Portsmouth Prepares for Baker’s Dozen of Cruise Ships in May
Portsmouth International Port is set for its busiest month yet with a whopping thirteen cruise ship movements in May. From luxury turnarounds to day visits, the seaside city is gearing up to welcome thousands of eager travellers.
Eight Ships Embark and Disembark Passengers
Eight cruise ships will take full advantage of Portsmouth’s top-notch turnaround facilities, allowing passengers to start or end their cruises right here. These flexible services make Portsmouth a prime hub for holidaymakers setting sail on unforgettable journeys.
Five Day Visitors to Explore Portsmouth’s Waterfront City
Five other cruise liners will dock for day trips, bringing visitors to explore Portsmouth’s world-class attractions. Among the highlights is the National Geographic Explorer – dubbed the “World’s Expedition Ship”. The luxury vessel, carrying just 146 guests across 81 plush cabins, arrives on 11th May from London. Passengers will enjoy a 15-day voyage around the British coast, soaking up maritime and naval history before heading to Fowey, Cornwall, and on towards Scotland and Norway.
Small Ships, Big Adventures
- Serenissima: The most frequent visitor this May, the Noble Caledonian’s Serenissima, will enter Portsmouth harbour four times. Originally from the Norwegian fjords, this small cruiser tackles ports inaccessible to larger ships. Weekly cruises include trips to the Channel Islands, Isles of Scilly, coastal gardens, and a “Britain and Ireland Odyssey.”
- Ocean Nova: Built for icy Arctic waters, Ocean Nova won’t need its ice-strengthened hull in May but will bring passengers from Devon, the Isles of Scilly, and France back to Portsmouth.
- Minerva: Swan Hellenic’s elegant Minerva returns twice in May, launching and finishing European cruises from “Britain’s Best Connected Port.” Its parent company, All Leisure Holidays, is expanding its Portsmouth presence with the Voyager ship also calling this month.
The Big Guns: Albatros Arrives
The largest visitor this month is the mighty Albatros, operated by German cruise giant Phoenix Reisen. Stretching over 200 metres and carrying 800+ passengers, the ship calls on 10th May. Its arrival provides a welcome boost for Portsmouth’s tourism and local businesses.
Harbour Master Looks Ahead
“May always brings its own excitement,” said Rupert Taylor, Harbour Master at Portsmouth International Port. “This year, we’re thrilled to welcome new expedition ships like NG Orion alongside firm favourites such as Minerva. With a stunning range of holiday options, there’s something for every type of cruiser.”
With Portsmouth’s unbeatable facilities and fabulous destinations on offer, May promises to be a cruise month to remember.
