Stella Maris Opens Crew Welfare Lounge at Port of Dover

Stella Maris, the Port of Dover, Carnival Cruise Line, the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, and Bishop Paul Hendricks attended the inauguration of a new crew welfare lounge at Cruise Terminal 2, which is frequently used, receiving thousands of crew members each year.

These facilities, funded by Stella Maris, are unique within a cruise terminal. They have a capacity for about 25 people and constitute a haven of peace where crew can enjoy their breaks and talk with their families without interruptions.

In addition to refreshments, they offer free Wi-Fi and entertainment, such as television, a pool table, and a dartboard. Most importantly, Stella Maris port chaplains will be available to provide practical, pastoral, and spiritual support.

Peter Wright, Head of Cruise at the Port of Dover, stated that "the Port of Dover is recognized throughout the cruise industry for its exceptional customer service: we take care of everyone, and no one more so than the crew members, who work so hard to provide unforgettable memories for our cruise lines and their guests. Thanks to Stella Maris for providing this wonderful lounge, which allows crew to easily access their own space that they can use to socialize, relax, and connect with their loved ones."

Tim Hill MBE, CEO and National Director of Stella Maris UK, expressed that "the new crew welfare facilities will be an oasis for cruise ship crew visiting Dover. It is a welcoming space where Stella Maris chaplains and volunteers visiting the ships will be available to offer friendship and support whenever needed."

"Crew members spend months away from their families and deserve a place where they can rest and feel at home while in port. I thank our chaplaincy team in Kent and Southern England, as well as the Port of Dover, for collaborating in the creation of these much-needed facilities," added Hill.

Stella Maris is an international maritime charity that supports seafarers, fishers, and their families in the UK and abroad, and has the largest ship visiting network in the world. The inauguration included the traditional ribbon-cutting and the official blessing by Hendricks, Auxiliary Bishop for the Kent area.