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Liverpool cruises into the European Capital of Culture
Transocean's Astor arrived in Liverpool today to mark the start of the European Capital of Culture's first full season of operations at its new cruise liner berth.
Around 600 passengers spent a day touring the city's cultural and architectural highlights as well as taking in guided tours of the Beatles' former city haunts.
Astor's day-long call marks the start of an ambitious 2008 programme for the city's new terminal which was officially opened by Cunard's QE2 last September. Calls this year are scheduled by Holland America, Princess, Cunard, Seabourn, Silversea, Crystal and Saga.
Keith Blundell, head of tourism at Liverpool Culture Company, said: 'The start of our first full cruise season is a watershed moment for Liverpool's tourism and maritime industry. The terminal is going to have a major impact on the city's economy and will also breathe new life into the river.
'For the first time in more than 40 years the Mersey will once again be a cruise port and the emotional side of regaining that status will be a huge boost to the city's image and confidence,' Blundell added.
'We're aiming now to build on Liverpool's appeal as a must see destination and the reaction so far bodes extremely well for future growth.'