Two cruise ships - MV Arius (fka SuperStar Aquarius) and MV Gem (fka SuperStar Gemini), each with a capacity to carry 800+ passengers, are currently berthed at the HIP-Hambantota International Port (Sri Lanka) for month-long layups. There are rumors suggesting that both boats could be later heading to India (Alang) for scrapping.
The crews will remain onboard for the period.
Lance Zuo, General Manager, Commercial & Marketing said Port Hambantota provided "the best facilities in the region for all kinds of vessels of any size from small and medium-sized ships to large tankers."
"We provide safe mooring, security for ship and personnel, ship supplies, etc. These types of vessels contribute to increasing awareness among ship owners and ship managers, of the diverse portfolio of services HIP can offer."
The service offered by HIP supports the local communities of Hambantota, which supply fuel, water, fresh produce and other necessities for the laid-up vessels.
Local service providers registered under Hambantota Port offer a variety of services, ship repairs, and others on a need basis when ships are on long layups at the port.