Bristol could become a regular port of call for cruise ships visiting the UK. That’s the optimistic forecast from tourism officials following the success of last weekend’s visit by the cruise ship Prinsendam to Royal Portbury Dock.
It is the second time in six weeks that the ship – operated by the Holland America Line – has called in to Bristol.
MS Prinsendam at Royal Portbury Dock
Local tourism staff were waiting on the quayside with a pop-up information centre providing the 800 passengers with visitor suggestions, discounts and shopping offers.
Anna Slade of Destination Bristol said: “We’re delighted with the very positive feedback from the passengers. The buses running between the dock and the city centre proved very popular and we provided maps and guides so that people could explore the city at their own leisure.
A mobile tourist office showcases the City
Others took advantage of organised shore excursions to the surrounding area including Bristol, Bath, Wells, the Cotswolds and South Wales.”
Most of the passengers were from the United States and first timers to Bristol. A typical reaction came from regular cruisers Ed and Ruth Voosen from Boston. They enjoyed their first glass of West Country beer in a local pub and promised they would definitely be coming back.
Ed Voosen said: “We did visit Bath many years ago from London, but this is our first time in Bristol. It’s a real eye-opener and we had no idea there would be so much to see. We particularly liked the waterfront, Clifton Village and the Suspension Bridge. I’m sure more ships will come here as the word gets around.
“We’ll be back!” Ed and Ruth Voosen
Anna Slade hopes they can build on this success.
“We were able to show what a welcoming and vibrant range of attractions are on offer in Bristol and the immediate area. Now we are optimistic that we can build on this and grow Bristol’s cruise industry.”
