11 April 2017
Astoria, the beautifully restored classic ocean liner operated by Cruise and Maritime Voyages, will become a familiar face at Portsmouth International Port next year. CMV has chosen The Great Waterfront City as the start point for four new UK based ‘no fly’ holidays in 2018.
CMV is the latest well known cruise operator to make Portsmouth International Port a key part of its 2018 schedule. Last week SAGA announced it would be making a total of 15 new visits next year, won over by the first class facilities, flexible services and hassle free location and transport connections.
Mike Sellers, Port Director at Portsmouth International Port said “This really is a case of our wonderful facilities and location selling themselves. We were delighted to meet representatives from CMV earlier this year and show them how Portsmouth International Port could make its new UK based cruises even more special for passengers. We’ve built a reputation in recent years for offering bespoke services to cruise operators with small and medium sized luxury ships. Astoria will feel right at home here, and her passengers will have the best start and end to their holidays as they cruise past the iconic Spinnaker Tower, Old Portsmouth and the Historic Dockyard.”
Astoria’s first cruise from Portsmouth International Port leaves on 16th September 2018, taking passengers on a nine night holiday to experience the ‘Majestic Autumn Fjordland’. After stepping onboard in Portsmouth they will sail to the beautiful fjords of Norway; cruising the Hardangerfjord, then calling into EIdfjord, before heading through Sognefjord for a stop in Flam. After sailing through Geirangerfjord Astoria will stop outside Geiranger. The penultimate stop is in beautiful Bergen, before making a final call in Rotterdam and sailing back to Portsmouth.
Chris Coates, Commercial Director at CMV said “This is a new initiative for CMV and provides exciting opportunities for those in the South of England to enjoy the traditional British cruise experience that CMV is known for. Astoria is a truly classic ocean liner that has been beautifully restored for her 550 passengers. We are delighted that, on the back of very favourable guest feedback, Astoria will be undertaking these extra sailings in 2018.”
Astoria’s 2018 autumn diary sees a wonderful selection of cruises coming and going from Portsmouth International Port. In addition to Norway’s Fjords on September 16th there is a 13 night holiday to the Baltic cities and St Petersburg leaving on 25th September. On 8th October there is a nine night holiday exploring Europe’s rivers and canals, with a 14 night holiday starting on 17th October as Astoria goes in search of the Northern Lights.
Cllr Donna Jones, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, which owns the port, said: “Portsmouth International Port is going from strength to strength, with an increased number of cruise ships booked to visit the city in 2018. Our world-class attractions and reputation for hosting major events make the city a very desirable place at which to call, and with a port immediately off the motorway it’s a quick and easy way to embark on your journey.”
Portsmouth International Port offers cruise operators a wide range of ‘turnaround’ services, allowing the smooth transition from one holiday to another. Dedicated facilities for cruise customers in the stunning steel and glass terminal building ensure hassle free check in and luggage handling. In addition, a wealth of world class attractions in the city and surrounding area makes Portsmouth an attractive option for customers looking to extend their holiday.
For more information on CMV cruise from Portsmouth International Port visit https://www.cruiseandmaritime.com
For further information please contact Emma Gaisford/Julie Blackwell on 01256 631696 or email julie.blackwell@purple-agency.com or emma.gaisford@purple-agency.com