Cruise ship Azura to leave River Tyne during England vs Germany game tonight

The huge Caribbean cruise ship called Azura will leave the River Tyne tonight as it heads to Belfast.
By Sophie Brownson
Published 24th Jun 2021, 13:20 BST
Updated 29th Jun 2021, 12:29 BST
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Operated by P&O, the cruise ship travelled from Southampton to the Port of Tyne on Friday, January 15 where it has remained berthed for the last six months to undergo essential maintenance.

During its time on the Tyne it has attracted a large number of people to both sides of the river wanting to take a look at the impressive vessel.

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But now P&O Cruises have confirmed that the ship will be leaving the Port of Tyne tonight, June 29, as it sails to Belfast.

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The Azura will be leaving us soon, after six months forming part of our skylineThe Azura will be leaving us soon, after six months forming part of our skyline
The Azura will be leaving us soon, after six months forming part of our skyline

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Today’s Port of Tyne shipping movements says the Azura is scheduled to leave from Northumbrian Quay at 6.45pm.

A P&O Cruises spokeswoman said: “We are so grateful to the local community in the Port of Tyne for the warm welcome Azura and her crew has received.

"We have very much enjoyed being there.

The Azura cruise ship as it sailed into the River Tyne in January.The Azura cruise ship as it sailed into the River Tyne in January.
The Azura cruise ship as it sailed into the River Tyne in January.

"Azura will now move to Belfast for an extended period prior to her return to service.

"She is currently scheduled to leave on June 29.”

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Capable of carrying 3,100 guests and a crew of 1,250, the Azura would normally make holiday trips around the Caribbean.

But when the coronavirus pandemic pressed pause on international travel, P&O brought all of its ships home to the UK.

The huge Azura cruise ship on the River Tyne next to the Shields Ferry.The huge Azura cruise ship on the River Tyne next to the Shields Ferry.
The huge Azura cruise ship on the River Tyne next to the Shields Ferry.

However, its home port of Southampton did not have the berth availability for all of its ships, leading to the Azura making the River Tyne its home for the last six months.

Built in 2010, the Azura measures 290 meters long and features 14 guest decks.

It features 10 restaurants and 13 bars and cafés on board, as well as four swimming pools, a spa, theatre and open air cinema.

Guests can also enjoy a casino library, art gallery and a range of sporting activities during their cruise.

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Related topics:Port of TyneBelfastGermanyEnglandCaribbean