Vladivostok, in the Russian Far East, has kicked off its 2017 cruise season as the Costa Victoria arrived at the port on May 2 carrying more than 2,000 passengers.

The port said, in a prepared statement, that it will have 13 calls this year, up from six last year. Nine visits are scheduled by Costa with the balance coming from the Japanese cruise lines.

The passengers visiting on May 2 were Korean, according to the port, and the ship was marked by a traditional welcome ceremony hosted by the Vladivostok Sea Terminal.

Konstantin Schestakov, head of tourism for the Primorsky Territory Government, addressed passengers and crew in a welcome speech. Other festivities included a local performance pier-side.

The local tourism center was on hand with information and guide books in Korean.