Liverpool wants more ships and larger ships, and is on a solid trek to get there, according to Angie Redhead, head of city assets.

Sixty calls this year will turn into 65 next year; and there is a 50 percent port fee discount for cruise ships opting to stay overnight.

One item that other ports in the region might be lusting after: Liverpool’s winter business.

“Our growth is a combination of both transit and turnaround calls. Our winter operation with Cruise & Maritime Voyages and Fred Olsen is a fantastic addition to our business as well as a great offer for the northwest passenger,” commented Redhead.

2017 marks the 10th anniversary of the city’s cruise operation, with concerts planned pierside for maiden visits. Plus, there will be mid-river fireworks for the Queen Elizabeth, which will be in port along with the Azamara Journey and Celebrity Silhouette, with the triple-call set to coincide with the British Open golf event.

“The Disney Magic will also make her return,” said Redhead, in an interview with Cruise Industry News. “The Cruise Liverpool team will sprinkle their own magic with a free, family-friendly event with an outdoor cinema, street theatre, Disney characters on deck and food and drink stalls. A sing-a-long serenade will signal her departure.”

Next, the city council will appoint a team to design a potential new passenger terminal located on the River Mersey. The new facility would sit around 300 meters north of the current terminal, and be able to handle the latest mega ships.

“We never rest on our laurels. We will continue to grow our business,” Redhead said. “We want more ships, larger ships to call her and experience Liverpool.”