Harwich International Port welcomed the first cruise call of what promises to be a busy 2011 season with the arrival of the Costa Luminosa. Operated by Costa Cruises the 2,826 berth passenger ship arrived at Harwich on Thursday 12th May 2011 en route to Copenhagen, before starting its first Northern and Baltic Cruise of the season.

With a gross tonnage of 92,720 tonnes the Costa Luminosa boasts 12 passenger decks, a two-level wellness facility with gym and spa, a 4D cinema, 18-hole golf simulator and various restaurants.

Costa Cruises have been a regular visitor to the Essex port over the past few years and will call four times this year. Two further calls will be made during May, with Costa Pacifica making an inaugural call and Costa Magica arriving from Savona Italy and embarking passengers for a taste of the Great capitals of Europe cruise.

David Gledhill, Chief Executive Officer of Hutchison Ports (UK) Ltd which owns Harwich International Port, said:

“We are justly proud of the facilities offered at Harwich International Port, and have invested significantly in recent years to ensure that we provide the best infrastructure for our customers and a seamless journey for passengers passing through the cruise terminal. Harwich is one of the country’s major gateways for cruise and ferry tourism, with excellent transport links to Cambridge and London, as well as convenient access to Constable country and historic Harwich providing interesting excursion opportunities for visiting passengers.”

The Essex port is expecting 27 cruise calls in 2011, with returning customers, new customers and inaugural ship calls. It has ample parking facilities for passengers arriving by car and, almost uniquely, a mainline train station integrated into the cruise terminal.