Red Bay to welcome first cruise ship

The population of the Labrador Straits will nearly double upon the inaugural visit of Holland America's MS Massdam on July 29.

Red Bay, and the entire south coast, is preparing to welcome the cruise ship - with her estimated 1,200 passengers and 600 crew.

A cruise committee, working year-round, was set up to plan activities and logistics to ensure passengers, who will take shore excursions within Red Bay and along the Straits, remember Labrador as a highlight of their 'Voyage of the Vikings' cruise.

As part of the experience, passengers will have the opportunity to learn about the Basque presence at Red Bay, experience historic walks, discover Labrador cuisine, witness craft demonstrations and displays and explore the lighthouse at Point Amour.

Cruise committee chair Bonnie Goudie said hosting some 1,800 new visitors in an eight-hour period will be a thrill and a challenge for the region.

"While this is a new experience for us, we are confident we have planned to make the visit a memorable one for passengers and crew," Ms. Goudie said. "Our long-term goal is to make Red Bay and the Labrador Straits a preferred port of call for cruise passengers and ships exploring the North Atlantic."

The committee has engaged the business community, the town, Parks Canada and residents and organizations throughout the region, she added.

Plans and preparations are being finalized, and the committee encourages residents to consider becoming involved.

There are opportunities for volunteer ambassadors, shopping market vendors, performers and others who may want to get involved. All activities are being co-ordinated through the cruise committee and the town.

For more information on how to become involved, contact town manager Liz Yetman or logistics co-ordinator Verna Brown at the Red Bay town office.