Celebrity Silhouette arrives in Dover port

‘It’s great to see the excitement for Dover cruise return so quickly, only a week after we welcomed [TUI Cruises’] Marella Explorer, our first passenger call since the pandemic,’ said Sonia Limbrick, head of cruise, Port of Dover. ‘I have no doubt that the cruising buzz will be in full swing again soon.’

She went on to thank 'Destination Dover, Visit Kent, Intercruises and our partners for working with us to showcase why Dover and Kent is such a fantastic cruise destination.' 

Deirdre Wells OBE, chief executive at Visit Kent, remarked, ‘We’re thrilled to see cruise, which is such an important industry to Kent, re-opening again. This is a huge vote of confidence in our county’s position as an international gateway, and we’re really excited to start showing visitors exactly what this spectacular corner of the UK has to offer once more.’

Three Castles Discovery programme

Rzymowska was among those who experienced Celebrity Cruises’ Three Castles Discovery programme. Organised by the port with support from Destination Dover, the tour began at Dover Castle where passengers were invited to discover its 2000-year history, followed by a visit to Walmer Castle and Gardens and concluding at Deal Castle. 

A visit to Chequers Kitchen in nearby Deal for a hands-on local cookery experience also took place. 

COVID-19 safety measures 

According to Dover port, it has worked with the UK Chamber of Shipping, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Cruise Britain and cruise lines to implement the industry framework for COVID safe cruising.

Its partners include: Dover District Council, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, English Heritage’s Dover Castle, Deal Castle and Walmer Castle, Dover Marina Hotel & Spa, Hush Heath Estate and transport providers – Southeastern Trains and YMS Travel coach company.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Silhouette began its UK coastal cruises for British passengers from Southampton on Saturday following a multi-million dollar refit.