What's coming to Plymouth with a modern cruise terminal?
The momentum to upgrade Plymouth's docklands appears to be gathering pace as many give their voice to expectations of the benefits that construction will bring to the area. Plymouth City Council is working with major players in the industry to secure funds for the project in the Millbay area that will capitalise on Plymouth's successful bid to become a freeport dealing in imported goods exempt from the high tariffs payable in other areas.
A significant part of the plan is a new pontoon and modern cruise terminal built at Millbay, originally constructed by engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who is perhaps most famous for his achievement in designing and constructing the Thames Tunnel, as this article from Britannica.com explains.
While funds are not yet secured, the plan would see significant changes to the port with improvements to the quayside for ferry and cruise passengers.
"MV Armorique" (CC BY 2.0) by andreboeni
Employment Opportunities
The expansion at Millbay is part and parcel of the vision to develop Plymouth and the surrounding areas as a desirable cruise destination. One of the priorities of the project is to create high-value jobs both in Plymouth and on the many cruise ships that will visit Britain’s Ocean City.
Cruise ships require employees to take care of and entertain passengers and a number of tempting career possibilities arrive with the new terminal. For example, most modern cruise lines incorporate unconventional facilities such as ice bars, nightclubs and planetariums to keep their guests entertained throughout their stay. Perhaps a more conventional amenity, however, is that of a casino.
Many keen workers in the hospitality industry may consider taking some of their transferrable skills onboard and trying their hand at a new profession as a casino croupier. As this article from Casino.com highlights, "the croupier is the human face of the casino" and with this role, there are particular responsibilities that must be upheld. Nonetheless, with the necessary effort, a fulfilling and lucrative career can be made on the high seas.
Modern cruise terminals have developed to be more useful to surrounding communities and are far more architecturally pleasing and environmentally aware than those constructed in the past. More and more cruise terminals are being constructed as an element of a mixed term of use project with restaurants, conference centres and other facilities contained within the terminal for constant use. While the smooth transition of passengers to buses or other vehicles for excursions will be the primary focus, it will be interesting to see what other plans emerge to ensure the project is more than just a place to disembark.
"Other cruise ships." (CC BY-SA 2.0) by ironypoisoning
Holiday Opportunities
While residents are aware that Plymouth is a gem full of spectacular natural backdrops and steeped with culture, history, and delightful leisure options, a major cruise terminal on your doorstep does provide the chance to see other attractive locations. Cruises have become increasingly popular with British residents as people see the chance to get more for their money by visiting numerous destinations in one trip.
Increasingly, golf cruises, cruises for single people, family-friendly and a whole host of other themed cruises are providing people with what they are looking for. In addition, as Comedy.co.uk details in this blog post, comedy-themed cruises are also popular with customers. Yet, the value for money remains the chief reason people are more likely to visit a cruise terminal than an airport these days. Generally, the cruise operators will provide plenty of options that you can select prior to boarding which is advantageous as you pay for everything in one go and are not subject to costly surprises on your trip. The entertainment and activities are also a plus, as you can gamble, watch a show, use the sports facilities on board or just find a relaxing spot to star gaze.
While there are many details to iron out and nothing is certain, it is an exciting project for those living in the local area and we'll be sure to keep an eye out for any new developments.
