An expedition cruise vessel has made its maiden call - marking the start of a growing cruise season.
The Douglas Mawson is operated by Aurora Expeditions and purpose-built for polar exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic.
Ashley Curnow is divisional manager for Wales and the South West at Associated British Ports (ABP) which has a base in Newport.
He said: "We are delighted to welcome cruise lines to both Swansea and Plymouth, including the maiden visit of Douglas Mawson to Millbay.
"These calls show the growing interest in regional destinations and expedition cruising."
Douglas Mawson’s visit was part of a wider itinerary covering the UK, Ireland, and France.
ABP, the UK’s largest port operator, has reported increased demand for regional and expedition cruise calls across its network.
Mr Curnow said there is clear opportunity to expand short sea and expedition cruise routes beyond Southampton.
He said: "Ports such as Swansea and Plymouth offer distinctive destinations, strong infrastructure and tangible benefits for local economies."
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