The MV Hrossey open day staged at Kirkwall Pier, Orkney, on Sunday attracted just short of 4400 visitors, surpassing the number that visited her sister-ship, Hjaltland, in her home port of Lerwick a fortnight ago.

Some 4389 visitors were welcomed on board throughout the 7-hour session during which Orcadians and visitors took the opportunity to inspect the cruise-quality facilities on offer. 3468 visitors boarded the MV Hjaltland during her open day on September 15.

The 1000th visitor, Kirsten Nicholson of Castle Park, Stromness, has been awarded a free return trip for four plus car on a Hrossey sailing.

The 3000th visitor, Mrs Karen MacIver of Sandwick, Orkney, also wins a return trip for four on the Hrossey sailing of her choice, as does the last visitor logged on board – at number 4389 – Mark Aim of Finstown.

NorthLink commercial director Gareth Crichton said: “The turnout for Hjaltland in Lerwick recently was fantastic, but Hrossey’s open day has proved more popular still.

“I am delighted that so many islanders have taken these opportunities to view the vessels which, after all, have been designed and built with them in mind. Our vessels speak volumes for the overall quality of service we aim to provide and judging by the feedback received from visitors to the ships, that quality is plain for all to see.”