2 0 8 EUROPE: INTERV IEW “ We have history, nature, water-based activities and entertainment to keep cruise passengers busy and full of the spirit of Gibraltar” Vijay Daryanani A continental pit stop The cultural and historical past of Gibraltar, as well its prime location, has made the Rock an essential cruise destination Located at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar – also known as the Rock – provides an interesting and important destination for cruise lines sailing the region. “Gibraltar offers a blend of Moorish, British and Mediterranean influences in its history, architecture and people – a unique and fascinating culture,” says Vijay Daryanani, Minister for business, tourism and the port at the government of Gibraltar. “With over 300 days of sunshine annually, cruise passengers are also guaranteed a mild climate and Mediterranean sunshine.” For cruise operators too, the Rock has become an ideal stop-off point for fuel bunkering and a large array of maritime services, including crew changes, as the international airport is only six minutes away from the port and offers worldwide connections via London, UK. Gibraltar’s location between Europe and Africa also makes it a prime spot for creating itineraries that transcend continents. “We traditionally cater for Western Mediterranean itineraries, but we also act as a last stop-off point for repositioning cruises to and from the USA, Caribbean and South America, as well as North Atlantic cruises,” explains Daryanani. “Being only 24 kilometres from the north coast of Morocco, we are an ideal port to link up with African destinations across the Western Mediterranean, offering cruise passengers Cruise guests can experience close encounters with Gibraltar’s famously mischievous Barbary macaques
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