Port Stornoway’s (Isle of Lewis and Harris, Scotland) Deep Water Terminal is expected to be ready ahead of the 2024 cruise season.
Work on the facility, which has capacity to accommodate vessels with max LOA length 360 m (1180 ft) and max draught 10 m (33 ft), commenced in April 2022, after Stornoway Port Authority signed a GBP 49 million (EUR 56,6M) construction contract with McLaughlin & Harvey (1853-founded building and civil engineering company).
The major port development is due to establish Stornoway as the Outer Hebrides' only cruise port where big-sized ships can come alongside. It will enable the islands to realize their potential as a call on UK itineraries, being an overnight sail to/from Kirkwall/Orkney, Invergordon, Belfast, and Greenock.
A number of cruise shipping companies (including ferries) have confirmed calls at the new berth for season 2024 and Stornoway Port Authority is expecting more bookings during the months ahead.
Stornoway's Deep Water Terminal is due to deliver a boost to the local economy, by bringing much more tourists to Lewis and Harris Island.
There are two quays in the project, with the main berth being able to accommodate vessels up to 360 m in length. There is no passenger building as Stornoway is not a turnaround port/homeport. The new cruise berths will be within walking distance of downtown, with shuttle bus services provided.
The attractions on the islands include the 5000-year-old Lewis Chessmen, Harris Tweed, traditional Blackhouse villages, and stunning beaches.