ITG - Cruise Communities

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Cruise Communities: Opportunities and Challenges

A Conference on Cruise Tourism – 27^th and 28^th September.

A full report is available as PDF Please click here

This is a brief summary of the main points.

The local coach tours were a great success in showing visitors some of the many attractions to be found in Inverclyde. They emphasised very well the impact the Tourist Group could have on visitors to the area.
The visit to Greenock Ocean Terminal demonstrated the basic framework within which the group worked. Admiration was expressed regarding the range of in formation and services provide. However, the poor weather also illustrated the difficulties in providing a welcoming environment for visitors. The visit also focussed attention on the need to provide visitors with the opportunity to purchase high quality, but not necessarily expensive, Scottish- produced goods.
The economic benefits of Cruise Tourism were emphasised at many points notably in Alf Young’s talk and clearly detailed in the recent study conducted by Inverclyde Council Economic Development department.
The general success of the conference in meeting its aims coupled with the special mention of ITG in Eric Milligan’s report provide an ideal springboard for further action. The report pointed out the significant contribution the Group was making to Cruise Tourism in Scotland. There is never likely to be a better time to press the Scottish Executive on support for such ventures.
The contribution of Enda Connellan on the Irish situation was comforting and encouraging. It indicated one example of economic growth in Cruise trade and the benefits of co-operative working. There are many opportunities for ITG to share with and learn from others working in this field. There exists, as a result of the conference, a very real opportunity to form a strong network of mutually supportive port groups.
Input from Cruise Line personnel provided a live contact with key players in this market. Chris Penny outlined much helpful background detail and emphasised to value of continuing dialogue with the Cruise Lines. Information could be shared on many aspects including local support for passengers embarking and disembarking.
A central issue for the conference was the role of volunteers working as joint professionals with others. John Ferguson highlighted the need for professional standards for volunteer groups in areas such as statements of intentions, clarity in framing procedures, shared guidelines and effective training. There was a constant need to promote groups, let people know what was being done and always be willing to ask for help from local organisations. Enthusiasm and the willingness to commit time were particularly distinctive features of groups of volunteers.
Often underestimated was the willingness of local businesses and organisations to help voluntary organisations. Billy Scott outlined the many ways in which a college could help in areas such as accommodation, training and specialised services.
Reports on the workshops resulted in a lively exchange of views during which people from different sectors of the cruise business took the opportunity to express their points of view. Much was aired and resolved, and we hope this will be the foundation for future understanding and cooperation.
The value of Cruise Tourism was recognised nationally and Patricia Ferguson, minister for Tourism, emphasised the support of the Scottish Executive and recognition of the outstanding contribution made by ITG.