13-Jun-2001

Royal Caribbean International’s ‘Legend of the Seas’ made her inaugural call into Harwich International Port on Tuesday 12 June 2001. This is the first of eight calls this year and she replaces her sister ship ‘Splendour of the Seas’, which had served the port for the past five years and has now repositioned to another itinerary.

A “Plaques and Keys” Ceremony was held on board during the turnaround call where the Captain exchanged gifts with Port Managers and local dignitaries.

Harwich International Port is having another good year with a total of 43 cruise ship turnaround calls. More good news for the port in the announcement of a Berthing Agreement with Royal Caribbean International, extending the relationship between the two companies which started in 1993, to 2006. Steve Bock, Manager, Port Administrations, stated “This Berthing Agreement is the first one Royal Caribbean International has entered into with any European Homeport and we believe Harwich is an excellent choice to be the first of hopefully many.”

The larger ‘Rhapsody of the Seas’ will make 12 calls into the port in 2002. Terry Davies, Business Development Manger at Harwich International Port said “I am extremely pleased that Royal Caribbean International has recognised the quality of service prevalent at Harwich in the awarding of the long term agreement.”

Photographs are available of the Ceremony upon request.