Thousands of people flocked to the city last month to catch a glimpse of two very rare spectacles.
The world’s largest luxury cruise liner, Oasis of the Seas, and the world’s most high-tech ship Quantum of the Seas made their UK debut and sailed into Southampton.
But while visitors were revelling in the historic sights, an army of ABP staff was working behind-the-scenes to ensure the giant ships were guided safely to dock.
Matt Winter, Southampton’s pilotage manager, said: “The Port of Southampton has a long history of handling the largest cruise ships in the world. Our competent and experienced pilots are always capable of rising to a new challenge.
“The pilot’s role is vital in any operation as we possess the local knowledge required to safely navigate the vessel through the Solent, Thorn Channel, Southampton Water and into the docks.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here