Despite the blistering heat in Suva yesterday, Fiji welcomed its second last cruise ship of the year, the AIDAsol.
The ship brought in more than 2000 tourists after berthing at the Port of Suva at 7am, and departed later in the evening.
Continuing its world journey after Fiji, the cruise ship is scheduled to stop in Port Vila, Vanuatu, before arriving in New Caledonia.
Suva Handicraft Market Vendors and Manufacturers Association president Mahendra Singh said he was happy with the number of tourist ships coming into the country this year but called for more support for local handicraft sellers.
Mr Singh said the Government spent more than $55million on tourism marketing, neglecting Suva, the Capital City.
He expressed his frustration with the lack of action from authorities in promoting local Suva handicraft stalls.
“We should be asking the authorities why Suva is being left out and we hope in the new year, there will be more efforts in promoting the local Suva vendors,” Mr Singh said.
Another Suva handicraft stall vendor, Vijay Anand, echoed similar sentiments and is hopeful that in the new year, more tourist ships will flock to Suva.
The last cruise ship for 2023, the Brilliance of the Seas which is expected to be carrying more than 2500 guests, will arrive today.
