The luxurious Nautica cruise ship is heading to the Port of Tyne today (9 June) marking the inaugural call of American cruise line Oceania Cruises.
Carrying 669 passengers almost 90% are from the United States, 8% from Canada and others from Australia, Brazil, Chile, New Zealand and Peru.
The Nautica is expected to arrive at the Port of Tyne at 6.15am and sail at 10pm. During their time in port passengers will sample some of the region’s top attractions – visiting Newcastle City Centre, Hadrian’s Wall, Beamish Museum, Alnwick Castle, Durham and Lindisfarne.
Passengers will also visit Washington Old Hall, at the heart of the historic Washington Village home of first President of the United States George Washington’s direct ancestors, and from where the family took their surname of ‘Washington’.
Andrew Moffat, Port of Tyne Chief Executive Officer, said: “The Port of Tyne’s growing cruise business can accommodate 93% of the world’s global fleet of cruise ships and it is great to welcome a new cruise line at our award-winning International Passenger Terminal in North Shields and especially one of the world’s most luxurious ships.”
The cruise lines website says; Nautica has recently undergone a multimillion-dollar transformation to create a virtually new ship that is both sleek and elegantly charming. Her decks are resplendent in the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, and her lounges, suites and staterooms boast luxurious, neo-classical furnishings. Nautica offers every luxury you may expect on board one of the world’s most luxurious cruise ships. She features four unique, open-seating restaurants, a world-class fitness centre and spa, eight lounges and bars, a casino and 342 lavish suites and luxurious staterooms, nearly 70% of which feature private verandas.
The 181m long ship is part of a fleet of mid-size ships that offer unique handcrafted itineraries, featuring some of the most fascinating destinations throughout the world – from historic cities, modern meccas and faraway islands. On a voyage with Oceania Cruises, each day offers the opportunity to experience the history and culture of each destination.
The Port of Tyne has 27 cruise ships visiting the Port in 2015 and 2016 is already set to welcome more cruise ships in to the region – both on turnarounds which start and finish your cruise from the Port of Tyne – and transit visits which add an estimated £55m to the regional economy through cruise and ferry visitor spend.
Oceania Cruises are set to return 23 July with another luxury ship, Marina, visiting the Port of Tyne as part of a cruise around the British Isles.