Portsmouth International Port is gearing up for its busiest season to date, with 90 ships expected to visit the hub in 2024.

Featuring ten inaugural calls and the return of several lines, this year will see the south coast city welcome approximately 155,000 passengers.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) Norwegian Star will become the largest vessel to ever enter the harbour when the 294m ship arrives for the first time in May, after TUI’s Mein Schiff 3 broke the existing record in 2023.

Head of cruise and ferry at Portsmouth International Port Andrew Williamson said: “I am really excited to launch our 2024 cruise schedule. We have been working hard over the last few years to boost our offering to cruise lines and attract new customers to the port and city which has paid off, with the next year looking to be our busiest yet.”

The port will also welcome a number of maiden calls including two new operators, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and new brand Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC), which will be calling into Portsmouth for the first time in April.

The city will also continue its relationship with Saga, with a second season at the port already underway and weekly calls expected throughout January and February.

Portsmouth Port success ‘very much the city’s success’

Meanwhile, August will mark the return of Virgin Voyages, when Resilient Lady takes passengers on a series of three to six-night sailings around the UK and Europe.

Portsmouth City Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for the port Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson said the port’s success is “very much the city’s success”, with profits going directly back into council services.

“2024 is looking to be an exciting year with some new brands and big names returning to Portsmouth,” he added. “Both crew and passengers will experience our stunning harbour entrance and have the chance to explore the world-class attractions right on the doorstep.”

The port will also continue work on infrastructure developments to further expand its offering for cruise lines, including additional shore power capabilities.