Amidst the closing phase of the current tourist influx, the final voyage of the season’s last tourist cruiser christened ‘Riviera’ made its port call at Mangaluru’s NMPA (New Mangalore Port Authority) on the morning of Tuesday, then set sail again on the very evening. Marking the culmination of this season’s maritime tourism, it is the ninth and ultimate cruiser to dock at this harbor. Flying the ensign of the Marshall Islands, this vessel berthed at the port’s quay at the early hour of 8.30 am, bearing approximately 1,141 voyagers and an entourage of nearly 752 shipmates.
The ship’s arrival has stirred quite a spectacle, boasting the highest count of passengers witnessed in the past biennium, notably since the onset of the Coronavirus outbreak. Tracing its course from Cochin port to Mangalore, it eventually charted a path towards Mormugao port.
The esteemed visitors, disembarked from this maritime marvel, were met with a reception steeped in local customs and traditions. Their itinerary included an immersive exploration of the manifold attractions dotting Mangaluru’s landscape, offering glimpses of the resplendence tucked within Cuddalore’s precincts.
Preceding this maritime sojourn, a scant two days prior, the eighth opulent tourist cruiser of the season had graced these shores on the 6th of May. Onboard the Norwegian luxury cruiser, MS INSIGNIA, were ensconced 509 travelers accompanied by 407 crew members.
Extending the warm embrace of hospitality, the officials and personnel of the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) ushered the disembarking passengers into the fold of customary salutations. Subsequent arrangements included provision for transportation, with buses and taxis arranged to facilitate seamless transit to the eminent tourist attractions, temples, markets, and boutiques lining the coastal expanse.