26 July 2019
FTi Berlin made its inaugural call to Portland Port on 26th July 2019.
Built in 1980 with a length of 139m and 18m beam she is one of the smaller cruise ships to visit the Port. She is known as one of the best small European cruise ships and has a capacity of up to 420.
During Berlin’s call many of the passengers went on excursions in and around Dorset. It was pleasing to see that they took in the beautiful Jurassic coastline and countryside as well as Corfe Castle.
A plaque exchange ceremony was held onboard with the Portland stone plaque being graciously received by the Captain.
It was also exciting to see Saga Cruises’ Spirit of Discovery back again, less than a week after her inaugural call, this time on her short 4-day Channel Island cruise. Portland Port has been praised for offering such fantastic port facilities and for providing the complimentary shuttle bus service to Weymouth. From the tourist information centre to the quayside entertainment and the Nothe Forte artillery, all are thoroughly enjoyed and very much appreciated by the passengers.
Ian McQuade General Manager (Commercial) commented, ‘It is fantastic that FTI Cruises have chosen to bring their classic ship into Portland Port and to welcome back Saga Spirit of Discovery again so soon. It is proof that the popularity of Portland Port is going from strength to strength.’