News Archive

16/06/2023

Bodo named 2024 European Capital of Culture

Bodo will be the first city north of the Arctic Circle to hold the European Capital of Culture title in 2024.   Passengers arriving into Bodo next year will be able to enjoy a variety of extra events in different locations. More than 600 are planned, with the Sami culture playing its part. The year starts of with a major opening ceremony in the harbour on February 3, leading in to the Sami week. Subsequent events range from hosting a concert inside Pluragrotta - northern Europe’s largest water-filled cave south of town - to Project 67, a shipping container-turned-mobile art space inspired by the nomadic culture of the region’s indigenous peoples.   “It is all about spreading Arctic culture around Norway and Europe,” explains Erlend Willumsen, director of market and development Port of Bodo.   Unfortunately for the Norwegian port, the pandemic years reduced the city’s ability to promote the event as much as it might, but Willumsen is optimistic about the benefits, saying: “We have heard from cities like Aarhus and Stavanger that they had growth from cruiselines because of being capitals of culture in the past. “And we still have the availability to host more ships throughout the cultural year. We will be happy to help cruiselines plan according to the cultural calendar”.   For many years there were just under 10 calls to Bodo but, prior to Covid-19, the number had been growing significantly with 45 calls scheduled in 2021. Although this year the number has reduced to 30, next year 35 are booked which is in line with the port’s aim to “grow slowly and safely and to be a medium size cruise port,” catering to ships up to a maximum of 300m in length.   Willumsen comments: “We want to be sure that we can deliver good products, both to the cruise lines and for their passengers. It is always nice to work for new lines but it is even better to have them back.”

16/06/2023

Rouen Armada attracts a worldwide audience

Every four years, the banks of the Seine River in Rouen, France, play host to the Rouen Armada, bringing in millions of visitors from around the world. “This festival is a celebration of maritime heritage and an extraordinary platform for cultural exchange,” says Jaco Seyffert, ocean & river cruises promotion and marketing manager Rouen Tourism. From June 8 to 18, a fleet of historic and modern sailboats form the heart of the event. Visitors are treated to ship visits, parades, concerts, and fireworks displays. A diverse programme of musical performances from various genres and talented artists is also available and the event provides activities suitable for all age groups, ensuring families are welcome. In addition, the festival promotes eco-friendly initiatives, encouraging participants and attendees to take responsible actions toward protecting the marine environment as well as the festival itself. Widespread media coverage highlights Rouen as a must-visit destination, showcasing its rich maritime history and heritage to a global audience that dates to ancient Rome.   The event contributes significantly to the local tourism industry, generating revenue and boosting the city's overall economy.   The Armada's success is made possible by a dedicated team of organisers and volunteers, as well as Rouen Tourism and HAROPA Port. During the event, there will be 41 river cruise calls from 22 ships sailing the Seine, out of a total of 902 during 2023. In terms of economic impact, Seyffert says: “On average there will be about 6,100 passengers spending about €70 each, bringing a total of €428,000 during the 10-day event. But seeing that it is the Armada, we expect the passengers to spend more.” “We hope that cruiselines will see the attraction of this great event and bring us ocean calls in the future,” he adds.

16/06/2023

CE gets ready for Seatrade Europe

Cruise Europe (CE) will be attending Seatrade Europe 2023 from September 6 to 8 in Hamburg. The conference theme, Scaling Sustainably, underscores the Seatrade Europe agenda and will cover topics, such as: logistics & capacity in port; factors affecting itinerary planning; developing destinations; rethinking shore excursions & experiences; and next steps to next zero. The association will be holding its traditional reception on September 5 at the Cafe Schone Aussichten from 1800 to 22000. CE members, cruiseline executives and media will be invited to join in this great networking opportunity which is being sponsored by Columbus Cruise Center.

12/06/2023

Port of Hamburg and MSC Cruises sign a declaration of intent to use shore power

Hamburg Port Authority press release: The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) and MSC Cruises have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI). As part of a business delegation, Economics Senator Dr. Melanie Leonhard and HPA Managing Director Jens Meier attended the christening of the newest MSC cruise ship "MSC Euribia" in Copenhagen. On this occasion, MSC Cruises reaffirms its intention to reduce the environmental impact of cruising and emissions during the Laying time in the port of Hamburg. In the signed declaration, MSC Cruises declares its intention that the ships "MSC Preziosa" and "MSC Euribia" as well as other suitable ships in the future should obtain shore power in the Port of Hamburg. Furthermore, MSC Cruises and the HPA are in the process of signing a long-term cooperation agreement to supply all MSC cruise ships with shore power during their stay in the Port of Hamburg. For 2024, 29 calls by the "MSC Preciosa" and 51 calls by the "MSC Euribia" are expected. Hamburg's Economics Senator Dr. Melanie Leonhard: “Together we want to design cruises in such a way that the negative impact on the environment is kept to a minimum. The port of Hamburg is the most important German cruise port and the starting point for year-round trips to all areas. We are pioneers in the installation of environmentally friendly technologies, we promote standardization and in this way navigation ecologically and technologically. The investments in the Port of Hamburg are paying off for everyone involved." Jens Meier, CEO of the HPA: “We are pleased that MSC Cruises would also like to contribute to avoiding CO2 emissions in the Port of Hamburg by using shore power in the Port of Hamburg. Only together can we achieve the goals in terms of climate protection and air pollution control.” Linden Coppell, VP Sustainability & ESG at MSC Cruises: “Shore power supply is an important one Building block in our puzzle on the way to greenhouse gas-free ship operation. Therefore, not only have all of our new ships been equipped with a shore power connection since 2017, but older ships in particular are being made fit for shore power operation through consistent retrofitting. Together with modern fuels, such as currently LNG for our newest ships 'MSC Euribia' and 'MSC World Europa', far-reaching measures to increase energy efficiency as well as innovative wastewater treatment or waste recycling and many other activities, we are making great strides towards sustainability." About the Hamburg Port Authority: The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) has been operating a future-oriented port management from a single source since 2005 and is active wherever efficiency, safety and profitability are concerned in the Port of Hamburg. The HPA meets the growing demands of the port with intelligent and innovative solutions. The HPA is responsible for the efficient, resource-saving and sustainable planning and implementation of infrastructure measures in the port and is the contact for all questions regarding the water and land-side infrastructure, the safety and ease of shipping traffic, the port railway facilities, real estate management and the economic conditions in the harbour. The HPA provides the necessary areas for this and assumes all sovereign tasks and port services. It markets special, port-specific expertise and also represents Hamburg's port interests at national and international level. www.hamburg-port-authority.de Contact: Hamburg Port Authority AöR | Press Office | Phone: +49 40 42847-2300 | Email: pressestelle@hpa.hamburg.de

