The beautiful Balmoral cruise ship said goodbye to the North East as it sailed down the River Tyne towards warmer climes on Bank Holiday Monday.
The Fred Olsen Cruise Liner, which is named after the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, was berthed at the Port of Tyne for around a week before it set sail for Spain at 6pm on May 2. Capable of carrying 1,325 passengers, the Balmoral is small compared to other cruise ships, such as the Cunard Queen Victoria, which visited the port last month.
However, it certainly made for a striking display as it sailed down the Tyne on Sunday evening accompanied by a tug water cannon display. Passengers gathered on the deck to wave at those who turned out to watch it sail away in North Shields and South Shields.
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According to the Port of Tyne shipping movements, the Balmoral is headed to La Coruna in Spain. During the voyage, those on board will be able to enjoy facilities including two swimming pools and four jacuzzis, as well as a spa and fitness centre.
With just 710 guest cabins and measuring 218.05meters, the cruise ship's smaller size means she is able to navigate some of Europe's most picturesque waterways, including the Kiel Canal and River Seine. But guests have plenty of space in which to relax, with elegant and comfortable lounges, bars and poolside restaurants on board.
The Balmoral's visit to Tyneside comes as a bid is launched to get more cruise ships to visit the North East. The Port of Tyne, Newcastle International Airport and the NewcastleGateshead Initiative are working together on the Cruise North East England project which aims to boost the region’s tourism economy by attracting more cruise ships to the area.
