Pierre Hurmic, the mayor of Bordeaux, France, is advocating for a complete ban on cruise ships docking in the city center, citing concerns over the disruption of the city's aesthetic appeal.
Bordeaux, popular for its renowned wineries, could see cruise ship visitors facing extended travel distances to reach these attractions if the proposed ban is implemented.
The local government had previously restricted the number of cruise ships allowed to dock at the Port de la Lune to 40 per year, but Mayor Hurmic is now pushing for a full prohibition. His concerns center on the environmental impact of the ships and their effect on the city's historic charm.
As an alternative, a new mooring location has been suggested further north along the Right Bank of the Garonne River, which would place the ships away from Bordeaux's historic center and key attractions. A river shuttle service is proposed to transport passengers between the new docking site and the city center.
However, this move has sparked concerns among local business leaders. Patrick Seguin, president of the Bordeaux-Gironde Chamber of Commerce and Industry, warned that relocating the docking site could have serious repercussions for local commerce.
George Simon, president of the Bordeaux Mon Commerce association, emphasized that tourists visit Bordeaux to experience the city itself, not to disembark at distant quays. He suggested that a practical solution is necessary to balance the interests of preserving the city’s heritage with the economic benefits brought by cruise tourism.
The potential relocation could affect sales at Bordeaux wineries and visitor numbers at La Cite du Vin, a major cultural attraction dedicated to the region's wine heritage. The city’s hospitality sector, including restaurants and bars, might also suffer if cruise operators choose to exclude Bordeaux from their itineraries due to the increased logistical challenges of bringing passengers into the city.