Mangaluru: The New Mangaluru Port Authority (NMPA) celebrated a key milestone on Friday with the arrival of the Bahamian luxury cruise ship, Seven Seas Voyager. Operated by Norwegian Cruise Line, the ship arrived at 6:30 AM and departed at 5:30 PM, carrying 650 travelers and 450 crew members.
Spanning 206.5 meters and weighing a gross tonnage of 42,363, the vessel is currently navigating the Arabian Sea. Its itinerary includes stops at Fujairah, Mumbai, Goa, New Mangaluru, Cochin, and Colombo, offering passengers a glimpse of the region’s coastal charm.
Visitors were greeted with a traditional Indian reception featuring classical and folk dance performances, showcasing Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. The port’s reception area was elegantly decorated to reflect the state’s vibrant hospitality.
To enrich the passengers’ experience, guided tours were organized to renowned landmarks. Key stops included the Gomateshwara Temple in Karkala, home to the iconic 42-foot monolithic statue of Bahubali, and the intricately carved Thousand Pillar Temple in Moodbidri.
Guests also explored Soans Farm, known for sustainable agriculture and exotic fruits, visited the Kalbhavi Cashew Factory, and paid homage at the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple. Local markets offered handcrafted souvenirs and authentic regional cuisine, adding to the immersive experience.
This marks the port’s second major cruise visit this season, following the arrival of MS Silver Whisper. NMPA continues to establish itself as a premier gateway for global cruise tourism in coastal Karnataka.
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