BRUNEI • CAMBODIA • INDONESIA • LAOS • MALAYSIA • MYANMAR • PHILIPPINES • SINGAPORE • THAILAND • VIETNAM
ASIA CRUISE
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ISSUE 1 2015/16 US$29.95
YEARBOOK
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CRUISE ACROSS
Southeast Asia
SHIPS & CRUISE LINES COUNTRY PROFILES MAJOR PORTS HOW TO SELL OCEAN & RIVER EXPERT TIPS
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ADVERTORIAL
48 Fabulous Nights Aboard Set sail on a once-in-lifetime journey into the Southern Hemisphere with the Asia Pacific’s leading cruise line, Star Cruises.
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tar Cruises, the leading cruise line in the Asia Pacific, has upped the ante for destination cruising with its newly announced mega 48-night adventure crossing the equator to explore the Southern Hemisphere. From November 13 to December 31, 2015, guests can explore a variety of exotic ports during this once-in-a lifetime journey evoking the spirit of the classic film Around the World in 80 Days. “We are excited to announce this first-ever, long-haul itinerary across the Southern Hemisphere for Star Cruises that will allow our guests to
truly experience the diversity of lands and cultures of our corner of the world,” said Mr Ang Moo Lim, Executive Vice President, Sales, Marketing & Hotels for Genting Hong Kong. “As the Asia Pacific’s leading cruise operator in the region, we take pride in knowing our clientele and the local market trends and have developed this itinerary to give our guests, who are already very familiar with shorter cruises, the option to embark on a longer destination voyage.” Australia, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore,
Thailand and Vietnam… SuperStar Virgo will bring the greatest hits of Asia and the Southern Hemisphere right to your doorstep, stopping in more than 20 ports including Bali, Bangkok, Melbourne, Ho Chi Minh City and Sydney during its 48-night tour. Short on vacation time? Pick and choose the Southern Hemisphere experience you want with a variety of stops in colourful Southeast Asian ports. Bali to Singapore, perhaps? Or how about circling Australia to visit
ADVERTORIAL
SuperStar Virgo Adelaide, Cairns, Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania? It’s your choice. Whatever the itinerary, savour the flavours, sights and sounds of the region though exciting shore excursions and soak in the cultures of fascinating new lands: go up up and away in a hot-air balloon, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or dip and dive in a helicopter ride. You may not find buried treasure, but you will treasure your memories for a lifetime. For details visit www.starcruises.com
ABOUT STAR CRUISES
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tar Cruises is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Genting Hong Kong, a leading global leisure, entertainment and hospitality corporation. A pioneer in the Asia Pacific cruise industry, Star Cruises has been operating its fleet since 1993, taking the bold initiative to grow the region as an international cruise destination with a fleet of seven vessels: SuperStar Virgo, SuperStar Libra, SuperStar Gemini, SuperStar Aquarius, Star Pisces, MegaStar Taurus and The Taipan. Star Cruises’ commitment to offering best-in-class services and facilities is reflected in a host of accolades received over the years. These include being inducted into the prestigious Travel Trade Gazette’s Travel Hall of Fame for a seventh year in 2014, in recognition of winning Best Cruise Operator in the Asia-Pacific for 10 consecutive years. Star Cruises was also voted Asia’s Leading Cruise Line at the World Travel Awards for a third year in a row in 2014.
ABOUT SUPERSTAR VIRGO
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he SuperStar Virgo is the Asian flagship of the Star fleet. At 49.6 metres tall and 32.3 metres wide, this majestic beauty has more than 10 restaurants and bars serving culinary masterpieces, and spectacular shows that make every journey memorable. There are no limitations to your itineraries, which makes SuperStar Virgo the ultimate all-in-one cruise. Without a doubt, the SuperStar Virgo is the most impressive ship in our repertoire. The 13-storey ship has 935 cabins, including sea-view rooms and balcony suites. Offering a wide variety of dining, shopping and entertainment choices, its facilities include Chinese, internationalbuffet and Japanese restaurants, Asian cuisine, an alfresco bar, spa, gym, steam and sauna rooms, hairdressing salon, twolevel theatre, duty-free shops, a 100-metre mega water slide, outdoor swimming pool, mini golf course, karaoke room, activity centre and more.
WELCOME
EDITOR’S LETTER
Welcome to a world of opportunity
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elcome to the first edition of the Asia Cruise Yearbook – an acknowledgement that Southeast Asia has now become one of the most important destinations for cruise ships in the world. International cruise lines recognise that the ASEAN region will quickly become a major force, so they are sending their biggest and best ships to homeport here. This publication – and our website and newsletter at aseancruising.com – are designed to help travel professionals make the most of the enormous opportunities opening up as the cruise industry offers more itineraries on an increasingly diverse range of ships. There were 1.4 million Asian cruisers in 2014. By 2020, it is expected there will be 4.5 million – more than one fifth of the 22 million who currently cruise worldwide. Singapore is a standout – it came second only to China, with an incredible 163,232 passengers starting their journeys on ships leaving from this small island state in 2014. Chinese cruisers took top growth position, with more than 697,000 journeys in 2014 – up 79 per cent from the previous year. We know a little about the new Asian cruiser: they like to cruise at home (nine out of 10 choose itineraries in the Asian region) and they like short trips (almost half picked journeys of four to six days). To accommodate them, a total of 52 cruise ships will call in at Asian ports this year (up 34 per cent since 2013), many of which have been specially adapted to cater for Asian tastes. There are now 168 cruise destinations across 18 Asian countries. The number of port calls will reach an astonishing 3,909 – up 34 per cent – in 2015. This is great news for our economies, producing more jobs and better opportunities. We are sure you will enjoy our backgrounders on the countries and lines now plying our ports. We urge you to sign up for our regular newsletter – ASEAN Cruise News – at our website, aseancruising.com. We’ll be updating this publication regularly and welcome your feedback. Please let us know if there is something you would like us to include. Smooth sailing! Teresa Ooi, Editor, Asia Cruise Yearbook
CRUISE MEDIA AUSTRALASIA
Publisher Peter Lynch Editor Teresa Ooi teresa@bigsplashmedia.com.au Art Director Catherine Martin Sub Editor Sandy McPhie Commercial Director Leisa Chell leisa@bigsplashmedia.com.au Writers Teresa Ooi, Lucy Jones, Peter Lynch, Nahrain John, Bernadette Chua, Sarah Friggieri, Sally Hammond Picture research Bernadette Chua Map Kerry Alice We thank the following for their invaluable help: Ted Blamey, Principal, Chart Management Consultants Staff at the Singapore Tourism Board ASEAN Tourism Product Development Working Group Kevin Leong CLIA Southeast Asia CLIA Australasia Published by Cruise Media Australasia Suite 3, Level 2, 37 Bligh Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia +61 2 9231 3518 aseancruising.com All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Copyright Cruise Media Australasia Pty Ltd. Opinions expressed are those of the individual contributors and are not necessarily those of the publisher. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Information provided believed to be correct at time of publication, however details can change at any time and all information, including prices, in this magazine should be considered general in nature only. No travel decisions should be made solely on the information provided. Always consult your travel agent.
