199 Photo: credit “I know how much of an impact the simplest thing like a waiting lounge with wi-fi has on the crew, having wasted a lot of time searching for a place with internet while berthed in port myself,” Santos says. “We are redesigning the terminal with those kind of small, practical details in mind, making sure that we provide passengers, crew and the cruise lines with what they need during their visits. Gibraltar is also working to provide cruise lines with opportunities to improve their crew’s skills, including courses meeting Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (SCTW) requirements. “Working with the University of Gibraltar Maritime Academy, we offer UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency approved STCW Basic Safety and Refresher Training,” Santos explains. “Cruise companies are asking for bespoke compliance training in such disciplines as fire-fighting and other safety and emergency procedures. We have already hosted crews from P&O Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and Windstar Cruises.” The government’s plans for further improvement extend beyond the port, as it aims to introduce new experiences while renewing the territory’s most iconic sights. “We are investing in Gibraltar as a whole,” says Santos. “We are currently carrying out the beautification of Main Street and the surrounding areas, as well as adding new sites downtown, such as an information centre on our cultural identity. “Investments in Fortress Gibraltar, which starts at the Moorish Castle and brings visitors over to the Northern Defences, will allow visitors to head over to that side of the peninsula without going through the Upper Rock. We’re also adding selfie points to some of our beautiful sites to make them more appealing to younger generations. Tourism is becoming more experiential, and we need to make sure that Gibraltar is part of that.” Photo: Visit Gibraltar
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