Oceania’s Cruise line begins calling on Saranda

SARANDA, May.28- Tourism season in Saranda has welcomed a novelty in its harbor. Oceania Cruises’ ship, Regatta, recently became the first major North American cruise ship to visit Sarande, Albania, located at the southwestern end of the Adriatic Sea.
“Our guests are experienced travelers who appreciate Albania’s fascinating history and diverse cultures,” said Bob Binder, President of Oceania Cruises. “We originally anticipated that our guests’ primary interest would be the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, but many chose excursions that provided them with a glimpse into Albanian culture and offered opportunities to immerse themselves in the local color,” Binder added. Oceania Cruises plans two more calls in Sarande during 2007; guests sailing on Insignia’s September 3 and October 17 departures will have the opportunity to explore the region, including excursions to the ruins of Butrint, its Amphitheatre, Basilica, and the five hundred year old settlement, which has been excavated over the past fifty years. In 2008, Oceania Cruises plans eight calls in Sarande. “We look forward to our continuing relationship with Sarande, and the warm and endearing people of Albania who provided our guests with such tremendous hospitality,” added Binder