American cruise ship visits Apia

By Yumi Epati Tala’ave 23 November 2018, 12:00AM

American-registered cruise ship Seven Seas Mariner made a stopover in Apia yesterday.

The vessel is operated by Regent Seven Seas Cruises and is the world’s first all-suite and all-balcony ship. It berthed at the Matautu Wharf yesterday morning, with some of its 490 passengers disembarking, to go sightseeing in Apia and around Upolu. 

Naoafioga Uili of Samoa Shipping Service told Samoa Observer that the vessel was only in the country for a couple of hours.

“The cruise departed from American Samoa and arrived this morning in Samoa and will be leaving the country at five noon for Suva, Fiji. 

“It was great to have hosted the arrival of the Seven Seas Mariner this morning, to witness some of the tourist attractions that we have prepared for them, such as presenting traditional food and other tourist sites,” she said.

Naoafioga Uili said the arrival of the ship in Samoa got the ship’s visit organisers to consider revenue generation options for locals, especially families who work the land to make a living. 

“So when we were informed about the arrival of the vessel, we posted request on social media for traditional fruits from families, in exchange for money. We believe in doing so can help the families with money issues, especially the ones who depends mostly on the land for a living.”

Some of the ship’s passengers were excited at the prospect of visiting Samoa for the first time. 

Merv Lambert of Australia said he was excited to be in Samoa. 

“I am from Australia and this is my first time in Samoa. I started my trip from Papeete and I’m so happy to be here to witness the amazing landscape of Samoa.

“I am here for vacation and Samoa is one of the best countries that I have ever been to since my travel,” he added.

Americans Nancy. B and Flo. F, who described themselves as best friends, said Samoa is beautiful and they were excited to be visiting. 

“We started from Tahiti and we are here not only for vacation, but to experience other countries and their beautiful culture. Samoa is peaceful and has a beautiful environment and we are so excited to be here.”

The cruise ship left Apia at 5.00 pm for Suva, Fiji.

By Yumi Epati Tala’ave 23 November 2018, 12:00AM

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