The Pacific Aria cruise ship was welcomed in Neiafu, Vava’u on 9 March by a school brass band and dancing students on its second port of call in Tonga.

Tomifa Paea Chairman of the Tourism Authority reported that around 1700 passengers and crew arrived in Vava'u. He said they were very happy with everybody’s contribution and to the Vava'u Cruise Boat Steering Committee for a successful operation in looking after passengers.

In addition, the Vava'u Tourism Association also cleaned and picked up rubbish in Neiafu and everybody helped. "Tourism is everybody’s business, the cooperation from water excursion tours, tour guides, handicraft vendors, taxi drivers, Vava'u Fishing Council, security guards, Pacific Forum Line among many others made us all proud to showcase our beautiful island and the people of Vava’u," he said.