TIRANA, June 25 /ATA/ – The expedition cruise ship National Geographic Orion docked in the Albanian port city of Durrës on Wednesday for the first time, marking Albania’s inclusion in a high-profile Mediterranean cruise route.
The vessel, with 108 American tourists on board, arrived in Durrës as part of an eight-day itinerary through Greece, Albania, and Croatia, aimed at showcasing cultural heritage and natural landscapes across the region.
“This is a new tourism line for Albania,” said Prime Minister Edi Rama, highlighting the country’s debut in the itinerary as a sign of growing international interest in its historical and ecological attractions.
Following its stop in Durrës – the second Albanian port after Saranda – American tourists will visit the Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, home to the rare Dalmatian pelican, and then to the historic town of Kruja.
The 102-meter vessel features 50 cabins and a 70-member crew, catering to travelers focused on expedition-style and adventure tourism. Its maiden call to Albania is seen as a positive signal for the country’s efforts to expand its profile among premium and sustainable tourism markets.
Following its Albanian leg, the ship will continue its voyage to Croatia.
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