Luxurious Japanese Cruise ship, NYK Asuka II makes inaugural visit to Trinidad
Port-of-Spain, Trinidad – The arrival of the NYK Asuka II at the Port of Port of Spain was marked by a ceremonial crest exchange between the ship’s Captain, Masami Masuyama, and the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Shamfa Cudjoe.
Recognized as the largest cruise ship registered in Japan, the awarding-winning NYK Asuka II is currently on a luxurious 100-day World Cruise round-trip from Japan with an extensive South American itinerary and visits to Trinidad, Curacao and Panama.
An indication of Trinidad and Tobago’s growth in the cruise industry, NYK Asuka offers the most comprehensive range of dining, entertainment and relaxation experiences to its passengers. Her amenities include 2 swimming pools, 8 bars, a casino and fitness centre as well as a 277-seat theatre.
Addressing the event, Greer Assam, Cruise Specialist at the Tourism Development Company explained, “The inclusion of Trinidad in the NYK Asuka’s 100-day itinerary comes after on-going discussions between the cruise line and Japanese National, Hideyo Morimoto-Craigwell (now a resident of Trinidad and Tobago), whose company Island Buddy is a registered tour operator with the Trinidad and Tobago Tour Operators’ Association (TTITOA).”
Assam continued “The Tourism Development Company (TDC) continues to focus on increased visitor arrivals by promoting the destination for longer vacation stay overs. Consequently, we are having ongoing negotiations with the Asuka II for annual visits commencing in 2017 with the possibility of a two-three-day stay over cruise calls.”
The 500 passengers and 700 crew aboard the luxury cruise line experienced various aspects of Trinidad’s destination offerings including live local entertainment in addition to tours of the City of Port of Spain, Fort George, Angostura House and a steelpan factory, all in a safe and secure environment.
As customary, TDC trained Visitor Guides were strategically positioned at the cruise ship terminal and in the streets of the capital city with maps and information on local points of interest to help passengers make the most of their visit to Trinidad.
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