Contents ASIA CRUISE YEARBOOK | VOLUME 1 2015/2016
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CRUISE NEWS 4 6 8 12 14 17 18 88
How the cruise statistics stack up The passenger “tribes” of Asia ASEAN cruise map How CLIA Asia will help agents Sales secrets of the guru of cruise 50 years of Chan Brothers Singapore The Shipping News ASEAN directory
THE COUNTRIES 27 28 31 34 38 42 45 48 52 54 58
ASEAN countries working together Singapore – cruise powerhouse The Philippines – islands the key Indonesia – targeting four million Malaysia – the new Riviera Vietnam – simplifying visitor visas Cambodia – More ships on the way Thailand – new Southeast Asian hub Laos – Opening the Upper Mekong Myanmar – cruise-led visitor boom Brunei – steady growth from cruise
OUR COVER Disney Dream photographed by New York-based photographer Jeffrey Milstein. A former architect, he took a series of photographs of cruise ships while hovering above their decks in a helicopter. Find more of his work at: jeffreymilstein.com
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ASIAN FLEET 61 Ships of the world arrive in Asia 62 Seabourn 64 Silversea Cruises/Ponant 65 Crystal Cruises/Regent Seven Seas 66 Oceania Cruises/Cunard 67 Azamara Club Cruises/Hapag-Lloyd 68 Princess Cruises 70 Holland America Line 72 Royal Caribbean International 74 Norwegian Cruise Line 75 Star Cruises 76 Costa/MSC Cruises 77 P&O Cruises 78 Lindblad Expeditions/Hurtigruten 79 Bhaya Cruises/Celebrity Cruises 80 Pandaw 81 APT/AmaWaterways 82 Avalon Waterways/Aqua Expedition 83 Viking River Cruises/Belmond 84 Haimark Line/Scenic 85 Uniworld/Jahan Cruises 86 Ayravata Cruises/Cruiseco 87 Sanctuary Retreats ASEANCRUISING.COM
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CRUISE NEWS
The Numbers
Asia is already proving to be a strong competitor in the cruise markets – and the statistics are only set to grow.
1.4 m the number of Asian
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the number of ships that will be operating in Asia, a 10 % rise
cruisers predicted for 2015, a rise of 34%
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the cruise lines serving Asia in 2015
5,824
the number of days cruise ships are now operating in Asia
Figures from the Cruise Lines International Asia Cruise Trends study
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79%
the growth in mainland Chinese cruisers taking trips by sea
91%
How long % 48 Asian passengers chose 4-6 night journey.
% 38 chose 2-3 nights % 12 opted for 7-13 nights
CRUISE NEWS
of Asian cruisers sailed within the region
168 destinations
The number of port calls now operating in in Asia will reach 3909 – Asia across up 34 per cent.
18 countries for the cruise industry
1,065
the number of sailings this year, up 11%
Port calls
646 580 377 Japan Malaysia S Korea
374 Singapore & Thailand ASEANCRUISING.COM
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CRUISE NEWS
PASSENGER PROFILES
What Kind of cruisers are your clients? Words Teresa Ooi
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here is an important maxim in the cruise industry: match a passenger with the right ship and you have a client for life. Get it wrong and you have lost a potential passenger for ever. Asian cruisers are different – they are younger and expect more. Ted Blamey, principal of Chart Management Consultants, has written many of the most influential reports on the Asian cruise industry in recent years. We asked him to outline Asia’s cruise tribes.
Young Asian couples and newly weds ■ About 40 per cent of cruisers from the
biggest growth markets of China, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines are under the age of 40, a decade younger than the average
Multigenerational families
international cruiser. At least 25 per cent of Chinese passengers are 30 years of age or younger. They tend to be more active both on board and on shore excursions. “Chinese cruisers are not interested in sitting in the sun around the pool with a cocktail in their hand,’’ Mr Blamey said. “They want constant activity and want to be busy. They are also interested in shopping and gambling. “So cruisers will have to pick the right ship with enough activities, entertainment, shows, casinos and shopping facilities to keep them occupied during the cruise.” As most Asians have limited holiday entitlements, they also like to cruise close to home. Often, they prefer four-to six-night cruises around the region and want to see and experience as much as possible when they disembark for onshore excursions.
Young couples and newly weds Some newly weds are taking to the sea for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of spending their first week of wedded bliss on a cruise ship. As this is a special time for the couple, some lines offer honeymoon couples a cabin upgrade at a reasonable price or deals that include onboard credits to help with alcohol bills. Honeymooners often look for ships that offer fun, exciting nightlife, entertainment and romance. Popular lines: Princess Cruises, Star Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line., Azamara Club Cruises.
Multigenerational families
■ Three generational families cruising
together are quite common in Asia, Mr Blamey said. “Travelling in groups with family and friends is a popular and preferred way of cruising among Asians, particularly the Chinese. Often grandparents volunteer to look after the grandchildren to give mums and dads some time to themselves,’’ he said. Cruise lines that target kids with special features such as Flow Rider, rock climbing walls and Dr Seuss characters are popular.
