The first cruise ship of the year to arrive in the Sultanate docked at Muara Port yesterday. The Oceania Riviera, carrying some 1,200 passengers, began its cruise from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
On disembarkation, the passengers were greeted with a lively hadrah performance, and took photos with performers dressed in traditional attire.
Local tourism operators also offered the visitors souvenirs as well as adventure and exploration packages to explore the Sultanate’s iconic locations.
Tour packages include visits to the Royal Regalia Museum; the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah; Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque; Istana Nurul Iman and Kampong Ayer.
A tourist from the United States, Maria Hastings said she was impressed by the majestic architecture of the two iconic mosques in Bandar Seri Begawan and Istana Nurul Iman, adding that the visits were memorable.
According to the Tourism Development Department, since the recovery of cruise tourism last year, Brunei Darussalam continues to strengthen its position as an increasingly prominent destination on the global cruise map.
Five more cruise ships will arrive this year, with three making their first visit to the country, said the department. – James Kon
