Will 2009 be the year in which the go-ahead is given for the multi-million pound capital dredging scheme that will secure Falmouth’s long term future by regenerating the port? Other European ports have responded to the upturn in the cruise business by building new berths, improving the port infrastructure and keeping abreast with the demand of the all-important industry.

It is generally felt in port circles now that a decision on the dredging scheme one way or the other will be made this year.

Even if the decision is made in the next six months cruise companies plan their itineraries at least two to three years in advance. Therefore mega cruiseships in excess of 100,000 would not be a familiar sight in Falmouth overnight.

A new deep water berth with cruise terminal facilities would enhance the port’s reputation within the cruise industry worldwide.

The European cruise industry has a total economic impact of 29.4 billion Euros. The industry generates 300,000 jobs and up to 10bn Euros.

The cruising industry is facing heavy weather like all sectors of the shipping industry yet analysts believe it will survive the current economic meltdown.

According to European Cruise Council chairman David Dingle, Europe is the new centre of cruising gravity” but is capable of weathering the gathering storm.