Port Durban (South Africa) has a new cruise ship in its repertoire.
ms Zaandam made her maiden arrival at the city's port on Sunday, November 20.
According to Transnet National Ports Authority, the voyage followed the launch of the 2022-2023 cruise season.
MS Zaandam is owned and operated by HAL-Holland America and was introduced to the shores of Durban with a tug spray.
In keeping with tradition, Captain Eric Durr, from the harbour master’s office, presented a plaque to the master of the ship.
“Covid-19 has impacted the tourism industry a great deal over the past few years, so receiving a cruise vessel of Zaandam’s stature at the Port of Durban is another feather in our cap."
Durr said that affirmed the port and the city as "a cruise destination of choice," as reflected in their previous nominations as finalists in the World Travel Awards category of Africa’s Leading Cruise Port.
Zaandam's decor was inspired by music - it features instruments like signed guitars from Queen, Eric Clapton, the Rolling Stones, and Iggy Pop, as well as a Baroque-style pipe organ.
The ship has max passenger capacity 1718 (716 staterooms), length 781 ft (238 m), width of 105.8 ft (32 m).
Meanwhile, MSC Orchestra also arrived at the Port during the weekend, kicking off her season on Monday, November 21.