The Swan Hellenic Vega, known as SH Vega, a British cruise line carrying 115 tourists, arrived at the Freeport of Monrovia on Monday morning at 7:30 a.m. This significant arrival marks a major boost to Liberia’s burgeoning tourism industry.
This is a landmark event, as it is the first cruise ship to visit post-war Liberia since 2012 when the National Geographic Explorer Cruise ship made its stop.
The Liberia National Tourism Association (LINTA), led by Madam Mai Bright-Urey, organized SH Vega’s journey to Monrovia. As part of the welcome ceremony, Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, will greet SH Vega on behalf of the Government of Liberia. Additionally, the Mayor of Monrovia, John-Charuk S. Siafa, will traditionally present the “Key of Monrovia” to the visiting tourists.
Minister Piah highlighted that the arrival of SH Vega resonates with President Joseph Boakai’s vision for a thriving tourism industry, a key component of the Government of Liberia’s A.R.R.E.S.T Agenda (Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism) aimed at sustainable development.
He emphasized Liberia’s vast potential for diverse tourism experiences, including eco, adventure, wildlife, coastal, and marine tourism, which can be unlocked through private sector involvement.
During their visit, SH Vega tourists will explore historical sites in Monrovia, such as Providence Island, Providence Baptist Church, Ducor Hill, the National Museum, and Unity Park, as well as Libassa Ecolodge in Marshall.
