Cruise liner Queen Elizabeth brought the first batch of international tourists for 2025 as it docked at the Suva Port yesterday.
The ship, which embarked from Sydney, Australia, brought hundreds of tourists, mostly Australians, to Fiji’s shores.
The journey included stops in Lifou, New Caledonia, and Luganville, Vanuatu, after a planned stop in Port Vila had to be cancelled because of the port’s closure.
During the voyage, an on board emergency required a helicopter evacuation, slightly altering the ship’s schedule.
One tourist aboard the ship shared their excitement about celebrating the New Year in Fiji.
“We arrived in Lautoka yesterday (Tuesday) and spent New Year’s there,” the tourist said.
“It was amazing! Something I’ll never forget.”
The tourist also expressed their enthusiasm for Suva, despite the brief visit.
“We’re only in Suva for a day, but we’re making the most of it.
“The cultural centres are incredible. It’s a pity we’re leaving tonight, but Fiji has been such a wonderful start to the year.”
The cruise ship’s arrival signals the beginning of what is expected to be a busy year for Fiji’s tourism industry.