26/05/2023

The adventurous and special cruise of Silversea takes the cruise passengers to Saaremaa island

The 2023 cruise season on Saaremaa island was opened by a special cruise. On 26th of May the Silversea Cruises ship Silver Wind visited Saaremaa harbour and brought to the island 185 adventurous and nature-loving cruise guests. This cruise is special as it mainly visits islands and smaller and less discoverd cruise destinations around Baltic Sea that offer different experiences. The ship's previous destination before Saaremaa was Christiansø Island in Denmark and the next destination the Gotska Sandöns Nationalpark in Sweden. Silversea introduced Saaremaa to their guests as the largest island in Estonia. It retains much of the traditions in architecture, costumes and even the local dialect. The only town is Kuressaare, where the 14th century bishop’s castle is among the best preserved medieval buildings in the Baltic. The beautiful and well preserved old town is also well worth exploring. It’s said that Saaremaa is famous for windmills, black rye bread, and strong beer. Once every farm had its own mill, and although many have fallen into disuse, some are now being restored. The flour from the mills was once used for the many types of local bread, which is still made and enjoyed, as is the bottled beer from Saaremaa’s brewery notably the strong Tehumardi and the Christmas beer that warms up winter evenings.

22/05/2023

Helsinki targets families and has plans for OPS

Cruise call numbers may have been decreasing in Helsinki and neighbouring Baltic ports since Russia invaded Ukraine but Kaj Takolander, vp passenger services Port of Helsinki, has spotted an opportunity for the family market. “When St Petersburg was on the itineraries, all the shore excursions were built around couples and adults as it isn’t really a family destination. Cruiselines are looking for new market segments in 2025. Countries in the eastern Baltic have stable democracies, a nice climate in the summer and family attractions in all the ports. All the Nordic countries are inside the Schengen and hence passengers don’t need visas to go ashore independently,” he says. Takolander also points out how successful TUI Cruises is in the Baltic with its family-friendly cruises but he adds: “Destinations need to be quite proactive and promote family-ready options. It is a question of meeting the cruiselines’ needs.” When it comes to OPS, the port has a plan to provide connections for cruiseships, despite the major expense of bringing it from the nearest distribution centre. “Because it is a big infrastructure change, we will have to phase it in with other building works. We hope to be able to connect large cruiseships between 2027 and 2030 depending on these city construction works.” The energy will come from a mixture of solar, wind, wave and nuclear. At present Finland imports about 18.5% of its total energy needs, but with a new nuclear plant being commissioned this year, the country will become self-sufficient. The majority of power is nuclear (27.6%), hydro (19.3%), biomass (12.4%) and wind (9.6%%) while natural gas, coal and oil account for only 8.7%. The port already has four OPS connections for ferries which are in daily use, so it has plenty of experience to call on. Ideally there will be three connections for cruiseships but Takolander points out that the high cost of installation means that the port “would need long-term commitment from the cruiselines, even though one company does not need to commit to all of it”. The hope is to get some funding from the EU. Cooperation and networking with associations, such as Cruise Lines International Association, local stakeholders, tour operators etc, are key to finding solutions whereby ports build on their strengths. “All ports cannot invest in everything so cooperation with others will mean they don’t die even if the big ships don’t call and they cannot install OPS etc. What is comforting is that cruiselines are investing and seeing a growing market in holiday makers, families and also in the ultra luxury and expedition sectors.” While call numbers in Helsinki have dropped from more than 300 in 2019 to 164 in 2022 and 94 in 2023, the situation is looking better for the future. Takolander concludes: “At last we seem to be on a growth pattern. Both for 2024 and 2025, we are expecting more calls. There is a clear trend that the lines are looking for more segments for the Baltics.”

22/05/2023

Bilbao prepares for OPS to be operational by 2025

Bilbao Port Authority’s BilbOPS project to deploy OPS technology based on renewable energy - wind, solar, wave - via 11 connection points on seven quays at an investment of €51.8 million is underway and is due to be operational by 2025. Investment amounts to €47.5 million, 30% (€14.2 million) of which is co-funded by the EC through the CEF Transport 2021-2027 programme. The project has also secured a €5 million grant for the new A5 Quay through the Recovery and Resilience Facility. The project also provides for the setting-up of a PV plant for self-consumption purposes. In addition the port will offer alternative fuel services from Petronor including hydrogen and an e-fuel plant. LNG will also be available and there will be a floating mobile OPS for a wider reach. There will be 48 charging stations for electric cars. BilbOPS states that there will be a direct improvement on the quality of life of 125,000 citizens, 116,000 passengers and 10,000 workers through better air quality - greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by 40% - and reduced noise and vibration levels. “This is further proof of the progress and commitment of the port to providing an optimum service for cruiseships,” says Gloria Frau, cruise manager Port of Bilbao. Adding: “This strategic investment positions the Port of Bilbao at the forefront of the network of European ports deploying this sustainable technology at the service of its customers, and in line
with the EU ‘Fit For 55’ objectives. The 2023 season began on April with the arrival of Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess, which will call four times this year. Around 80 calls are expected with Ambassador Cruise Line coming for the first time and 14 cruiseships making inaugural calls to the Spanish port. There will be two turnaround calls during the season: Oceania Cruises’ Sirena to Israel in May and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Gem to Northern Europe in September. Highlights include Disney Cruise Line returning with Disney Dream; Royal Caribbean International’s Anthem of the Seas making four calls and MSC Cruises making six calls, one of them with MSC Fantasia. Once again this year, the port authority will provide a shuttle service for those companies requesting it.

