Majestic Princess arrives into NZ

NEW Zealand’s major cities and its smaller regions are set to benefit from cruise once more, as Princess Cruises’ Majestic Princess sailed into Auckland this morning (CW 14 Oct).

Majestic has brought more than 3,500 guests from Los Angeles, becoming the second international vessel to arrive in New Zealand after P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Explorer reached the country two months ago (CW 12 Aug).

The ship has already visited Tauranga, and will also visit the Bay of Islands, before travelling onto Sydney.

This cruise season, Princess’ cruise ships will make a total of 129 visits to New Zealand’s ports including Port Chalmers, Lyttleton, Wellington, Napier, Picton, and Fiordland.

Around 445 guests will complete their voyage in Auckland, taking the opportunity to extend their stay and soak up everything New Zealand has to offer.

The arrival of Majestic brings a much-needed economic boost to New Zealand, with the impact of Princess guests and crew members estimated to be upwards of NZD$100 million over the next six months.

Princess Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific & Europe Stuart Allison noted the cruise line brings more guests to New Zealand than any other brand, including more than 350,000 this season - a significant contribution to the restoration of the country’s tourism economy.

“We are thrilled to be returning to New Zealand after almost three years, paving the way for the restart of cruise tourism.

“Majestic Princess departed from Los Angeles on 24 Sep, with over 65% of onboard guests hailing from North America.

“We are thrilled to be back sailing along NZ’s magnificent coastline and showing our guests everything on offer at all the beautiful ports along the way.”