Wet but warm welcome for cruise ship
HER GIANT anchor splashed down into the cold waters of Loch Linnhe shortly before daybreak last Friday.
And at 28,613 tons and 674 feet, the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines’ Black Watch made an impressive sight as she rode at anchor just off Fort William until mid-afternoon.
This was the Black Watch’s second visit to Fort William this year and the last of the six liners to call this season, and local organisations made sure the red carpet was rolled out for those passengers and crew who took the opportunity to come ashore.
The Fort William Marina and Shoreline Company (FWMSC) had organised volunteers to welcome the visitors and there was a busy programme of street entertainment and activities laid on.
Despite the rain, a steady stream of passengers and crew came ashore throughout the day, with some taking the opportunity to go on tours to Glencoe, Glenfinnan and Nevis Range.
There was also a craft fair, plus talks on Fort William and wildlife in the Geopark, while the Community Wind Band played in Cameron Square, followed by a demonstration by the Lochaber branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Club.
Even with such poor weather, a number of town retailers reported an increase in takings of between five and 10 per cent as a result of the Black Watch’s visit, with one shop reporting a 15 per cent boost in takings.
Aboard the ship, local MSP Kate Forbes was among those given a tour of the vessel.
She presented a bottle of Ben Nevis Whisky to the Black Watch’s captain, Henrik Mattsson. He, in turn, presented a plaque from the Black Watch to both Kate Forbes MSP and Sarah Kennedy, company secretary of FWMSC.
Ms Forbes later toured the town, as well as meeting with members of the Fort William Town Team Committee who highlighted recent improvements for visitors and residents alike.
Mrs Kennedy said it had been a successful visit by both the cruise liner and Ms Forbes, adding: ‘Great memories were made by all involved in the event.
‘ We are delighted that it went so well and we look forward to welcoming five cruise ships to Fort William in 2018 and anticipate this to increase significantly in 2019 with four bookings already received.’