Cruise ships on Weymouth Bay likely to remain over Christmas

A number of vessels, including Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, Aurora and Britannia, are currently anchored on the coast as the industry continues to suspend cruising.

Cruise ships have been anchored within Weymouth Bay because the bay offers "secure anchorage with the prevailing weather", according to the RNLI.

The vessels have also brought some joy to residents and tourists throughout a difficult and challenging year.

The cruise ships are unlikely to be moving over Christmas.

The cruise ships however appear to be staying on Weymouth Bay over Christmas, with CruiseMapper reporting no planned movements of the vessels.

A spokeswoman for P&O Cruises, which operates Aurora and Britannia ships, said their cruises are suspended until April 2021 – but noted they are likely to stay in and around the Dorset coast in the coming days.

She said: “During this pause in our operations our P&O Cruises ships are berthed in Southampton but also periodically sail to and anchor in other locations including off the south coast.

“We are extremely grateful for the support we have received from harbours and ports during this period.

“Much in the same way as a car needs to be driven, our ships need to sail to ensure full working operation and then return to the berths for storing.

Cruise ships have been moored on Weymouth Bay for several months

“We have essential manning on board which is approximately 100 crew members per ship. The crew can, of course, use guest facilities providing they adhere to social distancing and other health protocols.”

Cunard, which operates the Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth ships, will not be resuming cruising until May next year after extending its suspension of sailings.