Cruise Britain has announced new members and has also made changes to its steering group.
Interim Chair, Portland Ports’, Ian McQuade (pictured), is to remain in the position until the end of the current term (December, 2024).
The Steering Group is now back up to full strength with the appointment of Paul Britton, Dartmouth Harbour Master & CEO. He brings extensive cruise line experience and knowledge of boutique tender port operations to the group, the association said.
In addition, Thea George, Senior Cruise Manager at ABP Southampton, will takeover Rebekah Keeler’s post in the Group, whilst she takes maternity leave.
The association has also gained new members this year. For example, having joined in the Spring, Aberdeen Harbour, with its new deepwater South Harbour development, offers access to Aberdeen, the Cairngorms National Park and Balmoral.
In addition, Peel Port’s Greenock (for Glasgow, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park) and the Norfolk resort town of Great Yarmouth, gateway to the Norfolk Broads, are the latest port members.
Elsewhere, the Belfast shipyard of Harland & Wolff recently expanded into Appledore on the Bristol Channel amongst other sites and has joined Cruise Britain’s Service Provider membership.
“We’re delighted to welcome new members to the Cruise Britain family, as the association goes from strength to strength. Britain’s distinct national and regional identities help make our islands an outstanding cruise destination and provide a wealth of diverse itineraries within short sailing distances,” said McQuade.
”New colleagues bring new perspectives, support the sharing of best practice and really help us as we work to promote cruising to Britain both within the country and overseas,” he added.
British ports are set to have their best season to date with a projected growth of 8%, compared to 2019, the country’s previous record season.
Some regions, such as the Southwest, Northwest and Scotland, are forecasting figures in excess of this anticipated national growth rate.
Cruise Britain is a joint initiative between Britain’s ports and service providers. The organisation works to create an effective, consistent and visible cruise destination brand for Britain, whilst respecting regional identities.
The membership includes a network of British ports, plus the service providers, that combine to provide a seamless visitor experience.
Cruise Britain with host a full pavilion at Seatrade Europe in Hamburg this September.
