In 2010 51 cruise liners visited the Islands of Guernsey with over 44,000 passengers stepping ashore an increase in the previous year's total. With 76 vessels scheduled to visit this 2011 season, the islands of Guernsey hope that this will be enough to once again take the top spot as the most visited British port for day calls. In 2011, Guernsey will deliver a warm welcome to the passengers of the Queen Elizabeth, the new Cunard ship that will make its inaugural calls to the island in September. Queen Elizabeth recalls the rich heritage of its predecessor, the QE2, and features Guernsey in two of its itineraries.

Situated some 140 kilometers (88 miles) from the south coast of England - yet only 44km (28 miles) from the Normandy coast of France - Guernsey is geographically well positioned on the southern side of the entrance to the English Channel. Its moderate climate makes it a popular year-round destination.

With more than 800 years of history behind it, St Peter Port, Guernsey's capital, is one of the most picturesque seaports in Europe. A stunning location for cruise line calls, it offers quality port services and professional handling arrangements and is open 24 hours a day.

VisitGuernsey tourism makes arrangements for a reception marquee and 'meet and greet' service to welcome cruise passengers, with a range of literature about the island provided. Cruise calls are also a firm favorite with the resident community who offer a warm welcome to our passengers. There is also a new St Peter Port Trails map that has proved a particularly popular aide for visitors interested in learning more about the town, with a

selection of self-guided walks revealing different aspects of St Peter Port's heritage and attractions. Further options for cruise visitors include exploring the island's Ruettes Tranquilles, scenic tours of the impressive 13th century Castle Cornet, visits to the beautiful sister islands of Sark and Herm, and finding out more about the Channel Islands' five-year occupation history during World War II.

About Guernsey

The Bailiwick of Guernsey is a British Crown Dependency located in the English Channel off the coast of Normandy. The Bailiwick, as a governing entity, embraces not only all ten parishes on the Island of Guernsey, but also the islands of Herm, Jethou, Burhou, and Lihou and their islet possessions. It also administers some aspects of two nearby crown dependencies (Alderney and Sark), and the island of Brecqhou.

The Bailiwick of Guernsey is included along with the Bailiwick of Jersey in the grouping known as the Channel Islands located between France and the southwest coast of the UK.

Although Guernsey is geographically much closer to France than the UK, it is loyal to the British crown. This loyalty can be traced back to Norman times when the Channel Islands first became part of the English realm and forms the basis of the island’s constitution.

Actually Guernsey dates back to around 8000 BC when Guernsey was separated from mainland Europe by rising sea levels. There is evidence of hunting and fishing fifteen hundred years later, and traces of settlements have been found dating back to 4500 BC.

Today the island is self-governing and enjoys the same level of independence it has had since first becoming associated with England. Guernsey also has its own stamps and currency, and while British pounds can be used on the island, Guernsey pounds cannot be used in the UK.

Guernsey’s ability to look after its own fiscal affairs has meant that it has been able to foster a favorable tax climate. This has led to many offshore banks, fund managers and insurance companies establishing here in addition to more traditional industries of flower growing, fishing and dairy farming that still play an important part on the island.

The island has a warmer climate than the UK and its residents spend much time outside--; on the beach, walking the cliffs, island hopping or eating al fresco.  A number of sporting events also occur during the year.

For more information on Guernsey visit www.visitguernsey.com. Or visit www.guernseytrademedia.com/cruiseguernsey for Guernsey’s latest Cruise Liner Guide.

                                                                                                            --The Editor