The new terminal, to be built adjacent to the Ocean Dock, will be capable of handling ships with a capacity of 4,000 passengers and will therefore comfortably accommodate the largest cruise vessels afloat. With Southampton being recognised as the cruise capital of Northern Europe, the new terminal will help the port maintain this position. Doug Morrison, ABP port director Southampton said, 'This is a great day for Southampton’s cruise business. While the primary function of any cruise terminal is to ensure passengers can get on and off these magnificent ships as quickly and as safely as possible, I believe we have chosen a modern design that will be fitting for the 21^st century. We are pleased to award this contract to a Hampshire based company and cannot wait to see the finished terminal. Southampton’s cruise business goes from strength to strength and this new terminal is integral to its future growth.' Andy Crawford, Dean & Dyball’s regional director added, 'We are delighted to have been awarded this prestigious contract and look forward to working with ABP over the coming months.'