The MS Nautica expeditionary vessel with tourists from the United States of America (USA) on board docked for the first time in Port Moresby city recently after its visit to three other ports in the pacific region. Following its docking at port early in the morning of Good Friday 26th March, over 400 tourists disembarked from the vessel and stepped off onto Port Moresby for a half- day tour around the city. The tourists embarked on a journey through Port Moresby, visiting unique sites that showcased the diverse beauty of the city. From the greenery of Port Moresby Nature Park to the House of Parliament, the journey also included stops at the National Museum, the World War 2 memorial, and the Tubusereia Village. For the adventurous tourists, a hike through the rugged trails of Varirata National Park offered breathtaking views of the areas around the city of Port Moresby. The MS Nautica owned by Oceania Cruises, which had previously visited Samoa, Fiji, and Australia, has a reputation for specializing in bringing tourists to some of the most exotic destinations in the world. Oceania Cruises' Destinations Manager, Antonia Goffredi, said that Papua New Guinea (PNG) holds a special attraction for travellers seeking an adventure. "PNG is a very exotic destination for tourists. It's one of those unique places where tourists want to visit,” said Goffredi. “Despite the negative perceptions sometimes portrayed in the media, when you actually come here, you're enchanted by the beauty of the country.” Goffredi emphasized the overwhelming interest among passengers aboard the MS Nautica to explore PNG. "More than 80% of the passengers on board wanted to see Papua New Guinea, and I believe more tourists will come once they experience the country firsthand,” said Goffredi. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority, highlighted the significant contribution of cruise tourism to the country's economy. "Cruise tourism is an essential part of Papua New Guinea's tourism industry,” he said. “In recent years, we've witnessed a substantial increase in the number of visitors arriving via cruise ships. With strategic marketing efforts, we aim to further boost tourism numbers and position PNG as one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the world,” said Uvovo. The visit from MS Nautica marks its inaugural visit to Port Moresby. Another planned visit to the country is scheduled for November to Alotau.