PORTLAND Port is looking forward to safely welcoming cruise passengers touring the British Isles this year.

Portland Port, joined cruise lines, other ports, businesses and industries in welcoming the news that cruise lines will be able to restart domestic voyages in the UK on May 17.

The port is eager to show passengers Dorset's Jurassic Coast and has been reviewing its own policies and procedures to comply with Government guidelines and to provide a safe environment for cruise ships to bring their passengers.

The port will also be included in the inaugural season of MSC’s newest flagship, Virtuosa, Viking’s latest ship, with Viking Venus and Celebrity’s Silhouette - which will all be making first time visits to Portland.

Discussions continue with a number of other cruise lines and it is expected that more “re-start” cruises will be added to the programme in the near future.

Ian McQuade, the general manager of commercial at Portland Port, said: "Portland Port is delighted to be included in these itineraries for the resumption of passenger cruises for the UK market. The port has maintained an excellent relationship with our local Port Health Authority throughout the pandemic and it is clear that cruise lines have developed a thorough set of protocols to ensure the safe restart of operations.

"Passengers can look forward to a taste of quintessential England when they visit Portland. From golden beaches to the rolling green hills, winding country lanes, picture postcard villages and numerous attractions of Dorset. After the last 12 months I am sure that these cruises will offer a much-welcomed relief to many eager holiday makers.”