22/05/2023

New member: Poole

At 10,000 acres, Poole harbour is the largest natural harbour in Europe. Ships up to 210m in length can be accommodated at the Port of Poole’s South Quay berth.   The harbour is an area of international importance for wildlife conservation and has been classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as a Special Protected Area (SPA) and European Marine Site (EMS). Brownsea Island - the birthing place of the Scouting movement and home to thriving natural habitats, including the rare red squirrel and a huge variety of birds - sits in the middle of Poole Harbour.   The port caters for both turnaround and transit calls. It has a dedicated lounge for cruise passengers and is a 10-minute walk into the historic Poole Quay.   Rosie Macnamara, project manager cruise Port of Poole, says: “The Port of Poole is a great boutique cruise destination perfect for luxury and expedition-style ships. Since the construction of our new berth in 2018, we are able to accommodate larger ships, and building up our cruise calls is one of our key masterplan priorities for the near future. We have a breadth of experience in doing turnarounds, which we have done in the past, and we will be looking to do more of that in the next few years”.   The season opens on June 18 when Ocean Odyssey arrives into Poole for the first time.   With its central position on the south coast of England, Poole is 38 miles from Southampton Airport, 94 miles from Heathrow Airport and 120 miles from Gatwick Airport by road.   The Port is just 30 minutes’ drive from the key sites of the Jurassic Coast, England’s only UNESCO natural World Heritage Site with its 185-million-year history. It is also within easy reach of two further World Heritage Sites: Stonehenge and the City of Bath. There are many experiences for guests within a 45 minute radius, including a wildlife tour of Brownsea Island, sea kayaking around the Jurassic Coast, going back in time aboard a historic steam train at Swanage Railway, visiting Corfe Castle, a thousand year-old castle ruin, or visiting the ancient manor of Athelhampton, constructed in Tudor times.   Poole is located within the urban area of Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch, with its population of over 400,000 inhabitants. The Bournemouth Air show, taking place end of August/ beginning of September,  attracts hundreds of thousands of people. The show includes the Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon, dusk flying with fireworks and many other displays.

22/05/2023

Klaipeda has its sights set on a new cruise facility

Klaipeda State Seaport Authority is in the planning stages of implementing a new cruise quay for completion in 2026. In 2024, the tenders will go out to select both the contractor and the terminal operator.    The plan is to build the new quay within the city waterfront district, which is also being developed. Within walking distance of the old town, there will be two quays of 220m and 369m in length and 8m and 11m draught respectively. The total area will cover 30,236m2.   This is adjacent to the existing quay which is 349m in length and has a depth alongside of 8.6m.   The total project cost will be funded by the Seaport.   In the last decade, calls to the port have hit highs of 62/63 (2022, 2017 and 2014) with numbers for this year due to reach 44. Passenger numbers peaked in 2017 at 74,700 with this year 45,000 expected. Out of the total port dues, about 1.8% (€750,000) come from cruise companies. Passengers spend an estimated €70 a day when visiting.    In 2022 the fairways were dredged up to -15m and this year the port entrance is being widened and dredged.

22/05/2023

IJmuiden considers its OPS options

The Port of IJmuiden has undertaken a feasibility study to look into the technical requirements, cost and funding of installing onshore power (OPS) at the port. “We already have a form of OPS for smaller support ships and fishing vessels but not for the capacity of large cruise and ferry vessels. The study for ferries is complete and, if it goes ahead, would be at the Felison Terminal,” explains Alexander Coesel of KVSA/Royal United Ship Agencies, the owner of the terminal buildings and operator for cruise and ferry handling. As far as the cruiseships are concerned, a feasibility study is now taking place into possible installation at the Monnickendamkade with results expected in July. In 2019 the port had its best cruise season to date, receiving 63 calls. In 2022 MSC Cruises’ winter programme was partly responsible for the 45 calls booked but this year the line has increased the size of its ship to beyond IJmuiden’s capabilities and so is calling Rotterdam instead. Although 2023 will see a decrease to about 25 calls, next year will be back up again to between 40 and 45.

22/05/2023

Kristiansund expands Smola Island offering

Since 2014, National Geographic expedition vessels have called Smola Island, Kristiansund, on an annual basis (apart from from during the Covid years). This summer Noble Caledonia will be calling for the first time, bringing Hebridean Sky twice.
 Smola is a tender port available for small and expedition sailings only. However a new ISPS-approved floating berth, able to receive guests for further transport to the mainland of Smola, will be available this summer season.  During the stay, guests can visit both a living fishing village (Veiholmen) and a vacated one (Brattaeret). Other activities include: sea eagle safari, hiking in Dyrnesdalen or kayaking in the archipelago with a local guide. 

 The inaugural call of Fred Olsen Cruise Line’s Bolette to the Port of Kristiansund was the first official call of the season on March 16. However, Saga Cruises’ Spirit of Discovery made an unscheduled call at end of February due to weather challenges during the original sailing route. 

