ONE of the world's biggest cruise companies is to officially name its latest luxury vessel, the 90,090-ton Jewel of the Seas, in Southampton when the ship makes it global debut in the port this May.

shipping line Royal Caribbean International's decision to use the docks as the venue for the prestigious ceremony further strengthens the city's international reputation as a major centre for the multi-million-pound cruise industry.

This important sector of Southampton's port trade is worth huge amounts to the local economy and safeguards thousands of local jobs in the region.

More than half a million cruise passengers now pass through the docks, owned and operated by Associated British Ports, annually and this year alone there will be well in excess of 200 separate cruise ship calls in the docks.

Southampton is a firm favourite with Royal Caribbean, as the company has named earlier vessels in the city.

It was only last week that the shipping line, with its headquarters in America, announced it would be basing its 70,000 ton Legend of the Seas, pictured, in the port next year for a series of summer voyages.

There are also hints that the company's programme of cruises from the port during 2005 could be the start of a regular presence by Royal Caribbean in Southampton.

Exact details of this spring's naming ceremony still have to be finalised.

The ship is expected to arrive for the first time in Southampton on Wednesday, May 5.

Andrew Kent, Southampton port director, said: "Given the recent annoucement by Royal Caribbean of a full programme of 13 cruises out of Southampton next year, this naming ceremony will once again highlight the role of the port in the cruise business.''

FACTFILE:

Jewel of the Seas:

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International

Tonnage: 90,090 tons

Length: 962 feet

Beam: 105 feet

Draft: 26 feet

Cruising speed: 25 knots

Total passenger capacity: 2,501

Crew: 858

Cabins: 1,050