Port terminal operators SCH have expanded their cruise ship business in Southampton by securing the stevedoring and other ship support services Silversea Cruises.

The addition of the Silversea ships to SCH’s portfolio means the port services company will handle around 100 cruise ship calls in Southampton during this year.

Silversea Cruises will make 11 calls in Southampton during 2017, offering cruises round Britain and to Northern and Western Europe on its small, exclusive vessels Silver Whisper, Silver Explorer, Silver Muse and Silver Wind.

The 40,700 tonnes Silver Muse, with accommodation for just under 600 guests, will make her debut in Southampton after being built in Italy.

She is due to enter service in the spring and will make her maiden Southampton calls in September.

SCH will provide baggage, storing and mooring services during the ships’ visits to Southampton.

Cruise operation manager Glen Gardner explained: “Silversea Cruises are a prestigious addition to the fleet of ships that we handle in Southampton. By tailoring our services to the individual requirements of our cruise customers, we are growing our market share of cruise business in the port, both in stevedoring and valet car parking.”

SCH’s other major cruise customers in Southampton are Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Saga Cruises and Azamara Cruises. The company also provides cruise services at various other ports throughout the UK.