Recent cruise ship arrivals in Honiara have significantly contributed to a boost in tourism and the local economy, according to Tourism Solomons.
The Hanseatic Inspiration docked on April 21st before departing for Roderick Bay in the Central Islands Province at noon the same day.
It continued its journey to Santa Anna on April 22nd, followed by visits to Nendo and Tinakula on April 23rd.
Another vessel, Le Paul Gauguin, arrived on April 23rd, anchored overnight in Honiara, and departed on April 24th at 6:00 PM.
Tourism Solomons reported that visitors had opportunities to engage with local culture through various on-site activities available for a fee.
These cruise ship visits have delivered large financial benefits to the local community through revenue generated from tours, activities, craft and food markets.
“These visits have increased brand visibility for the destinations and promote the Solomon Islands as a desirable tourist destination,” a Tourism Solomons spokesperson said.
“This ultimately increases visitor numbers and injects vital funds into our economy.”
The cruise ships visit the Solomon Islands to provide passengers with memorable vacation experiences, enable travellers to experience multiple destinations in a single journey, and fulfil pre-booked itineraries that included the Solomon Islands as a key destination.
Tourism Solomons also noted that these three arrivals were part of a larger trend, with a total of seven cruise ships visiting Honiara and other parts of the Solomon Islands recently, highlighting the growing importance of cruise tourism to the nation’s economy.
Tourism Solomons, which operates under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, plays a vital role in promoting and managing tourism within the Solomon Islands.
By LACHLAN SHYVES EDDIE
Solomon Star, Honiara
Photo caption: Paul Guaguin berths at Ports wharf on Thursday. Photo Solomon Ports.