the goan I network
VASCO
Stating that the Centre is exploring ways to simplify procedures for cruise ships visiting Mormugao port to boost cruise tourism in Goa, MPT Traffic Manager Vipin Menoth said immigration and foreign exchange counters have been set up at the MPT cruise terminal for the benefit of passengers.
“In the near future, we are examining the scope to set up stalls selling Goan memorabilia and handicrafts for guests to take home as souvenirs,” said Menoth, while welcoming Master and senior officers of the cruise liner MS Arcadia of the P&O Cruises, which arrived from Colombo on Tuesday morning.
The cruise liner, under the command of Capt Ashley Cook, carrying 1,919 guests and 863 crew members, is on its maiden visit to Mormugao Port.
A large number of Goans are working on board this luxury cruise liner. The cruise terminal witnessed a large number of Goans who had visited the port since early morning to meet their loved ones working on board the ship. Mormugao is the only Indian port on its current voyage schedule.
The guests and crew members were welcomed by officials of the tourism department on their arrival at the cruise terminal. A rich pageantry of Goan cultural folk dances and music was presented to them.
Being the vessel’s maiden visit to the Port, MPT senior executives visited the cruise ship and extended a warm welcome to Capt. Ashley Cook, officers and crew.
As a gesture of goodwill and friendship the Capt. Ashley Cook and the port management exchanged commemorative plaques on its maiden visit.
Capt. Cook thanked the port authority for their support and expressed the hope that in future the cost of e-visa for guests to visit the shore would be reduced to enable more guests to go on shore.
The visiting guests and crew availed facilities to explore the beaches and other tourists spots in Goa. The guests were immediately taken for sight-seeing tours across Goa in luxury coaches and taxis by travel agents.
Around 450 passengers with e-visa were cleared for shore excursion by the
immigration bureau. The guests and crew were issued with Manual shore landing cards. The vessel was expected to sail on its onward voyage to Dubai later in the evening.