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CRUISE NEWS Popular lines: Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa.
Fun-loving party passengers
■ They are often cashed-up 40-somethings
who work hard and like to play hard. They like big resort-style ships with lots of activities, quizzes, aerobics, miniature golf, competitions and an environment that allows for easy mixing during the day and night. They also like packed onshore excursions where they can see, try and experience everything in a day or night. And, of course, nightlife. Most large cruise ships have nightclubs, casinos and cabaret shows. Expect these cruisers to buy all-inclusive cruises or drinks packages. During the day, they will be found on the Flow Rider, ice rink or drinking by the pool. Popular lines: Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Costa.
Cashed-up baby boomers
■ Increasingly, baby boomers aged in their
50s, 60s and 70s have been the captive market for most cruise lines including those plying Asian waters. Blamey said that 21 per cent of all Asian cruisers in 2014 were aged in their 50s, another 16 per cent aged in their 60s and nine per cent in the 70s.
Fun-loving party passengers
Cashed-up baby boomers
The more wealthy the couple, the more likely they are to prefer smaller, luxurious cruises. This is almost half the total number of cruisers. Baby boomers are also looking for a different tone and ambience on board the ship, preferring good food, good wine and some entertainment. Many are also partial to attending lectures on places they want to visit, including talks by archaeologists, anthropologists and former diplomats. Art lessons and cooking classes including market visits with the chef are popular with this group. They also like more gentle activities such as tai-chi classes and playing mahjong. Immersion and enrichment cruises with lines such as Azamara Club Cruises, which specialise in longer stays in port and land activities, are popular, as are European river cruises with guides and historical learning. Popular lines: Seabourn, Crystal Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Cruises Ponant, Lindblad Expeditions, Azamara Club Cruises.
Wealthy and sophisticated
■ As Asians approach retirement age and
become more comfortable, they often trade up and go on longer cruises and adventure expeditions, Blamey said.
The more wealthy the couple, the more likely they are to prefer smaller, luxurious cruises with a sense of adventure. They tend to go on expeditions to the polar regions on smaller ships with 100 to 250 passengers. “More than 60 per cent of this market tend to go to Europe, the Mediterranean and the Baltic, followed by 20 per cent to Alaska and Canada and 14 per cent to the Caribbean and Hawaii,” he said. “They are keen to travel further away to experience an exotic destination and are more likely to cruise longer, at least seven days. They are prepared to pay more for their cruise as they like good food, good wine and a different experience. “Cruise lines love them as they generate a good return from such wealthy passengers.’’ Popular lines: Seabourn, Ponant, Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Lindblad Expeditions, Cunard.
Singles and Women travelling in groups ■ Singles travelling alone are not popular
on Asian cruises. There are occasions when several women gather friends and family members to cruise together. They often share a love for mahjong or like to try their luck at the ship’s casino, but it is not a growing trend, Blamey said. Popular lines: Royal Caribbean, Costa, Star Cruises.
Wealthy and sophisticated ASEANCRUISING.COM
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ASEAN MAP 1 THAILAND
With a fabulous array of coastal resorts, Thailand is one of the region’s most popular cruise destinations, and currently welcomes 75 ships a year from 26 lines. From 2016, Star Clippers will base a new 170-passenger square-rigged ship on the island of Phuket. Lines such as Costa, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn make regular visits, while others, such as Holland America Line and Royal Caribbean, are increasing their deployment to Thailand.
INFORMATION ABOUT THAILAND’S PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 48-50
MYANMAR
MYANMAR
VIETNAM
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Myanmar is becoming one of the most popular Asian destinations for river cruises, with luxury ships launched by many of the world’s leading lines including APT and Avalon Waterways. In 2014, about 18,000 tourists cruised the Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers. APT and Travelmarvel are launching new ships in January 2016. Ocean cruise lines including Swan Hellenic, Holland America, Oceania, Celebrity Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas visit regularly.
LAOS SOUTH CHINA SEA
THAILAND
INFORMATION ABOUT MYANMAR’S PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 54-56
CAMBODIA
3 LAOS
As Asian travellers seek unique destinations, such as World Heritage listed Luang Prabang, more river ships are tackling the shallow waters of Laos’ Upper Mekong River. Avalon Waterways, APT and Pandaw Cruises are among the biggest operators. Pandaw has custom designed its vessels for the shallow waters. APT’s Mekong Sun and Mekong Explorer offer itineraries in Laos as well as single itineraries that also include Vietnam and Cambodia.
INFORMATION ABOUT LAOS’ PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 52-53
ANDAMAN SEA
BRUNEI MALAYSIA
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VIETNAM
Vietnam has signed an agreement with Singapore to promote the cruise industry and new port facilities will be built. Vietnam will also simplify visa processes to make it easier and cheaper for passengers to disembark while in port. Meanwhile, Mekong River cruising continues to expand with lines adding new ships. Avalon Waterways has launched the Avalon Siem Reap, CroisiEurope will launch a new ship for the 2016-17 season and Scenic will launch Scenic Spirit.
INDONESIA INFORMATION ABOUT VIETNAM’S PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 42-44
INDONESIA JAVA SEA
5 CAMBODIA
INFORMATION ABOUT CAMBODIA’S PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 45-47
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MALAYSIA
SINGAPORE
In 2014, Cambodia welcomed 96,950 cruise visitors (both ocean and river), a figure expected to grow by the end of 2015 as new river ships are launched and more ocean vessels visit. Cambodia currently features on the itineraries of major ocean lines such as Star Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Aida Cruises and Seabourn. River cruise operators include Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Pandaw Cruises, Scenic, Uniworld and Travelmarvel.
INDIAN OCEAN
ASEAN MAP
SOUTHEAST ASIAN CRUISE MAP THE PHILIPPINES PACIFIC OCEAN
MALAYSIA
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Malaysia is one of the most developed cruise destinations in Southeast Asia and one of the four largest cruise markets in Asia. There are plans to develop a “Straits Riviera” in Malaysia, which will include improved cruise terminals in Penang, Port Klang, Kota Kinabalu, Langkawi, Melaka and Kuching. Royal Caribbean, Star Cruises and Star Clippers will be making regular visits to Malaysia over the 2015/16 wave season.
