Cruise ship crew visiting the Port of Dover now have a dedicated place to relax, recharge, and stay connected with their families following the opening of a new crew welfare lounge inside Cruise Terminal 2.

The facility, funded by international maritime charity Stella Maris, officially welcomed its first visitors last week during an opening ceremony attended by representatives from the Port of Dover, Stella Maris, Carnival Cruise Line, the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, and Bishop Paul Hendricks.

Designed to accommodate around 25 people, the lounge offers a quiet retreat where crew can spend their breaks away from the busy terminal. It includes complimentary Wi-Fi, refreshments, comfortable seating, a television, a pool table, and a dartboard, giving seafarers a space to unwind or catch up with loved ones back home.

In addition to the recreational facilities, Stella Maris chaplains will provide practical, emotional, and spiritual support to crew members visiting the port.

The Port of Dover, which welcomes thousands of cruise crew each year during turnaround operations, said the new lounge reflects its commitment to improving the welfare of the people working at sea. According to Stella Maris, the facility is the only dedicated crew welfare lounge located inside a cruise terminal, providing a unique space where seafarers can relax in comfort while ashore.