A total of 24 calls are expected to the region in 2023, 19 to Kristiansund and five to Smola island. Although there are fewer calls this year than last, passenger numbers are expected to be higher due to more medium-sized ships calling. “In addition, the length of stay for the cruiseships is increasing, meaning there is more time to experience the region with the Atlantic Ocean Road as the top attraction,” explains Erika Indergaard, cruise and marketing manager, Port of Kristiansund and Nordmore.

22/05/2023

Small is beautiful pays off for Harlingen

There are many cruise ports around the world that regularly enjoy calls in excess of 200 per year, including even the largest ships. Then there are others, such as Harlingen situated north of Amsterdam, in the Friesland region of Holland, which is so tiny, it has to fight every step of the way to receive just one call. Harlingen is unique. The port was integral to the Dutch Golden Age of shipping and exploration going back to the 1300’s. In addition, the approach is from the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right, due to the thousands of species of sea-life that make the area their home. Such is the approach to the port, only ships of up to a maximum of 160m length overall can call, making it ideal for specialist small-ship and expedition companies to call. Due to the Wadden Sea approach, the nearest suitable tendering point is 15 nm away, which is too far for passengers. Harlingen is , therefore, celebrating receiving three different cruiselines in a single week: on May 1 Hurtigruten’s Fridtjof Nansen called, to be followed two days later by Plantours’ Hamburg, and soon afterwards Grand Circle’s Clio. Kathe Kuperus, managing director Cruise Port Harlingen, comments: “We are very fortunate to have the backing of the municipality which is very keen to receive ocean going cruiseships in addition to our regular river cruise programme and supports the operation accordingly. In addition, because the port is so small, the ships all stand out magnificently and so residents are keen to come out and welcome the guests.” Joint managing director Janneke Nieuwhof adds: “Everything in the town is so close for people to go on guided walking tours of the old town but, more popular with expedition lines, is the ability to tour the town on the canals using the ships’ own zodiacs. In addition, there are so many sites close by, ranging from the world’s oldest planetarium to Leeuwarden - European Capital of Culture 2018 - and the 32km Afsluitdijk, keeping the people of the Dutch lowlands dry. UK-based port and destination consultant David Selby, who is helping the port, adds: “I only work with destinations that I believe have potential and where I know the cruiselines can make it work and guests will have a great time. Covid got in the way of progress, but our efforts are really starting to pay off. It’s not just one call per season, but several, which makes a significant difference.” Next year is already starting to look like it will outstrip 2023, so its onwards and upwards for Harlingen.

17/05/2023

RECORD CRUISE SHIP VISIT CHRISTENS NEW BERTH AT PORTLAND PORT

Portland Port has today welcomed a record 5,000 passengers in the first cruise call at its newly developed deep-water berth. The MSC Virtuosa has brought the greatest number of guests of any single vessel visiting the port so far. She is the first cruise ship to use the port’s new berth, which is part of a £26m redevelopment project to boost capacity and drive growth. Passengers have taken complimentary buses into Weymouth and the local area during the 12-hour stop over by the MSC Virtuosa. Ian McQuade, Portland Port’s commercial general manager, said: “The arrival of the MSC Virtuosa marks a major milestone for the port. “She has brought the greatest number of passengers of any single cruise ship by some margin, considerably more than our previous record of 3,500. “Guests from the ship have used our fleet of over 12 complimentary buses to explore the local area and its attractions. “They are among a record 130,000 guests who will be visiting Portland on cruise ships this year.” He added: “It is exciting to see our new berth in operation for the first time as part of the largest ever investment in the port and its infrastructure. “Increasing our capacity and facilities is key to the development of the port, its continued growth and our ability to build upon our contribution to the local economy, which stands at about £10m from cruise calls alone.” Redevelopment of deep-water quays at the port will enhance its cruise and cargo handling operations as well as its service provision to vessels including those from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. It will enable the port to meet rising demand and keep ahead of the trend for increasing sizes of cruise ships, including liners of up to 350m in length. As well as 5,000 passengers, the MSC Virtuosa has 1,500 crew aboard. She calls into the island on a four-day ‘Portland and Cherbourg Getaway’ from Southampton. The MSC Virtuosa measures 331m in length, 43m across her beam and is 65m in height. Her tonnage is 181.541 and she has a maximum speed of 22.2 knots. She last visited Portland in 2021 when she was the first cruise ship to call after the onset of the Covid pandemic although with fewer passengers. She is due to return later this year. The Weymouth Concert Brass were due to play and Nothe Fort cannons fire at the vessel’s departure today. The MSC Virtuosa is the fourth cruise call of the year at Portland, and is the first of 18 calls between now and the end of May. She follows calls by the Holland America Lines’ MS Zuiderdam and Hurtigruten’s MS Otto Sverdrup, which both made their inaugural visits to the port when they stopped on consecutive days earlier in April, the latter of which returns to Portland again on Sunday.

