A total of 76 cruise liners are expected to bring over thousands of tourists to different parts of the country this year.

37 cruise liners are expected for Suva, 21 for port Denarau, 13 for Lautoka and five for Savusavu.

Groups Shore Excursion Consultant ATS Pacific John Smith said since 2009 the number of cruise ships visiting our shores has increased. 

He said the cruise ships with a maximum capacity of up to 3,000 passengers will often spend a day at different places.

He added Fiji can expect some of the world=s top cruise liners which includes the Royal Carribbean Cruises who own some of the world=s largest cruise ships.

Meanwhile, President of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association, Dixon Seeto said the economic benefits for the country are huge.

However, Seeto added an area that needs to be addressed is how cruise ships that berth on a Sunday often find shops closed for business.
 
 
Story by: Gwen Mc Goon