The ship, measuring 323 metres in length and with a gross tonnage of 113,000, arrived yesterday and is scheduled to remain until 6pm on Friday, 23 May.

Carrying more than 2,700 passengers and around 1,200 crew, the arrival of the Queen Anne underscores the significance of the port’s Deep Water Terminal. The facility, completed as part of a £59 million investment in marine infrastructure, was specifically designed to accommodate the world’s largest cruise liners and support the long-term diversification of port operations.

The Queen Anne’s call to Stornoway is also an indicator of the port’s growing role within the UK’s cruise tourism sector. Stornoway Port is set for a very busy 2025, with projections indicating over 60,000 passengers arriving throughout the season. The popularity of the island as a cruise destination is expected to inject approximately £7.5 million into the local economy this year, benefiting a wide range of businesses across the Outer Hebrides.

Kirsty Hutchison, Cruise Manager at Stornoway Port, said: "The arrival of the Queen Anne is a landmark moment, both for the port and the wider island community. This visit demonstrates the scale of opportunity that now exists through our Deep Water Terminal, not only in cruise, but across a spectrum of marine industries.

“At a time when many industries are facing difficulties, the cruise industry is stepping in to help fill those gaps and our aim is to drive the economy forward.

“Extended stays such as this allow guests to immerse themselves in the unique heritage and landscape of the Outer Hebrides, supporting local businesses and helping to spread the benefits of tourism throughout the region."

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