You can’t talk about Cumbria without talking about the Lake District, you can’t talk about the Lake District without talking about Windermere, and you can’t talk about Windermere without talking about Windermere Lake Cruises. This iconic attraction is one the UK’s most popular and has been afloat since the 1800s. It has no doubt seen some stormy weather over its illustrious history but the waves felt since Covid-19 have been some of its most challenging. The impact on the visitor economy has been far reaching, and not just because of the enforced closures for months at a time but because of how it has meant fewer available staff, reduced capacity, higher standards expected from customers and of course…balancing the books.
Aye Aye Captain
Often cited as the busiest man in Cumbria, Managing Director Nigel Wilkinson spoke candidly about how Windermere Lake Cruises has weathered the storm, the obstacles and opportunities it presented and what needs to be done in future. His conviction in the need for a connected Cumbria was apparent and perhaps the learning for us all is that we need to look harder and make changes now. A prime example was the staff shortage and lack of local housing. How can a tourist attraction impact that? The truth is much of it is outside of their control. Windermere Lake Cruises can’t suddenly build new homes for local people, but it can connect with other local employers, it can connect with nearby areas with higher levels of unemployment, it can connect with public transport providers to join the dots. This will take time of course but by acknowledging what is in their power and acting on it is what will make the difference.
Crew
Enjoying a sail on Windermere is never a chore, but the team at Windermere Lake Cruises made sure it was a true pleasure. Friendly, professional and caring and a testament to the organisation. For frontline staff it hasn’t been an easy time and we salute them not just for A-1 service last night but for handling the challenges thrown at them in the last 18 months with grace and dedication. Thanks also to Pie & Pea perfection makers Big Barn whose warmth and delicious food was a welcome treat on an autumnal evening.
MV Swift
Sailing on MV Swift is a real treat, expansive (electric!) windows allow for panoramic views across Windermere on all three decks and there is a real sense of grandeur aboard. Hearing the history of how this vessel came to be was fascinating, and a real example of how Covid impacted in ways no one could imagine. The biggest boat to be launched onto England’s longest lake in 80 years arrived from across Europe in seven parts, which were then assembled at Lakeside and craned onto the water. Its maiden voyage was 23rd October. As Maj would say; God Bless Her and All Who Sail in Her!
Photo credit: Victoria Sedgwick
