The Marina has arrived at the Port of Timaru this morning.

The cruise ship is expected to boost South Canterbury's population by nearly 2000 people, bringing with it 1250 passengers and 780 crew. The Marina is one of the largest cruise ships to visit the port, the only other with similar passenger numbers being the MS Statendam in March 2008.

The Seabourn Odyssey, which has visited Timaru three times this year, accommodates 450 passengers and 335 crew, and weighs in at less than half the Marina's 66,000 tonnes.

Passengers on the Marina are a mix of American, European, British and Australian, and during the day will either explore the area independently, or take part in pre-booked excursions.

Tourism manager for Aoraki Development Business and Tourism, Katerina Tiscenko, said visitor centre staff will provide local information from on board the vessel, portside and at the visitor centre. ADBT provides a shuttle bus for the passengers who want to explore independently.

Excursions offered include a tour to Geraldine, Peel Forest and Mesopotamia Station; highlights tours around central Timaru and South Canterbury; Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park by chartered plane; a visit to a game reserve, historic villa and estate winery in the Waimate area; and a tour of Victorian Oamaru.

The ship will depart at about 5pm.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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