Cherbourg adapts facilities to welcome the world’s largest cruiseship



Sunday, June 5, 2016 - 20:14 by ce-press

On May 27 Royal Caribbean International’s (RCI) Harmony of the Seas called in Cherbourg for the first time. The world’s largest cruiseship carries 6,360 passengers and 2,000 crew. Locals turned out in numbers to view the longest ship ever to visit.

Despite Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2 having called previously, Harmony’s extra length made the call in terms of port facilities very challenging, according to Guillaume Hamel, director Cherbourg Cotentin Tourism Office.

A new gangway had to be created to enable embarkation and disembarkation through the first level of the terminal. In order to prevent steep access, the existing gangways were supported by containers which were painted to enhance the appearance (see picture).

About E80,000 was invested in this innovative solution which Hamel said will be deployed for future large-ship calls. He added that the gangways will however be replaced next year: “The Cherbourg Port Authority is launching a bid to find a company to replace the ancient ones and these should be in operation by the end of 2017”.

Built at STX France in St Nazaire and making the first commercial call at this French port made it a very significant day for Cherbourg. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd accounts for about one-third of the annual calls and includes those from RCI, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises.

She docked at the Quay de France, just half a mile from the city centre, from 0700 to 1800 allowing visitors a good opportunity to see the town and surrounding environs.
Cherbourg adapts facilities to welcome the world’s largest cruiseship
Cherbourg's innovative gangway solution (c) Cherbourg Port Authority





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