Within 48 hours, two cruise ships – the Zuiderdam, which visited on Saturday, and the Costa Deliziosa, which arrived yesterday – called at Rarotonga.

Passengers from both mega cruise ships were ferried to Avatiu Harbour by their respective lighters.

Yesterday, Avatiu Harbour was a flurry of activity with buses, taxis and private transport moving visiting passengers from the Costa Deliziosa liner to their selected destinations.

The Costa Deliziosa visit was coordinated by Turama Pacific.

Staff member, Myra Chan Boon said around 750 passengers from the ship came ashore, partaking in local activities such as the lagoon cruise trips, scenic flights, Aitutaki day trip and others, including leisurely walks into town.

Boon said there were about 1800 passengers on board Costa Deliziosa.

MS Zuiderdam cruise liner called at Rarotonga on Saturday. MELINA ETCHES/25020101

On Saturday, the Zuiderdam cruise liner paid a visit.

Passengers enjoyed the island's many wonderful activities and sights, with some choosing a relaxing walk around town.

MS Zuiderdam is a Vista-class cruise ship owned and operated by Holland America Line (HAL). The mega cruise ship, 291 metres in length and 32 metres in beam, has a total of 15 decks, including 11 passenger decks. MS Zuiderdam has the capacity to carry 2272 passengers (maximum) and 842 crew members.

Costa Deliziosa is a cruise ship flagship operated by Costa Crociere. The cruise ship has 16 decks, including 12 for passenger use. Costa Deliziosa, 294 metres in length and 32.3m in beam, can carry 2828 passengers (maximum) and 934 crew members.

According to cruisetimestables.com the February 2024 schedule for cruise ship visits to Rarotonga are: Thursday 6, the Phoenix Reisen logo Amadea; Sunday 16, Silversea Cruises logo Silver Shadow; Friday 21, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines logo Bolette; Wednesday 26, MSC Cruises logo MSC Magnifica; Thursday 27, Phoenix Reisen logo Artania.