Cruise ship passengers voice anger at delay

Shetland’s reputation as a dream cruise ship destination is said to be at risk after passengers on a luxury vessel were kept on board for over three hours after berthing at Lerwick Harbour.

The Shetland Times has received calls from several disgruntled passengers on board the Marella Discovery concerned by the lengthy delay, which has been claimed to be a “border control” hold-up.

Holiday makers were due to be coming off the boat from 8am on Wednesday, but were still being kept on board well after eleven o’clock, with little explanation being given.

One angered visitor highlighted the “debacle” of “some pedantic little jobsworth in your border force”.

Another said that the ship’s captain had handed over the same paperwork given at other ports, only to be told more information was required.

Harbour master and depute chief executive at Lerwick Port Authority Calum Grains said the hold-up had not been caused by LPA.

The Shetland Times have contacted Peterson SBS, who are serving as agents for the vessel, but have so far not had any response.

Shetland Tourism Association chairwoman Emma Miller said she was disappointed to hear the news.

However, tour operator Tui apologised for the delay and said it would hold back the vessel’s departure from Lerwick to compensate.

• See Friday’s Shetland Times for more reaction