Partnership to Revive Ferry and Expand Marine Tourism Opportunities 

The initiative will return an idle vessel to service and create new sightseeing, leisure and tourism experiences across Port Moresby Harbour.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) has taken another important step towards strengthening marine tourism in Papua New Guinea through a new partnership that will return a ferry to service in Port Moresby Harbour.

The partnership brings together PNGTPA, Happy Soles Limited and Marine Contract Management to operate and manage the vessel safely, professionally and efficiently.

The ferry will initially support tourism promotions, official engagements and sightseeing experiences around Port Moresby. It will also provide a platform for developing new marine tourism products showcasing the capital’s coastline, harbour and surrounding waters.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, PNGTPA Chief Executive Officer Eric Mossman Uvovo said the partnership represented an important milestone for the Authority and demonstrated its commitment to making better use of its tourism assets.

“This boat has been sitting idle for some time, and today marks the beginning of a new chapter. Our goal is to get it back on the water as quickly and safely as possible so it can support PNGTPA’s work in promoting Papua New Guinea and creating more tourism opportunities,” Mr Uvovo said.

“This is only the beginning of what we hope will become a bigger marine tourism initiative for our country.”

Mr Uvovo said the initiative also aligned with PNGTPA’s long-term vision of strengthening marine tourism infrastructure, including the development of jetties and waterfront facilities.

Port Moresby will serve as the starting point for the initiative, with the potential to develop similar marine tourism experiences in other provinces and coastal destinations across Papua New Guinea.

Happy Soles Limited Managing Director Yiannis Nicolaou welcomed the partnership and said the company was excited about the opportunity to help transform the vessel into a distinctive tourism attraction.

“We’re proud to work alongside PNGTPA on this exciting project. We want to give visitors something different by creating enjoyable experiences on the water,” Mr Nicolaou said.

“From island cruises and private functions to family celebrations, we believe this boat can become a memorable attraction that people will want to experience again and again.”

Happy Soles Limited plans to upgrade the vessel with more comfortable seating and modern features while developing creative tourism experiences that complement existing marine services in Port Moresby.

Marine Contract Management Managing Director Captain Matthew Dieni said his company would place a strong emphasis on safety, vessel maintenance and professional operations.

“It is an honour to partner with PNGTPA on this important project. My team and I are committed to ensuring the boat is well maintained, safely operated and ready to deliver quality services,” Captain Dieni said.

“We look forward to working together to make this a success.”

As preparations begin to return the vessel to service, PNGTPA remains committed to building strategic partnerships that enhance Papua New Guinea’s tourism offering and support sustainable tourism development.

PNGTPA will continue working with industry partners to unlock the potential of the country’s extensive coastline, pristine marine environment and distinctive coastal attractions—helping position Papua New Guinea as a world-class destination offering authentic and memorable visitor experiences.◼️