Nippon Maru completes final voyage after 35 years
Axios (Tổng hợp từ english.kyodonews.net)
The iconic Japanese cruise ship, Nippon Maru, has ended its 35-year career with its final voyage on May 2, docking at Yokohama Port. Launched in 1991, the ship completed more than 1,000 voyages and carried over 600,000 passengers, including several around-the-world trips. Rising maintenance costs and changing market demand led to the decision to retire the vessel.
The iconic Japanese cruise ship, Nippon Maru, has ended its 35-year career with its final voyage on May 2. The vessel docked at Yokohama Port, south of Tokyo, to a warm welcome from fans and former passengers.
Launched in 1991, the Nippon Maru has a gross tonnage of about 22,500 tons, a length of 167 meters, and a maximum capacity of roughly 600 passengers. Over its operational lifetime, it completed more than 1,000 voyages, carrying a total of 600,000 passengers and on several occasions sailing around the world.
According to Kyodo News, the Nippon Maru was not only a means of travel but also a part of Japan's maritime culture, beloved by generations of travelers. Its final journey began in early April 2022, calling at several famous ports before returning to Yokohama.
Many passengers and local residents gathered at the port to wave and take commemorative photos as the ship docked. Operators cited rising maintenance costs and shifting demand in the cruise market as reasons for ceasing operations.
Though officially retired, the Nippon Maru will remain an unforgettable symbol in the history of Japan's maritime tourism industry over the past three decades.
