Manx cruise season of 'significant importance'

The Spitsbergen has also brought cruise passengers to the island in previous years

The cruise ship industry has grown to become of "significant importance" to the Manx tourist economy, the head of the island's visit agency has said.

The arrival of Hurtigruten Expeditions' MS Spitsbergen in Douglas Bay shortly before 08:00 BST with 120 passengers and 84 crew members marked the start of the 2024 season for the island.

It was the first of 54 scheduled cruise ship visits for the year after 50 in 2023, which brought 17,421 passengers to Manx shores.

Chief executive of Visit Isle of Man Deborah Heather said the cruise industry served as a "crucial driver" in bolstering visitor spending on the island by about £1.5m annually and extending the tourism season.

'Rich history'

Activities scheduled for those visiting for the day on the Norwegian vessel included trips on the island's steam railway, visits to the Cregneash folk village, trike tours around the TT course, as well as a beach cleaning session in Derbyhaven with local charity Beach Buddies.

Ms Heather said that the island had become a "renowned" cruise ship destination offering visitors the chance to explore its "unique blend of culture, heritage, stunning landscapes and rich history".

"In addition, the influx of cruise passengers each year helps to support our local leisure, retail and hospitality sector, fostering economic growth and job opportunities," she said.

The next cruise ship scheduled to visit the island is on 10 April, when the Silver Endeavour will arrive in Port St Mary, with the last planned visit for 2024 due on 14 October.