Cruise passengers arriving at Holyhead Port are set to enjoy an exciting new destination on their North Wales itinerary, the historic city of Bangor, where 1,500 years of heritage will come to life through music, culture, and warm Welsh hospitality.
Following a successful visit between Bangor City Council and Cruise Wales, and a positive introductory meeting with cruise lines and ground-handlers, the discussions have been highly encouraging. The collaboration aims to bring cruise passengers to Bangor in the near future, marking a significant step in strengthening the city’s role within North Wales’ growing tourism sector.
Plans are developing to make St Deiniol’s Cathedral the centrepiece of a new cultural experience for guests disembarking at Holyhead, featuring live music, guided tours, bell ringing, and traditional refreshments that celebrate Bangor’s unique heritage and Welsh identity.
“Bangor is one of Britain’s oldest cities, with a story that stretches back 1,500 years,” said Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor’s City Director. “The Cathedral is at the heart of that story, a living symbol of our history and community. We’re thrilled to open our doors to cruise visitors and give them a true taste of Welsh culture and hospitality.”
Louise Campbell, Senior Purser and Itinerary Planner from Hebridean Cruise Line, said the Cruise Wales partnership represents a positive step in enhancing the North Wales cruise experience.
“We are delighted to work closely with Bangor City Council to enrich the cruise offer in North Wales,” she said. “Bangor has so much to offer, with its incredible history, friendly locals, and beautiful scenery. Including Bangor in future itineraries will provide guests with an authentic and memorable sense of place.”
Cruise tourism continues to bring substantial benefits to Wales, with nearly 80,000 passengers visiting Welsh ports last year and generating around £7.5 million in visitor spending. Almost 55,000 of those visited Holyhead, and that number is expected to grow in the coming years.
As part of the process, Bangor City Council will be delivering a targeted marketing campaign to engage cruise ground handlers and encourage the development of visitor packages, for a variety of cruise lines to include within their new excursion programs for their passengers to enjoy.
This initiative is another positive step forward following the city’s 1,500-year celebrations, showcasing the strong partnership working across Bangor to create lasting, positive change.
“This partnership really highlights what North Wales does best – collaboration, creativity, and community spirit,” added Dr Hanks. “We’re ready to give visitors an unforgettable welcome and show them that Bangor is a place where history and heart come together.”
Photos show: Tenovus Choir, Dr Martin Hanks and the Welsh Lady, Medi Parry-Williams, Suzanne Thomas and Elaine Thomas from Cruise Wales and Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Council (last photo).
