Holland America’s newest cruise ship Koningsdam made her inaugural call in Curaçao on December 10.
There was a brief ceremony onboard, where the captain and crew were welcomed by the Minister of Economic Development Mr. Eugene Rhuggenaath on behalf of the Government of Curaçao, along with representatives of the Curaçao Ports Authority and the Curaçao Tourist Board.
During the gathering, Mr. Rhuggenaath welcomed Captain Bowland, and gave him the traditional maritime plaque that commemorated the ship’s first visit to Curaçao.
Cruise tourism plays a major role in the island’s tourism industry, as guests may choose to return for a longer stay in the future. For the first quarter of 2017, a six percent increase in cruise arrivals is expected compared to last year.
Information: Curaçao Chronicle Featured photo: flickr/Nelo Hotsuma
