The shores of Port Moresby have welcomed back a visitor as the MV Doulos Hope makes its second appearance this year.

The crew decided to return after seeing how eager Port Moresby residents were to learn and purchase books during their first trip earlier this year.

Currently docked at the Main T Wharf Berth Downtown, the ship opened its doors to local residents on May 9 and will remain in Port Moresby until May 27.

Speaking with PNG Haus Bung, Doulos Hope Communications Department Head, Vale Rios Galindo, said the crew is made up of 100 volunteers from 35 nationalities from all walks of life.

She introduced Doulos Hope as belonging to a family of fleets that have bookfairs. These floating libraries are operated by the German company, GBA (Gute Bücher für Alle).

“We have operated for over 50 years and we just so excited to see people coming on board and visiting our ships.”

She explained that there are two vessels operating at the moment, with their sister ship, MV Logos Hope, currently en route to the Netherlands.

She further added, “we have three goals: to share knowledge, help and hope.”

Galindo noted that local enthusiasm for their 2,000-title collection was so strong during the first visit that the crew felt compelled to return.

Before arriving in Port Moresby, the vessel toured Southeast Asia.

MV Duolos Hope will next set sail for other ports in the country, including Rabaul, Madang, Kavieng, and Lae.

The ship is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and on Sundays from 1pm to 7pm until May 27.