On 1 April, a team from the Product Development and Investment Promotion (PDIP) Unit of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) travelled to Butaritari Atoll to spearhead preparations for two major tourism events: the highly anticipated visit of the MV Hanseatic Inspiration cruise ship on Bikati Islet and the Butaritari Tourism Product Launch.
This mission is part of TAK’s ongoing commitment to support and empower tourism-ready communities across Kiribati by equipping them with the tools and training needed to offer authentic, engaging, and sustainable visitor experiences.
Cruise Visit to Bikati Islet – 2 May
The MV Hanseatic Inspiration is scheduled to call at Bikati Islet on 2 May, generating strong anticipation among locals and stakeholders. Two TAK officers spent three days on the islet working closely with community members to prepare for the cruise visit.
Key activities included:
• Finalizing welcoming protocols
• Coordinating guided tours and cultural performances (including traditional dances and choir)
• Organizing local refreshments, such as fresh tropical fruits
• Conducting site assessments and marking designated areas for meet-and-greet points, restrooms, and performance spaces to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visitor flow.
These preparations aim to offer passengers a memorable, culturally rich experience while highlighting Bikati’s identity and its community-led, sustainable tourism approach.
Tourism Product Launch Preparation – Mainland Butaritari
Following their work on Bikaati, the TAK team continued preparations on the mainland of Butaritari, focusing on strengthening the readiness of local communities for the upcoming Butaritari Tourism Product Launch.
Working alongside the Butaritari Island Council, the team engaged with nine communities: Ukiangang, Antakana, Tanimaiaki, Tanimainiku, Keuea, Kuuma Village, Utirake Community, and Bikaati Islet.
Key tasks included:
• Finalizing tour programs and highlights
• Refining visitor experience packages to include:
o Traditional welcome ceremonies
o Cultural performances (dance and choir)
o Maneaba-based gatherings
o Local culinary tastings
o Handcrafted souvenirs
These efforts aim to enhance the guest experience while also positioning Butaritari as a vibrant, emerging tourism destination in Kiribati.
Towards Sustainable Tourism Development
The Butaritari Tourism Product Launch marks a pivotal milestone in the island’s tourism journey, paving the way for greater recognition of its unique attractions and cultural offerings. TAK extends its sincere gratitude to the Butaritari Island Council, participating communities, and all stakeholders for their dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work in bringing these initiatives to life.
These initiatives are not only a celebration of Butaritari’s rich heritage and natural beauty but also a contribution to Kiribati’s national tourism development goals—by building local capacity and promoting sustainable, inclusive tourism across the islands.
