🚢 ISLE OF SKYE TOURIST BOARD — MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE ANNOUNCEMENT

We’re delighted to announce proposals for the new Portree International Cruise Terminal, allowing some of the world’s largest cruise ships to dock directly in Portree. At present, cruise passengers arriving at Skye are generally brought ashore by tender. Apparently this involves waiting. Something had to be done. Under the £186 million proposal, a new deep-water berth will be constructed in Portree harbour, capable of accommodating cruise ships carrying up to 6,000 passengers. The terminal will include customs facilities, restaurants, shops, coach parking and a covered walkway directly into Portree. Portree has been informed. Portree has asked for a little time. Local businessman Donnie MacLeod was shown the plans. “How many people?” He asked. Six thousand. “At once?” Yes. “Into Portree?” Yes. There was a fairly lengthy silence. “Why?” Project engineers say the new terminal could allow several large cruise ships to visit on the same day. This particular sentence has not yet been shown to Donnie. Local businesses have welcomed the potential economic benefits. The Co-op has reportedly begun preparations by ordering: 14,000 sandwiches, 9,000 bottles of water and another member of staff. The additional member of staff remains subject to funding. Transport consultants say passengers will be distributed efficiently around the island using a fleet of approximately 120 coaches. Residents are advised that if they encounter all 120 coaches simultaneously on the A87: the correct procedure is still the wee wave. A dedicated coach park is also proposed for Portree. Planning officers are currently trying to establish where Portree has been keeping the spare land. Local crofter Murdo MacKinnon, 79, was asked whether he welcomed the development. “Aye.” Would he visit the terminal? “No.” Would he consider taking in cruise passengers? “No.” Would he like to add anything? “Where are they putting the coaches?” The interview ended shortly afterwards. The development will also feature a luxury Highland Welcome Centre, providing visitors with an authentic introduction to Skye before they begin exploring the island. Current proposals include: A Gaelic welcome. An exhibition on island life. A demonstration passing place. And a member of staff saying: “No, you cannot do the Fairy Pools, Storr, Neist Point and the Quiraing before the ship leaves at four.” Construction could begin in 2028, subject to planning permission, environmental assessment, funding and finding somewhere to put it. The first ship is provisionally expected in 2031. Portree Co-op has requested considerably more notice. 🚢 ISLE OF SKYE TOURIST BOARD "Bringing the world to Skye. Possibly all on the same Tuesday."