Cruise ships were once a common sight in ports all around the UK, but with the Covid-19 pandemic, many cruise lines have had to suspend their operations and leave their vessels moored in various locations. If you’re wondering where all the cruise ships are moored in the UK, read on to find out.
Southampton
Southampton is one of the UK’s busiest ports for cruise ships. It’s also the home port for many of them.
During normal times, you could see several large ships docked here at any given time. But since the pandemic began, many of these ships have been forced to anchor offshore due to port restrictions.
Mayflower Park
One of the main spots where you can see some of these anchored cruise ships is Mayflower Park. From here, you can get a good view of several vessels including P&O’s Ventura and Azura, and Cunard’s Queen Victoria.
- The Ventura has been anchored here since April 2020.
- The Azura joined her in September 2020.
- The Queen Victoria arrived in December 2020 after completing her final voyage before being laid up.
Western Docks
Southampton’s Western Docks is another location where several cruise ships are currently moored.
- The Marella Explorer was one of the first ships to be laid up here in April 2020.
- The Oceana joined her a few months later in July.
- The Britannia arrived in October after completing her final voyage for the year.
Belfast
Belfast Harbour has also become a popular spot for laid-up cruise ships during these times.
- The Carnival Radiance has been anchored here since August 2020.
- The Carnival Sunrise joined her in September.
Portland
Portland Port in Dorset has also seen its fair share of moored cruise ships.
- The Astor, a ship owned by Germany’s Transocean Tours, has been moored here since the start of the pandemic.
- The Marco Polo joined her in June 2020.
Final Thoughts
The pandemic has hit the cruise industry hard, and many ships have been forced to suspend their operations. While it’s sad to see these magnificent vessels sitting idle, it’s comforting to know that they’re being looked after and maintained. Hopefully, we’ll soon see them back in action and sailing the seas once again.