ONE of the biggest names in the international cruising industry is aiming to make the port of Southampton a regular base for European voyages.

Royal Caribbean International is bringing its 69,130 ton Legend of the Seas to the docks for a summer series of cruises next year.

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 in 2005.

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

Built by the French shipyard of Chantiers de l'Atlantique, the same company that produced Cunard's Queen Mary 2, the ship first entered service in May, 1995 and has an operating speed of up to 24 knots. The vessel features a rock climbing wall 150 feet above the ocean, a miniature golf course, health and beauty spa and various bars, restaurants and activity options.

Royal Caribbean International's managing director, Patrick Ryan, said: "This will be 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.

"Royal Caribbean will offer a unique, unstuffy cruise experience for guests, particularly families, who can opt for the convenience of starting their holiday from Southampton.