15/05/2023

HPA and TUI Cruises sign long-term cooperation agreement for shore power

Hamburg Port Authority press release: The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) and TUI Cruises have signed a long-term cooperation agreement to supply the ships of the TUI Cruise Group with shore power. The agreement includes all ships of the TUI Cruises brand, such as "Mein Schiff 4" and "Mein Schiff 6" as well as the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises brand such as the "Hanseatic Spirit", the "Nature" and the "Europa 2". Hamburg's Economics Senator Dr. Melanie Leonhard: “The shore power supply in the port of Hamburg is a role model throughout Europe. It helps us significantly on our way to reducing climate impact if the ships get their electricity from renewable energies on land while they are here. This is a perspective for the entire shipping industry - I am delighted that TUI Cruises is leading the way with us on this path!" “Thanks to the conclusion of the contract, a significant proportion of cruise ship calls in the Port of Hamburg can now be supplied with shore power. In this way, together with TUI Cruises, we are making a strong contribution to keeping the air clean and avoiding CO2 emissions in the Port of Hamburg,” says Jens Meier, CEO of HPA. The first attempt with shore power supply took place today, May 15th, at the Altona cruise terminal with the "Mein Schiff 4". "Thanks to the green shore power supply here in Hamburg, we have come a good deal closer to achieving our climate protection goals, i.e. significantly reducing our absolute CO2 emissions by 2030 compared to 2019," says Wybcke Meier, CEO of TUI Cruises. About the Hamburg Port Authority: The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) has been operating a future-oriented port management from a single source since 2005 and is active wherever efficiency, safety and profitability are concerned in the Port of Hamburg. The HPA meets the growing demands of the port with intelligent and innovative solutions. The HPA is responsible for the efficient, resource-saving and sustainable planning and implementation of infrastructure measures in the port and is the contact for all questions regarding the water and land-side infrastructure, the safety and ease of shipping traffic, the port railway facilities, real estate management and the economic conditions in the harbour. The HPA provides the necessary areas for this and assumes all sovereign tasks and port services. It markets special, port-specific expertise and also represents Hamburg's port interests at national and international level. www.hamburg-port-authority.de Contact: Hamburg Port Authority AöR | Press Office | Phone: +49 40 42847-2300 | E-mail: pressestelle@hpa.hamburg.de

12/05/2023

Foyle Port Doubles Cruise Calls in 2023

Foyle Port has announced it has welcomed its first cruise ship of 2023 on the 12th of May. The Port, which is the gateway to the North West of Ireland, welcomed Seabourn Ovation as she visited Lough Foyle. This marks the start of the 2023 cruise season when the port will welcome more than double the cruise ships compared to last year. The luxurious 210m Ovation has capacity of 600 guests and 450 crew members. Guests onboard the Ovation explored the North West as part of a 14-day round trip from Dover, England. Foyle Port’s Chief Executive, Brian McGrath said, “We are thrilled to begin our 2023 cruise season with the welcome arrival of the Seabourn Ovation. We are delighted to have doubled our cruise calls this year with 15 ships and a total of 10,600 passengers from now until October. It’s fantastic to see the demand in leisure vessels returning following what has been a very challenging time for the industry and we look forward to welcoming international visitors to our beautiful North West shores.” The port will receive maiden calls from eight ships this year, including the newly refurbished Renaissance making her inaugural voyage under French cruise company, Compagnie Française de Croisières. Luxury cruise line Explora Journeys is set to launch a brand-new cruise ship, Explora I, on 17th July 2023 and will visit Foyle Port in its second ever week of cruising. Other prestigious cruise lines scheduled to call at the port include Azamara Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Silversea Cruises. The port is located in Derry-Londonderry which is Ireland’s only completely intact historic Walled City, home to award-winning museums and some of the greatest outdoor festivals in the world. Foyle Port also provides a starting point for some of Ireland’s and Northern Ireland’s most magnificent areas of outstanding natural beauty including County Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way and County Antrim’s Causeway Coastal Route. Visit Derry’s Chief Executive, Odhran Dunne said, “With the number of cruise calls doubling this year, it is encouraging to see the cruise market return strongly as the global tourism industry continues to rebound. The Walled City continues to draw visitors from across the world thanks to the quality of our tourism offering, which is going from strength to strength. There is no doubt, cruise ships represent an important part of the visitor market to the city and region, bringing thousands of additional visitors to enjoy a range of bespoke tours across the North West or enjoy the city at their leisure. Visit Derry looks forward to working in partnership with Foyle Port to provide a warm welcome and visitor information shoreside to all the cruise passengers and crew arriving this season.” Niamh McCarthy, Managing Director of Excursions Ireland added, “We are always so honoured and excited to be a part of the operations in this wonderful port in one of the most spectacular regions on our beautiful island. As the local tour operator, we have come a long way since the 1990’s when the first of the ships called in this region. Through the wonderful work of the port authority and tourist information centre this area has become a firm favourite for visiting overseas cruise lines. We look forward to showing these guests all the gems that the North West of Ireland has on offer through the various shore excursions we provide to the cruise lines. We are delighted to kick start with the stunning Seabourn Ovation when she arrives on the 12th May and look forward to another successful season.”

27/04/2023

The cruise season starts at the Porto Cruise Terminal

2023 cruise season has started at the Port of Leixões (Porto Cruise Terminal) and in the first days of April, three ships visited the port for the first time. On April 13, the Lindblad’s National Geographic Resolution made the inaugural call at Leixões during her 5 days voyage from Lisbon to Bordeaux with around 120 passengers on board. This itinerary also included visits to Vilagarcia de Arousa, Coruña, Bilbau, Saint-Jean-de-Luz and San Sebastian de la Gomera. The 2021-built cruise ship is the second Lindblad-National Geographic cruise line's vessel of the "Ulstein X-Bow" series, designed to explore polar and temperate regions. Among other amenities, the ship has a dedicated expedition staff, including undersea specialist, NatGeo photographer, NatGeo certified photo instructor and a video chronicler so that its passengers enjoy incredible experiences whether on board or ashore. On April 20, our Porto Cruise Terminal welcomed the AIDAperla cruise ship and almost 3.300 passengers, of which 1.300 were children or young people up to 18 years old. This is a family-friendly cruise and the on-board activities are aimed particularly at families with children. AIDAperla arrived at the Porto Cruise Terminal as part of her 26-day journey themed as "Easter" from La Romana, in the Dominican Republic to Hamburg, in Germany. This itinerary also includes several ports in the Caribbean, the Canary Islands, Funchal, Vigo and Le Havre. AIDAperla was launched in 2017 with 300m in length for Aida Cruises and is the second of two in the Hyperion-Class series, together with the sister-ship AIDAprima. On the same day, our port welcomed the Hurtigruten’s expedition ship FRIDTJOF NANSEN. The ship was on a 12-day trip from Lisbon to Hamburg with around 400 passengers on board. The MS Fridtjof Nansen is the second cruise ship in the world with hybrid propulsion and designed for polar expedition voyages. This cruise vessel class was purposefully designed for Norwegian coastal and Polar expedition cruises (Arctic and Antarctica itineraries). Among other amazing amenities, the MS Fridtjof Nansen features the Nansen Science Centre, which is a large "scientific lounge" (research lab) packed with high-tech gadgets, including microscopes and touch screens, and latest digital technology equipment for passengers. Almost 140 cruise ship calls are announced to visit the port in 2023, including 16 new ships, which will bring to Porto and to the North of Portugal Region nearly 180.000 passengers.

