Isle of Man Tourism has produced its first dedicated guide for coach and group organisers in conjunction with industry partners to maintain current levels and develop group visits to the Isle of Man.
The guide features over forty attractions and special activities including maps and information group organisers require to assist in planning itineraries, sample itineraries and general information.
Minister for the Department of Economic Development, Allan Bell MHK, said:
‘The UK coach market, according to a recent report from the Confederation of Passenger Transport, was worth ?2.3billion in 2009 with over 7 million customers taking a coach holiday in the UK. In the Isle of Man we had close to 340 coaches visit us in 2010 with over 11,600 customers which is worth approximately ?4.5million to our economy.
The groups market, of which the coach business is one element, is an important part of the visitor profile and one my Department would like to help develop in partnership with the industry.’
Member for the Department of Economic Development responsible for Tourism, Mr Geoff Corkish MHK, added:
‘I would like to thank our partners in the Transport Division of the Department of Community, Culture and Leisure, the Highways Division of the Department of Infrastructure, Manx National Heritage and the Isle of Man Steam Packet for the contribution they made and the providers of our Island’s attractions who assisted with suggestions.
‘Our aim was to produce a comprehensive guide which, not only assists the tour planner in preparing the itinerary, but also provides a useful tool to guide the group leader and coach driver around the Isle of Man. We have sent it to all the organisations featured in the publication and have received some very positive comments.’
The Isle of Man is an ideal destination for a group visit with the number of attractions and activities available to visiting groups and some perhaps lesser known options such as a tour of the Tynwald Buildings, Wildlife and Farm tours. Isle of Man Tourism sent copies to all the organisations featured in the guide with the option for them to stock a supply for visiting group leaders.
Ends
Tuesday 18th, January 2011 10:49pm.
