A CRUISE ship that has been stranded at sea for 15 hours because of fierce storms is finally docked in Southampton.

Hundreds of passengers were stranded aboard the Oriana and a voyage has been delayed due to strong winds.

But P&O Cruises has now confirmed that the ship has berthed at Ocean Terminal - more than 15 hours behind schedule.

Passengers were given the option to stay onboard overnight.

The Oriana was supposed to be departing for a four-night cruise to Guernsey and Zeebrugge but that has been delayed for 24 hours leaving 1,500 passengers waiting to board.

These passengers were provided with a night in a hotel, complete with dinner, wine and breakfast as well as a 50 per cent discount on their cruise.

A spokesman said: "Oriana has left the Queen Elizabeth II Terminal and is going towards Ocean Terminal which will take about an hour and then from there we will take all the luggage off. Some passengers will want to go home tonight, which is fine.

"There are about 1,500 passengers in and around Southampton in hotels. We are paying for hotels, dinner, breakfast and wine."

Returning passengers were able to leave the ship after 9pm, while entertainment, dinner and complimentary wine was due to be provided for those staying onboard.

Previously the cruise firm announced it would be reducing the Guernsey cruise to three nights and providing hotel accommodation for incoming passengers.

The spokesman said: "Therefore regrettably we have taken the decision to delay your cruise by 24 hours. We ask you to arrive tomorrow at your original check in time.

"Both ports of call will be maintained and you will receive a refund of 50 per cent of the price of your holiday.

"If you are unable to delay your journey then please proceed to the Ocean Cruise Terminal where our teams will assist you. We sincerely apologise for the delay."

Daily Echo:

The 1,800-capacity ship was assisted by two tugs when coming in to port but reportedly made a “heavy landing”, touching a berth while manoeuvring in 70mph winds.

A statement to passengers released this morning said: “Oriana is still waiting for the winds to drop to a terminal where we can embark you safely. We are not expecting to begin boarding until early this evening so please plan your journey accordingly.

“We will continue to update you regularly and we will let you have a firm time as soon as possible. We are putting £30 per person on to your on board account so you can have lunch on your journey. Again we apologise for this delay.”