After a tough 2008 when strikes hit cruise traffic at La Rochelle in France, the port is recovering the market. It is expecting 18 calls and 22,000 passengers this year which is a leap forward from 2009 with 16 calls and 11,000 passengers.
In 2008 a reform of the ports by the French government led to the strikes and hence the cancellation of all but six of the 35 calls (35,000 passengers) scheduled, explains Marie Guegan, cruise coordinator Port Authority La Rochelle.
This year the arrival of more of the larger ships from Princess Cruises and P&O Cruises has resulted in double the number of passengers although only two more calls. In addition The World is making its first call.
The deep sea port is only 20 minutes by bus from the city centre. Hostesses are provided on the pier and also at the shuttle stop in the city to welcome passengers and crew members. They are on hand to provide tourist information, call taxis and just give a personalised welcome.
The port is preparing educational trips for shore excursion managers with the Tourist Office and the local authorities.
