Gai Waterhouse has strengthened her chances of winning her first Melbourne Cup by acquiring well-performed European stayer Fiorente.

Formerly trained by Sir Michael Stoute at Newmarket, Fiorente was fourth in a Group Two race in France last start after winning the Group Two Princess Of Wales's Stakes (2414m) in June.

On that occasion he beat subsequent Prix Kergorlay winner Joshua Tree and last year's Melbourne Cup runner-up Red Cadeaux.

Waterhouse's new stable addition, a $26 chance in the Melbourne Cup (3200m), is due to arrive in Melbourne with the second contingent of spring carnival hopefuls from Europe on October 20.

Among them will be the Ed Dunlop-trained Red Cadeaux.

Last year's Melbourne Cup winner Dunaden and 2010 winner Americain spearhead the first shipment to arrive in Melbourne on Saturday.

Also on the plane will be four Luca Cumani-trained gallopers including Melbourne Cup favourite Mount Athos.