ONE of the world's major cruise ship owners has now begun operating from the port of Southampton.

It further strengthens the city's position as the UK's premier port for the international maritime business.

Royal Caribbean International has brought cruise ship Legend of the Seas, pictured, to the docks for a summer-long series of voyages.

One of six Vision class vessels operated by Miami-based Royal Caribbean, Legend of the Seas left Southampton on her maiden voyage of the 2005 programme yesterday.

Growing demand for cruises from the UK has prompted Royal Caribbean's move, which will see the 1,800-passenger ship offer 14-night classic Mediterranean and Canary Islands sailings from the port.

Legend of the Seas becomes the first ship in the 19-strong Royal Caribbean fleet to be solely dedicated to the British market and will operate 13 cruises from Southampton this year, generating millions of pounds for the local economy.

Cindy Tamblyn, Royal Caribbean's district sales manager, said: "With one million people from the UK taking cruises in 2003, we feel that the timing could not be better to make this move.''

Royal Caribbean International's managing director, Patrick Ryan, said: "This is the first time that we have offered regular 14-night itineraries to fit in with demand for a traditional two-week summer holiday.

"Southampton will serve to complement our successful range of UK sailings and we hope this will be the first of many seasons from this established cruise departure point."

LEGEND OF THE SEAS FACTFILE:

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International

Builder: Chantiers de l'Atlantique, France

Entered service: May, 1995

Tonnage: 69,130 tons

Length:867 feet

Width: 105 feet

Draught: 23 feet

Passenger decks: 11

Passengers: 1,800 regular capacity or 2,076 maximum capacity

Cabins: 900, of which 231 have private balconies

Crew: 720.