On 18 November, ships across our fleet came alive with colour, culture, and spirituality as we celebrated Galungan, one of Bali’s most significant Hindu festivals.
Galungan symbolises the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil) and marks the time when ancestral spirits return to visit the Earth. The celebrations conclude with Kuningan Day, when the spirits return to heaven.
This deeply spiritual occasion is observed every 210 days according to the Balinese Pawukon calendar. During this period, families and communities offer prayers and beautifully crafted offerings, and the island of Bali is adorned with penjor – elegant bamboo poles decorated to represent prosperity.
Onboard, our Indonesian crew members recreated these traditions with devotion and pride, bringing a piece of Bali to life at sea.
Azura
MV Azura hosted a vibrant Galungan celebration for over 100 Balinese Hindu crew members. The event, held from 23:00 to 01:30, was designed to strengthen kinship and cultural unity among the Indonesian team. The evening featured prayers, offerings, and a communal meal of traditional dishes, supported by contributions from various departments – from venue arrangements by HR to delicious meals prepared by the Galley team. The Production Team ensured the atmosphere was complete with music and sound, while the Seafarers Welfare Committee sponsored refreshments.
Arcadia
Arcadia’s Indonesian crew came together to joyfully celebrate Galungan Day with traditional prayers. The event radiated unity and cultural pride, reminding everyone of the rich diversity within our fleet and the value of embracing each crew member’s heritage.
Britannia
80 Balinese crew members participated in Galungan and Kuningan events on Britannia. The celebration featured traditional dances, prayers, and a shared meal of authentic Balinese dishes – a beautiful reflection of community and respect for tradition.
Aurora
Aurora marked a milestone by hosting its first-ever Galungan and Kuningan celebration. Led by Welfare Officer Arian and Indonesian crew, the event transformed a restaurant into a vibrant cultural space filled with stunning decorations, traditional attire, and heartfelt prayers. A graceful Balinese dance performance captivated the audience, followed by a communal meal rich in Indonesian flavours. This celebration was more than an event – it was a testament to cultural pride and unity at sea.
Iona
Onboard Iona, the Indonesian crew honoured Galungan and Kuningan with traditional prayers, Balinese dance, and cultural attire. The event created a vibrant and meaningful experience, sharing the beauty of Balinese heritage with everyone onboard.
These celebrations are a powerful reminder of the diversity that enriches life at sea. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making these events possible – your support ensures that cultural heritage continues to thrive across our fleet.