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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) reaffirmed its partnership with Carnival Australia (P&O Cruises) to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) growing cruise sector on Monday 9 December in Sydney, Australia.
TPA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Eric Mossman Uvovo, met with Carnival Australia’s Vice President, Peter Little, to reaffirm the partnership between PNG and the region’s leading cruise liner, Carnival Australia.
Carnival Australia, under its passenger cruise brand, P&O Cruises, have been sailing into PNG waters since 2014, a significant moment that marked the entry of large capacity passenger cruising into PNG. Since then, the cruise sector in PNG has grown exponentially. In 2019, prior to the onset of the global pandemic, PNG registered the highest number of cruise arrivals into PNG at 52,000 cruise passengers alone. Over the years, Carnival Australia has played a significant role by ensuring continued cruise itineraries for PNG as a cruise destination in the Pacific.
Cruise tourism in PNG has contributed an estimated US$20 million to the PNG economy, a specific percentage of which goes directly to the local communities through landing fee’s, shore excursion activities, arts and crafts, local hire bus services and tour guiding.
TPA’s CEO alluded to the importance of ensuring concentrated investments in cruise provinces to improve the overall cruise experience.
“Our cruise hubs, Milne Bay and East New Britian, have incredible potential and require stronger coordination in the province to drive community educational programs and tourist safety initiatives,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also highlighted his concerns over recent law and order issues which have cast a cloud of doubt over the cruise sector in PNG.
“I look forward to working with the leadership in the cruise provinces of PNG to establish community policing initiatives and youth ambassador programs to mitigate risks associated with cruise port call days. The communities in these cruise destinations must appreciate the windfall of tourist a cruise brings into a town when the passenger ship calls into their port, it should be a time to embrace our visitors and take ownership as proud ambassadors for your culture, community, province and country.
I appeal to all stakeholders in our cruise provinces, a coordinated effort is critical as we continue to welcome cruise ships of all sizes into our coastal and riverway communities,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo has reaffirmed TPA’s partnership with Carnival Australia and has committed to finding proactive solutions to issues currently faced in the Cruise sector for the benefit of all cruise stakeholders.
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More than 600 tourists explored Port Moresby on Monday 25 November after disembarking the MS Regatta, a cruise ship with a capacity of 824 passengers and 326 crew members. Among the tourists who disembarked to explore the capital’s fascinating sites was Australian traveller Michele Morrison, who shares a special connection with Papua New Guinea.
Michele, originally born in Lae, Papua New Guinea, was overwhelmed with emotion as she returned to the country, she still calls her “first home.” “Coming back to Papua New Guinea feels like reconnecting with my roots. This place has such a unique charm that’s unlike anywhere else in the world. From the vibrant culture to the breathtaking landscapes, PNG holds a special place in my heart,” said Morrison.
She joined other tourists in visiting Port Moresby’s iconic locations, including the National Museum, the Parliament House, Varirata National Park and Port Moresby Nature Park.
Michele highlighted her unique memories of Papua New Guinea.
“It’s incredible to see how much has changed yet stayed the same. The people are still as warm and welcoming as I remember.”
For Michele, her return to PNG aboard the MS Regatta was more than just a trip; it was a journey down memory lane. “I’ve always admired how Papua New Guinea balances its traditional heritage with modern development. This visit has reignited my passion for this incredible country, and I can’t wait to share my experiences with my family and friends back in Australia,” said Morrison.
The MS Regatta, built as part of the R-class cruise ships for Renaissance Cruises, is now owned and operated by Oceania Cruises. Known for its luxurious amenities and exceptional service, the vessel is part of a growing trend in PNG’s thriving cruise ship tourism sector.
TPA has highlighted cruise ship tourism as a significant contributor to the nation’s growing visitor numbers.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo emphasized PNG’s potential to attract even more visitors.
“The arrival of the MS Regatta and similar vessels shows Papua New Guinea’s growing reputation in the global cruise industry. With over 30,000 cruise tourists arriving last year, we are confident in our ability to offer unique and authentic experiences that captivate travellers. From cultural festivals to pristine natural beauty, PNG has something for everyone,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also acknowledged the efforts of the local tourism industry in ensuring a seamless experience for visitors, noting the importance of partnerships between the government and private sector in enhancing the country’s tourism products and services.
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Over 400 tourists from the United States arrived in Port Moresby to embark on a half-day tour on Good Friday 26 March.
Arriving early in the morning, the tourists were aboard the MS Nautica, an expeditionary vessel owned by Oceania Cruises.
The tourists embarked on a journey through Port Moresby, visiting unique sites that showcased the diverse beauty of the city.
From the greenery of Port Moresby Nature Park to the House of Parliament, the journey also included stops at the National Museum, the World War 2 memorial, and the Tubusereia Village. For the adventurous tourists, a hike through the rugged trails of Varirata National Park offered breathtaking views of the areas around Port Moresby.
The MS Nautica, which had previously visited Samoa, Fiji, and Australia, has a reputation for specializing in bringing tourists to some of the most exotic destinations in the world.
Oceania Cruises’ Destinations Manager, Antonia Goffredi, said that Papua New Guinea holds a special attraction for travellers seeking an adventure.
“PNG is a very exotic destination for tourists. It’s one of those unique places where tourists want to visit. Despite the negative perceptions sometimes portrayed in the media, when you actually come here, you’re enchanted by the beauty of the country,” said Goffredi.
Goffredi emphasized the overwhelming interest among passengers aboard the MS Nautica to explore PNG.
“More than 80% of the passengers onboard wanted to see Papua New Guinea, and I believe more tourists will come once they experience the country firsthand,” said Goffredi.
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, Chief Executive Officer of the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority, highlighted the significant contribution of cruise tourism to the country’s economy.
“Cruise tourism is an essential part of Papua New Guinea’s tourism industry. In recent years, we’ve witnessed a substantial increase in the number of visitors arriving via cruise ships.
With strategic marketing efforts, we aim to further boost tourism numbers and position PNG as one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the world,” said Uvovo.
The visit from MS Nautica marks its inaugural visit to Port Moresby. Another planned visit to the country is scheduled for November to Alotau.
For further information, email: info@papuanewguinea.travel
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