A GIGANTIC cruise ship with an 18-hole golf cruise, two swimming pools and a simulated grand prix racing circuit is coming to Harwich for the first time.

The 12-deck, 900ft long, Costa Luminosa will be making a transit call into the port.

Tourism bosses are welcoming its arrival on Monday, which will bring more than 1,000 holidaymakers and a crew of 800 or more to the town.

Maureen Novorol, of Harwich Connexions tourist information centre, said: “This could be very good for the area and will hopefully bring visitors, which means the shops and businesses in Harwich will be able to get business out of it.”

The cruiseliner is scheduled to arrive at 8am and will be docked for the day, departing at 7pm.

Tourists will be able to experience the town with the help of the Harwich Society.

Harwich Society vice-chairman David Whittle said: “This is a truly massive ship and it is hoped a large number of passengers will sample the history of old Harwich, while many of the crew seek to shop in the town centre.

“It could be a very big day for the town.”

The ship, which contains four restaurants, 11 bars, outdoor jogging and roller skate track, cinema, theatre and shopping centre, will go to Amsterdam for the last leg of its cruise.