Hanseatic Spirit Becomes Largest Cruise Ship to Call at Ipswich
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The expedition ship Hanseatic Spirit, operated by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises with a capacity for 230 passengers, called at the Port of Ipswich in the United Kingdom on 3 October 2026, in what was described as the largest cruise ship visit in the port's history. The call was part of a 13-night voyage linking Reykjavik, Iceland, with Hamburg, Germany.
Passenger Experience
During the visit, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offered passengers a walking tour of the town to explore its history, as well as a cruise along the River Orwell that showcased Ipswich's historic waterfront and town centre. As part of the call, Neal Birkett, Commercial and Agency Manager at Associated British Ports (ABP), met with Captain Claas Fischer, who presented a commemorative plaque to the port operator.
A Port Known for Cargo
The Port of Ipswich is best known as the UK's leading grain export terminal, handling more than two million tonnes of cargo per year. Located at the head of the River Orwell and less than a kilometre from the town centre, the port offers cruise visitors direct access to one of the country's oldest port communities, with a history linked to the Hanseatic League during the Middle Ages.
ABP Statement
Paul Ager, ABP's East Coast Divisional Port Manager, said that the arrival of the Hanseatic Spirit represents a significant moment for the Port of Ipswich and reflects the growing appeal of regional destinations within the cruise market. He added that cruise ship calls bring benefits beyond visitors, supporting local businesses and generating economic benefits for the communities, and expressed ABP's intention to continue working with cruise operators and local partners to attract new opportunities.
ABP's Port Network
Beyond its cruise operations in Southampton, ABP also welcomes expedition vessels and niche cruise ships at its ports in Swansea, Plymouth and Barrow, broadening cruise lines' access to destinations beyond the UK's traditional ports. The Hanseatic Spirit's call came shortly after the paddle steamer Waverley visited Ipswich, carrying around 450 passengers on a sailing along the River Orwell towards London.
