In a powerful symbol of resilience and recovery, Sri Lanka yesterday welcomed the luxury cruise ship Mein Schiff 06, operated by TUI Cruises, carrying over 2,000 international passengers to the Colombo Port.
Sri Lanka Tourism said this marks the first major tourist movement since last week’s natural disaster, sending a clear message to the world: Sri Lanka is safe, open, and ready to embrace visitors once again.
Passengers, predominantly German nationals, expressed admiration for Sri Lanka’s hospitality and praised the personal engagement of Tourism and Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath who visited the ship to meet guests and hear their impressions.
“Many passengers shared that they plan to return to Sri Lanka soon, and several pledged to act as ambassadors for the island nation, spreading the word that Sri Lanka remains a welcoming and beautiful destination,” a statement said.
Out of the 2,300 passengers on board, over 1,600 guests ventured out on one-day and half-day excursions across the island. These tours highlighted Sri Lanka’s diversity and charm, taking visitors to destinations such as Galle, Madu Oya, Kalutara, and Colombo, where they enjoyed city tours, tuk tuk rides, bustling market visits, food tours, cooking classes, and visits to temples and religious sites.
To accommodate this large movement, over 72 coaches and 30 small vans were mobilised, reflecting the strength of Sri Lanka’s tourism infrastructure and its ability to host international travellers at scale.
The Mein Schiff, sailing from Cape Town to Singapore, will continue its journey to Hambantota Port for a one-day excursion, offering passengers the chance to explore more of Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions.
Local operations were managed by Aitken Spence Travels, the appointed local tour operator, with Hapag-Lloyd Lanka Ltd. serving as the port service agent.
Several distinguished officials and industry leaders joined the event to mark the arrival of Mein Schiff 6 at Colombo Port. Among them were Sri Lanka Tourism Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam, whose leadership has been pivotal in steering the industry through recent challenges. Senior Tourism
Advisor Nihal Muhandiram, who has long contributed his expertise to shaping tourism policy and guiding recovery strategies was also present. SLPA Harbour Master Nirmal de Silva ensured smooth port operations and facilitated the safe docking of the vessel.
Speaking on the occasion, officials emphasised that while challenges remain, Sri Lanka is determined to rebuild stronger. “With courage and unity, and with the support of the international community, we will restore normalcy. Every visitor who chooses Sri Lanka contributes to our recovery, strengthens our people, and inspires hope,” the statement said.
