Staff Reporter
Fiji’s Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama visited the new Cruise Passenger Lounge at Suva Port recently and commended the facilities for passengers of cruise liners.
The tourism industry contributes more than 30% to the GDP of the Fiji economy, he said, during his visit on June 13, 2019.
Lifting standards
Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL) Chairman Shaheen Ali said that it is important to create a good, first impression among disembarking passengers with modern facilities.
“The new Passenger Lounge has lifted the standard of the Port and provides a good first experience for the visitors. It is a part of FPCL’s continuous commitment to meeting the needs of the Cruise Shipping sector and improving services on a par with international standards. The lounge will provide information on Fiji’s tourist attractions, maps,” he said.
Surge in Tourism
Mr Ali said that Cruise Tourism has been increasing at an average rate of 15% over the past five years, with about 30 cruise liners every year.
In 2018, 187,890 cruise visitors came to Fiji and the earnings from the segment was a record of F$11.3 million, he said.
“FPCL plans to build a similar Lounge in Lautoka,” Mr Ali said.
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Photo Caption:
Fiji’s Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama with FPCL Chairman Shaheen Ali at the new Lounge at Suva Seaport on June 13, 2019 (Picture Supplied)
