Bristol is about to welcome its second cruise ship this summer, sparking optimism among regional tourist chiefs that it could transform the city's status as a regular destination in the lucrative world of cruising. Until now many round-Britain cruises have steamed straight past the West Country.
The Holland America Prinsendam made a trial visit to Portbury in June – and she is now back today having again switched ports from Newport, just across the Severn estuary. The Prinsendam’s captain opted for Bristol after learning that a berth was available. The 38,000 tonne cruise liner, formerly the Cunard Royal Viking Sun, has room for 835 passengers on nine decks along with 450 crew members.
In the world of ever-larger cruise ships, size does matter. Newport can only handle ships with a beam of up to 30 metres, just wide enough by a coat of paint to squeeze in the Prinsendam.
Bristol won out because Portbury’s 40-metre wide lock can accommodate much larger ships. Even Cunard’s new Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria could easily sail in.
Julie Gough, of the Port of Bristol, said “We are delighted to win this business but we must give priority to our existing customers at Portbury. Cruise lines want to book space two years ahead and this causes us a few headaches. However we are delighted they are coming and we’re working very hard to make sure we encourage more cruise lines to visit ”
The visits are a real boost for Destination Bristol, tasked with promoting the city. Many of the 750 American passengers, who are cruising around the UK, may choose to visit Bath but Bristol tourist officials will be at the quayside as the passengers disembark, promoting the many attractions of the city.
The ship will also offer shuttle buses to Cribbs Causeway and Cabot Circus shopping centres, bringing much needed business for retailers.
Destination Bristol managing director John Hallett said: "The decision by Holland America to revisit Bristol within six weeks and to re-schedule the ship's itinerary diverting it from its planned port of call is a great result.
"This shows that we are beginning to see the potential of Bristol as a cruise ship stopping-off port and we are hopeful that our efforts to highlight this to the international cruise industry will really pay dividends in years to come."
