Member Article

Cruising Forward: Port of Tyne welcomes largest cruise ship to-date

Port of Tyne welcomed Holland America Line’s latest cruise ship, Nieuw Statendam, arriving off the mouth of the River Tyne at 7am this morning (Tuesday 6 August).

Launched in December 2018, Nieuw Statendam is the sister ship of Koningsdam, which last visited the Port in 2016. The second Pinnacle Class cruise vessel, Statendam measures 99,902 gross tonnes with a length of nearly 300 metres, and a double-occupancy capacity of 2,666 passengers.

With cruise holidays representing an ever-growing section of the holiday market, Nieuw Statendam represents a very modern take on cruising – even the ships official godmother, Oprah Winfrey has introduced a series of programs, featuring uplifting, complimentary activities, such as meditation to energise and inspire guests. There is also an Oprah Reading Room for lovers of her famous book club.

Other innovative on-board experiences include a newly-designed French seafood brasserie, an alfresco pan-Asian restaurant, a two-tier Lido Deck with movie screen, and a wine-making venue, called Blend. Guests can also enjoy the Rolling Stone Rock Room, which offers live music covering rock hits from the last four decades, in partnership with Rolling Stone magazine.

During their time in Port passengers will explore the iconic attractions of North East England including Alnwick Gardens, Bamburgh Castle, Durham Cathedral and Hadrian’s Roman Wall – all within easy reach of the Port of Tyne.

Over 100 guests from the North East and Scotland, including travel agents and tour operators, along with VIPs from the Port of Tyne, will be given the opportunity to sample the on-board guest experience.

Simon Brett, Port of Tyne Commercial Director, Port Services, said: “We are delighted to welcome Nieuw Statendam to the Port of Tyne, our largest cruise ship to-date.

“Our cruise and ferry business adds over £56million to the regional economy, and we hope to grow the number of cruise calls visiting our shores each year. North East England has much to offer; from heritage and culture to arts and entertainment, we have it all within easy reach of the Port.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Nicole Mullen .