Key to the development will be extending the port’s primary cruise quay – known as the Outer Coaling Pier – by 74 metres and replacing the existing deep water berth with an extended wharf with a depth of 12 metres.

Together the new berths will be capable of handling a pair of cruise ships up to 350 metres long docked at the same time. The project will also deliver an extra 16,000sq/m of quayside space.

As a result, the port will increase its cruise ship capacity to keep up with rising demand. The docks are set to be operational by May 2023, with finishing touches such as resurfacing taking place between October 2023 and February 2024.

Portland Port’s commercial general manager Ian McQuade said: “This development will provide a major and significant enhancement to the port’s capabilities. The new facilities will enable Portland Port to keep pace with the increasing demands from our existing cruise and cargo customers whilst offering the opportunity for future growth. The size of vessels calling at Portland over the last number of years has continued to grow, and this investment will enable our business to keep ahead of this trend.”