New Mangalore Port Authority welcomed the fifth cruise vessel of the season, MS Norwegian Sky, a majestic cruise liner operated by Norwegian Cruise Lines, on its maiden voyage to the port on Saturday. Sailing under the Bahamas flag, the luxury vessel arrived with a remarkable complement of 1,876 passengers and 861 crew members, the highest passenger footfall at the port since the resumption of the cruise season after the pandemic. Berthing at Berth 4, the 258.6m-long cruise ship is part of an international itinerary that includes ports of Galle, Kochi, Mangaluru, Goa, Mumbai, and Abu Dhabi. The cruise ship came from Cochin port before arriving at NMPA.In honour of welcoming the majestic cruise vessel on its maiden call to the port, a plaque exchange ceremony was held as a gesture of goodwill and international camaraderie. S Shanthi, deputy chairperson, NMPA, warmly welcomed the ship master with a memento, while M Shyamprasad Kamath, managing director of MRPL, extended a similar token of appreciation to the general manager of the vessel. In a respectful exchange, both the ship master and GM presented mementos in return, marking a memorable beginning to stronger maritime ties.NMPA arranged a grand traditional welcome for the cruise passengers, with Yakshagana and Bharatanatyam performances at the cruise lounge. A dedicated meditation centre and tourist assistance booths were set up to enhance the visitor experience.A total 977 passengers disembarked to explore the coastal and cultural charm of Dakshina Kannada, including visits to Karkala Gomateshwara, Moodabidri’s 1,000 Pillar Basadi, Soans Farm, Kadri and Gokarnanatha Temples, and local markets. Over 40 coaches, multiple Tempo Travellers, shuttle buses, and cars facilitated seamless transportation.