WITH a 32ft giraffe protruding from its top deck, you could have been forgiven for thinking Noah’s Ark had made an appearance in Invergordon this week.

On closer scrutiny, the long-necked creature was a model, with a fetching rubber ring around its neck, and the mega-vessel in question the Anthem of the Seas cruise liner.

The arrival marked the latest in a succession planned following the eventual opening up of the industry under strict Covid guidelines.

There were 1500 passengers on board the 1141ft, 16-deck vessel that is capable of carrying more than 4000, in addition to 1500 members of crew.

Allison McGuire, cruise manager for the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Anthem of the Seas, the largest cruise ship ever to come into Invergordon.

“There has already been a positive start to the 2021 cruise season. Cruise is a vital business for the Highlands' tourism section, and the relaxation of guidance on shore excursion bubbles means the region’s wider tourism and business sectors can benefit from the cruise passenger trade.

“Cruise operators continue to work under strict protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of passengers, crew and members of the public.”

The breathtaking scale of the vessel, built in Germany and operated by Royal Caribbean, drew visitors in itself, as she towered over local landmarks like the Invergordon lifeboat station.

Gallery1

One observer said of Gigi the giraffe: “Our lifeboat crew need not worry, safety first – it’s wearing a rubber ring!”

The cruise industry, worth up to £18 million to the Highlands, must meet a number of stringent Covid-related requirements before passengers are allowed to embark and disembark.

Easter Ross Covid safety pledge as cruise liner season restarts after long lay-off

Marella Explorer 2 becomes first Port of Cromarty Firth cruise visitor of 2021

😁

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.