Southampton based Cruise and Passenger Services (CPS), the specialist service provider for the UK's multi-million-pound cruise industry, is to handle the world's latest luxury ship, the 90,000-ton Jewel of the Seas, when the vessel makes her worldwide debut in the city this May.

This latest success for CPS underlines the company's premier position as the UK's largest and most experienced quayside and terminal operator.

Based in the port, the central hub for the country's thriving cruise trade, CPS will provide all the vital quayside services needed by Royal Caribbean International's newest addition to its rapidly expanding fleet when she arrives from the builder's shipyard on Wednesday, May 5.

During her stay in Southampton, the ship, which can carry up to 2,501 passengers, is due to be officially named before she departs for her seven-night maiden voyage to Portugal and Spain.

CPS has worked closely with Royal Caribbean International in the past during calls by Splendour of the Seas, Enchantment of the Seas, Vision of the Seas and, most recently, Explorer of the Seas, in Southampton.

Keith Back, CPS director, said:"We are delighted to be working alongside Royal Caribbean International again, giving us the opportunity to strengthen this important relationship.

"Royal Caribbean International is one of the most prestigious names in the industry and we believe our high level of customer service will complement its strong reputation in the cruising world.''

Other well known names in CPS's growing client list include Cunard, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Fred Olsen Cruise Line and Sun Cruises.

This year CPS will handle about 200 separate cruise ship calls in Southampton by providing stores and baggage loading and unloading, mooring, car parking, some quayside security and check-in services.