excursions which include development of onboard marketing and promotional literature/media for pre-arrival; an increased pool of qualified Manx blue badge guild guides; an increased pool of cruise welcomer volunteers which, this year, will provide assistance throughout the excursion experience and an increased focus on providing foreign language speakers.
In addition enhancement of local culture and heritage is taking place with a view to encouraging interaction with local crafts people and Island residents through: artisan stalls selling local produce and crafts as well as the introduction of local historical, cultural and musical entertainment in and around the point of arrival.
Seonad-Siobhan Duggan, cruise consultant Visit Isle of Man, commented: “Working closely with government bodies, the port, harbour and transport authorities, Manx National Heritage and the vast number of dedicated and enthusiastic local businesses throughout the Island, we can develop excursions in partnership with these stakeholders, and tweak these to suit individual preferences, timings, numbers, routes and even the content of the excursion, to meet cruiseline requirements. This can all be done quickly and smoothly given our direct relationships with these local stakeholders.”
In 2016, Grand Circle called the Island for the first time when Clio made three calls in September. As part of the tailor-made programme, onboard presentations were delivered by local politicians, concluding with a presentation from His Excellency, the Lieutenant Governor, Sir Richard Gozney who spoke about Island life and it’s nuances.
This year Tauck called for the first time with further calls planned in 2018.
