Passengers at Liverpool’s cruise terminal were treated to a range of Beatles classics as Fred. Olsen celebrated its 20 year anniversary of sailing from Merseyside.
The liner’s Borealis ship, which has become a regular sight in front of the three graces in recent years, was once again docked at Liverpool’s waterfront. The company launched its first cruise from Merseyside when it began sailing from West Langton docks, Bootle, on August 9, 2003 via its first dedicated cruise ship Black Prince.
The vessel offered frequent departures from the city until she left the fleet in 2009. Fred. Olsen continued sailing from West Langton docks with other ships in the fleet until 2013 before moving operations to Liverpool cruise terminal where its Borealis vessel was docked today, Friday August 18.
READ MORE: Cruise ships sailing into heart of the city help rebuild Liverpool's fame for 'great ocean liners'
To mark the two decade celebration, a "flashmob" performance was held within the terminal as passengers were checking in. Music was led by Chester-based choir A Handbag of Harmonies who ran through a medley of Beatles numbers without any prior announcement.
Earlier this week, John Mawer, Head of Cruise and Operations at Cruise Liverpool, the Liverpool Council department overseeing the operation of its current terminal, said the milestone with Fred. Olsen was a significant moment for the local sector.
He told the ECHO: “It is really important to demonstrate consistency. We can demonstrate a cruise line that has stayed loyal to Liverpool for 20 years and wouldn't do so if they weren't filling ships. They wouldn't do so if there wasn't a stellar offer.
“That consistent 20 year relationship speaks volumes of the service and the amount of business they get through Liverpool. it is something we can hang our hat on.”
In 2020, Liverpool was preparing to begin work on a brand new cruise terminal which would enable the city to receive the largest vessels in the world. The development would be housed in the area around Princes Dock within the Liverpool Waters site.
But the project has been put on ice with reports costs could jump from a projected £50m to more than £80m. A decision on the new terminal is not expected until 2024, with Mr Mawer telling the ECHO that for now Cruise Liverpool is “looking at partnerships and investment with the private sector to improve our infrastructure, improve facilities and maximise the destination offer for Liverpool.”
He added: “I believe with some investment and partnership we can grow the business and showcase our incredible region to even more guests. Whether that takes the shape of a new terminal, or just to improve our current facilities – that is what is being discussed at the moment. Hopefully by 2024 there'll be some more clarity on the direction."
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