Jul 26 - Sirena Sails Into Gibraltar

Gibraltar hosted the latest inaugural call for a cruise ship on Saturday morning when the Sirena, part of the five-star Oceania Cruises fleet of vessels, sailed into the port.

The Sirena built in 1999, has a gross tonnage of 30,277 tonnes, a length of 181 metres, a guest capacity of 684 and a crew of 400.

As is customary on these occasions, there was an informal welcome ceremony and exchange of commemorative plaques between the ship’s captain and the Gibraltar Port Authority.

The Gibraltar Tourist Board was represented by senior product manager Suyenne Catania. The Sirena’s local shipping agent is MH Bland.

Formed in 2002 by luxury cruise industry veterans, Oceania Cruises is considered to be one of the leading international upper premium cruise lines.

Oceania Cruises call on more than 330 ports across Europe and the world.

Minister for Tourism Samantha Sacramento welcomed the ship’s arrival to the Rock. She said: “We are delighted to receive another inaugural cruise call in what is a very busy period for the port of Gibraltar and all the ancillary services it provides to visiting vessels.

“The cruise industry is one of the most important segments of the overall tourist trade in Gibraltar and it has been thanks to the policies and foresight of this administration that the sector is expanding, with more ship visits, more passenger arrivals and inaugurals year on year.

“The Gibraltar Government will continue its support for the cruise industry and for tourism which is a vital part of the Rock’s economy and our sustainable prosperity.”

{fcomment}