The Solomon Islands Cruise Ship Industry says the sector is picking up momentum with 12 cruise ships due to arrive in the country next year.
The news was delivered by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Andrew Nihopara to the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee which has been scrutinising the 2017 National Budget in Parliament.
He said it is crucial for large cruise ships to visit Solomon Islands because it will mean more foreign currency will be brought into the local economy.
Mr Nihopara said cruise ships have already been visiting the national capital of Honiara and Gizo, the provincial capital of the Western Province.