Seven cruise ships will call in Hamburg, August 17-19, 2012, and the city is throwing a Hamburg Cruise Days event – a “stunning three days packed with maritime atmosphere, delicious food and drink, and great entertainment.”

Ships calling include the AIDAluna, AIDAmar, Columbus 2, Deutschland, Astor, MSC Lirica and the Queen Mary 2.

“The dockside will become a cruise experience, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed stroll through different themed islands: maritime markets, shopping, fashion and designer goods, sports and leisure, fun for the youngest visitors, music and entertainment as well as culinary highlights prepared by some of the city’s best restaurants,” stated the event organizers.

On Friday evening, August 17, a fleet of party ships will take to the Elbe before five giant cruise ships parade on Saturday – accompanied by a fleet of smaller vessels.

Artist Michael Batz will help “light up” the port in blue colors for the weekend.