PACIFIC EDEN VISITED SOLOMONS FOR THE FIRST TIME
The Pacific Eden anchoring off Gizo island, Western Province. Photo credit: AHC.
The Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company Cruises celebrated its inaugural visit to Solomon Islands over the weekend with a visit by the Pacific Eden – a 1,500 guest cruise ship.
The visit marks the beginning of regular, scheduled cruise ship visits for Carnival Australia to Solomon Islands.
The Pacific Eden was the first large cruise ship to visit Gizo and the first to berth at the new Japanese-built wharf in Honiara.
Captain Gavin Pears along with the Minister of Culture and Tourism Bartholomew Parapolo, Minister of Culture and Tourism and the Australian High Commissioner Andrew Byrne invited dignitaries to a lunch onboard the cruise ship while in Honiara.
Speaking onboard the Pacific Eden, Minister Parapolo thanked Carnival for choosing Solomon Islands as a cruising destination.
Minister Parapolo said, the confidence shown by Carnival must be appreciated and this will be reflected in our efforts to improve our support infrastructure and activities.
Mr. Parapolo said Solomon Islands is taking the necessary efforts to improve its facilities and on-shore activities.
He adds plans are in place to add new activities, attractions, tour packages and new destinations within the country to make the Solomons an exciting new destination for Carnival cruise passengers.
The Minister also used the opportunity to convey the Government’s appreciation to the Australian Government for the support in developing the cruise ship sector in the Solomon Islands.