The Government has welcomed the announcement by Thomson Cruises and Island Cruises that their calls to Gibraltar for the winter 2013 and summer 2014 programme have increased by 33%.

The notice comes weeks after Neil Duncan and Jacqui Nobile, senior executives of Thomson & Island, visited Gibraltar at the invitation of Neil Costa, Minister for Tourism, Commercial Affairs, Public Transport and The Port.

During the visit, the cruise executives were given the opportunity to experience at first hand the new shore excursions that have been put together for visiting passengers. Mr. Duncan and Ms. Nobile also paid a courtesy call on the Chief Minister, who reiterated the Government's support for the cruise industry and the Government's willingness to discuss any new initiatives that would enhance the Gibraltar experience for cruise passengers.

Commenting on the matter, Minister Costa insisted that he was delighted with the news. He added, ‘the Government’s strategy of keeping close contact with all players in the cruising industry continues to produce positive results for Gibraltar. It is through personal contact with decision makers that we are able to put across the developments that we are implementing for cruise ships and their passengers.

Neil Duncan, General Manager for Product, Planning and Marketing for Thomson and Island Cruises said, ‘Gibraltar is very much a favourite destination of our customers and by increasing the number of calls by 33% we can ensure that many more can experience the sights and history of this fascinating country.’