26/04/2023

CE creates OPS database to enhance itinerary planning

Cruise Europe (CE) launched its active onshore power supply (OPS) database on the eve of Seatrade Cruise Global 2023 in Fort Lauderdale on March 27. Simone Maraschi, chair of the CE sustainability group, said: “This is a very comprehensive document containing technical information on ports in CE that have OPS already, or are planning on it. I hope all the cruiselines will use this very useful information for the planning of itineraries.” During the keynote address the following day, Pierfrancesco Vago, chairman Cruise Lines International Association, highlighted the fact that 40% of the global fleet capacity are equipped to use OPS but commented that “the ports are behind”. He will no doubt welcome this CE initiative. The ports, in turn, will be happy to hear that he, and many others, recognise that: “We need to talk together.” The database, compiled in conjunction with Cruise Baltic and Cruise Britain, lists 23 ports, alongside which are details, such as how the OPS is supplied, from what energy source, at which quays, the maximum power, voltage and frequency, connection times, the type of financing, applicable fees, discounts and incentives. Linden Coppell, vp sustainability & ESG MSC Cruises, said: “Every one of our newbuilds since 2017 has been fitted with shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port and we monitor closely those destinations that have pledged to be ready in future with the capability to provide onshore power. We welcome Cruise Europe’s initiative in creating a database in its geographical area to provide detailed information about onshore power which will benefit the cruise industry and the destinations that it serves.”   Whilst Maria Tauschke, head of shore operations, destinations at TUI Cruises, commented: “Cruising is a global business. The level of information and available equipment in the individual ports is often wide-ranging. A database that will consolidate those informations professionally and provides it to the industry within a single platform is a highly appreciated initiative. It is supporting and adding confidence to the itinerary and emission planning process. “This is a great initiative which shows not only the commitment of the individual ports investing into shore power, but also shows how effective regional networks of ports are collaboratively interacting towards a more sustainable tomorrow. ”   As well as being of benefit to the cruiselines, OPS can also contribute to localised environmental improvements to CE and CB member ports and surrounding areas by reducing harmful emissions from NOx, SOx and particulates associated with poor air quality and noise and vibration. Those ports with OPS already installed are: Alesund, Bergen, Hamburg (the first in 2016, 2023 and 2025), Kiel, Kristiansand, Rostock and Southampton. Akureyri is working on two connections whilst Aarhus is due to go live imminently. Stockholm is working on connections to be put into service this year and in 2024, while Rotterdam has committed to the second quarter 2024. Tromso which has OPS installed but only for smaller vessels up to 1MVA in voltage, is planning on installations in 2024 and 2027. Meanwhile Flam is aiming for 2024/25 but this is dependent on the regulations concerning the World Heritage fjords. In 2025 Copenhagen and Portsmouth will be ready. Trondheim estimates installation will take place between 2025 and 2030. The following day Monic van der Heyden, commercial director Cruise Port Amsterdam (ACP), added the quays of Amsterdam to the list. At the annual ACP breakfast hosting cruiselines and media, she said: “Starting in 2025, all cruiseships will be able to run on shore power at our quays,” adding: “Let us each commit to collaboration over competition and establish relationships that are rooted in sustainability.” CE chairman Michael McCarthy explained upcoming regulations: “By 2030, under the EU Fit for 55 package, all ports in the EU and visiting ships need to use OPS or an alternative means to power a ship whilst at berth instead of using their diesel generators.” Whilst it is generally accepted that not all ports can or need to support such installations, future cruiseline planning will undoubtedly be more focused on creating itineraries based around those ports with OPS installations. *Please contact CE managing director Jens Skrede on jens@cruiseeurope.com to receive more detailed OPS information by email.

