The Year in Brief – Cobh Chamber

As November is now becoming a distant memory the Cobh & Harbour Chamber reflects on the year that was 2010. Throughout the season April – November we had fifty four liners visit our Port carrying in excess of 100,000 passengers and crew. The Chamber and indeed all the people of Cobh and the harbour area bade farewell to the last visiting Cruise Liner the Boudicca in late November. These visitors to our town are of the utmost importance to the survival of our businesses in both the hospitality and retail sectors and we are delighted with the Port of Cork announcement that 54 liners have confirmed for the 2011 season.  While for 2012 thirty three liner have been booked to date.

During the season the Chamber provided free outdoor entertainment with the ‘Summer Swing’ free concert series. The acts included some fantastic bands, both traditional and current. There was something for everyone young and old alike with face painters, carousels, bouncy castles, arts & crafts and wonderful food stalls. Plans are already in place for 2011.

The Chamber spoke to one of the oldest established businesses in Cobh about the year to date.  Robert Fitzpatrick, General Manager of the Commodore Hotel, confirmed that they are looking forward with optimism to 2011. Despite the difficulties, which all businesses have faced in 2010, the team in the Commodore feels that the future outlook is bright. The large liner traffic and the repeat business which the hotel has built up, coupled with the continued support from the local people of Cobh will mean not only a bright future for the Commodore, but for all business in Cobh.

The opening of Spike Island as a tourist destination was a welcome addition to the local amenities. Although Spike Island only opened in late July to October over 4,000 visitors took the boat to Spike and enjoyed the two hour tour.

Fota Wildlife Park welcomed approximately 380,000 visitors to the park while Cobh Heritage Centre, Cobh Museum and other local attractions were delighted with the numbers visiting over the 12 months.

The Cobh Tourist Office received Failte Ireland accreditation during the year and was officially deemed a Failte Ireland Visitor Information Point. The staff recorded to date over 14,000 visitors.

Plans are ongoing for exciting events for 2011 so here’s to a good season!

Kathleen Geary Chief Executive Cobh & Harbour Chamber.