Currently, visiting cruise vessels have to anchor in Douglas Bay and transfer passengers to shore by tenders.
The proposals, which were given the green light this week, are aimed at ensuring ‘island facilities are robust, modern and practical for both industry and leisure,’ the government said.
Further phases of the plan could bring a new marina to Port St Mary and a second deep water port to Port Erin.
In support of the infrastructure expansion, the Department for Enterprise suggested the proposed model having the potential to grow annual passenger numbers from today’s 6,200 to between 30,000 and 40,000 in 10 to 25 years’ time.
Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for Enterprise, said: ‘The Isle of Man has seen growing interest from cruise visitors in recent years, becoming a valued place to visit and explore. However, we are currently unable to benefit from thousands of potential extra visitors to the Isle of Man, as larger cruise ships are simply unable to dock using the current facilities.
‘There are also broader opportunities for local businesses to take advantage of the increase in ships and visitors.’
Marina facilities in Douglas and Peel are both identified in the strategy as opportunities for investment, while the possibility of creating a full-tidal access marina at Port St Mary is raised as a significant opportunity for private investment. Ramsey, meanwhile, could be developed into a marine service centre and Port Erin breakwater’s natural deep water is identified as offering the only realistic alternative to Douglas in being able to accommodate cruise ships.
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