The SuperStar Aquarius arrived in Muara Port for the first time today following her successful homeport relocation to Kota Kinabalu, the city capital of Sabah, Malaysia last week.

The 51,309-ton SuperStar Aquarius carrying about 800 international passengers from Malaysia, China, Taiwan and Southeast Asia was welcomed in a ceremony hosted by Brunei Tourism. Amid mesmerising traditional cultural performances “Jipin Lela Sembah”, “Kayum Oh Ya Kayum”, “Rumpun Budaya” and “Joget Seri Kenangan”, all cruise passengers were presented with local souvenirs courtesy of Brunei Tourism.

Mr. Edward Johann Leong, Vice President, East Malaysia Operations of Star Cruises said, “As a leader of the Asia-Pacific cruise industry, Star Cruises truly understands what customers want when it comes to holiday preferences.  We are proud to present a variety of exclusive shore excursions for our passengers on this 4D3N cruise, so they could explore the best of Muara and Bintulu. Brunei is a refreshing tourist destination for her rich diversity of natural and cultural heritage as well as her exciting contemporary energy. I am sure our passengers will enjoy themselves and have a memorable time here.”

“We are very appreciative of the support rendered by the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, Brunei Tourism, the Ports Department, the Immigration and National Registration Department and the Royal Customs and Excise Department. We hope we can continue to work closely to spur cruise tourism development in Brunei and bring more international passengers to this wonderful Abode of Peace—A Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures,” he added.

Following the ribbon cutting and video presentations on Star Cruises and Tourism in Brunei, an exchange of memento ceremony was held at Stardust Lounge. The guests then toured around the 13-deck luxury liner and had a sumptuous lunch at Cruise Ship Center, Muara Port. The inaugural cruise ceremony was also attended by members of the media, travel agents from across the region such as Malaysia, China and Taiwan.

SuperStar Aquarius offers a 4D3N cruise from Kota Kinabalu to Muara and Bintulu every Sunday with a number of exclusive shore excursions for guests to explore. The vessel will be calling at Muara every Monday from now until 30 March 2014, allowing passengers explore the best of Brunei.