The Port of Southampton has welcomed the newest cruise vessel in Holland America Line’s fleet, the MS Koningsdam on her maiden call to the port.
The occasion was marked with a traditional plaque and key ceremony with The Harbour Master, Captain Phil Buckley, along with port operations managers as they met the ship’s Master and Hotel Director.
The plaque and key ceremony is a tradition for all vessels on their maiden call to the port. It has its roots in the medieval history of Southampton, when visiting ships bringing business to the city were given the keys to the city walls.
Alastair Welch ABP Southampton Director said: “We were pleased to welcome the MS Koningsdam to the port on her maiden call.
“This year we have welcomed eight new vessels to the port with our traditional plaque and keys ceremony.
MS Koningsdam can accommodate 2,650 passengers and is 975 ft long.
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