26/04/2023

The CE annual reception and pavilion buzzed with activity

Cruise Europe’s Monday evening reception has become a well-attended annual fixture at Seatrade Cruise Global. Taking place in Waxy O’Connor’s Irish pub, it was sponsored by the Nordic Capitals: Port of Tallinn, Port of Helsinki and Ports of Stockholm. Next year Cruise Europe (CE) may be looking for a larger venue as member ports and cruiselines turned up in high numbers. With Finland being named the happiest country in the world for the sixth year running by the UN’s World Happiness Report, attendees of all nationalities were certainly keen to join in with the Finnish spirit whilst networking and enjoying an Irish singer out on the terrace. For the next three days, the CE pavilion hosted numerous visitors from the cruiselines and other interested parties. Represented were: the Columbus Cruise Center; Cruise Ireland; Estonia; Finland; Holland; North Atlantic Agency; Port of Aalesund; Port of Antwerp Bruges; Ports of Nordfjord; Riga and partners; Sweden and the French Atlantic Ports. Gary Hall, secretary Cruise Ireland, commented: “The Cruise Ireland team were absolutely delighted to be back to full capacity on our own stand within the CE pavilion this year. The location of the stand was such that we were positioned strategically in quite a main thoroughfare to take advantage of visitors to the multiple ports and destinations within the CE family.     “We had many productive meetings with cruiselines, fellow ports and stakeholders throughout the week, both on our stand and using the CE shared meeting room, which we found very beneficial. As a group, we believe that this will lead to increased cruise business on the island of Ireland.    “If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that collaboration is crucial. We heard it remarked from multiple customers that it was a breath of fresh air seeing the Irish ports and suppliers in one place.” Whilst Jelena Burdastova, business support specialist cruise segment at the Freeport of Riga, told CE that port representatives had had about 20 meetings with cruiseline executives: “There were conversations with current partners in order to evaluate their experience in Riga and discuss possibilities to make our cooperation even more successful. We have also addressed several cruiselines whose ships have not visited the port of Riga yet. “As a success of this year, we should mention the negotiations with a couple of cruiselines, which carry out exclusive cruises around the world, and which are planning to include Riga in their world cruise itineraries in 2025 and 2026.” In addition Riga’s development plans were shared: “Currently, the new terminal project for cruise passengers is underway – soon we will be able to accommodate cruise vessels in the city centre in a more sustainable and convenient way and make the port infrastructure more accessible to cruise passengers, as well as locals.”

13/04/2023

Busiest season yet opens at Lerwick

Meet-and-Greet team returns with Shetland welcome The first of almost 150 cruise ships expected to visit Lerwick this season arrived in the Shetland port today (Thursday 13 April 2023), with passengers being greeted on the quayside by an all-new meet-and-greet team. The 229 metre, 47,842 gross tonne Viking Venus, with capacity for around 930 passengers, berthed at Mair’s Pier for a full day visit. Melanie Henderson, Lerwick Port Authority Cruise & Marketing Manager, said: “Having a meet-and-greet team back on duty to welcome passengers, and the sheer number of bookings, show how far we have come since the Covid pandemic. The team has a huge input on passenger satisfaction and encouraging repeat business from cruise lines. “It means that the islands’ tourism network can look forward to its busiest cruise season yet, coinciding with another visit by the fleet of The Tall Ships Races, making for a great season. With strong bookings right through to 2026, the sector will continue to make a significant contribution to Shetland’s economy.” Viking Venus is on a 14-day voyage from London Tilbury to Bergen, Norway, the next port of call and will return on Monday 17 April for the reverse voyage and several more times this year. Viking Ocean Cruises’ is the port’s foremost cruise customer this season, with a total of 19 bookings, including visits from Viking Jupiter, Viking Mars and a maiden call of Viking Neptune on 21 May. A record 147 cruise ships are scheduled, with 21 maiden calls and repeat visits a feature, and there are lots of interesting ships to look forward to. It will mean the number of anticipated passengers expected is over 100,000, and the volume of shipping at around 6.2 million gross tonnes, reaching new highs. Six cruise ships will call during the visit by 38 sailing vessels in the Tall Ships Races (26-29 July), with three ships on one of the days, adding to the spectacle and atmosphere for visitors. The Port Authority cruise visit list can be viewed at https://www.lerwick-harbour.co.uk/sectors/cruise/2023

27/03/2023

Cruise Europe launches OPS survey

Today Cruise Europe, in conjunction with Cruise Baltic and Cruise Britain, has launched its active onshore power (OPS) database, detailing those ports in the Cruise Europe geographical area which are either onshore power ready, or will be within five years.

The database lists 23 ports, alongside which are details such as how the OPS is supplied, connection times, applicable fees, discounts and incentives.

Simone Maraschi, chair of Cruise Europe Sustainability Group, says: “While the industry's commitment to zero emission continues at a steady pace, the development of OPS systems will clearly play a key role in this process. More and more ports are offering OPS connections and more and more OPS systems are being designed in European ports.

“With this in mind, the collaboration between ports and cruiselines is crucial. Cruise Europe has therefore decided to create a database containing all (major) technical information on active OPS systems and those in the planning stage.”

The database will be constantly updated so that cruiselines have key information on both existing and the current development of OPS facilities. This will be a relevant tool in planning potential itineraries.

CE chairman Michael McCarthy comments: “By 2030, under the EU Fit for 55 package, all ports in the EU and visiting ships need to use OPS or an alternative means to power a ship whilst at berth instead of using their diesel generators. Availability of electricity from clean energy or low carbon sources ensures an overall reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.”

As well as being of benefit to the cruiselines, OPS can also contribute to localised environmental improvements to CE and CB member ports and surrounding areas by reducing harmful emissions from NOx, SOx and particulates associated with poor air quality and noise and vibration.

Cruise Europe and member partners can be found on stand 1623 and 1723 at Seatrade Cruise Global in Fort Lauderdale 27-30 March 2023

For further information, please contact:

Jens Skrede, managing director Cruise Europe,
on jens@cruiseeurope.com

or

Simone Maraschi, Chair Cruise Europe Sustainability Group,
on Simone.Maraschi@cgh.hamburg.de

