HONG KONG -- 7th Fleet Flagship, USS Blue Ridge arrived in Hong Kong April 20 for its first visit to the port in more than three years.

The crew will have opportunities to experience Hong Kong through community relations projects and guided tours. The 7thFleet band will play in several public concerts.

“Hong Kong is always an incredible port visit and I’m thrilled Seventh Fleet and Blue Ridge Sailors can enjoy this world-class city,” Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer, commander U.S. 7th Fleet, said. “Seventh Fleet ships have visited Hong Kong for decades and we look forward to continuing that tradition."

Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy actively working to foster relationships with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific. Each year, several U.S. ships visit Hong Kong, with the most recent being earlier this week by U.S. Coast Guard Cutter, USCGC Bertholf.

"We are excited to have the chance to visit an incredible city like Hong Kong," said Blue Ridge Commanding Officer Capt. Eric Anduze. “For many of my Sailors, this port visit will be a highlight of their time on Blue Ridge.”

As 7th Fleet’s flagship, Blue Ridge, provides a mobile command and control capability throughout the Indo-Pacific. Blue Ridge is commanded by Capt. Eric Anduze and serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 7/Task Force 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force.