Saga Sapphire to make maiden call at Portsmouth
Reading Time: 2 minutes Portsmouth International Port will welcome Saga back again this week as their magnificent cruise ship ‘Saga Sapphire’ arrives on 1 July at 0800, the perfect first stop on its “Maritime Heritage Cruise”.
It will be the first time ‘Saga Sapphire’ has visited the Great Waterfront City, and its passengers are in for a treat. On the schedule is a visit to the Historic Dockyard – walking the decks of HMS Victory and HMS Warrior, just two of the world-class attractions found close to the gangway at Portsmouth International Port.
The ship will be staying overnight and then sailing on Saturday 2 July at 0700. But it won’t be going far as it will drop anchor just off the Isle of Wight to allow passengers to watch the Round the Island Race. The race regularly attracts over 1,700 boats and around 16,000 sailors, making it one of the largest yacht races in the world and the fourth largest participation sporting event in the UK after the London Marathon and the Great North and South Runs. It will be a great spectacle for passengers before the 200m long vessel leaves for Guernsey.
The classic cruise ship is described as elegant, timeless and relaxing. There is an intimate atmosphere, with guests enjoying spacious cabins. Saga caters for the mature market, a group of passengers who clearly like to have fun! The ship has its very own crazy golf course and even a quirky Beach Club.
Rupert Taylor, Harbour Master at Portsmouth International Port, is responsible for attracting new visiting ships to the Port. Rupert said, “We’re delighted to see Saga Sapphire following in the wake of Saga Pearl II and Saga Ruby. Saga knows that we are perfectly placed to offer incredible days out for passengers, with such rich maritime heritage right on the doorstep. That means guests can get off the ship on arrival, and within minutes can be exploring the historic dockyard and other world-class attractions. And with such easy access for cruise ships from the English Channel, it’s unquestionably a great option for cruise operators too.”
‘Saga Sapphire’ is one of 32 cruise ships visiting, leaving or departing from Portsmouth International Port this summer season. The Port has a well-deserved reputation for offering high quality, flexible services for cruise operators and passengers.
