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Three New Cruise Ship Harbours Under Development, Says Minister Faisal

A project is currently underway to develop harbours in three regions of the country, specifically for cruise ships, according to Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal. He made this announcement during an interview with the 'Raajje Miadhu' programme on PSM News.

During the interview, Minister Faisal emphasised the coordinated efforts of the government and relevant agencies to increase the number of cruise ships visiting the Maldives. This initiative forms a key part of the broader strategy to enhance tourist arrivals, according to him.

The administration has significant plans to enhance the number of cruise ships docking in the Maldives, said Minister Faisal, underlining the administration's commitment to this initiative. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's administration has successfully addressed numerous challenges previously faced by cruise ships visiting the country, he added.

Minister Faisal revealed that from 2024 until the present, over 600 tourists have travelled to the Maldives on cruise ships. "Cruise liners encountered significant challenges when visiting the Maldives due to regulations enacted by the previous government. MAYA [Maldives Association of Yacht Agents] raised numerous complaints regarding this issue, they met with me, I listened to their concerns, and subsequently revised the guidelines," stated Minister Faisal.

The minister reiterated that, in addition to efforts to increase the number of cruise ships visiting the Maldives, the government is also committed to developing the cruise ship tourism segment. Harbours dedicated to cruise ships are being developed in three regions of the country as part of these initiatives, he said.

"We are conducting surveys in regions such as Addu and Laamu Atoll to develop jetties or harbours specifically dedicated to cruise liners. This will be a significant development," revealed Minister Faisal.

The Maldives has recently witnessed a surge in the number of cruise ships visiting the country, resulting in a significant influx of tourists. According to the MAYA, the target is to attract over 12 cruise ships during this year's tourism season. MAYA is an organisation responsible for overseeing yacht-related activities in the Maldives.