TACLOBAN CITY — Despite the sporadic rain due to a prevailing weather disturbance, tourists aboard international cruise ship Heritage Adventurer received a warm welcome upon their arrival in Samar on Monday morning, culminating an over a month preparation of tourism officials and local governments.

Carrying 137 passengers including 24 expedition staff and 113 guests composed primarily of retirees from New Zealand, the Heritage Adventurer arrived in Catbalogan City, the first-ever expedition cruise ship to have docked in Samar province.

In a statement, the Samar Provincial Tourism Office described the arrival as a “symbol of global exploration and cultural connection.”

“As this majestic expedition ship graces our shores, we celebrate the growing recognition of Samar as a premier destination for heritage, nature, and adventure tourism,” the tourism office stated.

The visitors will visit Paranas and Daram towns for a guided tour that will showcase the province’s rainforests, biodiversity, culinary traditions and local festivals through sustainable tourism.

DoT regional director Karen Tiopes said the cruise visit is part of their Asian leg and includes select ports of call in the Philippines, highlighting destinations rich in biodiversity, cultural heritage and local experiences.

Guests were off to explore Paranas, Samar highlighting the EcoTrail and Birding Site, Torpedo Extreme Boat Ride and The Arboretum.

On Sunday, the Samar Provincial Tourism Office closed to local tourists all the sites that will be visited for the conduct of clean up operations, safety inspections, and logistical preparations for the foreign visitors.