ABP says Saga Cruises has launched the Spirit of Discovery, the first of its two new-build ships soon to become a familiar sight on Southampton water.
The Spirit of Discovery will set sail on her maiden call around the UK arriving to a special welcome in Southampton on 22 July.
Saga Cruise’s vessels are long-term visitors at the Port of Southampton and this latest luxury boutique vessel that can accommodate 999 passengers will call a further four more times before the end of the year.
The Spirit of Discovery is the ‘greenest’ in its fleet with cutting edge technology that is designed to boost energy efficiency.
Alastair Welch, Director at the Port of Southampton said: “We’re excited to welcome the Spirit of Discovery later in the month – she is a fine example of high-end, boutique cruising and shows that the Port of Southampton has the flexibility to welcome vessels of every size.”
The Spirit of Discovery’s transit call to Southampton will mark nearly 300 visits from Saga Cruises since the cruise line started in 1997. Each cruise ship call is estimated to be worth £2million to the economy.