197 also explore one of the many museums, castles, churches or National Trust properties throughout the country. For example, they can learn about local whaling and fishing industries at Milford Haven Museum or take an immersive walk through Welsh life over the centuries at St Fagans Museum of National History, near Cardiff. One popular excursion is the ‘Coin, Coal & Cheers’ experience near Cardiff. This enables guests to combine three attractions by going behind the scenes to press their own coins at the Royal Mint, before joining ex-miners on a tour of a former mine and colliery in Rhondda Heritage Park and concluding their day with a guided tour and tasting session at Hensol Castle’s gin distillery. “We’ve created a silver and gold package for this experience and those choosing the latter benefit from special perks, such as being able to watch a performance by a Welsh male choir in the mine and make their own gin at the castle,” says Thomas. “These packages are very popular with cruise guests who want ready-made tours that give them the chance to visit multiple places, so we’re developing more experiences like this.” Many of the new excursions on offer will focus on showcasing the local cuisine and culture. “We organise experiences that involve trying food and watching traditional Welsh entertainment,” says Thomas. “There are also microbrewery tours, hands-on cooking classes, and more. These types of immersive experiences truly connect cruise guests with the people and the places they’re visiting.” Cruise Wales is also working with partners to develop excursion options for adventurous guests wanting to immerse themselves and explore the natural side of Wales. “Those visiting North Wales can hike in Snowdonia National Park, go to Zip World, or try surfing and paddleboarding at Adventure Parc Snowdonia,” says Elaine Thomas, Cruise Wales development executive. “Meanwhile, passengers calling at ports on the south-west coast can join expert-led adventures in Pembrokeshire, such as alpaca trekking, coasteering, foraging for wild food, stargazing, bird watching, or water sports, archery and axe throwing at the new Llys-y-Frân Lake & Country Park. These activities make Wales an ideal destination for expedition cruise brands. Wales offers something for everyone, whatever their age and personal interests. “ Wales offers something for everyone, whatever their age and personal interests” Elaine Thomas Visitors can take a boat trip to Ramsey Island off the Pembrokeshire coast to see multiple species of birds and other wildlife The ‘Coins, Coal & Cheers’ experience includes a tour led by ex-miners at the former mine and colliery in Rhondda Heritage Park Photos: Crown copyright 2018 (Visit Wales)
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