(MENAFN- The Peninsula) DOHA: Qatar is gearing up to receive the largest number of cruise tourists with an expected over 1,000 percent surge in number in the coming cruise season, says Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA).
During the season, which continues until April 2017, 32 cruise ships are confirmed to call at Qatar";s ports with an expected 50,000 passengers on board.
This marks a three-fold increase in the number of ships and an increase of over 1,000 percent in the expected number of passengers, from the 2015-16 season.
A QTA spokesperson confirmed that all cruise ships under 250 metres in length will dock at Doha Port even while it undergoes redevelopment to become a full-time cruise terminal and tourist attraction.
Ships over 250 metres, including the 333-metre MSC Fantasia, will dock at Hamad Port until the redevelopment is complete.
'The surge in tourists arriving at Qatar";s shores offers great opportunity for the tourism industry in the country.
'Working hand-in-hand with our partners, we will ensure all our efforts, whether related to infrastructure, visa processes or tour operations, are well coordinated for an optimal tourist experience,” he said.
Representatives from across the cruise industry value chain have stepped up efforts to prepare for the busy cruise season, with work under way to enhance plans, operating policies and procedures for a smooth and memorable cruise experience.
Working teams from QTA, Mwani Qatar — Qatar Ports Management Company, the Ministry of Interior";s Immigration Office, General Customs Authority as well as tour operators and shipping agents are collaborating to create a supportive framework for businesses to introduce new products and services for cruise visitors.
The 2015-2016 season wrapped up in May with the berthing of the Seabourn Sojourn, the last of 10 ships to arrive in Doha.
Three ships had made their maiden voyages into Qatar — the Japanese ‘Peace Ship";, the German MS Artania, and the American MV Seabourn Sojourn.
More than 4,000 tourist visas were issued to cruise passengers throughout the season.
The Peninsula