Hambantota International Port (HIP) welcomed Mein Schiff 6 on its maiden call at the port on 3rd December, marking another significant step in the port's growing prominence as a South Asian cruise destination.

The Malta-flagged, 2017-built vessel, measuring 295.17 metres, arrived from Colombo with 2289 passengers and 950 crew on board. After its stop at HIP, the ship will continue to Port Klang. The call was managed by Hapag-Lloyd as the local agent, with Aitken Spence Travels curating shore excursions for guests.

“We are delighted to welcome Mein Schiff 6 for the very first time,” said Tommy Yang, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG). “Each maiden call reinforces the confidence global cruise lines place in HIP’s growing capabilities, passenger services, and our commitment to delivering a seamless cruise experience.”

The visit further strengthens TUI Cruises’ engagement with HIP, following several successful calls by Mein Schiff 5 in recent cruise seasons. “TUI Cruises has been an important partner in showcasing southern Sri Lanka to international travellers,” added Mindaka Dassanayake, General Manager of Hapag-Lloyd Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.

Renowned for its cruise-readiness, HIP combines deep-water berths and efficient maritime services with some of the highest international standards. HIP is the first port in Sri Lanka to achieve ISO certifications for quality, environmental management, and health & safety, emphasising its strong operational discipline.

HIP is also recognised as one of the cleanest and most environmentally responsible ports in the region. “Sustainability is at the heart of our operations,” HIPG’s COO noted, highlighting initiatives such as HIP’s Green Port Policy, large-scale Green Zone tree-planting programme, and its pioneering Coral Reef Protection Project, supported by studies showing significant live coral coverage within the port's breakwaters. “Our environmental achievements are an integral part of what makes Hambantota an attractive and responsible call for cruise lines.”

The arrival of Mein Schiff 6 marks another key milestone in HIP’s steady rise as a safe, clean, and future-ready cruise gateway to Sri Lanka’s deep south.