Father Christmas swapped his sleigh and reindeers for the 2,958 ton fuel vessel Whitchallenger when he arrived for the port of Southampton's annual carol service.
More than 300 people wrapped up warm against the cold for the traditional event held at dock head and in the Queen Elizabeth II passenger terminal in the Eastern Docks.
A choir from Southampton's St Denys Primary School together with the Hampshire Ex-Servicemen's Band took part in the service led by Reverend Bill McCrea of the British and International Sailors' Society in the city.
During the service Andrew Kent, Southampton's port director, presented a cheque for £100 on behalf of Associated British Ports to Liz Broderick of St Denys Primary School to help boost school funds.
Then it was the turn of Father Christmas to arrive alongside 38/9 berth watched by the families of people who work in and around the port.
Once inside the terminal's lounge, Santa Claus gave each youngster a present while the parents enjoyed mince pies and mulled wine.
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