Greenock retains its place as one of top five best cruise ports

Greenock has retained its place as one of the top five best west European ports for cruise passengers – but Edinburgh has again failed to be included.

The Inverclyde town, used by Glasgow-bound visitors, was rated fifth best compared to third last year in the second Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards.

It was beaten by Amsterdam, Cobh (for Cork), Lisbon and St Peter Port in Guernsey.

The rankings were based on ratings submitted with passengers’ reviews published on the Cruise Critic website.

A spokeswoman for the awards said: “Edinburgh didn’t quite meet the requirements this year.”

Cruise Critic managing editor Adam Coulter said: “Greenock itself is an area of outstanding natural beauty, and is also the gateway to Glasgow, making it ideal for those who’d like to explore the area.

“Members calling at Greenock praised the beautiful scenery, with passengers enjoying excursions to attractions such as Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and Glasgow.” Scotland’s under-21 hockey squad, fresh from winning the bronze medal at the European Junior Championships II in St Petersburg, was the victim of an unprovoked attack by a group of football hooligans.

To celebrate their success, the squad went for a meal at a family restaurant 500 yards from their hotel. Towards the end of the meal the thugs entered the restaurant and launched an attack on the squad.

The attack happened on Saturday evening. The Scots did not retaliate but instead left.

However, there were a number of minor injuries. One player was held overnight in hospital for observation. David Sweetman, chief executive of Scottish Hockey, said: “This has been a frightening experience for the players and support staff.”