A LARGE cruise ship docked in Poole Harbour on Wednesday.
The 15,000-tonne MS Hamburg brought 319 passengers to the Port of Poole on October 9 on its voyage around the UK.
Having left Hamburg in Germany on October 6, the ship stopping off around various ports along the British Isles as part of a 12-day cruise before returning to Germany.
On its stop in Poole, a traditional maritime plaque exchange took place between Port of Poole’s harbourmaster Harry Gregory and ship captain Igor Gaber.
Poole Harbour Commissioners said: “Yesterday we had the pleasure of welcoming the MS Hamburg on her maiden call to the Port of Poole.
“At 144 metres long and carrying 319 passengers, the cruise ship made a stop in Poole after visiting London, before continuing her journey to Falmouth.
“As part of maritime tradition, a plaque exchange took place between our Harbour Master, Harry Gregory, and the Captain of MS Hamburg, Captain Igor Gaber, to mark this memorable occasion.
“The ship's guests enjoyed a brief but memorable stop in Poole, with many taking the opportunity to visit local attractions such as Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens amongst other excursions.
“We are thrilled to strengthen our relationship with the cruise community and look forward to welcoming more visitors to our stunning area.”
MS Hamburg stopped in Greenwich before arriving in Poole and set off on the evening of Wednesday, October 9 to its next destination at Falmouth.
In service since 1997, Bahamas-registered MS Hamburg can reach speeds of 16 knots (18mph) and can carry up to 420 passengers.
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