The Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce is pleased that the board of Portland Port, a Chamber member, has approved the extension of berthing facilities.
The new facility will enable the port to host cruise ships over 340m in length, further strengthening Portland’s position as a leading cruise destination. Currently the port is one of only three locations on the south coast able to take vessels up to 300m in length.
Michelle Hind, President of the Chamber, said: “This is fantastic news for the local economy, bringing new opportunities for employment and training.”
“Portland Port is one of the area’s success stories, growing its cruise ship business year on year to bring thousands of people into the local area,” continued Michelle. “Many of the visitors take the opportunity to explore Weymouth and Portland or travel further afield, bringing commercial benefits to a wide variety of businesses.”
“It’s great to see Portland taking advantage of its position near to main cruise routes and becoming a favourite destination in its own right.”
Ian McQuade, General Manager of Portland Port, has spoken at a number of the Chamber’s business breakfast events, where he has updated members on the growing number of ships visiting the area.
The new berth at Portland Port should be open to receive ships in the 2017 season.