INFORMATION ABOUT MALAYSIA’S PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 38-41
7 BRUNEI
Rich in history and wildlife, Brunei is starting to see a steady cruise growth. In 2014, it welcomed 15 ocean ships, and a record 30,000 cruise visitors. Brunei can expect another record cruise season in 2015/16 with ships such as Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas making INFORMATION ABOUT her inaugural call at the country’s capital, BRUNEI’S PORT & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS Bandar Seri Begawan later in 2015, and Oceania Cruises’ Insignia visiting on her PAGES 58-59 70-day New World Quest from Hong Kong to Miami.
SINGAPORE
Singapore is at the forefront of Southeast Asia’s cruise industry, with two cruise terminals that can welcome the world’s larger vessels. It is the first Asian country to offer Cruise Fly/FlyCruise services. Since 2012, Singapore has been selected as the homeport for a number of new ships including Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess and Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas. Singapore also hosts Star Cruises’ SuperStar Gemini and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Millennium.
SULU SEA
CELEBES SEA
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INFORMATION ABOUT SINGAPORE’S PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 28-31
9 THE PHILIPPINES
INDONESIA
INFORMATION ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES’ PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 31-33
INDONESIA
TIMOR SEA
The Philippines is working hard to entice more cruise ships to visit, particularly to new island destinations. Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas will visit in August, October and November, 2015 and return in May 2016. Other ships that regularly sail to the Philippines include Silver Shadow, Silver Whisperer, Celebrity Millennium, Costa Victoria, Seven Seas Voyager, Europa 2, Queen Elizabeth and Seabourn Sojurn.
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In 2014, Indonesia had more than 9.4 million international visitors and about one million were cruise-related. In early 2015, Indonesia announced it would extend its visa-free policy to China, Japan, South Korea and Russia. Over the 2015/16 wave season, Indonesia will welcome at least two new ships, including Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas, calling at Bali during on an 18-night sailing from Hong Kong to Brisbane. P&O’s new Pacific Eden will call at ports in May, June and July 2016.
INFORMATION ABOUT INDONESIA’S PORTS & TOURIST ATTRACTIONS PAGES 34-37
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ADVERTORIAL: SINGAPORE
Smooth sailing
FIVE REASONS WHY CRUISING FROM SINGAPORE IS A BREEZE
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ruising allows you to travel the world, but unpack only once. However, the convenience on board a cruise ship needs to be matched by a seamless shore experience. This calls for strong infrastructure and excellent connectivity – both of which Singapore is more than able to offer. With a global reputation for efficiency, the city’s two terminals, the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS) and Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC), are each able to turn around two large vessels at a time. Singapore is well-placed to tap the positive outlook for the global cruise industry, with Asia widely expected to
Marina Bay Sands and Singapore skyline
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fuel the boom as Asian holidaymakers increasingly recognise cruise as an accessible value-for-money travel option. A study by the Singapore Tourism Board found that eight in 10 Asians who have never taken a holiday afloat are now interested in cruising. Almost half prefer their first cruise to be in Asia, rather than Europe or America. And Singapore is Southeast Asia’s most popular cruise hub. Here are five reasons why:
1. Excellent connection to a variety of cruises
Singapore has excellent air connectivity with flights to more than 300 cities on 106 airlines. The city state is so well linked
that getting from the plane to the ship takes less than an hour.
2. FlyCruise and CruiseFly Singapore pioneered the FlyCruise and CruiseFly concepts in Asia. These services allow cruise passengers to explore the city knowing their luggage is securely stowed or on its way to the plane. Passengers can then visit some of the country’s most innovative tourist attractions such as Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer and Sentosa Island, located close to the MBCCS and SCC.
ADVERTORIAL: SINGAPORE
3. Incentive travel
4. A shopper’s paradise
5. Food, glorious food!
Cruising from Singapore is also a good option for MICE/incentive groups. Benefits include: • All-inclusive fare; • Hassle-free planning of the event, since meals and activities are included in the cruise fare; • Unique experience for MICE groups who wish to visit multiple destinations • Captive audience on board; • Dedicated onboard conference team to help organise events; and • A wide variety of activities and entertainment for participants and their companions.
The island has amazing retail experiences such as: • Marina Bay Sands and Vivocity, both close to the cruise terminals with big brand stores and a wide variety of local food options; • TANGS (Orchard Road, Vivocity) and Robinsons (Orchard Road), local department stores that offer personal experiences and treats such as spas; • Museum Label and Singapore Visitor Centre (Orchard Road), with unique Singapore-themed souvenirs; and • KEEPERS: Singapore Designer Collective (Orchard Road), a pop-up that showcases local designers and artisans.
Singapore also has a wide variety of food options ranging from delightful local fare to top international cuisine. Visitors can consider these dining experiences: • Sample heritage dishes on an ION Food Trail; • Go back in time on a Spice Odyssey program with At-Sunrice; and • Whip up authentic local favourites such as laksa, chicken rice and satay at the award-winning Cultural Cooking class at Food Playground. With so much to complement a vacation on the seas, it is no wonder the world’s top cruise lines have made Singapore their home!
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CRUISE NEWS
CLIA SE ASIA CHAIR
WHY CRUISE WANTS YOUR BUSINESS
ahead of schedule, to develop an online training package. Europe’s branch of CLIA will, she hoped, provide the platform to offer training modules throughout the region. “Only a handful of travel agents in Southeast Asia know cruising. We can leverage CLIA Australasia’s capacity and our European online training system – so we do not have to reinvent the wheel again. But we have to get the right mix and the right content to train travel agents,’’ Ms Sherry said. “We want to encourage cruise lines in the region to invite travel agents onboard ships. Once agents touch, see and experience life on board, the ability to sell cruise is much better.
“We do pay travel agents double-digit commission so they can earn good money from selling cruise.”
