When our ships come in ...
Frank Elliott, impresario of cruising for Gloucester, always said if you let him build it, they will come. This summer, with his Cruiseport entering its second year with an expansion on Rowe Square off Flanagan Square, his promise is coming true.
At least six cruise ships are scheduled for Gloucester this summer, with the first two due Tuesday.
The Grand Caribe from American Canadian Caribbean Lines is due Tuesday at 8 a.m., with American Glory from American Cruise Line due Tuesday at 8 as well. Both lines are testing customer satisfaction with the port, which has rarely disappointed in the past.
Elliott is casual when asked to speculate on the future. "It's done on handshake," is his pat reply. But both lines are looking for new ports and experiences as they attempt to make today's customers next year's as well — not to mention the years after that.
Gloucester's late entry into the cruise ship market should be an asset for a while. Meanwhile, local businesses should get a good taste Tuesday of what it might be like to be wanted by people who like to experience the world one port at a time.
Chamber auction
The Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce's 21st annual Goods and Services auction is taking shape, with the value of donated items now approaching the $165,000 mark, chamber Executive Director Mike Costello said.
The innovative auction is set for Friday, July 18, at Cruiseport Gloucester, and Costello said the chamber hopes the value can hit the $200,000 level before the bidding begins.
Some of the significant donations to date include five nights at Turtle Bay Resort in Hawaii; a one-week stay in a private home in St. Kitt's; fabulous local artwork, including a portrait of a loved one in bronze by noted sculptor Daniel Altschuler; several New England getaways; Red Sox, Patriots, and Celtics tickets and memorabilia; dining packages from several Cape Ann restaurants; whale watch trips; and deep sea fishing expeditions.
Admission is $20 per person at the door. Discounted table reservations for 10 guests may be made by calling the chamber at 978-283-1601.
Contributions of every size, shape, and value are still being sought. Anyone seeking further information may call the chamber at 978-283-1601, or e-mail to info@CapeAnnChamber.com.
