Fred. Olsen to Cruise from Portsmouth

The ship will operate a series of five cruises from the port to destinations in the Mediterranean and Atlantic (Cape Verde Islands). The final departure will be a transatlantic crossing to the Caribbean in readiness for the winter season from Barbados.

The first two cruises have been announced in the 2009/2010 Preview programme. They are a 21-night Adriatic cruise departing 5th October, and a 13-night Mediterranean cruise from 26th Oct.

Portsmouth offers many benefits as a cruise departure port; it has good access by road and rail, and Southampton airport is also close by. Leaving from Portsmouth rather than Southampton also reduces cruising time to the first port of call by one and a half hours.

Matt Grimes, Director of Planning, Ports and Logistics for Fred. Olsen said: “We are delighted to be adding Portsmouth to the departure ports we can offer our customers. Its accessibility and geographical location make it extremely convenient for many southern based customers. With more ships, we can offer more choice in terms of cruise destinations as well as departure ports and we very much look forward to working with the Portsmouth Port.”

Martin Putman, Portsmouth Port manager said: “Developing our cruise offering is a key focus for Portsmouth Port, and we are looking forward to welcoming Fred Olsen in 2009. It is an exciting development for the Port and the city.”

For details of all Fred. Olsen cruises visit www.fredolsencruises.co.uk

For details on Portsmouth Port visit www.portsmouth-port.co.uk