Friday, April 4, 2014 - 10:54 by ce-press
Wismar has grown from two calls in 2013 to 15 this, 10 of which are from Pullmantur which also does full-ship provisioning at the German port. For 2015 14 calls are already booked.
E3m is being invested in refitting the pier in Wismar, Germany. The work which includes expanding the quay to 240m in length, creating a fixed ISPS fence, and building a security and customs facility will begin this fall. Reception facilities for wastewater are also being added.
An association of local stakeholders including shops, coach companies, attractions, tour operators, tourist information and public transport has been formed which meets three to four times a year. Speakers such as Jens Skrede of Cruise Europe and Margrethe Austad of the Port of Oslo have been invited to come and share information and practices.
A city map in both Spanish and English is available for visiting passengers showing walks in the city. These are handed out by locals in traditional costume. A farewell/welcome ceremony including shanty choir attends each call.
Arrangements are being made to make sure shops are open on Sundays when ships are visiting which demonstrates the city’s commitment to this type of tourism which really only began 18 months ago. Columbus Cruise Center’s experience in Bremerhaven has certainly helped this fledgling cruise destination to put itself on the map. An extra benefit is that cruiselines which have called one of CCC’s port are now calling both, for example Pullmantur booked Wismar and has now booked Bremerhaven.
A tourism app is being developed but will not be ready for this year.
