Inverness welcomes thousands of cruise passengers, showcasing its natural beauty and rich history.
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Inverness: A surprising stop for cruise travelers
Today, the picturesque city of Inverness welcomed a remarkable influx of visitors as the MSC Preziosa, a luxurious cruise ship valued at £450 million, docked at the Port of Cromarty Firth. With a capacity of 4,300 passengers, the ship brought more people than the entire population of Invergordon, transforming the quiet town into a bustling hub of activity.
First impressions of the Highlands
As the ship arrived around 6 AM, passengers eagerly boarded tourist buses to explore the breathtaking Highlands. Their first stop was the iconic Loch Ness, followed by a visit to the historic St Andrews Cathedral.
Many passengers shared their initial impressions of Inverness, noting its lush greenery and charming atmosphere. “It’s very green,” remarked one visitor, reflecting a sentiment echoed by many others throughout the day.
Unexpected delights in the Highland capital
While some passengers admitted that Inverness wasn’t the primary destination of their cruise, they were pleasantly surprised by the city’s offerings. Maria Jose from Argentina and her friend Maria from the US expressed their enjoyment of the city, despite their initial focus on Iceland, their next stop. “We really like Inverness,” they said, highlighting the city’s beauty even though they were disappointed to find the castle closed for visitors.
Similarly, Gino and Marina, a couple celebrating their golden wedding anniversary, shared their appreciation for Inverness. “We like how green everything is,” they noted, emphasizing the city’s natural beauty. Other visitors, like Julia and Frank from Germany, described Inverness as “beautiful” and “very nice,” showcasing the city’s appeal to international tourists.
Captivating experiences and local charm
Tour guide Desire Ventura reported that her group of Spanish and Italian tourists was thoroughly enjoying their time in Inverness. They took numerous photos of the traditional houses and expressed delight in the pleasant weather. “They loved Loch Ness too,” she added, highlighting the iconic lake’s enduring allure.
Jorge and Maria Suarez, a couple from Cuba, were particularly excited to explore Inverness, inspired by the popular series Outlander. Jorge remarked on the city’s stunning beauty and well-preserved architecture, especially in the Crown area. “Everything is so well-preserved. It’s very beautiful,” he said, showcasing the city’s historical significance.
Nature and folklore intertwine
As the day progressed, visitors continued to share their experiences. Leoni and her family described Inverness as a “little, beautiful city,” while others noted the abundance of nature surrounding them. Frank and Weibke, also from Germany, appreciated the city’s natural landscapes, even though they didn’t spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster. However, one Slovenian tourist, Dusan, claimed to have seen the creature’s tail during his visit to the lake, adding a touch of folklore to his experience.
Dusan expressed his admiration for the Greig Street Bridge, built in 1881, which he found to be a highlight of his visit. “The bridge was my favorite part of Inverness,” he said, illustrating how the city’s historical landmarks resonate with tourists.
Inverness, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere, proves to be a delightful stop for cruise ship passengers. As they continue their journeys, many leave with fond memories of this charming Highland capital.
