With 16 cruise ships expected in Savusavu, expectations are high that the visits will bring much needed revenue to the northern town and its surrounding areas.

Interim Tourism Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the government is trying to ensure the tourism dollar gets down to the grassroots so that small communities and villages actually benefit.

Sayed-Khaiyum said they are focused on turning Savusavu into a tourist town.