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Hat trick of Cruise Awards
for Liverpool
BACK 2015 Liverpool scooped the:-
'Destination of the Year' prize at the prestigious Seatrade Cruise
Awards, but now it has been named the 'Best
UK Port of Call' Prize for the 3rd time, in 4 years, by the world's
largest cruise review site.
'Cruise Critic' – sister site of 'Trip Advisor' – has awarded the
2016 honour to the City, following on from previous prizes in 2013 and 2014.
The judges commented that Liverpool "is poised to flourish, quietly but
steadfastly winning back its reputation after a ½ century of struggle and
economic decline" and "the recipe for success has been a heavy
investment in development, both leading up to and following on from the plaudits
of the mid 2000's, and the City is now reaping the rewards of that investment in
increased tourism and retail."
They also cite plans for a new, larger cruise terminal building able to handle
turnaround cruises with up to 3,600 passengers at the former Princes Jetty as
"a strong commitment by the City to continue its long, rich maritime
history."
There is also praise for the world famous scouse welcome, with judges noting:-
"Cruise passengers arriving in the City will find a warm welcome from
Liverpudlians who are enjoying renewed confidence that their City has overcome
the difficulties of its recent past."
The awards highlight excellence in cruise travel, and are selected by an
international panel of cruise journalists, recognising the very best cruise
lines, ships and ports.
Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, said:- "This is more proof of the
incredible revival that we have seen in Liverpool's cruise industry over the
last few years. The team at the terminal, along with representatives from our
tourist industry, go above and beyond to welcome people to the City and make it
a memorable trip for them. Despite our ever growing number of awards, we are
absolutely not complacent and I know that we can attract more liners if we have
the right infrastructure. That is why it was a pledge for my next four years as
mayor to move forward with plans for a permanent facility to handle bigger
vessels and more passengers."
Passenger numbers are up from 38,656, 4 years ago, to almost 78,000, in 2016,
plus 34,000 crew, generating an estimated £6.5 million, for the local economy
through spending while on shore.
Liverpool's Cruise Manager, Angie Redhead, said:- "We are absolutely
delighted to have been awarded UK Port of Call of the Year" for the third time
in 4 years. Cruise Critic is 1 of the 1st places travellers look when
contemplating a cruise as its reviews are so well trusted. To have the stamp of
approval is so very important in such a competitive industry and is an essential
promotional tool we can use to attract more cruise lines and passengers. As we
know, Liverpool people are extremely proud of our maritime heritage and our
famously friendly welcome and this award acknowledges, both of these elements
showing the true essence of Liverpool. Liverpool is going from strength to
strength as a passenger destination and I am sure this award will result in more
cruise visitors in the future."
Cruise Critic UK editor Adam Coulter said:- "It's been a mammoth year for
ocean, river and luxury cruise ship launches, many of which are the largest
addition to each line's fleet.
These awards consider the needs of UK travellers; whatever their budget, and
personal preferences; to help them plan the perfect holiday on the water.
The ever increasing itinerary and ship options offered are impressive, and by
sharing our combined 1st hand insight and expertise, we can celebrate some of
the top choices available."
The full list of Cruise Critic Editor Picks Awards for 2016 and information
regarding each award is available
online. |
