More passengers than ever before are visiting Great Britain through the country’s 50 cruise ports.   Figures released today by CruiseBritain show that in 2011, more than 100 ships visited the UK – an increase of 6% over 2010.  And these ships brought a record 648,000 passengers, a rise of 15%

2011 also saw 878,000 passengers join their cruise at a UK port, a 5% increase on 2010, with 86% of passengers being British. Fifty different cruise lines tied up in a UK port in 2011 with passengers taking day trips to a variety of destinations across the country. Britain’s island geography makes Round Britain cruises taking visitors from coast to castle, city to countryside in one easy visit an unusual and unique itinerary option.

Plus, Britain’s geographical proximity to complementary countries offers additional choice for a wide range of lines and ships. From expedition cruises to boutique ships, British-focussed to German, North American, French and Spanish-focussed lines, Britain’s islands, cities and coasts are growing in appeal.