Construction work has begun to upgrade Ocean Cruise Terminal at the Port of Southampton, to support continued growth in the cruise sector.
Representatives from ABP, Carnival UK and contractors, GRAHAM, came together to mark the start of main construction work for this major investment at Ocean Terminal.
This £12 mill project, in partnership with P&O Cruises, will take just over a year to complete and includes improvements to the terminal ahead of welcoming the next generation of P&O Cruises ships, in particular ‘Iona’, which will homeport in Southampton following her maiden voyage in May, 2020.
ABP Southampton Director, Alastair Welch, said: “Cruise is a strong and growing industry. The ships that call in Southampton are increasing in size and we are investing significantly to accommodate future growth in the industry and to maintain our position as Northern Europe’s leading cruise port.
“We are pleased to be breaking-ground on this important project with P&O Cruises,” he added.
Carnival UK President, Josh Weinstein, said: “Today was an important step in preparing the Ocean Terminal for significant upgrades, which will give our guests across all our brands as well as the smoothest, most efficient embarkation experience and the very best start to their holiday.”
Southampton currently welcomes over 2 mill passengers per year on more than 500 cruise calls and each visit to the port generates more than £2 mill for the local economy.
