By
Rebecca Gibson |
British port operator Forth Ports has launched a new Capital Cruising brand to promote its UK capital cities connection to cruise operators across the world.
Forth Ports operates eight commercial ports across Great Britain, including the Port of Tilbury in London, and Leith, Rosyth, Dundee, Newhaven and South Queensferry in Scotland. The London International Cruise Terminal, based at Port of Tilbury on the river Thames, is the closest deep-water port to London, while the other ports are all within 15 minutes of Edinburgh city centre. Collectively, the ports welcome more than 200,000 cruise passengers each year.
“We are very privileged to welcome passengers into our ports and we ensure their first impression of the great cities they are visiting is impressive,” said Robert Mason, head of cruise at Fort Ports in Scotland. “We work very closely with local partners to provide visitors with a fantastic experience. The heritage and attractions available within our port destinations puts London and Edinburgh high on the lists of top tourism destinations, and Capital Cruising puts the passengers at the centre of the action.”
2016 is already a significant year for Capital Cruising, with both London and Scottish cruise ports expecting their highest cruise traffic figures to date. Last year, the London International Cruise Terminal saw an almost 100% increase in passengers, while Scottish ports welcomed a record-breaking 460,546 visitors, a rise of 14.8% from 2014. Cruise ship calls also increased 9.6% to reach 501, generating an estimated £54.6 million for the economy through passenger spend.
“The exceptional figures of cruise ships booked to dock with us this year is testament to the continuous drive to invest in our ports and the full experience we offer to visiting passengers,” said Steve Lyons, head of cruise at The London International Cruise Terminal. “Not only do we offer unrivalled access to the top tourist destinations of London and Edinburgh, but we are proud of the tailored opportunities we offer visitors to make sure they get a first class experience in the capitals.”