The port of Southampton has again been chosen for the prestigious international debut for a major new cruise ship.

Holland America Line's 85,920 ton Oosterdam, recently completed at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, is due to make a 48-hour visit to the city's docks next month.

The Vista class vessel is the latest generation of new, large cruise ships for Holland America, part of the huge Miami based Carnival Empire that also owns Cunard and P&O Cruises.

One of the ship's features includes outside lifts that travel up and down ten decks providing panoramic views from either side of the ship.

Oosterdam has two interior promenade decks as well as another exterior one encircling the ship, a dramatic eight deck high atrium and reception area as well as huge show lounge in the forward section of the vessel.

It is expected that hundreds of representatives of the shipping and travel industries will be invited on board Oosterdam to view the ship after coming alongside 38/9 berth in the city's Eastern Docks on Friday, July 25.

The last time a Holland America ship was in Southampton was in June last year when the 37,845 Prisendam, formerly named Royal Viking Sun and Seabourn Sun, called at the port.