YOUR LETTERS

I refer to your lead article of Wednesday 27 August concerning the shortfall of revenue from cruising.

This would appear to have been obvious from the outset - the port of Palma has been trumpeted by the authorities as a cruising success story and to a degree that is so, however the sectors that benefit are the port authorities through berthing fees and the suppliers of fuel, water, food and items required onboard the cruise ship.

The majority of passengers take an excursion - that benefits the ground handling agents and coach operator, very little revenue goes into local shops or bars.

Cruise passengers have food available 24 hours a day and in some cases also drinks.

The current use of the commercial port does not assist - those who wish to wander alone have to contend with the race track that is called the Paseo Maritimo, then fathom out how to get into Porto Pi! Little wonder they choose to stay on board!

The sooner a dedicated cruise terminal is constructed closer to centre of Palma the better - the culture and heritage that is Palma itself, will be that much more easy to discover and with it an increase in usage of local business should follow.

Yours,
Anthony Morris