New Mangalore Port welcomes cruise liner MS Sirena

Mangaluru: New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) Sunday welcomed MS Sirena, the third cruise vessel of the current season. The cruise liner, sailing under the Marshall Islands flag and operated by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, arrived at the port around 9am from Kochi as part of its international itinerary covering Colombo–Kochi–Mangaluru–Goa–Mumbai. The vessel carried 619 passengers and 390 crew members.Passengers were greeted with a traditional welcome at the cruise terminal, reflecting the culture and hospitality of coastal Karnataka. NMPA, in coordination with various stakeholders, made elaborate arrangements at the terminal to ensure a smooth experience for the visitors.During their stay, passengers explored major tourist destinations in and around Mangaluru, including the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, St Aloysius Chapel, the Thousand Pillar Jain Temple, and local markets. Guided tours introduced them to the region's heritage, cuisine and craftsmanship.Cultural programmes, including traditional performances and meditation sessions, were organised to offer tourists a glimpse of India's cultural and spiritual traditions. The vessel later sailed for its next destination, Mormugao Port.