Tobermory on the Isle of Mull is fast becoming a popular destination for cruise ships, and the town is looking ahead to the visit of the Windstar Cruises ship the Wind Surf in 2014.

You may know Tobermory as being a quaint harbour town, home to some interesting views and acting as a gateway to the many attractions that you can find across the island as a whole. If you’ve children or grandchildren you may recognise it as being the setting for the TV show Balamory, with a famous street of houses that are all painted a different colour.

In 2013 the town enjoyed its best ever year for cruise passenger visits, with 30 ships visiting during the summer. This including a call by the Balmoral, the Fred. Olsen ship which brought 1,400 passengers onto shore, the most of any single ship.

And now the town is looking forward to a busy 2014 with the visit of the Six Star ship the Wind Surf, known for its distinctive look with authentic working sails. It will give luxury cruise passengers the chance to see this exciting island in Scotland, with much to explore.

Mary MacGregor, who works for the Tobermory Harbour Association, said “Interest from shipping agents in bringing passengers to Tobermory has risen over the past three years and they’ve already got good bookings for 2014 and 2015.

“The main street is just a short walk from the landing pontoon and allows visitors to enjoy the shops, the museum and the distillery. Some of the passengers go straight onto coaches to go to other parts of the island, so it brings benefits throughout Mull and Iona.

“Quite a lot of Americans and continental Europeans were keen to sample local cuisine which they don’t get on the actual ship.”

Have you ever thought about taking a cruise around the British Isles? Are there any cities or islands you’re particularly keen to visit? Let us know in the comments.

By Ian Lewis
Google