An extra 19 visits will be made to the island by two cruise ships this season, it was revealed last night.

Crystal Symphony, owned by Crystal Cruises, as reported in The Royal Gazette last month, will make 13 calls, nine from New York and four from Boston, with the first scheduled to arrive next Wednesday.

It is estimated the ship will carry about 300 passengers on her first visit and up to 600 passengers on later trips.

Norwegian Breakaway, operated by Norwegian Cruise Line, is expected to make six calls from New York with about 3,200 passengers on board on each voyage starting on September 29.

David Burt, the Premier and tourism minister, praised the Ministry of Transport and the Bermuda Tourism Authority for their work in attracting the extra visits.

Mr Burt said: “The additional cruise visits in the later part of our summer tourism season emphasises the importance of having regular cruise calls to our island.

“The cruise industry is a substantial component to rebuild our tourism industry and our economy.

“As consumer confidence in cruising gains momentum worldwide, Bermuda will stand out as a responsible and safe destination for visitors.”

Lawrence Scott, the transport minister, added: “These cruise lines selected Bermuda because their passengers love Bermuda and they know their guests will feel safer in Bermuda during these uncertain times.”

Mr Scott thanked the Ministry of Health for its work in the creation of a plan to allow cruise ship visits to restart.

He said: “All passengers must be 12 years of age or older and be fully immunised.

“Passengers will Covid-19 test three times within six days before landing in Bermuda.”

Tests will include a pre-departure PCR test, an antigen test at the departure port and an on-arrival PCR test.

Passengers and crew will have to apply for a Bermuda travel authorisation and passengers can only board the ships if they have been approved.

Mr Scott said: “Passengers testing negative on arrival can enjoy all of Bermuda while following mitigating measures, such as wearing a mask indoors in public spaces, physical distancing, and frequent hand washing.”

This year’s cruise ship schedule is at https://www.marineandports.bm/shipping_button_link.aspx.