PORTLAND Port has frozen its fees for customers this year – as bosses say it's hard to predict when the cruise season will get underway again.

With the country back in national lockdown and continued uncertainty for businesses, the port says it will not be increasing fees this year.

Port tariffs include charges for visiting vessels mooring at the dock, harbour dues, piloting and towing, and permits for activities such as diving and watersports.

Ian McQuade, Commercial General Manager at Portland Port said “We acknowledge the significant challenges faced by all industries during this pandemic, so to help, we have decided to keep our tariff prices the same as last year. During these extraordinary times, Portland Port wants to try to support its tenants and customers more than ever.”

Portland Port has been enjoying a cruise boom in recent years with thousands of people from all over the world visiting the area each year on some of the world's largest liners.

Cruise companies suspended operations in 2020 and many are still extending their suspension month by month.

Portland Port has been able to support those cruise ships that have been seen off the Dorset coast. Vessels have been able to come alongside to carry out maintenance, load stores or offload waste, or for crew changes and the important transfer of Covid tests to laboratories for processing.

A port spokesman said: "It is anticipated that normal cruise operations will recommence later in the year but is remains hard to predict when the restart will get underway. In the meantime, Portland Port will continue to offer it’s support to the sector as best it can."

The port continues to apply appropriate restrictions and safety measures to protect the staff, contractors, customers, and the local population. Port staff have continued to work from home where possible since the first lockdown last year. For those who have to work at the port, either in an office, tug or pilot boat, the social distancing rules are observed and there are supplies of hand sanitiser gel and the necessary PPE as required.

Prior to any vessel arriving in port waters or coming alongside they must provide the necessary health declarations, and where necessary, the local Port Health Authority are consulted.

The spokesman added: "Portland Port remains optimistic that this lockdown, combined with the vaccine will allow life and business to start the long road to recovery during this year."