MV Hamburg, carrying largely German tourists, were taking time out from a European cruise to enjoy the sights and sounds of Wales, with many choosing to spend their day in the city.
Visitors explored key cultural attractions including Swansea Museum, the National Waterfront Museum, and sampled authentic Welsh delicacies at the lively Marina Market. The visit also coincided with the city’s VE Day anniversary parade, which many cruise guests enjoyed as part of their city experience.
The visit marked the first of two cruise calls scheduled for Swansea this year, with the Hebridean Princess due to dock in September, further highlighting Swansea’s growing appeal as a cruise destination.
Visit Swansea Bay’s tourism team were on hand dockside to greet passengers as they arrived.
To mark the occasion, the Phoenix Choir performed a rousing selection of Welsh music, setting the tone for a special day out offering guests a true taste of Wales.
(Image: Ceri Hurlow)
Councillor Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration, Events & Tourism at Swansea Council said: “We are delighted to welcome cruise ships like the MV Hamburg to Swansea.
“Each visit brings valuable economic benefits to our local businesses and offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase the best of what Swansea, and Wales, have to offer.
“Growing the city’s profile as a cruise destination is a key part of our wider tourism strategy, and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors in the future.
“Wales continues to be a favoured destination for German visitors, welcoming 102,000 tourists in 2023 whose visits generated £43 million in economic impact nationally.”
Ashley Curnow, Divisional Port Manager at Associated British Ports said: “ABP was delighted to welcome the MV Hamburg to the Port of Swansea on Sunday 11 May. This visit marks the inaugural cruise call to the port for the 2025 season and highlights our commitment to enhancing cruise tourism in South Wales.
“We look forward to welcoming further cruise calls into our ports of Swansea and Cardiff across the summer months.”
