Saturday, September 23, 2023 - 13:59 by lerwick
The largest cruise ship in Lerwick Harbour’s 2023 programme arrived today (Saturday 23 September) – the 132nd in what is set to be the Shetland port’s busiest season yet.
With size measured by tonnage, the 145,655 gross tonne Norwegian Getaway, operated by Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line, is on a 16-day round Northern Europe voyage.
On her maiden visit to Lerwick, the 326 metre (1,068 feet), 18-deck vessel anchored in the inner harbour.
With 3,855 passengers, mainly Americans and Canadians on board, those choosing to go ashore were transferred by tender to Victoria Pier, to be welcomed by Lerwick’s meet-and greet team with information on Shetland’s many attractions.
In recognition of the vessel’s first time in the port, passengers were also greeted by members of Lerwick’s Jarl Squad.
Lerwick Port Authority’s Cruise & Marketing Manager, Melanie Henderson, said: “Norwegian Getaway is another demonstration of the harbour’s capacity to accommodate larger vessels, as well as the more regular traffic of smaller expedition and medium-sized ships which account for most of our programme.
“It is pleasing that she is the 18th maiden call this year, the most we have yet had in a single season and highlighting that Shetland continues to attract first-time visits, as well as new operators and repeat business.”
On a return voyage from Southampton, Norwegian Getaway’s next destination is Reykjavik, Iceland.
