Cruise ship will be company's first visit to Harwich
MSC LIRICA visits the port tomorrow, 4th September


MSC Cruises will make its first transit call at Harwich International Port on 4th September 2007, with the arrival of the 2,183-passenger MSC LIRICA.

Passengers on the cruise will be able to enjoy the delights of Harwich and the surrounding areas, including Colchester and Dedham Vale, during their stopover.

The 251-metre-long MSC LIRICA will be arriving from Copenhagen, and sailing to Le Havre from Harwich, on a Mediterranean itinerary.

Paul Davey, Head of Corporate Affairs for Hutchison Ports (UK) Limited, owners of Harwich International Port, said:

"We are pleased to welcome the prestigious MSC LIRICA to Harwich International Port. We are keen to encourage transit calls such as this to the Port, as they enable us to showcase the tremendous range of local attractions on offer, both within Harwich itself, and in nearby ‘Constable country’.

“The excellent rail connections from Harwich International Port mean that passengers are also able to take advantage of the popular destinations of London and Cambridge.”

Keith Brown, Chief Executive of East of England Tourism, added:

“This new arrival reflects both the excellent port facilities and the wide range of unique leisure options across the East of England available within a comfortable transfer time from Harwich. These range from traditional countryside towns to vibrant cities, and offer something for every cruise passenger.”

Harwich International Port is set to welcome 60 cruise calls during the 2007 season, including a number of significant new customers.