Portland Port kicks off season with a bang

Portland Harbour Authority has launched its 2010 cruise programme by welcoming back one of the UKs most popular cruise operators, Saga and the 'Spirit of Adventure'. As well as the first time visit from the German cruise operator Phoenix Reisen and the Albatros.

On arrival both ships were welcomed by the local Town Crier and glorious Dorset sunshine. Saga passengers enjoyed excursions to Abbotsbury Sub-Tropical Gardens and Swannary and tours of Hardy Country, including the historic county town of Dorchester. Phoenix Reisen passengers headed further afield with tours to Bath, Stonehenge and Salisbury, with others staying more local enjoying tours of the Jurassic Coast, Cerne Abbas and Minterne House. Remaining passengers and crew took advantage of the courtesy shuttle service between Weymouth and Portland, enjoying local attractions such as Portland Castle, Nothe Fort and the Historic Harbour area of Weymouth.

On departure from Portland, Saga passengers enjoyed entertainment from Weymouth Concert Brass Band whilst Phoenix Reisen passengers packed the decks to watch the local Sea Cadets marching with instruments along the quayside. Both ships went out with a bang as the Nothe Fort Artillery fired 3 blasts from their 1872 two pounder cannon.

Portland Port sees its busiest cruise year to date with the South West economy benefiting from the 10,000 extra visitors this year, who are scheduled to use Portland Harbour Authority's cruise facilities. Ian McQuade, Commercial Manager of Portland Harbour Authority, said "Cruise operators are increasingly choosing us because we have the facilities in place and proven capability to handle large cruise vessels, plus the region offers their passengers so much - Jurassic history, nature and charm of Dorset life. It's great to see the investment we've made in the Port being recognised by world leading companies".

Portland is well placed for all manner of cruises including Round Britain, Iberian Peninsular, Western Mediterranean, English Channel and transit cruises between the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Whatever the itinerary, Portland Port's proximity to the channel shipping lanes makes it an ideal inclusion.

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