The first cruise ship for the year, Viking Sky arrived safely on Rarotonga’s shores yesterday, bringing over 800 tourists excluding the crew members to explore the island. Tour operators and businesses were seen lining up around the Avatiu wharf welcoming the tourists.

Some tourists were taken in groups to explore the museum, some went to beaches while some took a tour around the island.

A solo traveller from Odenton, Maryland in the United States, Lewis Mcquarrie was among the tourists who arrived on the cruise ship Viking Sky yesterday.

Solo traveller on the Viking Sky cruise ship, Lewis Mcquarrie – 25012210

Mcquarrie said they arrived this morning visiting a museum and went to the beach and this being his first time in Rarotonga, he enjoyed his visit.

“It's a long way from my home to get here, but it was definitely rewarding.”
He said he was also headed to a glass-bottom boat tour soon that same afternoon.

Asked what his first impression of Rarotonga is, the 72-year-old said: “My first impression when I got here was very positive. The people are friendly, the scenery is beautiful, magnificent and it's just a lovely place.”

According to tourism officials, Destination Management Cook Islands (DMCK) were in charge of ground-handling for the ship adding that they were expecting over 800 passengers.

Meanwhile, all cruise ships only come for the day, typically arrive in the morning between 7am - 8am and depart between 4pm and 6pm.  The next cruise ship is expected to arrive on February 1.