NYK Cruises Co. Ltd., an NYK Group company, welcomed aboard children with rare, serious diseases and their family members — 74 in total — for a Christmas event on board Asuka II while the ship was calling Yokohama on December 9.

NYK Cruises has actively supported the mission of Hope&Wish, a public interest incorporated association, by providing children afflicted with rare, serious diseases with the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of the sea and a luxury cruise ship in port, an outing that would normally be terribly challenging for these children and their family members.

This was the third time for NYK Cruises and Hope&Wish to coordinate this event. It was held during summer the first two years, but this year’s event was conducted during the Christmas season to make it more special.

The children and their family members, escorted by 60 NYK Group volunteers, including members of NYK Cruises, toured the Christmas-decorated ship and enjoyed entertainment that included a hula dance lesson, an exchange of gifts, and an original, Las Vegas-styled Asuka production.

Comments from family members included, “All members of the family could enjoy this outing together,” “I felt very happy to celebrate Christmas on board,” and “I appreciate the invitation because we had never boarded a cruise ship before.” A volunteer commented, “I was touched again that the cruise business can evoke dreams from others.”

The NYK Group remains committed to being a good corporate citizen contributing to the well-being of the community.