Martin Judd, of Blackpool, Dartmouth, writes: Having been on a cruise recently around the UK, I read Steve Peacock's article with some interest. Attracting more cruise liners to Dartmouth will not happen by accident, nor will it happen if 60 per cent of local businesses are apathetic, as of course we are in competition with many other ports. Cruise companies and cruisers want everything to be as easy and enjoyable as possible, so Dartmouth must take an holistic approach if it is serious about attracting more footfall in the town. Some thoughts based on my experience: l Dart Harbour should reduce harbour fees by 50 per cent (50 per cent of 17 boats is a lot more than 100 per cent of five). l Dartmouth has to provide four or five tours to keep people in the town, or at least encourage people to get off the boats. These can be sold well ahead of time on board and for a good profit for the cruise company and the organisers. Dartmouth was once the second most important port in the country and has an amazing history, so what about a walking tour ­covering the town's key points of interest out to Bayard's Cove; another that includes a walk to the castle; another that includes a tour of the Royal Naval College. Also a coach trip to Slapton etc for the D-Day landing history; a trip on the paddle steamer; a Second World War trip on the Fairmile; the steam railway; a boat trip to Agatha Christie's house at Greenway; a coach tour to Dartmoor. l Erect a marquee on the pontoon where the tenders arrive. This should have a welcoming party of the mayor and town crier, who I know already do a great job in this regard; plus some sea shanty singers to set the atmosphere. This could also include local crafts and produce. l A small firework display as the boat leaves (light permitting). On our cruise Liverpool did a fantastic job of welcoming the cruise and as a result we will go back there independently. Edinburgh did not seem bothered or welcoming – another reason not to visit there again. Whatever Dartmouth comes up with as the cruise experience will need to be sold to the cruise lines, showing the value they will get coming to Dartmouth. Apathy is a poor strategy to improve the ­prosperity of Dartmouth.