Chair of CLIA Southeast Asia, Ann Sherry tells why cruise lines will be targeting travel agents Words Peter Lynch
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sia’s travel agents are about to be courted by the world’s biggest cruise lines, with training, trips on their ships and double-figure commission opportunities. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Southeast Asia is open for business, after supplanting the Asian Cruise Association. CLIA is the global body representing the world’s biggest ship operators, and it is 12
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gearing up to persuade the travel industry to take full advantage of the enormous growth opportunities as the cruise sector takes off. Ann Sherry, Chair of CLIA’s Southeast Asia organisation, talked to ASEAN Cruise News’ The Asia Cruise Year Book about plans to offer training and other opportunities to travel agents. She said her organisation was working with Australia’s highly successful CLIA Australasia, which recently broke the million-plus passenger target six years
“We are also going to all ASEAN countries to get them to better engage with travel agents. “We want ASEAN governments to work with cruise lines. And it has to be a two-way street – governments should also work with tourism and port authorities [to get better infrastructure developed],’’ she said. Ms Sherry, who is CEO of Carnival Australia and has presided over a turnaround of the company, praised Singapore as the most active country in the region in developing the cruise market. It has been very deliberate in chasing and growing the cruise market, she said. In particular, it has been promoting shipyards such as Sembawang, which have the capacity to refit and refurbish large ocean-going cruise ships. Meanwhile, Malaysia is building its cruise tourism, she said. The Philippines is now looking at cruise as a burgeoning industry while Indonesia is now actively looking into the industry. Ms Sherry said there has been a lot of focus on Vietnam, but the country lacks good shore linkages for the moment. “Vietnam is an amazing country with lots to see and do, but the chaotic roads are among the most dangerous.
CRUISE NEWS “Southeast Asia is not a homogenous country. We just have to adapt to different individual countries. “Southeast Asia is a very large market – as large as China. The region has international travellers, so this is an opportunity. Southeast Asia is going to be the destination in the region. “Many Australians and Europeans have visited one or two countries in the region. We need to offer more itineraries and open up more Asian destinations. We want our cruises to offer three to four destinations.’’ Ms Sherry has no problem about having different groups of cultures onboard cruise ships. “I’ve been on a Princess ship to Alaska with a large group of Chinese, Australian and American travellers – each group with its own dynamic focus. If you want to find like-minded travellers, you can. If you want to find people who stretch your boundaries, you can. “For me, travel is about engaging with people who are not the same as you – it’s one of the great joys of cruise and we have not sold it enough to new markets. “Australians in particular live in multicultural societies, so it is not such a big stretch to mix with other cultures.’’ She said Chinese cruise passengers are new in international travel, and the younger Chinese and Japanese holidaymakers are different from the older generation. “Younger travellers are looking for good entertainment – the mix of bars and good food. There’s an energy about them. So cruises have to offer them good food, bars and entertainment – not in a structured manner, but in an attractive package. Nightlife in Asia is not very different from Sydney. People want choice, and the younger demographic is harder to appeal to than others.” But the main concern for CLIA Southeast Asia is training travel agents to sell cruise. “We will train travel agents and offer them online training. We will get them to visit or go on famils on cruise ships, which would help sell cruise with confidence,’’ said Ms Sherry. But they have to become a member of CLIA Southeast Asia to get the training. Initially the training would be available only in English, but there are plans to offer it in a local language, possibly Vietnamese. “And we do pay travel agents doubledigit commission so they can earn good money from selling cruise,” she said.
CLIA ASIA
Your partner in the Southeast Asia cruise industry
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s the growth of cruising in Asia gathers pace, the establishment of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Asia is perfectly timed to leverage the market opportunity in the region. Previously known as Asia Cruise Association, it encompasses both CLIA Southeast Asia and CLIA North Asia. CLIA Southeast Asia is currently chaired by Carnival Australia CEO, Ann Sherry. CLIA North Asia is chaired by Royal Caribbean’s President of Operations for China & North Asia Region, Dr Zinan Liu. The General Manager is David Goh. The alignment with CLIA establishes more opportunities for growth in the regional cruise industry and provides an influential voice as both associations work with governments and private entities in their regions. The associations will focus on infrastructure, advocacy and engage with key stakeholders in the region to leverage the
socioeconomic benefits of the growing cruise industry. Working closely together, CLIA’s global community is dedicated to the development and sustainability of the cruise industry’s continued growth. The CLIA Executive Partner program provides partners with an opportunity to grow their business in Asia and tap into the collective knowledge of industry leaders. Benefits include: • International recognition and affiliation with the endorsement of CLIA Asia’s logo in your marketing communication strategies • Raising the profile of your organisation through various CLIA Asia Platforms (website
listings, press releases, publications) • Increasing your brand position through CLIA Asia’s publication (who’s who in the Cruise Industry Directory) • A competitive edge in today’s challenging market environment by accessing the range of extensive industry studies conducted by CLIA Asia and access to the members-only zone at cruising.org • Being kept up-to-speed on industry activities in Asia and receive complimentary invitations or exclusive discounted rates for Cruise Shipping events, Port Development activities and CLIA Asia Travel Agent Training events.
David Goh
About Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) – One Industry, One Voice Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2015, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the unified voice and leading authority of the global cruise community. As the largest cruise industry trade association with 15 offices globally, CLIA has representation in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australasia. CLIA’s mission is to support policies and practices that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment for the more than 23 million passengers who cruise annually, as well as promote the cruise travel experience. Members are committed to the sustained success of the cruise industry and are comprised of the world’s most prestigious ocean, river and specialty cruise lines; a highly trained and certified travel agent community; and other cruise industry partners, including ports, destinations, ship developers, suppliers, business services and travel operators. For more information, visit cruising.org, cruiseforward.org or follow Cruise Lines International Association on the CLIA Facebook and Twitter fan pages.
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CRUISE NEWS: XXXXXXXXXX Theme Cruises – a person with no previous history of wanting to cruise may change their mind if their special interest is the focus of the cruise, with like-minded passengers sharing these experiences. Groups – much like themed cruises, wanting to spend time away with your affinity or corporate group gets people to cruise despite their previous apprehension.
