TILBURY’S London Cruise Terminal is to become home to its second ship.

Cruise and Maritime Voyages have announced that Magellan will be making Tilbury her home port with regular departures starting in March.

CMV, who also run the Marco Polo ship which operates from Tilbury, said the year on year growth of the cruise business in Tilbury was one of the reasons behind the decision.

Magellen first trip from the terminal will be to look for the Solar Eclipse and the Northern Lights.

The trip will take in the Shetland Islands, Iceland and the Faroes.

Other cruises planned throughout the year include the Norwegian Fjords and Canary Islands.

Mike Hall, from CMV, said: “We have helped Tilbury re-establish itself by being the first cruise line to start regular year-round departures from the Essex port some five years ago.

“Our on board questionnaires clearly indicate that the convenience of departing from Tilbury is a major reason for people choosing to cruise with CMV. Now, the people of Essex will have two ships to choose from, the impressive and more contemporary Magellan or the elegant and ever-popular Marco Polo.”

Perry Glading, Chief Operating Officer of Forth Ports, owners of London Cruise Terminal, said: “We are thrilled that Cruise and Maritime Voyages are increasing their departures from the London Cruise Terminal – Tilbury for the 2015 and 2016 cruise season. The cruise business from Tilbury is growing year on year following a significant investment programme that has rejuvenated the cruise terminal.

“CMV has helped us develop the port so passengers can enjoy an easy check-in, good transport links into the Capital and south east and car parking.”

The Marco Polo ship will be celebrating her 50th anniversary this year with trips to the likes of Greenland, Russia and Canada.