A major Scottish cruise port is set for a bumper cruise season following the launch of its new £20m visitor centre.

Greenock Ocean Terminal and the River Clyde will welcome 79 cruise liners, ferrying up to 115,000 passengers throughout the year, with early bookings for 2025 already indicating a record-breaking year.

The new visitor centre features a museum paying tribute to the late artist George Wyllie, a restaurant and roof terrace with views of the River Clyde, and a purpose-built arrivals and departures hall.

The cruise port received its first big vessel of the season on Friday, April 26 as the Regal Princess, capable of carrying 3,560 passengers, docked in town.

Glasgow Times: The Regal Princess

The cumulative weight of vessels gracing the port throughout the year will stand at around 500,000 tonnes with a combined length surpassing 16,000 metres.

Jim McSporran, port director at Peel Ports Clydeport, said: "We're looking forward to another busy cruise season at Greenock Ocean Terminal, the first since our new visitor centre was launched.

“The impressive centre is not only a superb facility for cruise passengers, but it also enhances our ability to attract these fantastic vessels to Inverclyde from all over the world, which has a positive impact on local businesses and Scotland’s broader economy.”

Among the many cruise ships planning to dock at Greenock Ocean Terminal this year is Cunard’s new vessel Queen Anne, a grand 322 metre ship due to arrive on June 1 during its inaugural voyage.

Other significant ships include the Regal Princess, Disney Dream, and the Celebrity Apex, which together with the Queen Anne, will carry more than 14,000 passengers.

The project was led by the Inverclyde Council and was part of the £1bn Glasgow City Region City Deal funded by the Scottish and UK governments.

Councillor Stephen McCabe, leader of Inverclyde Council, said: "Inverclyde's cruise tourism sector has gone from strength to strength in recent years, and we're delighted it's going to be another busy year at Greenock Ocean Terminal with some really impressive liners arriving.

"Visitors can expect an outstanding experience, with the Terminal's new visitor centre providing a first-class welcome."

Last year was the terminal's busiest year since records began, welcoming 91 vessels.