The third cruise ship of the season docked in Rarotonga on Friday, bringing hundreds of tourists eager to explore and spend in the Cook Islands.

The cruise season began in November with the arrival of the first ship, followed by the second on Wednesday this week.

Brad Kirner, Director of Destination Development for Cook Islands Tourism, highlighted the economic and tourism benefits of cruise ship arrivals.

"From Cook Islands Tourism’s perspective, cruise arrivals provide a welcome addition during our traditionally quieter shoulder/off season (November to April). We have enjoyed a particularly strong relationship with Paul Gauguin, who has been coming for a number of years now," Kirner said.

Meanwhile, among the visitors yesterday were Chris Payton and his wife Fiona, tourists from Canyon Lake, Texas, visiting Rarotonga for the first time.

Third cruise ship which arrived in Rarotonga on Friday. TALAIA MIKA /24120621

 Chris shared his enthusiasm about their experience saying, "It is our first time in Rarotonga, and it's beautiful. It was very easy to arrive here because there was tourist information at the dock. Sweet people there told us which way to head, gave us a map, and gave us a little guidebook, so it's really nice."

The couple, originally from the UK, has travelled extensively, with Rarotonga being their 56th country.

"We've never been here, so it's always been a dream to come to Polynesia. Yeah, this is country number 56 or 57 for me to visit," Chris said. "So it's beautiful here, and we like that there's a really good vibe here."

He also praised the ease of communication compared to other Pacific destinations.

"We’ve been to Bora Bora, Tahiti, and they are beautiful also, but we don't speak very good French, so it's great coming here. It's easier, and it's great."

While the Paytons enjoyed their exploration of the island, they also recognized the proactive efforts of Cook Islands Tourism.

"The fact that you had a proactive office in the port was great, but I have to say the lady in the tourist office was really super," Chris said.

Adding to the positive experience, the Paytons noted their visit to the Business and Investment Centre in Rarotonga, where they met helpful staff.

"We also stopped at the business and investment centre, talked there, and to a lady called Noelle, who was very nice and very helpful. I have some potential business interests here too, so it was great that that office was there," Chris said.