Achi news desk-
The reintroduction of entry fees is said to have been considered “for some time” in the face of rising costs, a reduction in spending and donations on board, the impact of the pandemic and stable external funding.
Entry from Monday, July 1 will cost £4.50 for adults, £2.70 for children and £12.70 for a family of four with discounts for students and pensioners and children under 5 go free.
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The trust, which runs and maintains the ship, has said that money will be used to “fill the financial gap the ship is facing, pay its running costs, provide the best possible experience on board”.
It is hoped that entry fees will also enable the independent charity to be more self-sufficient and plan better for the future.
Fiona Greer, development director of The Tall Ship Glenlee, said: “As an independent charity, we face a similar situation to many other historic ships and museum attractions across the UK who have expressed common challenges.
“We know that The Tall Ship Glenlee has a very special place in the hearts of many people, here in Glasgow and around the world, and we now need the support of the public to ensure that we can continue to thrive.
“The ship is an icon of change that has adapted to survive over 127 years and is now embarking on its next chapter, and a more secure and hopeful future.”
Built in 1896, the former merchant sailing ship has circumnavigated the world five times and now provides a unique space for exploration, learning, heritage and entertainment in Glasgow.
The ship was originally a paid attraction, charging entry for 13 years between 1999 and 2012.
The trust currently relies on revenue from a mixture of commercial income from private events, voluntary donations, and public funding and grants earmarked for specific projects.
Ms Greer continued: “We are extremely grateful for all the vital support we receive from existing funders and supporters, but there is a significant gap that needs to be filled.
“We have tried to set the entry fees at a level that is much lower than the average entrance fee for museum attractions in the UK to ensure that the ship continues to attract and be accessible to an audience as large and diverse as possible, while fairly reflecting the unique experience of good quality. explore an iconic ship like the Glenlee.”
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The charge will be introduced alongside a new booking system, which will allow visitors to buy tickets online in advance.
Visitors who are UK taxpayers will also have the option to purchase tickets with an additional Gift Aid donation.
Regular visitors will have the opportunity to take out an Annual Membership which allows unlimited visits over 12 months for the cost of three individual trips.
For more information, visit thetallship.com.
