On the evening of Monday 8 February 2021, the lights of Marella Discovery appeared just off West Bay, creating an unusual sight against the dark Dorset coast.
The TUI cruise ship had previously been anchored in Weymouth Bay and moved to West Bay while sheltering from easterly winds.
A second cruise ship arrives
Less than 24 hours later, on Tuesday 9 February, Marella Explorer 2 appeared off the coast. People from West Bay, Bridport and the surrounding area came down to see the rare sight.
Why the ships were at West Bay
TUI said the ships had moved to the area to shelter from easterly winds. Marella Discovery has 11 decks, 918 cabins, seven bars, nine restaurants and two swimming pools, making its illuminated outline impossible to miss from shore.
It was an unexpected few days and a memorable sight for everyone watching from West Bay.
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