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IMPRESSIVE: The cruise ship Vistamar ties up to enable 230 German passengers to explore Dorset
THE six-deck ocean cruiser tied up at Poole heralds what is expected to be a profitable new venture for the town.
The MS Vistamar called in at Poole for a day to disgorge 230 German passengers to sample the delights of Poole and Bournemouth, with an optional trip to Stonehenge.
This follows the dredging of the harbour to take larger vessels and the town's hosting of the spring UK Cruise Conference.
"Only five months on and Poole is already reaping the benefits of hosting the UK Cruise Conference, receiving its first cruise ship since the event," said Jim Stewart, chief executive of Poole Harbour Commissioners.
"We're delighted that the Vistamar has chosen to stop off in Poole. It is the most spectacular way to arrive and we look forward to this being the first of many visits.
"The potential growth of UK cruising is exciting, and with our superb location and harbour, Poole is in an excellent position to make the most of this market," he added.
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Visible from the town quay throughout yesterday, the 121-metre long cruiser can take 330 passengers and is marketed in Germany through Plantours.
On a UK tour, it arrived from the Scilly Isles and is returning to Hamburg.
Bruce Grant-Braham, chairman of Poole Tourism Partnership, said the town's quality reputation made it particularly interested in attracting the smaller boutique-style cruisers.
"Becoming a cruise destination not only enhances Poole's reputation but brings benefits to the wider area, and we will be taking the opportunity to showcase what the area has to offer," he said.
"And for spectators, the Vistamar promises to be an impressive sight in our superb harbour."
Poole's economy looks set to benefit. An estimated £6.6 million was put into the region's local economy in 2006 when Destination South West hosted visits from more than 83,000 passengers.
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