Titanic Belfast, which has been closed since 18th March 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak, has unveiled new measures and enhancements to deliver a world-class visitor experience ahead of its grand re-opening on 1st August 2020.
These enhancements were previewed by the Minister for the Economy, Diane Dodds, who continues to champion Northern Ireland’s tourism industry through the crisis and by Tourism NI’s Director of Product Development, Rosemarie McHugh.
Titanic Belfast, which has been credited with changing the tourism footprint of Northern Ireland and opening the destination to international visitors, was delivering approximately £60 million pounds a year in additional spend to the local economy prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, It, like many other local tourism businesses was severely hit by the economic impact with revenue ceasing overnight. However, with Chief Executive Judith Owens at the helm, its ambition is as big as ever.
Over the past four months, the team behind the award-winning attraction, have been introducing measures that are not only safe, welcoming and in line with government guidance but that do justice to the world-famous story.
Judith Owens commented, “In 2012, we opened our doors and put Northern Ireland on the map as home of RMS Titanic. By attracting over 6 million local, national and international visitors, we not only became a key economic driver for Northern Ireland but the symbol of it and its spirit. Now more than ever, we need to show the spirit and ambition that built RMS Titanic, and be the catalyst for recovery for our city and our industry but to do this, we need local support, and we’ve enhanced our offering for the home market.”
She elaborated, “Innovating and pushing boundaries have always been in our DNA at Titanic Belfast and recognising that the majority of our visitors are going to be local, we wanted to ensure that we offer our home audience something special this year so they can get closer, go deeper and be surprised by what they didn’t know. All our offerings have been designed with this in mind and to encourage Titanic days out with a range of price options. Highlights include our one-way, self-guided themed tour throughout the galleries and SS Nomadic, Titanic Foundation’s Out of Stores Exhibition and our redeveloped award-winning Discovery Tour, which is now outdoor only. There arealso many developments in the area capitalising on the outdoor space including picnic areas and Titanic Foundation’s new Maritime Mile Treasure Trail, which will be launched in August.”
Economy Minister Diane Dodds added: “COVID-19 has had a massive impact on the world’s tourism industry and Northern Ireland is no exception. The reopening of our iconic Visitor Attractions such as Titanic Belfast is vital to persuading potential visitors that there are things to do and see when they come here. The reopening of significant parts of our tourism and hospitality offering such as hotels, restaurants and pubs is key to trying to minimize the impact of Covid-19 on jobs and livelihoods in the longer term. The ‘We’re Good to Go’ Industry Standard is a visible reassurance for customers that businesses are adhering to Government and public health guidance and I would encourage all those enjoying a staycation this year to get out and enjoy all the sights, scenes and tastes Northern Ireland has to offer. We must all do what we can to support our local tourist industry if we want to ensure we are able to enjoy all it has to offer in the coming years.”
Rosemarie McHugh, Tourism NI’s Directors of Product Development commented: “We are delighted that our tourism industry is starting to open up again including Titanic Belfast which is one of Northern Ireland’s top tourist attractions. The ‘We’re Good To Go’ industry standard and supporting mark which Titanic Belfast have successfully registered for, is important for our industry as it means businesses across the sector can demonstrate that they are adhering to the respective Government and public health guidance, have carried out a COVID-19 risk assessment and check they have the required processes in place. As our tourism industry starts to reopen, it is crucial that we continue to support our local businesses and help rebuild our economy.”
The above is in addition to Titanic Belfast’s commitment to ensuring the health and safety of its visitors and crew as outlined in its Confidence Charter. It has introduced new measures including advanced booking only, prearranged time slots, reduced capacity, quiet time-slots for the vulnerable, themed one-way tour, sanitising stations and social distancing throughout, advanced cleaning regimes, fresh air conditioning, contactless and cashless experiences and a grab and go food offering. Titanic Belfast is ‘We’re Good to Go’ registered.
