Mr Maepio told the Solomon Star from Gizo, Thursday, that the schedule for cruise visits is high.

“I have the list of cruise boat schedules with me and it is encouraging to see more tourists coming to the Solomon Islands.

“Today (Thursday), five cruise boats confirmed their coming,” Mr Maepio said.

He said Gizo on Thursday hosted MV Europa, the first tourist boat that land in Honiara on Wednesday this week with a good number of tourists.

MV Europa left Honiara on Wednesday for Mbike Island in the Central Province, before travelling to Gizo yesterday morning.

Mr Maepio said the increase number of cruise visits is a good indication that tourism is the industry that must be supported.

“Let us give more attention to this green industry. This is a clear sign that Solomon Islands will soon play host to a good number of visitors.”

He said Western Province is prepared to provide attractions and many of what the visitors are looking for.

He said tourism holds the future of this country, therefore Solomon Islanders must think tourism and show hospitality to visitors.

Meanwhile, he said the Western provincial government will be working together with tourism operators to ensure tourists enjoy their stay in the province.

By DENVER NEWTER