Multi-generation groups ■ Showcase all the activities on offer, from
learning experiences for the mature to the fun activities for the juniors, all while spending quality family time together.
Millennials ■ Technology has changed on board – learn
about it! Also illustrate the many activities, bars, etc the ship and destinations have which all lead to a dynamic experience.
Know sales 1.0.1 ■ The number one thing to remember in all
Masterclass
HOW TO SELL CRUISE HOLIDAYS IN ASIA Peter Kollar, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia training and development manager, has conducted training sessions in many Asian regions. It is expected that much of his knowledge will be incorporated in the agent training CLIA Asia will be offering soon. He spelled out the top lessons every agent should learn exclusively for us.
Understanding the cruise revolution ■ The biggest difference between Asia and
the rest of the world is the perception of cruise. In the US and Australia, a cruise is a natural holiday option for all ages and all budgets. In Asia, it is wrongly perceived as being only for seniors, and an expensive luxury. This is far from the truth. With more than 350 ships and 120 river vessels to choose from, an agent needs to spend time researching the product range and understanding the different target markets the cruise lines are approaching. The evolution in ship design, brand-affiliated
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activities, and shore experiences have changed more in the past 10 years than at any time in the history of modern cruising. Know it and educate your client base.
Identifying current trends ■ There are three major groups cruising in
Asia: new to cruise, multi-generation groups and “Millennials” (under 35). These are some of the way agents can sell cruises to the different demographics.
New to cruise ■ Show them the per-day cost of a cruise
compared to land options and suggest:
sales is that the seller is trying to get their potential client “emotionally connected” to the product. If this doesn’t succeed, neither will the sale. In cruise terms, this means both the product (ship) and the destination (itinerary). In the role of modern travel agents, this means “painting the picture” with face-to-face, phone and email communication. Using social media helps as well, as pictures themselves are still the greatest assets as agent tools. Tip: If you don’t know the reason your customer wants to go on a holiday, don’t expect to paint the right picture!
Where to start? ■ The best place for Asian travel agents to
start learning about product is studying the ships sailing in Asian waters. Currently 90 per cent of all Asian passengers are cruising close to home (from domestic ports), so if nine out of 10 customers are asking about these products, then it is best to learn about them first. Other markets around the world are at approximately 70 per cent close to home, so as the Asian market matures, more of your clients will cruise from other regions.
Importance of destination knowledge ■ I could fill a whole magazine with reasons
why destination knowledge is so important for agents, from selling (painting the right picture), to service (the logistics of the port, where the ship docks, what to do). But the number one thing to know about
CRUISE NEWS destinations is that turnaround ports are your business. In other words, a travel agent gets all their up-sell products from ports where the ship starts and ends its cruise. It is where you fly your clients to, where they need transfers, where their hotel stays are, where they may do a day trip, or where they may spend extra days before or after their cruise.
Research â– Encourage your prospective clients to
take a moment to think about their perfect cruise holiday and to decide how much time they have, how much they can spend and who they will travel with. This will make it easier to decide which cruise is right.
Knowledge â– Make sure your clients understand that
you are the cruise expert, ready to help organise their dream cruise.
Ships â– Cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes
offering holidays to suit everyone, from small luxury vessels cruising Europe’s rivers to megaliners offering a huge choice of onboard activities such as rock climbing
and dance lessons. Think about your client’s holiday expectations and pick a ship to match them.
Destination â– If your client has a particular destination
in mind, chances are that there’s a cruise ship that goes there. As the popularity of cruise grows, so do the destinations ships visit each year – from unspoiled South Pacific ports, to the historic cities of Europe and the exotic ports of Asia.
Season
Dress â– Cruise passengers often look forward to
the chance to dress up. Some cruise lines have very casual dress codes while others can be quite classy, particularly on formal nights. Check dress codes for the ship you select.
Deals â– Book as far in advance as possible to get
the best deals and choice of cabin. If they are travelling with a group of friends or family, there may be special group deals.
Packages
■Compare your client’s availability with
the best time to travel to their preferred destination. Places such as Alaska are only accessible during the northern-hemisphere summer, while others, such as the Caribbean, are great year round.
Cabins
â– Cruise lines offer a host of services
designed to take the stress out of planning a holiday and save your client’s money. Many will offer special deals on flights and accommodation in the cities where the cruise begins or ends, as well as transfers to the ship.
Paperwork
â– If your clients plan to spend little time in
their cabin, suggest a smaller, inside cabin and taking the savings as extra spending money. A larger cabin might suit a longer voyage or, for a little luxury, choose a private balcony to soak up the incredible views.
â– Taking out comprehensive travel insurance
is a must to ensure hassle-free holiday. Before your clients book, make sure their passport is current for at least six months after the date they return home and check with the cruise line if any visas are necessary.
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CRUISE NEWS Q As one of the Asia’s leading cruise agencies, how does Chan Brothers Travel train agents? A We train our cruise specialists through one-to-one mentoring sessions conducted by cruise operators, B2B learning portals, understudy assignments and familiarisation trips. The main challenges from an agency point of view lie in educating consumers, creating awareness of lesser known cruise routes and ensuring pertinent product fit – understanding passengers’ requirements, budget and comfort level before recommending the suitable cruise vacation from numerous and increasing market offerings, including recommending the ideal pre- and post-cruise accommodation and shore excursions. – Q You have specialists in ocean and river cruising – how easy is it to familiarise these agents with the products? A The main distinction between ocean and river cruising lies in the emphasis placed on the cruise ship or the land-touring aspects. Ocean cruising has a larger emphasis on the ship and less on the ports of call. River cruising has less emphasis on the ship, which are usually more intimate, and a larger emphasis on the ports of call, which can be fairly numerous along a specific route. Some of our escorted river cruises have tour managers who follow throughout the tour and these tour managers have to be familiar with the ports of call and capable of leading the group on their offshore excursions. – Q Do you send agents on famil visits to ships and destination? Are enough of these being provided by the industry? A More frequent familiarisation trips from the cruise operators for staff to personally experience the cruise facilities will help build brand advocates who can draw from their own experiences, promote and sell a cruise package better. – Q What are the major challenges in ensuring that agents are up to date with cruise products and itineraries? A Being familiar with the myriad offerings and the various configurations. – Q What are the biggest challenges facing agents in selling cruise to an Asian client? A To a certain extent, there is a misconception as young Singaporeans who embrace fastpaced lifestyle associate the leisurely pace of cruising with the elderly. Cruising is
Q+A
Chan Brothers Singapore’s Chan Brothers has run a Worldwide Cruise Centre for three years, which has seen an average 30 per cent yearon-year growth for regional cruises from Singapore. Managing Director Anthony Chan explains the importance of training to Teresa Ooi.
