Portsmouth International Port is anticipating its busiest year yet with a projected 90 cruise ship arrivals in 2024.
- The port will welcome ten new ship visits and see the return of several cruise lines, ushering in 155,000 passengers.
- A significant milestone is anticipated in May with the arrival of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Star, marking a record for the largest vessel to dock.
- New entrants, including Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Compagnie Française de Croisières, will make inaugural visits in April.
- The port’s enhancements and strategic alliances reinforce Portsmouth’s appeal as a leading cruise destination on the south coast.
Portsmouth International Port stands on the brink of a record-breaking year in 2024, expecting to host 90 cruise ships. This influx includes ten inaugural visits, underscoring the port’s increasing appeal among major cruise lines. Approximately 155,000 passengers are anticipated, setting the stage for a thriving season of maritime activity.
The arrival of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Star is poised to be a landmark event in May, as the 294-metre vessel will become the largest ship to enter the harbour. This event follows TUI’s Mein Schiff 3, which set the previous record in 2023, highlighting a trend towards accommodating larger ships that reflect the port’s growing capacity and ambition.
New cruise lines are recognising Portsmouth’s potential, with Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Compagnie Française de Croisières scheduled for their maiden calls in April. Such partnerships denote a strategic expansion of the port’s offerings, aiming to attract a diverse array of clientele and enrich the local tourism landscape.
Saga Cruises maintains a steady presence with its second season at the port, promising weekly visits during January and February. This continuation attests to the enduring relationship between Portsmouth and established cruise operators, ensuring a consistent flow of passengers and economic benefits for the city.
Portsmouth’s reputation is bolstered by Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady, which will return in August for a series of regional cruises. This marks another chapter in a successful partnership, promising passengers an immersive experience of both the UK and European coastline. The port’s success is inextricably linked to that of the city, with revenues being reinvested into municipal services, enhancing Portsmouth’s infrastructure and overall appeal.
As part of its ongoing commitment to innovation, Portsmouth Port is enhancing its infrastructure with improved shore power capabilities. These developments are designed to accommodate the anticipated increase in cruise line operations, fortifying Portsmouth’s position as a premier cruise destination.
Portsmouth International Port is set to enhance its status as a key player in the cruise industry through strategic partnerships and infrastructure improvements.
