Ports of Jersey is welcoming one of Oceania’s newest luxury cruise ships to Jersey waters this week. MS Vista is stopping in Jersey on Wednesday 21 May on the way from Portugal, Spain and France to the UK.
This is MS Vista’s first visit to Jersey. It has been coordinated by Ports of Jersey and Channel Island Port Services (CIPS), the local Port Agent which has been part of joint efforts to enhance the island’s maritime profile. This visit underscores Jersey’s growing reputation as a premier destination for luxury cruise ships and super yachts, and will include a welcome and plaque exchange ceremony on board, with representatives invited from Government, Ports of Jersey, Visit Jersey, and other stakeholders.
Simon Porritt from CIPS said: “This visit forms part of our ongoing efforts to raise Jersey’s maritime profile and position the Island as a trusted destination for boutique cruise and superyacht visits. It is a significant moment for Jersey, not just because MS Vista is one of Oceania Cruises’ newest and most prestigious vessels, but also because it reflects the growing recognition of Jersey as a premium maritime destination.”
Cruise ships help raise the island’s visibility in the global maritime and tourism sectors, and offer economic benefit through transport, food, retail and tourism spend, while remaining low impact compared to large-scale tourism. Additionally, the collaboration with international cruise lines enhances port facilities, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. This investment in infrastructure benefits not only the maritime industry but also the local community who use these facilities.
Ports of Jersey has been working to improve the infrastructure for visiting cruise vessels. One aspect of this is to identify suitable anchorage options that bring ships safely closer to shore, reduce tender times and weather exposure, and offer enhanced views of the island.
Harbour master, Captain Bill Sadler, said: “We are actively supporting the development of a Maritime Cluster, to help position Jersey as a trusted port of call and to attract more business for Jersey and to support Jersey’s strategic aim to grow its Blue Economy. We look forward to welcoming the captain and crew of MS Vista to the Island, and we are confident that their passengers will find their time here a memorable and rewarding experience.”
Simon Porritt added: “This visit aligns closely with the work we are leading, with support from Ports of Jersey and other partners, to form a cohesive Maritime Cluster, encompassing superyacht, cruise, offshore, and commercial activity. We are proud to be part of the maritime community and to offer a warm welcome as a gateway to Northern Europe, supported by a strong infrastructure, a strategic location and a connected ecosystem.”