Anthony Chan
also an opportunity for multi-generational families to travel together due to the convenience and the proximity of onboard accommodation, the wide range of activities to appeal to family members with differing interests, and flexibility of time to be spent together or apart, pursuing individual interests. The proportion of young people versus elderly remains fairly stable as the bulk of cruise travellers has always been families. The rise in cruise popularity predominantly stems from the paradigm shift in travel over the years as holiday-makers, both young and old, start to appreciate relaxing vacations for recharge instead of packing the holiday with endless activities and sightseeing. – Q What ways could cruise lines and others in the industry help improve the level of product knowledge in the industry? A More user-friendly B2B portals where our cruise specialists can easily access cruise information to distinguish among the various cruise lines, will certainly come in handy due to the increasingly numerous market offerings. – Q Are many clients repeat customers? A Repeat customers comprise 30 per cent of our demand for cruising. We expect this number to grow as consumers become more familiar with cruising. – Q What sells best to the Asian market? The top three cruise packages include regional cruises to Asia, Alaska cruises and Mediterranean cruises. – Q Do you believe cruise will expand in the Southeast Asian market? A Absolutely. Over the past few years, we have continually introduced new modes and themes of cruising, including thematic cruises, which have garnered exceptional response, including karaoke, vow renewal, educational and gourmet theme cruises. We have been running chartered river cruises with great success since 2007, including the Three Gorges in China and Danube River in Europe with up to 400 customers per sailing. Riding on this positive demand, we are looking to set a new milestone in conjunction with our 50th year with our inaugural charter on Royal Caribbean International’s Legend of the Seas. The three-night charter cruise with more than 2,000 guests to Penang and Kuala Lumpur sets sail on June 25, 2015. ASEANCRUISING.COM
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OCEAN VISAS
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RIVER
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ADVENTURE
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EASIER VISAS FOR ASIAN CRUISERS
PORTS Quantum of the Seas arrives in Shanghai
■ ASEAN nations are reducing their visa
restrictions to encourage cruise tourism. A more relaxed attitude to visas in Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand will make it easier for travel agents to sell cruise within the ASEAN nations and make it simpler for travellers to visit countries such as Japan and China. The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has extended its Multiple Journey Visas to Chinese nationals which means they are not required to reapply for every trip they make to Singapore. STB also plans to expand the network of visa agents, which will increase the number of channels through which Chinese travellers can apply for Singapore visas. “Besides China, STB is reaching out to visitors from other key markets, including Indonesia, India and Australia,” said Leong Yue Kheong, Assistant Chief Executive of the International Group, STB. Vietnamese cruise visitors travelling to Japan will also not require visas before departing if cruise lines complete landing visas. Under the new policy, tourists from Vietnam will be allowed to stay in Japan for up to 30 days for travel only. Indonesia plans to extend a visa-free policy to 30 countries, hoping to attract an additional three million tourists this year. Authorities in Phuket, Thailand are also planning to make visa policies easier for cruise tourism.
QUANTUM OF THE SEAS
New mega-ship calls Asia home R oyal Caribbean’s highly anticipated Quantum of the Seas arrived at her new home in Shanghai, China in June 2015. It’s the first time a major new mega-ship has been homeported in China by a North American cruise line. Sailing on a range of three- to eight-night roundtrip itineraries from Shanghai to destinations in North Asia,
the 4,180-passenger ship promises “an unprecedented cruise holiday experience” for guests from China and international markets. “Chinese consumers have grown to expect the best the world has to offer, and Quantum of the Seas meets that standard like no other ship. This is a cruise from the future,” said Michael Bayley,
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President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. The “futuristic” elements include North Star (a glass capsule that takes guests 90 metres above the ocean for panoramic views), the RipCord by iFly skydiving experience, FlowRider surfing simulator and SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment centre at sea.
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CRUISE NEWS STAR CRUISES
Two new megaliners to be tailored for the Asian market
T
hey have been described as the first megaliners tailored for the Asian market. As construction begins on Star Cruises’ two new ships, here’s what to tell your clients: ■ The first ship, expected to be called Genting World, will be launched by late 2016 and the second, as yet unnamed, by 2017 and both have been tailored for the Asian market. ■ With more than 30 food and beverage outlets, there will be gourmet restaurants, bars and cafes serving both Asian and international fare. ■ There will be a special street night market with hawker stalls serving famous Asian delicacies
from various ASEAN countries. There will be 1,000 square metres of retail space where the line hopes to attract the top international luxury brands. ■ There will be state-ofthe-art theatres, world-class recreation, health and fitness and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) facilities. ■ For families, the ships will have aqua slides and a special kids’ water park. ■ Each ship will feature 21 decks with 1,600 cabins to accommodate about 4,500 guests and 2,000 crew placing the megaliners among the 10 biggest cruise ships in the world.
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ASEAN Cruise YearBook2015_124mmx183mm_HIRES.pdf
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Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay signing the first steel cut of Genting World
■ The ships are being built at world-class shipyard Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany. Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Chairman and CEO of Genting Hong Kong, Star Cruises’ parent company, was at the steel-cutting ceremony for Genting World. “It is a proud moment for all of us at Genting Hong Kong, especially for me, as today’s 6:17 PM
steel cutting ceremony marks a new chapter for Genting Hong Kong, reaffirming our Star Cruises brand as the leader in Asian cruise travel. The delivery of these two newly commissioned mega cruise ships will enable us to continue to strengthen and further enhance our competitiveness across our key source markets.”
