Rick Koster wrote a great article about the cruise ship visit. ("Keeping the Princess happy," Sept. 19.) Having been downtown most of the day, I can confirm the article's accuracy.

Congratulations to the Connecticut Cruise Ship Task Force for bringing the ship to the city and to New London Main Street for its supporting role in hosting the 1,994 passengers who chose to visit downtown.

New London Main Street knows the number, because it counted and personally welcomed each passenger, as our guides ushered them onto shuttle buses. During the 10-minute ride downtown, our shuttle guides provided an overview of the history, shopping and dining options passengers would find when they disembarked.

Eighteen shuttle guides, including our CEO, worked 18 shifts from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. to ensure each passenger felt welcomed and oriented to the city. Many passengers exploring the district were seen checking the district map and guide, published by New London Main Street and provided to all passengers as they boarded the shuttles. Passengers I talked to were very pleased with their experience here.

New London Main Street is one hidden element in the formula that explains why New London is so successful with cruise ship passengers.

Editor's note: The writer is on the board of directors for New London Main Street.