Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ Astoria has become the first cruise ship to use the new terminal in Visby, operated by Copenhagen Malmo Port (CMP), on the island of Gotland, Sweden. CMV Astoria is the first of around 90 cruise calls expected this year.

CMV Astoria is currently on a ‘Hidden Baltic Treasures & Kiel Canal’ nine night cruise from London Tilbury. The medieval town of Visby is among the highlights of the cruise that visits some of the more unusual Baltic ports.

Mike Hall, head of marketing, CMV said: ‘We are delighted to be involved in making history in Visby. Baltic cruises are an important part of our continued development and we are proud to be the company that is leading the field in developing cruise-based tourism in the Baltic. We plan to use the new terminal in future cruises.’

The new cruise berth can receive large, modern cruise vessels in a safe and convenient way. Two cruise vessels of 340 metres can dock simultaneously at the berth, which extends 530 metres into the sea. Construction work began in early 2016.

CMV Astoria will be back in Visby next April 2019; CMV Marco Polo will call later this year on a nine night ‘Hidden Baltic Treasures & Kiel Canal’ cruise from Tilbury departing 14 October. Fares are from £809 with only a few remaining cabins*.

*Based on two people sharing a twin inner cabin and including full board cuisine, Captain’s Cocktail Party, complimentary tea & coffee 6am to midnight, entertainment, porterage of luggage, port to cabin and port taxes.