The MS Star Princess cruise ship operated by Princess Cruise Line docked at the Matautu wharf Saturday morning for the second time since its maiden visit in 2013. 

Welcomed by a group of dancers from the Samoa Tourism Authority (STA), the cruise liner carried a crew of 1,076 and 2,530 passengers from more than 28 nationalities, mainly from the United States of America. 

They were hosted by Samoa Ports Authority (SPA), STA and the local agent for the vessel, Betham Brothers Enterprises. 

The streets of Apia were filled with visitors. Samoa Observer came across a couple from England, Debbie and John Bishop, who were on the cruise for a vacation.

"The purpose of our trip was mainly for a vacation, it was a way for us to see the other side of the world and see how other people live and experience a bit of their unique cultures.

"We started our journey on the 28th of March and have been on board for two weeks, we were in Hawaii before we came to Samoa and after Samoa we are heading to Pago Pago, American Samoa, and Papeete, French Polynesia after.

"The cruise is for four weeks and we are half way in our trip and it is our first time in Samoa, I have to admit, it is absolutely wonderful here, the people are very friendly despite Samoa being quite humid and very hot," said Mr. Bishop.

Mrs. Bishop said Samoa is unique from the rest of the world, due to its culture, as they had the opportunity to be treated to a cultural show at the Samoa Tourism Village.

"I was amazed with the Samoan traditional tattoos, I quite enjoyed the experience," she added.

There were various vendors on the pier to sell handicrafts and other local products arranged by SPA and also various tours to local destinations operated by Margarets Travel and Tours.