NORTHERN EUROPE: INTERVIEW When cruise guests visit Wales, they will experience a feeling that is difficult to find anywhere else in the world, claims Suzanne Thomas, head of Cruise Wales. “Hwyl can’t be directly translated into English, but it describes the deep state of joy that comes from being totally immersed in the moment,” she says. “From a coastal walk to an adrenalinefuelled zipline ride, culture-hopping in our cosmopolitan cities, or enjoying a hearty meal in a local pub – there are countless opportunities for guests to experience memorable moments of hwyl during a cruise call.” Hwyl will be particularly abundant in 2025, which is the ‘Year of Croeso’ (‘welcome’). “We’re celebrating the unique experiences, culture and destinations that can only be found in Wales and offering one-of-a-kind welcomes at our six cruise ports in Holyhead, Pembroke Port, Milford Haven, Swansea, Cardiff and Fishguard,” says Thomas. “Fishguard is already renowned for the warm welcome delivered by its multi-award-winning volunteers who help with queries and provide gift bags with local treats. The port also hosts markets and performances by local musicians to instantly immerse guests in Welsh culture.” Located in Pembrokeshire, Fishguard can accommodate vessels of up to 105 metres at berth or larger ships at tender. Here, guests can experience hwyl while exploring the town of Tenby and visiting historical sites such as Cardigan Castle or family-friendly places like Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo. Meanwhile, adventurous guests can find hwyl while coasteering, alpaca trekking, stargazing, foraging for wild food, or on the new Hidden Routes e-mountain bike tours. “They take small groups on little-known routes in rural North Pembrokeshire, where they meet locals and learn about our culture,” says Thomas. Elsewhere in Pembrokeshire, Milford Haven provides plenty of places to experience hwyl, despite being an industrial town. “It has a lovely coastline and is close to sites such as St Davids Bishop’s Palace and Ramsey Island, where you can see dolphins, puffins and seals,” says Thomas. “There are also lots of pubs and restaurants where you can sample local dishes too.” Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, offers an even wider choice of both Welsh and international cuisine. Some other popular places in the city include the cathedral, castle, museums, Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades, the indoor market and sport stadiums. “Regular shuttle services take cruise 168 Welcoming the world to Wales Suzanne Thomas of Cruise Wales tells Rebecca Gibson about the abundant opportunities for cruise guests to immerse themselves in Welsh history and culture during a call at one of the country’s six cruise ports “ There are countless opportunities for guests to experience memorable moments of hwyl during a cruise call” Cruise guests can make their own flavoured gin during a masterclass at the Spirit of Anglesey Gin Experience in Beaumaris
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