Celebrity Eclipse is the first cruise to visit Nuku'alofa in 2023, arriving with more than 2600 passengers at Vuna wharf, on 23 January.
Although this is the first cruise to visit the capital, it is the second to visit Tonga in the new year. Paul Gauguin was the first cruise ship arriving in Neiafu, Vavau, on 16 January.
Celebrity Eclipse arrived in the morning with 2651 passengers and 1165 crew, on its day visit, before it was expected to leave for Auckland, New Zealand later this evening.
The Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Samiu Vaipulu and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Hon. Fekita 'Utoikamanu went onboard, where a plaque ceremony was held to mark its maiden voyage to Tonga.
Meanwhile, local handicrafts were being sold at the wharf as the local tourism industry revives after being hit hard when borders closed, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In September 2022, Tonga finally lifted most of its health requirements, effective on 27 September, 2022, resulting in full border re-opening for both air and sea arrivals.