By
Rebecca Gibson |
Region Gotland and Copenhagen Malmö Port (CMP) are to collaborate to increase cruise traffic at Sweden’s port of Visby after signing a memorandum of understanding.
As part of the long-term agreement, which is expected to be finalised by 31 December 2014, the organisations will produce a common business concept to strengthen their positions in the cruise industry.
Region Gotland and CMP will also collaborate to develop a long-term marketing plan and a financial model for a new cruise quay, which they will aim to construct and open by 2018. With rising numbers of cruise passengers visiting the Baltic region, it is predicted that Visby’s new quay could attract around 150 cruise calls a year and around SEK 90-130 million for the local economy.
“Despite the fact that all cruise ships that move in a north-south direction in the Baltic pass by Gotland, the island can no longer keep up with cruise tourism development,” said Åke Svensson, chairman of the Regional Board. “The lack of a quay is the biggest problem, so we are very happy to start collaborating and developing activities with CMP.”
In addition, CMP and Region Gotland will help Visby’s local businesses to ensure they can offer the necessary service structure and cater for the demands of increased numbers over a longer cruise season.