#CruiseIOM - The Isle of Man Government last year appointed Neptumar (IOM) Ltd, a subsidiary of Dohle (IOM) Ltd, as its cruise consultant as part of a new strategy to drive forward cruise business in the Isle of Man.

According to Cruise Europe, bookings for 2016 are looking good with 19 vessels expected to call at the Isle of Man, either at anchorage or alongside at the Victoria Pier which can take vessels up to 155m in length.

As part of the new strategy the Isle of Man is reviewing its harbour facilities and has planned some upgrades this year to the Victoria Pier, including the fenders, to make berthing more comfortable for visiting cruise vessels.

Routine maintenance and upgrade to the Douglas Sea Terminal will also take place and this year there will be a retail outlet in the welcome centre selling Manx produce and local crafts.

The Vikings are set to dominate the Isle of Man in 2016 with exhibitions hosted by Manx National Heritage, the organisation responsible for protecting and promoting the Isle of Man’s heritage and culture. Many of these sites feature in shore excursions.

On arrival passengers will see the Tower of Refuge which was built on the reef in 1832 following several shipwrecks. Sir William Hillary, who helped to found the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, ordered the construction because he wanted a refuge for survivors until help could arrive.