The Maldives welcomed the arrival of the Bahamas-registered cruise ship Crystal Symphony, carrying 212 tourists, as it docked in Malé during its journey through the Indian Ocean. The ship arrived from Seychelles and departed for Sri Lanka after spending a day in the Maldives, according to the Maldives Association for Yacht Agents (MAYA).
Crystal Symphony is the fourth cruise ship to visit the Maldives this high season, signalling a growing interest in the country as a cruise destination. On December 30, two cruise ships carrying over 3,000 tourists also arrived from Seychelles, while an additional 12 cruise ships are expected to dock in the Maldives before the season ends.
Tourism statistics from the Ministry of Tourism reveal a strong start to the year, with over 43,000 tourist arrivals recorded in the first week of January, reflecting a 9.7 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The rise in cruise ship arrivals has contributed to this growth, as the Maldives continues to position itself as a preferred destination for luxury cruise travellers.
The Crystal Symphony is currently on a 26-day New Year-themed cruise from Cape Town to Singapore. The journey, which began on December 23, 2024, and concludes on January 18, 2025, offers prices starting at USD 12,000 for double occupancy. Its itinerary includes stops in some of the world’s most iconic tropical destinations, highlighting the Maldives’ appeal to luxury travellers.
With increasing cruise ship visits and a rise in tourist arrivals, the Maldives continues to strengthen its position as a global tourism hotspot, drawing visitors from across the world to experience its unparalleled natural beauty and world-class hospitality.
