The Marco Polo at anchor with the smaller Funchal behind
Some 1,300 passengers from three cruiseliners descended on Lewis on Tuesday on the
busiest day of the year for the harbour.
It is thought to be the first time three passenger ships were in Stornoway harbour
at the same time.
Nearly 40 cruiseboats are scheduled to visit Stornoway this year, almost double the
number in 2013.
The ships’ lifeboats doubled up as tenders to ferry passengers ashore and many took
advantage of the pre-arranged coach tours around the sights.
Crowds thronged Stornoway town centre enjoying the sweltering temperatures with many
browsing in shops for Harris Tweed and local crafts.
There was even a queue to cross the YM bridge as groups went out to explore the castle
grounds.
Construction work at the harbour’s Number 3 pier stopped for the day while the 142-metre
French-flagged Le Boreal stayed alongside the berth. The 2010-built, 11,000 tonne,
luxury small cruiseliner later headed down the west coast.
The former Portuguese presidential yacht Funchal arrived from Ireland and anchored
off Arnish. Her classic passenger liner lines are traditional of the ear half a century
ago when she was built. The 9,560 tonne is sailing clockwise around the UK and steam
for Invergordon overnight.
Regular visitor to Stornoway, the Marco Polo was the largest of the trio and anchored
off Sandwick.
Three cruiseliners in harbour first 28/5/14
