MVA excited with launch of Duck Tours

Saipan Duck Tours uses a 27,000-lb amphibious vehicle based on World War II-era DUKW. (JON PEREZ)

The Marianas Visitors Authority welcomed the entry of Saipan Duck Tours into the CNMI’s tourism scene, saying it will be an added attraction for tourists and residents alike.

MVA managing director Christopher Concepcion congratulated AquaDuck LLC during the company’s formal launch of its Saipan Duck Tours operations during a ribbon cutting ceremony last Thursday at the Garapan Fishing Base.

The land and sea tour uses a 27,000-lb amphibious vehicle based on World War II-era DUKW.

“We’re very excited about it. It’s an added attraction for visitors here in the CNMI and Saipan in particular. Everybody asks for these types of new and fresh activities to do on Saipan and in the Marianas. This is one new attraction that will definitely be a big hit with our sources markets of Japan, China, and Korea,” Concepcion said.

He also hopes AquaDuck LLC will join MVA.

“We’ve encouraged them to become an MVA member, which will allow us to help them. As soon as they become an MVA member we will definitely partner with them to help promote their product,” he said, adding that the company only needs to pay the $100 annual fee to become a member.

“You get to be part of all of MVA’s promotions. You also get first glance of the visitor arrival statistics and you get detailed membership reports every month that feature all new attractions like this. It’s very reasonable at $100 a year and it gets you all these valuable information so you can plan and map out what direction your company is going,” said Concepcion.

AquaDuck LLC president Eddie Yokeno said if his venture works out he would purchase two more vehicles.

“Once the operation is solid we will go on the second step by getting two more and expanding our operations,” he said.

Yokeno said the launch of the Duck Tours is a testament to the CNMI’s growing economy and fast-rising reputation as a tourist destination.

With Imperial Pacific Resort adding 2,000 rooms to hotel occupancy, Yokeno sees an additional 4,000 potential customers.

He also welcomes the competition from Island Turtle Tours, which offers a similar service.

“I wish them well also. Competition is always good. There are a lot of tourists to go around. They have one Duck and we have two Ducks and we cannot duck the issue that we need more!” he said with a smile.