Cruise Visitors Enjoy Their Day

Light showers on Tuesday failed to dampen the spirit of cruise ship tourists, who enjoyed their day out in Rarotonga.

The tourists onboard Crystal Symphony took part in various activities organised by Cruise Cook Islands.

The vessel, which also called in at Aitutaki yesterday, had 740 passengers on board.

Cruise Cook Islands managing director Stuart Henry said the average age of passengers on the ship was 70 years, and most taking part in the world cruise were Americans.

He said the visitors had thoroughly enjoyed their short stay despite brief showers during the day.

Henry said the company had arranged seven different excursions which included Raro Safari Tours, Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruize, an orientation cultural show at Muri beach, private tour options in cars and vans, the Takitumu conservation walk, a nature walk with cross-island guide Pa, and scenic flights with Air Rarotonga.

He said a few visitors had also made private arrangements to go diving.

“We also had minivan shuttle services and people took advantage of the cafes, restaurants and even came back to the ship with some souvenirs. We had vendors down at the wharf selling handicrafts and other souvenirs and the visitors took advantage of that opportunity as well,” Henry said.

Cruise Cook Islands has dealt with 11 cruise ship calls in Aitutaki and Rarotonga so far this year, with a couple more expected in coming months.

“The main season for cruise ship visits is normally from October to March, which unfortunately is our cyclone season,” Henry said.

“It (cruise ship tourism) is a small part of the Cook Islands tourism. Visitors are here only for a short while, but it’s icing on the cake for the vendors and tour operators.

“It’s good for word-of-mouth advertising. After their little stay and experience here, we hope they will go and tell about the Cook Islands to their friends and families who may come and stay here for a longer period.”

A tourist from cruise ship Crystal Symphony gets some assistance to disembark from the tender at Avatiu harbour

(Source: Cook Islands News Economy 15 March 2018)

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