14/03/2023

Collaboration and sustainability headline CEC Lisbon 2023

I wasn’t the only one to remark on the extra level of energy that seemed to be emanating from Cruise Europe members, cruiseline executives and the press as they gathered in Lisbon for the Cruise Europe Conference 2023. Covid-19 may have had a devastating effect on the industry but the desire for collaboration and the focus on sustainability, in all its forms, has been raised several notches. In his opening words, Antonio Caracol, member of the Board Port of Lisbon Authority, which hosted the event, said: “Today sustainability is a key point. We must find the balance between environmental, social and economic development based on a transparent and clearly continuous process that reduces the negative externalities but adds value to people, local communities and to the country, helping to build the present and the future.” Indeed, sustainability is the dominant question at the captain’s chat on board TUI ships according to Marcus Puttich, senior head of port management & operations, and Marie Blitza, director port operations Carnival Maritime, who noted that “it is becoming more and more important for younger guests of AIDA Cruises”. Sustainability was a theme that ran throughout a day which began on an uplifting note when Chris Allen, vp deployment and itinerary planning Royal Caribbean Group, commented that, after three years of difficulty and 2022 not panning out as well as was originally hoped due to geopolitical and post pandemic issues, there is better news: “Today we are back. In a recent earnings call, business has returned to normal. We have had record booking weeks. European bookings are at historic levels this year.” Despite this welcome news, it must be noted that the Russian invasion of Ukraine has had a negative effect on a number of Baltic ports, particularly in the east. However cruiseline executive were keen to highlight that there is now an opportunity to remarket the region without St Petersburg as the big hitter. Susanna Capaccio, manager destination experiences Silversea Cruises, said: “There are great places to see without St Petersburg”. Whilst Gina Dunnett, director land product development Azamara, advised: “We need help with marketing material and images. We need to deliver a story, to get people excited about the Baltic. We need help with the selling part.” Allen agreed but said it would take time for consumers to understand just what is on offer: “We need to work collectively to get the message out.” And perhaps also just as we were all a little nervous of travelling as the pandemic receded, those fearful of crossing the pond will over time see that the Baltic is still a safe place to travel. The desire to work together, whether from the lines or the destinations, kept on bubbling to the surface in all areas including sustainability. Allen commented: “We need to champion communities and the environment, partnering locally with not only the supply chain, but tours also. And on health, safety and security, moreso than ever post-Covid. We all need to work together. There is no one size fits all on sustainability.”

14/03/2023

OPS and fuels

Infrastructure too came under the spotlight, with onshore power (OPS) being a hot topic but one which is not a must-have for all ports as Puttich noted: “OPS is only one part of a lot of things to look at.” And Blitza explained that: “OPS is not the only choice of why we go to a port”. Over at Viking Cruises, executive director Nicolai Skogland, said that the fleet is OPS-ready and will plug in wherever it is possible, “even though it’s a higher cost, especially in northern European ports.” In this case, he encouraged ports to provide incentives such as the EPI. With the advent of LNG and the constant research for alternative fuels, there are different ways of a ship being in port whilst reducing the carbon footprint. Looking to the future Linden Coppell, vp sustainability & ESG MSC Cruises, explained: “Using a fuel cell [which generates energy whereas a battery stores energy] potentially can replace a combustion engine. “On [LNG-powered] MSC World Europa there is a very small fuel cell unit just to demonstrate what it can do, so that when we are coming to a place without OPS, we can still be zero emissions. We will still need a combustion engine for propulsion but not for the hotel load.” She added that fuel cells can operate on hydrogen and hence are “part of the road map to zero”. When it comes to alternative fuels, whether methanol, liquid hydrogen, biofuel etc, Coppell was keen to point out: “We don’t want to end up with a net zero ship but having shipped stuff from all over the world [ie causing problems elsewhere].” James Langley, operations director, Saga Cruises, voiced the importance of the stakeholders getting involved in dialogue now for future energy needs. And Coppell stated that as the whole energy transition will happen, it is important to “put infrastructure in place and not to worry about where the energy comes from, because it will be green”. Reassuringly she added: “We will still go to ports without and use our own energy.” Sascha Gill, vp sustainability and environment at CLIA, which has committed to being net carbon zero by 2050, demonstrated the enormity of the work being undertaken in terms of alternative fuels when he said: “A single future fuel that will be used in 2050 has not been found yet”. And one of CE chairman Michael McCarthy’s takeaways from the day’s discussions was that: “To get to 2050, it is more a suite of solutions, rather than one.” When it comes to offloading waste in ports, Blitza was keen to point out that there is a lot of room for development and would like to see new vendors with new ideas/technology re recycling, reusing etc: “We would be interested in more dialogue with vendors in the region.”

14/03/2023

A gangway cannot only be one way

The need for ports and destinations to work together as one and liaise with the cruiselines has never been more key. On berth allocation, Dunnett said: “I think itineraries should not be produced in a vacuum by a cruiseline. You don’t need to tell us who is in port but, for example, the size of the ship.” She also made a plea for more transparency and less promises of things which cannot be delivered: “At the end of the day the guests’ experience has to be number one and, as port citizens, you have to have a good experience too. You need to let us know how many passengers you can manage.” Justin Poulsen, vp itinerary planning & destination development Silversea Cruises, added: “We want to make sure that the business we do in a community is good for it. We know we create economic benefits but also that a lot goes out [side], so we want to make sure it stays in community.” And Dunnett advised that answering back the naysayers could be helpful: “People need to understand where all the money goes which comes from the cruiseships. Communicate to your communities what money has been spent where, for example, on school buildings.”

14/03/2023

And finally …

Hans Lagerweij, svp yachts Four Seasons Hotels and Seasons, told the delegates about what will be expected when the first of the company’s three 95-passenger yachts is delivered in December 2025. “I think this will attract a new audience to the industry with very specific needs in ports and destinations, such as nearby VIP airports and individualised tours. At Four Seasons, service is the central element.” Together with Ritz-Carlton, Aman and Orient, there are 10 ships scheduled in this new ‘yacht’ category which may well lead to opportunities for destinations able to cater to high end passengers. With 60 to 70 percent of CE member ports unable to take the big ships, here is another opportunity for the smaller destinations which can provide an ultra-luxury experience.