Going independent … cruise passenger workshop for local firms

Kirkwall businesses are being invited to a special workshop aimed at helping them achieve the best possible benefits from cruise ship visits to Orkney this season.

The session will look at the growth in the industry and the opportunities for retailers and other businesses to attract trade from cruise liner passengers during their time ashore.

Cruise ships are due to make 72 port calls in Orkney this year, bringing with them around 62,000 passengers and 20,000 crew. For 2014, 46 visits by liners carrying around 55,000 passengers are already booked for Orkney.

The workshop will be held in the St Magnus Centre on March 19 at 6.30pm. A similar event will be held in Stromness at a later date.

Businesses interested in attending should contact Jean Ross at jeanross1001@yahoo.co.uk and register before March 5.