Wakatobi Expands Seaport To Accommodate More Cruise Ships

Kendari, SE Sulawesi, Dec 16 (Antara) - The district of Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi, is finishing expansion of its port, building special quay or marina for pleasure boats. "After the expansion of the marina expected by the end of this year it would be able to accommodate around 300 cruise ships," Wakatobi Regent Hugua said here on Tuesday. Currently the marina could accommodate only 50 luxurious tourist boats, Hugua said. Hopefully expansion of the special quay for tourist boats would be finished in time to accommodate tourist boats taking part in the Sail Indonesia 2015. "The district administration built the special facility for luxurious cruise ships in response to complaints by tourists about inconvenience with inadequate facility to accommodate their boats," the regent said. Many luxurious tourist boats chose to stay far off the marina not to risk a bump with other ships in the crowded port and left scratches on its sides, he said. "The operation of the new port facility would contribute significantly to the income of the district administration, as every whip would be required to pay a US$50 charge per day," he said. In addition, the expanded port facility would attract more tourists to the area , he said.