The cruise ship MS Azamara Onward made a stopover in Madang Province, bringing 655 passengers to experience the province’s rich culture, scenic beauty and unique island lifestyle.
The visit is part of the vessel’s Pacific cruise itinerary and marks another important tourism activity for the province this year.
Out of the total passengers on board, 201 visitors took part in organized cultural tours arranged for guests who wanted to experience village life and traditional activities in Madang.
The tours were coordinated by Melanesian Tourist Services and South Sea Horizons, two tourism operators that regularly work with visiting cruise ships.
Visitors were grouped and transported to several villages around Madang where they were welcomed by local communities and introduced to traditional customs and daily life.
Tour groups visited Riwo Village, Siar Village, Mamada Village and Bilbil Village.
In Bilbil village, visitors were able to witness the traditional pottery making process that the community is widely known for, while others visited the Bilbil Butterfly Farm where different species of butterflies are raised and preserved.
Tourists also enjoyed cultural singsing performances, traditional dancing and demonstrations of local crafts, while learning about the customs, traditions and lifestyle of the people in the surrounding villages.
Many visitors were seen interacting with villagers, taking photos and purchasing locally made crafts and souvenirs as part of their cultural experience.
Caretaker Director for Madang Tourism and Culture Joanne Arek said the arrival of cruise ships continues to provide opportunities for local communities to showcase their culture while benefiting from tourism.
“Cruise ship visits like this provide an important opportunity for our local communities to present their culture and traditions to visitors from around the world,” Ms. Arek said.
She said tourism activities linked to cruise ship visits can help generate income for villagers who participate in cultural performances, handicraft sales and other tourism services.
“Our people are proud to share their traditions and way of life with visitors, and these tours allow tourists to experience the true culture of Madang,” she said.
Ms. Arek said the province remains one of the most attractive destinations in Papua New Guinea because of its natural beauty and welcoming communities.
“Madang is known for its beautiful islands, clear waters and rich culture, and we are always pleased to welcome visitors who want to experience what our province has to offer,” she said.
She added that while the visit of the *Azamara Onward* has been confirmed, details of other cruise ships expected to visit the province this year are yet to be finalized.
“We are still waiting for confirmation regarding other cruise ships that may visit Madang this year, but we remain hopeful that more vessels will include Madang in their travel itineraries,” Ms. Arek said.
Before arriving in Madang, the cruise ship’s first port of call was Alotau, and after its stop in Madang the vessel will continue its journey to Koror.
The continued arrival of cruise ships to Madang highlights the province’s growing importance as a tourism destination in the Pacific and provides valuable opportunities for local communities to participate in and benefit from the tourism industry.
