Report this comment
  • "
    Just another reader wrote:
    I'd rather have a delay than more illegal immigrants.
    Oh yeah - all those pesky illegal immigrants are well known to use cruise ships to get around. You muppet."
  • This field is mandatory
  • This field is mandatory

  • Please note we will not accept reports with HTML tags or URLs in them.


  • Enter the above word in the box below

Please be fair, courteous and respectful to the views of others so we can build a vibrant community in a safe online environment. You are personal liable for your comments and action will be taken against anyone who offends, ridicules or posts malicious and damaging views. If you wish to complain, please contact us.

Holidaymakers forced to wait after Border Agency computer fault causes delays as Independence of the Seas docks in Southampton

12:44pm Saturday 5th May 2012 in News

Independence of the Seas Independence of the Seas

PASSENGERS have faced lengthy delays getting off cruise ships docked at Southampton today because of Border Agency computer problems.

Hundreds of holidaymakers returning from a cruise on Independence of the Seas were forced to wait for at least two hours to disembark after the ship returned to the city’s docks.

Fed-up passengers said they had been told over the ship’s PA system the delays were because the computer system used by the Border Agency had “gone down”.

Queues finally began moving when immigration checks were conducted manually.

It is the latest incident in a week that has seen the Border Agency heavily criticised following delays of up to three hours for people arriving in the UK at Heathrow Airport.

The Royal Caribbean-owned Independence of the Seas is not the only cruise ship to have docked in Southampton today.

Cunard's Queen Victoria also arrived in the city today, but it is not yet known if its passengers suffered similar problems.

The Home Office is yet to respond to the Daily Echo’s request for a comment.

Local Businesses

About cookies

We want you to enjoy your visit to our website. That's why we use cookies to enhance your experience. By staying on our website you agree to our use of cookies. Find out more about the cookies we use.

I agree