A Holland America Line cruise ship has become the largest to visit the Isle of Man having anchored in Douglas Bay this morning with over 2,000 American passengers on board.

The 99,500 gross tonnage cruise ship Nieuw Statendam had sailed overnight from Dublin Bay having anchored off Dun Laoghaire Harbour yesterday.

Nieuw Statendam is the second of the 'Pinnacle' class ships, which celebrates historic New York City with an inspired design and art collection. In addition the design draws inspiration from the elegant curves of musical instruments. Among the musical themes facilities is the B.B. King’s Blues Club.

The 2018 built cruise ship has become the 23rd cruise ship to visit Manx shores so far this year, as a further 31 callers are scheduled.

During their time, the visitors, most of them from the U.S., will be able to choose from a range of tours throughout the Isle of Man, among them excursions organised is the Story of Mann held in the House of Mannin, to Snaefell mountain and the coastal town of Peel.

Deborah Heather from Visit Isle of Man says there's keen interest in the Island's heritage, and passengers provide a significant financial boost to the local economy, to listen Manx Radio also has an audio link.