GUYANA has over the years become a haven for cruise ships as visitors internationally, regionally and locally have been seeking to explore some of the country’s amazing destinations.
Tourism Minister Manniram Prashad, accompanied by Managing Director of Guyana National Shipping Corporation Ltd. (GNSC), Andrew Astwood;  and representative of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) , Paul Waldron yesterday boarded cruise ship ‘Clelia II which docked in Guyana on its second voyage on Sunday.
During the visit, Minister Prashad, who was greeted by the ship’s Captain, Phillip Dieckmann onboard the vessel, used the opportunity to tour the ship and interacted with crew members.
He pointed out that Guyana has over the years become an attraction for cruise ships with visitors who are eager to explore some of the country’s exotic flora and fauna.
This is the third ship for this year, as the ‘Saga Pearl II’ and ‘Le Levant’ recently docked at Port Georgetown.
Minister Prashad said government, along with local tour operators, will be placing more emphasis on the development of domestic tourism; and as such, he is urging the private sector to do more onboard activities for the visitors, such as arranging Guyanese cocktails, short lectures on Guyana, and cultural shows.
He added that tourism in Guyana has a bright future, and will be exploring other options to further improve facilities, as more and more cruise ships come to Guyana.
“Guyana is now doing well in terms of tourism, being propelled into the international spotlight with its unique tourism product being eco, nature and adventure-based, boasting pristine rainforest and amazing flora and fauna,” he said.
Government will also be placing additional emphasis on birding, sport fishing and yachting.
Among tokens presented to the ship’s captain were a copy of a book “Rupununi- Rediscovering the Lost World” and a bottle of 15 Year Old Rum.
The visit, which is a collaborative effort of the Tourism Ministry,  the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Evergreen Adventure, Total Logistics and the Guyana National Shipping Corporation Ltd. allowed the tourists an opportunity to visit the majestic Kaieteur Falls, St. George’s Cathedral, the Botanical Gardens, the National Museum and the Umana Yana.
Guyanese traditional cuisine was also sampled by the tourists. ‘Clelia II’ began its journey from Brazil, and then landed in Argentina, where it continued to Guyana. The ship will depart today for Venezuela.
On Sunday, the cruise ship docked in Georgetown with approximately 77 passengers, including 65 crew members.
The 215-square foot ‘Clelia II’ is a newly refurbished vessel owned by Travel Dynamics International, and includes public facilities such as restaurants, two lounges, a library with internet access, state-of-the-art gym/spa, beauty salon, boutique, a jacuzzi and a hospital.
(GINA)