Asia’s cruise tourism is booming, with record growth in passenger numbers and new opportunities for international deployments and homeports, experts reveal.

Asia’s cruise tourism is bouncing back strongly, both as a source of passengers and as a sought-after destination, with opportunities emerging for international deployments and new homeports, according to experts at Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024, held alongside Seatrade Crew Connect Global in Manila.

Ted Blamey, principal at Chart Management Consultants, shared that Singapore has seen a remarkable recovery, hosting 817,000 cruise passengers, more than double the numbers from 2019, making it the largest market in Asia. India followed with a record 374,000 passengers, securing its spot as the second-largest cruise market in the region, while Malaysia saw 350,000 passengers, nearly tripling its 2019 figures. Indonesia and the Philippines also experienced notable growth, albeit at a smaller scale.

Blamey highlighted the return of major international cruise lines to Asia, including Norwegian Cruise Line’s deployment of four ships over the next two years, Carnival Corporation’s multiple brands, and the upcoming arrival of Disney Adventure in Singapore by December 2025, alongside several luxury and upscale lines.

Looking ahead, the future of Asia’s cruise market is shaped by key priorities such as sustainable growth, fostering relationships with local communities, and enhancing the overall guest experience.

On the topic of sustainability, Oliviero Morelli, president of MSC Group’s cruise division for Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, emphasized that Asian ports must align with the cruise industry’s green efforts. While many destinations in Asia maintain high standards, there is still considerable work to be done, as some are not yet fully equipped to handle sustainable practices.

Mary Bond, Seatrade Cruise group portfolio director, suggested that Asia could benefit from learning from the technological advancements, infrastructure improvements, and sustainable practices seen in other regions.

For areas in Asia where cruising is viewed more as transportation than leisure, speakers urged increased awareness among travelers, transport providers, and local communities about the advantages of cruise tourism.

To elevate the guest experience, experts advised cruise operators to focus on meticulous details to ensure seamless, enjoyable holidays. They also emphasized the need for new itineraries and programs designed specifically for the Asian market.

Southeast Asia was identified as a largely untapped market, with Singapore and Malaysia offering well-established airports and ports, crucial for fly-cruise operations and guest experience enhancements. Bangkok also stands out as a promising homeport, thanks to its strong infrastructure and airport connectivity.

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