The luxury liner Mein Schiff 5 recently arrived in Koh Samui, becoming the first luxury cruise ship to the island this year. Over 3,000 tourists from Europe visited the island from the ship in a single day for sightseeing and shopping, generating an estimated 5 million baht for the island.
The Mayor of Koh Samui Chayapon Intarasupa said tourism businesses had the opportunity to welcome the passengers of the Mein Schiff 5, which sailed from Vietnam and docked at Koh Samui’s Nathon Pier on January 14. The passengers visited local communities and tourist attractions on the island as locals were celebrating Children’s Day, making for a lively atmosphere.
The mayor said authorities and businesses have been ordered to accommodate tourists and ensure their safety. Operators were meanwhile instructed to provide good services and avoid taking advantage of guests as they enjoy sightseeing, eating seafood, getting massages, and shopping for souvenirs throughout the island. He estimated that the arrival of these tourists generated at least 5 million baht in tourism revenue.
Koh Samui has seen an influx of European visitors in recent months. In addition, the public and private sectors have indicated their readiness to welcome more Chinese travelers over the Chinese New Year while improving services and public safety.
Local authorities have also set up checkpoints and worked to ensure that all available modes of transportation meet safety standards. The majority of local residents, particularly those in high-risk groups, have meanwhile been vaccinated for COVID-19 and received booster doses.
Authorities are urging all staff working on the island to be fully vaccinated in order to maintain the confidence of international visitors. (NNT)
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