An Australian Luxury Cruise Ship ORION made a call at Hakata Port on April 20th, as part of their “Art of Japan” voyage featuring visits to some of the most culturally significant high points around the Inland Sea of Japan.

Being intended for people who seek the mental stimulation of new experiences, ORION offers a range of Shore-side Expeditions on “a path less travelled”.
On-board speakers have been selected for their knowledge and expertise on the regions the ship visits to give lectures to the guests during the cruise.

** ORION website: http://www.jeibacruise.jp/orion/cruise.html

From Fukuoka City, four officials led by Chief Executive Inoue of Hakata Port and Harbor Bureau visited the ship to extend their welcome to ORION’s first visit to Fukuoka.

After presenting Hakata Ningyo porcelain figure, a representing craftwork from Fukuoka, Port Authority officials exchanged opinions with the Orion’s Hotel Manager Ms. Tracy Greiner.

We were happy to learn that the cruise guests are receiving very positive impression from Japanese ports they visit, and are especially impressed by how the cities are kept sanitary and clean.
Ms. Tracy shared her view that the visual pleasantness of Japanese cities may be reflecting the principle and lifestyle of the people within.

The Manager then gave us a thorough tour around the ship.
As it is said to be designed for people who seek the mental stimulation of new experiences whilst enjoying the comfort of luxurious surroundings, ORION is decorated with a classical elegance and an air of relaxing resort hotel.

Guests on ORION are treated with the cuisine from the destinations, made of fresh ingredients procured from the local markets.
When we were visiting, the kitchen crew was out in the city to the fish market.

After her departure, Ms. Tracy reported us of the feedback from the guests that they enjoyed Fukuoka very much having been welcomed warmly everywhere they went.

Fukuoka City Hall continues to work on improving the facility and reception capacity of the Port to make administrative aspect of cruise ship calls smoother and easier, so that the increasing number and variety of cruise visitors would have a memorable time in Fukuoka.