Tag Archives: Scotland

Stornoway Port Set for Major 2026 Cruise Season

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Stornoway Port Set for Major 2026 Cruise Season

Stornoway Port is preparing to welcome 89 cruise ship calls during the 2026 season, reinforcing its growing prominence as one of Scotland’s premier cruise destinations, according to a press release.

The season is expected to bring approximately 60,000 passengers to the Outer Hebrides, contributing an estimated £7.8 million to the local economy.

“The 2026 cruise season represents another major milestone for Stornoway Port, with 89 scheduled calls highlighting the continued growth in demand from international cruise operators,” said Kirsty Hutchison, cruise and marketing manager at Stornoway Port.

“The return of high-profile vessels such as Queen Anne, alongside visits from MSC Preziosa and Carnival Legend, demonstrates the strength of Stornoway’s reputation as a world-class destination.”

Among the headline arrivals in 2026 are globally recognized vessels. These include the MSC Preziosa, the Carnival Legend and Cunard’s newest flagship, the Queen Anne, which will return to Stornoway following its successful maiden visit in 2025.

The MSC Preziosa and the Carnival Legend will each bring substantial visitor numbers to the island.

Their inclusion in the schedule demonstrates sustained confidence in Stornoway’s facilities, particularly the £59 million Deep Water Terminal, which has significantly expanded the port’s ability to accommodate larger, modern cruise ships.

Hutchison said the Deep Water Terminal continues to transform what the port can offer, strengthening its ability to accommodate larger vessels and enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The port is progressing plans for the next phase of development at the terminal, alongside the ongoing development of Arnish Road, to further build capacity and resilience across the estate, she said.

Former Braemar Sails from Scotland Ahead of Villa Vie Debut

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The former Braemar has sailed from Scotland ahead of debuting for Villa Vie Residences.

After spending almost four years docked in Rosyth, the 1993-built vessel left the port under its own power on Tuesday morning.

Set to be renamed Villa Vie Odyssey, the cruise ship is now on its way to the Harland & Wolff Shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where it is expected to arrive on April 25.

At drydock, the 924-guest vessel is scheduled to undergo significant technical work, including the reactivation of systems, class inspections, general maintenance and more.

The Villa Vie Odyssey will also receive a new livery, as well as new public areas and features. Among the new additions are a culinary centre and a pickleball court.

According to Villa Vie Residences, the vessel will also be enhanced with a state-of-the-art business centre, an upgraded pool deck, a new observation deck and refurbished staterooms.

All 480 cabins are set to undergo upgrades to ensure “the utmost comfort and style,” the company said.

Following the refit, the Odyssey is scheduled to sail to Southampton to embark on its maiden voyage for the new operator.

After leaving Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ fleet in late 2022, the former Braemar was acquired by Villa Vie Residences earlier this year.

Building on a residential ship concept, the startup brand plans to offer a continuous cruise that will circumnavigate the globe every three-and-a-half years.

Passengers can buy their own “villas” onboard the ship, becoming owners of one of the ship’s cabins.

For its first world voyage, the Odyssey is scheduled to visit all seven continents, sailing to over 425 destinations in 147 countries. The itinerary also allows guests to explore 13 of the 14 Wonders of the World, Villa Vie said.

Built in Spain in the early 1990s, the former Braemar also sailed for Cunard Line, Crown Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and others.

HX Announces MS Maud’s Return In April

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HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) announced the return of the Maud to service in April 2024, according to a press release.

After necessary repairs due to weather damage in late December, the Maud will set sail on an expedition around the British Isles. 

Guests will explore diverse coastlines and remote islands, led by HX’s Expedition Team. The ship will welcome Scottish weather presenter Carol Kirkwood on its second British Isles sailing, where guests can expect insightful talks and Q&A sessions while sailing from Douglas to Dover.

In July, HX’s Maud will venture into the Arctic, exploring Greenland and Iceland, with itineraries that bring guests closer to the local communities and wilderness of the north.

Starting in October, the ship will head south to Antarctica for a series of new expeditions combining the majestic Patagonian fjords with Antarctica. Highlighted itinerary is the 17-day Chilean Patagonia and Antarctica expedition. Additionally, the Maud will embark on 23- and 24-day sailings exploring South America, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia in a single adventure.