Saint John (NB) – Thursday, September 30th, will be a day to remember at the Port of Saint John. On that day, four cruise ships will be berthed simultaneously at the City’s Port facilities. What is most impressive about this upcoming get-together of cruise ships is that one of them is the largest, longest, tallest, widest and grandest Ocean liner afloat: the RMS Queen Mary 2.
Collectively, these ships have an end-to-end length that extends for 1.1 kilometres and a collective weight of just over 373,000 tons. That adds up to more than twice the weight of Canada’s entire Navy.
Recent years have witnessed an important commitment to the development of Cruise Ship facilities and the challenge of attracting many of the most impressive cruise ships afloat.
From several vantage points, it will provide a number of breathtaking and amazing opportunities for photographers. The Saint John Port Authority has commissioned local photographer, Martin Flewelling to capture this historic occasion from several vantage points, including aerial shots.
“In 1996 we had 8 cruise ship calls for the entire season with a total of 8500 passengers. Today, we will have that many passengers on these four vessels,” observed Capt. Al Soppitt, President and CEO for the Saint John Port Authority. “This record day is a tribute to the graciousness of the people of Saint John, the quality of the product offered by our tour operators and the breathtaking beauty of the Bay of Fundy and the city of Saint John.”
“Logistically speaking, this day will present a great test of all our resources and facilities,” Soppitt continued, “The Queen Mary 2 will be berthed at Pugsley A with the Carnival Victory and the Royal Princess lined up behind her. The Jewel of the Seas will be docked at Long Wharf.”
“Our 20th year of cruise visits to Saint John will be remembered as a season that broke all records – number of ships / passengers / and ships at the same time.” said Betty MacMillan, Manager, Business Development for the Saint John Port Authority. “Mary Camper, our one millionth cruise passenger in early August was a major highlight. However, four cruise ships in the harbour at once will be the icing on the cake.”
Thursday, September 30th, the Port of Saint John will truly be a sight to behold. This event will not pass without recognition from the Saint John Port Authority, including a fireworks display, scheduled for 9PM as the Carnival Victory departs for the final time this season. Viewing facilities will be provided on Fort Howe next to the block house including complimentary hot chocolate and coffee.
