30 April, 2016 by Juan Carlos Díaz Lorenzo

"Saga Pearl II", a Classic in Vigo

The ship "Saga Pearl II" is a representative of another era in the maritime industry, which has its clientele. Those who prefer a more family-oriented, less crowded environment, unlike the case with megaships. It arrived this morning at the port of Vigo, coming from Leixoes on its way to Bordeaux, with an expedition of 390 passengers and 269 crew members. A stop of just six hours during which four buses departed for panoramic excursions of the city and surroundings, reports Alfredo Campos Brandón, the author of the accompanying photos.

It is a ship with a striking maritime appearance, an example of shipbuilding from another time. It is owned by Saga Cruises, a growing British company that is increasingly accepted by its clientele. The ship "Saga Pearl II" was purchased at auction in mid-2009 to replace the veteran "Saga Rose," which was retired in December of that year. Built in 1981 in German shipyards, it has previously borne the names "Astor" (1981-1985), "Arkona" (1985-2001) and "Astoria" (2001-2009). It should not be confused with the second "Astor", built in 1985 and with a very similar maritime appearance.