Portsmouth predicts record year with 90 cruise calls

The year will see Portsmouth welcome approximately 155,000 passengers – many starting their journey through the new cruise terminal extension. 10 inaugural calls are anticipated. 

‘I am really excited to launch our 2024 cruise schedule,’ stated Andrew Williamson, head of cruise and ferry at Portsmouth International Port. ‘We have been working hard over the last few years to boost our offering to cruise lines and attract new customers to the port and city which has paid off, with the next year looking to be our busiest yet.

‘There are a number of maiden calls to look forward to including… Regent Seven Seas and new brand Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC) which will be calling into Portsmouth for the first time in April.’ 

NCL, Saga, Virgin Voyages

Portsmouth will continue its relationship with Saga, with a second season at the port already underway and weekly calls expected throughout January and February. 

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Star will become the largest vessel to enter the harbour when the 294 mtr ship arrives for the first time in May, after TUI’s Mein Schiff 3 broke the existing record in 2023.

Plus, August sees the return of Virgin Voyages when Resilient Lady begins operating a series of three- to six-night sailings around the UK and Europe, as well as weekend breaks to Amsterdam and Zeebrugge.

Shore power

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Portsmouth City Council's cabinet member with responsibility for the port, said, ‘The port's success is very much the city's success, with profits going directly back into council services.’

He continued, ‘2024 is looking to be an exciting year with some new brands and big names returning to Portsmouth. Both crew and passengers will experience our stunning harbour entrance and have the chance to explore the world-class attractions right on the doorstep.

‘We also have some big infrastructure developments underway to further expand our offering for cruise lines. This includes shore power capabilities, which will allow ships to plug-in to green electricity and switch off their engines whilst in port, improving air quality and slashing carbon emissions.’