subject: A Bigger Ship To Set Sail [print this page] In 2008, Liverpool was announced as the European Capital of Culture, and during its year in office so to speak, the northern UK city enjoyed an increase in visitor numbers of around 34 per cent on the previous year. This, along with global media interest and coverage, generated over 750 million for the economy.
An investment of over 120 million in the city in the run up to the announcement of the status of European Capital of Culture meant that developments in the sectors of art, sport and cultural learning could be made, which in turn led to a boost in the tourist trade, with 3.5 million people visiting Liverpool during 2008. Its no wonder therefore, that you can now do almost anything in Merseyside, from eating at a Michelin starred restaurant, to setting sail on a luxury cruise around Norway.
Albert Dock was built at the turn of the century, and was the first non-combustible and enclosed dock warehouse system in the world, with the worlds first hydraulic warehouse hoists. When it became redundant and was closed in 1972, it made space for a place from which even bigger ships could sail the Port of Liverpool. The Port began with only three sailings in 1992 and is now the starting point for more than thirty, with a whole new programme for the newly and lovingly refurbished cruise ship, the Ocean Countess.
Ocean Countess is an important addition to the Port of Liverpool cruise ship fleet and one which is symbolic of the positive effects of a new 19 million floating stage; this stage allows for ships to be accommodated right at the heart of Liverpool. The convenience of a central city port is one of the many reasons why cruises from Liverpool are so popular and it is exciting to see a new cruise ship joining the fleet and offering luxury at the fingertips of so many.
Cruise ships are often impressive due to their sheer size, but the classically designed Ocean Countess is impressive for a whole host of other reasons. The Countess was built, and has been restored, in a traditional style, and boasts vast deck spaces and luxury accommodation for 800 people. Since her major refurbishment this year she is now proud to offer luxury cruises from Liverpool to a variety of British and European destinations. Each cabin now is now fitted with a flat-screen television and brand new fittings and soft furnishings, meaning all guests will enjoy a superior cruise experience from the Port of the 2008 European Capital of Culture.
