THREE spectacular firework displays will light up the night sky over Southampton's waterfront to celebrate the arrival of the world's biggest cruise ship this weekend.
The new 160,000-ton Freedom of the Seas is due to berth at the City Cruise Terminal in the Western Docks at 9am on Saturday for her UK debut. Over the following few days sightseers will have some magnificent views of the enormous vessel moored at her berth close to Mayflower Park as well as when she arrives and departs on two brief cruises in the Channel.
Spectators will also have a dramatic view of Freedom of the Seas from Calshot, Netley, Hythe, Marchwood and Southampton's Town Quay.
Mayflower Park will remain open for the firework displays that will take place at 10.30pm on Saturday and the following Monday, while Sunday's event is at 8.30pm
Freedom of the Seas will leave port after Saturday's firework display for an overnight cruise before returning the following morning to remain in the docks until Monday night when she sails again, this time for a two-night voyage.
The ship will be briefly back in port on Wednesday before sailing to America, where she will operate a programme of cruises in the Caribbean.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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 hereComments are closed on this article