Saint John's New Cruise Terminal Named

[Acey]

New Cruise Terminal Dubbed The 'Marco Polo'

 

June 09, 2009 - 5:34 am

By: Tim Roszell News 88.9 Staff

 

 

 

 

 

SAINT JOHN - The new cruise terminal on Water Street has a name with significant local ties.

A high school name-the-terminal contest concluded with the unveiling of the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal, aptly named after the revolutionary ship built in Saint John back in 1851.

Saint John Port President and CEO Al Soppitt says several factors make the name appropriate.

"It's on the waterfront, it's marine, and as Mr. (Alan) Buckelew mentioned, it's 'explorer,' it's our heritage here," Soppitt said. "It's a great way to acknowledge the Marco Polo in a meaningful way."

Buckelew, the president and CEO of Princess Cruises, whose ships bring thousands of people to Saint John every year, gave the facility and its caretakers a glowing review.

"We applaud your committment to growing the cruise business because you recognize that our industry makes important economic contributions to the region," Buckelew told the roughly 300 people in attendance. "After having done my tour (Monday), that I believe, for a way port, this is the finest facility in the world.