The passenger liner MS Luminara arrived in the Maldives on Thursday from Mahe’, Seychelles, carrying 159 tourists and 372 crew members. The Maldives Customs Service confirmed that inward clearance was granted upon arrival.
The vessel is the latest addition to the 2025–2026 cruise season, which officially began on December 3 with the arrival of MS Azamara Pursuit carrying 649 passengers and 396 crew.
Cruise arrivals are continuing despite temporary logistical limitations in Malé City. At present, disembarkation is permitted at Jetty No. 1 and the Fishermen’s Park area, both of which have been undergoing renovation.
The Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA) previously highlighted that the temporary closure of Jetty No. 1 had shifted most atoll launch traffic to Fishermen’s Park, resulting in short-term congestion due to parked vehicles and vessel movements.
Authorities expect the situation to improve following the recent reopening of the presidential jetty area after redevelopment, which is anticipated to ease congestion and enhance passenger disembarkation facilities.