But ACE delegates will need to be reasssured the rather basic Pier Head terminal is only due to its embryonic nature and investment to keep up with a very competitive sector will follow.
Where this cash comes from has yet to emerge. The council and Port of Liverpool must work together and ideally persuade cruise lines to help invest in upgrading facilities which currently fall far below what they were in the same location over a century ago.
Stuart Wood, ex-Liverpool Chief Pilot and now a maritime commentator, said: “Construction of the Cruise Terminal was an amazing leap into the limelight focusing world attention on the port.
“Already cruise lines are altering schedules as Liverpool is proving so popular as a visitor destination and embarkation point for the whole north.
“The brilliant idea of splitting Celebrity Infinity’s round-UK cruise into two sectors will show other operators our turnaround benefits.”
Commenting on ACE’s Columbus Day, Cllr Wendy Simon, Liverpool City Council cabinet member for Culture and Tourism, said: “This is a fantastic coup for the city and it will be hugely beneficial to have industry experts in the city seeing all the amazing things Liverpool can offer as a destination.
“Since the terminal was awarded turnaround status this year we’ve seen an increase in people wanting to visit Liverpool for cruise holidays and more cruise liners wanting to come to the city.
“Our 10-year strategy is to restore the city’s reputation as a leading cruise destination, create jobs and returning Liverpool to its rightful place as a major cruise port.”
