A Japanese “Peace Boat” docked at the central Pacific port of Puntarenas Wednesday as part of its voyage to 58 countries around the world to spread peace, solidarity and friendship.
Peace Boat is a Japanese-based international nonprofit that works to promote human rights, equal and sustainable development, peace and respect for the environment, according to the organization’s Web site.
Peace Boat charters passenger ships to make voyages around the world, carrying out educational programs, cooperative projects and advocacy activities. The organization also analyzes cases related to human rights, the environment, disarmament, gender and peace, according to a statement from the organization.
The ship’s almost 1,000 passengers are from countries including Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, India, Yemen, Jordan, Jamaica, Colombia and Panama.
The boat left Costa Rica Wednesday night headed toward Guatemala. It will also stop in Canada and the U.S. state of Alaska before returning to Japan.
