Shopkeepers in St. George's have received a welcome flush with the arrival of the Veendam cruise ship.

Yesterday marked the first day the Holland America vessel docked in the east end, following diversions to Hamilton on two previous occasions. Up to 1,000 tourists were tendered by ferry from Murray's Anchorage into the town at 9.30 a.m., with the last ferry returning to the ship at 11.30 p.m.

Mayor of St. George Kenneth Bascome said last night: "I spoke with most of the cashiers and managers in the stores today and everyone was pleased with the day's business.Most of the premises I spoke to said it was a very good day."

He said he was optimistic last night's Market Nights event would experience the same success. "We held it last Tuesday but with the ship [the Veendam] not being in St. George's, it was not as successful, so let's hope the cruise ship visitors will participate in the fun this evening."

During the Veendam's previous two trips the vessel was forced to dock in Hamilton due to high winds. Visitors were given free bus rides to and from St. George's.

Despite the diversion, Mr. Bascome said business was brisk in the town.

"People made a day of it when they came to St. George's," he said. "We will see what the returns are on the till from yesterday."

The mayor met with shopkeepers last week to discuss whether or not they wanted the ship to continue anchoring in the town, or whether they preferred business from tourists being transported from Hamilton for the day.

Last night Mr. Bascome said it had been decided to continue with the status quo, with the Veendam mooring in the east end as scheduled, weather permitting.

Today the ship moves to Hamilton where it will remain until Friday. The Veendam is scheduled to make 24 calls to Bermuda in 2010, tendering at Murray's Anchorage on Tuesdays before docking in Hamilton, Wednesdays to Fridays.