The Port of Dover has announced that Peter Wright is to become the new Head of Cruise in October.
Currently Commercial Director at Saga Cruises, he will lead Dover’s cruise team upon joining the company later this year.
He will replace Sonia Limbrick who will be stepping back gradually after eight years at Dover.
Christian Pryce, Port of Dover CCO, said: “I am proud of how far Dover Cruise has come; we are a leader in customer service, travel experiences, and inspirational culture and heritage.
“Our cruise business is back to pre-Covid levels, and this is all testament to the incredible work of Sonia and the team, who I’m delighted will continue to be integral to cruise in Dover, with a focus on attracting even more guests and lines to our home.
“Following an extensive recruitment process, Peter emerged as the standout candidate among a pool of exceptional contenders. His achievements at Saga and track record in successfully leading major growth projects stood out in the selection process.
“We’re thrilled that Peter will be joining us to help take the business to the next level, as we deliver the expansion of our terminals, berths and continue to develop Dover and the Garden of England as a world class destination. Peter will be empowered by the amazing foundation that Sonia has already built to bring in some new ideas to make Dover the best cruising destination in the British Isles,” he said.
Wright will bring over 20 years of experience within the cruise and wider travel sector and coming from a local and long-established strategic partner, he will be instrumental in positioning Dover Cruise as a highlight of the newly revived waterfront and the Kent Cruise Partnership.
As well as being a local recreational hub with the Marina Curve and Clocktower Square, the Dover Waterfront brings communities together from across the country and globally with a brand-new Marina sitting alongside world famous cruise ships.
In addition, last week, the port welcomed a special, milestone cruise when the ‘Coral Princess’ arrived for the first time before sailing to New York, part of her 107-night world cruise, which started in Auckland.