A luxurious cruise ship carrying nearly 800 passengers has docked near Dunoon for the day.

The MV Prinsendam is at Holy Loch Port, where its passengers have disembarked either to go on organised trips or to catch one of the shuttle buses laid on for them into Dunoon town centre.

Councillor Bruce Marshall, chair of the Bute and Cowal area committee, said the visit was a tremendous boost for the area.

“I can see the ship from my house, and it looks very impressive,” he added.

“I congratulate Holy Loch Port for successfully attracting such a vessel, and hope this proves to be just the start of a stream of regular visiting cruise liners.

“Argyll and Bute has enormous potential in terms of cruise ship visits, and I am delighted that an increasing number of operators are discovering what we have to offer.

“MV Prinsendam’s visit is just the sort of boost which local traders need, and I am sure the passengers will be delighted with the warm welcome they receive.”