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Ventura evacuated after bomb hoax in Southampton

A P&O Cruises Ventura was evacuated at the Mayflower terminal after a man claimed to have an explosive device; police found no threat and operations resumed.

August 11, 2025 at 09:45 AM
blur P&O cruise evacuated after man claims he had an ‘explosive device’

A P&O Cruises Ventura was evacuated at the Mayflower terminal after a man claimed to have an explosive device; police found no threat and operations resumed.

Ventura evacuated after bomb hoax in Southampton

A P&O Cruises Ventura was evacuated at the Mayflower Cruise Terminal in Southampton on Saturday after police responded to reports that a man claimed to possess an explosive device. Officers cordoned a 200m area to search a lorry while specialist teams checked the ship and nearby facilities. A 63-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and bomb hoax and bailed until 8 November. No devices were found and police said there was no risk to the public.

Passengers reported tense scenes as they waited to embark. Staff directed travelers to muster points and some would-be travelers were turned away. Ventura later sailed and the voyage continues with stops in Madeira and the Canary Islands as planned, according to the cruise line.

Key Takeaways

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No device found after extensive searches
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Evacuation was precautionary to ensure safety
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Ventura resumed its itinerary and embarked on planned ports
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Authorities praised cooperation and quick action
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Passengers experienced confusion and anxiety during the delay
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The incident underscores security preparedness at busy ports

"Safety of our guests, crew and port staff is our highest priority"

P&O Cruises spokesperson statement

"Ventura is continuing its itinerary as planned"

ABP and P&O statements

"Normal embarkation operations resumed"

Statement after incident

"We are grateful for the cooperation of the authorities"

Spokesperson gratitude

The incident shows how cruise operators and ports respond to security alerts in real time. A swift cordon and a clear safety message help reassure passengers even as schedules are paused. Yet the disruption underscores how even a precautionary evacuation can ripple through bookings and itineraries. The industry will watch closely how authorities coordinate with operators to keep travel calm during uncertain times.

In the long run, the episode highlights the need for transparent communication, robust contingency plans, and consistent safety protocols at major cruise hubs. Travelers expect both safety and reliability, and this event tests that balance in a high traffic, high visibility setting.

Highlights

  • Safety comes first even when the voyage goes on
  • Calm guidance kept thousands focused on safety
  • Normal embarkation resumes as the all clear comes
  • Security checks protect travel at sea

Security risk and public disruption at port

The evacuation following a bomb hoax at a busy port could affect traveler confidence and requires careful follow-up by authorities and the operator to maintain trust and schedule reliability.

Safety remains the compass for voyages that travel through risk and reassurance alike.

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