Muara - The newly refurbished Royal Carribean International's "Legend of the Seas" docked at Muara Port yesterday morning for the first time after more than 10 years. The seven-night "Borneo Explorer Cruise" started its seven-night journey from Singapore featuring calls to Puerto Princess in the Philippines and Kota Kinabalu as well.

Present tO welcome the return of the cruise ship at the port was Pg Haji Mohd Zain bin Pg Hj Abd Razak, Acting Director of the Ports Department, Ministry of Communications; Ports Officers and also representatives from the Brunei Tourism Board.

Pg Haji Mohd Zain, during the welcoming ceremony, took the opportunity to express his appreciation to the Cruise Director of the Legends of the Seas, Mr Dan Whitney, and the captain of the cruise vessel for the tour invitation of the magnificent and amazing cruise ship.

"I do hope that this will be the start of your regular visit to Brunei to explore and discover what Brunei has to offer in its 'Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures' in hopes to contribute to the number of tourists to Brunei in the future," he said.

The event proceeded with an exchange of souvenirs between Pg Haji Mohd Zain and the Captain of Legend of the Seas on board the vessel.

Invited guests and members of the media were then given a tour of the prestigious and amazing revitalised cruise ship which now showcases various selection of entertainment and relaxation preference from its nine-metre rock-climbing wall, miniature golf course, poolside outdoor movie screen as well as an incredible view of the sea, which is a perfect choice for a family getaway.

With the improvements in their culinary options, guests can now enjoy popular complimentary and specialty dining options namely Chops Grille, Izumi Asian Cuisine, the exclusive Chef's Table and Park Café.

According to a press statement, the Ports Department will continue to work closely with Brunei Tourism Board in organising joint-marketing and promotion in an effort to attract more foreigners in the region and all around the world to visit Brunei Darussalam as well as negotiating with cruise owners and shipping agents in order to attract more cruise vessels to make frequent calls at Muara Port.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin