Carnival Adventure sailed into Vanuatu last week, a milestone moment for the country which has not welcomed a cruise ship since last year.
The Carnival Cruise Line vessel was welcomed into the destination by local cultural performers, market vendors, and community representatives, all celebrating the return of what is a vital economic activity for local businesses, tour operators, and artisans. The Vanuatu Tourism Office’s New Zealand market representative Jacquie Carson says the move is more than just the return of a ship, ‘it’s the return of opportunity, connection, and shared experiences’. “The resilience of our tourism Ships Cruise Back into Vanuatu industry, supported by our communities and partners, has brought us to this point,” says Carson. “[The] arrival is a moment of pride and optimism for Vanuatu.” Cruise ships have not called into Port Vila since an earthquake struck last Dec. The VTO has been working alongside the Vanuatu Government, local authorities, the cruise industry and tourism operators to ensure the waterfront was repaired and enhanced. The cruise industry is an essential part of Vanuatu’s visitor economy, and the VTO says it continues to work closely with international cruise lines to confirm upcoming schedules, with several calls planned for 2025 and beyond.