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CRUISE NEWS AGENT COMMISSIONS
SELLING CRUISE IS GOOD BUSINESS
T
ravel agents selling cruise are wooed with a variety of perks and commissions of 10 per cent or more, a survey by ASEAN Cruise News, the official newsletter of the ASEAN Cruise Working Group, has revealed. As well as earning free cruises and attending well-catered training sessions, most travel agents are paid a standard 10 per cent commission. Ted Blamey of Chart Management Consultants, who created a major white paper on the industry and is currently updating it, said: “Some cruises do not include flights so the agent is able to earn more commission if he arranges flights and hotels, pre and post cruise. And if he sells travel insurance, he can earn a bit more.” Cruise lines rely on travel agents and wholesalers to sell their products. In Asia’s relatively young cruise market, it is not easy for a potential customer to pick and buy a cruise holiday online. “Cruise is quite a complex product. Unless you are an experienced cruiser, it is not easy to book online,” Mr Blamey said. That’s why lines invite travel agents on board ships to experience the cruise. This is the most effective way for them to sell cruises. “Agents are a critical link between the cruise line and the consumer,’’ Mr Blamey said. Samuel Manalo Jr, regional sales manages for Southeast Asia at Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL), told us that besides paying agents a commission, RCL rewards top performers with incentives including free cruises. The company has an international e-learning program, Cruising for Excellence, for 20
ASEANCRUISING.COM
agents worldwide that covers its three brands, RCL, Celebrity and Azamara Club. The course is available in several languages including Japanese, Korean and Chinese, and trained agents are given priority for promotional offers. Costa also works closely with travel agents. The line organises an annual showpiece cruise, The Champions of the Sea, dedicated to Costa’s best travel partners. As part of its incentive scheme, the line can appoint travel partners and agents as godmother and maids of honour when a new ship is launched. Michael Goh, Star Cruises Senior Vice President, Sales said the line provides training every three to six months to reinforce agents’ knowledge of Star products, reservation systems, itineraries and market trends. They are also invited on familiarisation cruises. For its Norwegian Cruise Line and Resorts World
“Unless you are an experienced cruiser, it is not easy to book online.”
Boracay
booms despite poor infrastructure
L
ack of port infrastructure isn’t slowing the growth of cruising to the Philippines, as the popular island of Boracay has its busiest year of cruising. The Philippines Department of Tourism says the famous beach destination is expected to welcome 20 cruise ship visits in 2015, including Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas and Silversea’s Silver Shadow. In 2016, Boracay will welcome two new ships, as Oceania Cruises sends Nautica and Insignia to the island in January and April. The Western Visayas branch of the tourism bureau – the region Boracay belongs to – said that while proud of its cruise growth, the region is far from reaching its potential. “Western Visayas is composed of many islands and ports that, if promoted, can also be a host to cruise ships coming from all over the world,” a spokesperson said.
Manila brands, the line conducts in-depth training sessions for agents. “Know Your Customer is of great importance. By understanding the holidaymakers and MICE guests’ behaviours and travel preferences, we can tailor-make our cruise packages to meet their needs,” Mr Goh said. Princess Cruises has its own Princess Academy, an online university for travel agents to learn how to sell cruise to customers who are not familiar with cruising. The training equips agents with the skills on how to match itinerary/ship to the different consumer needs. In Australasia, the payment of travel agents’ commissions was the third largest expense
for cruise companies on international and local cruises, according to a recent study by Cruise Lines International Association Australasia. Mr Blamey said that while agents may get bigger commissions from selling luxury cruises, the number of passengers on five-star vessels are fewer compared to the bigger, mid-market ships. As a result, some agents choose to concentrate on selling more cruises at cheaper prices. Mr Blamey said cruise lines may offer cash incentives to major retailers with a wider network of travel agencies. This includes an additional commission if they hit certain sales targets.
CRUISE NEWS Q+A
DR ZINAN LIU
President for China and North Asia Pacific for Royal Caribbean International and Chair of CLIA North Asia Q. China’s middle class has developed a taste for three- to four-night cruises. Is there a growing interest to travel further? A. With deployment of Quantum of the Seas to China we are developing longer cruises. We are offering cruises from four to 10 nights in 2015. The most popular length of cruise is five nights covering weekends. Chinese guests prefer Japan and Korea as destinations. The Japan foreign affairs bureau has waived the visa for cruise passengers. It has now become the first choice for most of guests choosing cruise. Q. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL) has four ships homeported in China. Will additional ships be required? A. In 2016, we will add one more ship, Ovation of the Seas, in Tianjin. China has a
huge potential for cruise customers because the country has a long coast line and can offer destinations for both North and South China. The penetration of cruising is not yet comparable with US market, but we believe that with more quality product offered, we can see further increases and development in cruising in China and Asia. Q. There have been some concerns that travel agents in China are not sufficiently trained in selling cruises. How is RCL addressing this? A. Cruise is a new business to the Chinese market. Royal Caribbean has invested much in training the travel agents operation team and firstline travel agent sales. This is a stage every industry should go through. We need to feed the market with proper product knowledge and provide them with professional training. In China, we called for several events for trade partners to join, such as the recent Quantum of the Seas product presentation contest. RCL is not conducting normal training for the agents; we encourage our
agent to participate, to share, and to present their sales skills and product knowledge. Training is a long-term task, we are ready to go through this process together with our trade partners. Q. As Chair of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) North Asia, are you planning to introduce a more structured system of training for agents? A. CLIA has a well established training system and courses offered globally. Yes, we are planning to get the practice implemented to North Asia with the language localised. Meanwhile, we are seeking partnership from government and third party training partnerships. It is not only a task for CLIA North Asia, it is going to be an industry wide program. Q. What the priorities of CLIA North Asia? A. CLIA North Asia’s top priorities are issues such as port development, industrial supervising, policy legislation and agent training at this stage.
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CRUISE NEWS
PORT REPORT
Shanghai Surprise
Leading the charge to turn China into the world’s No.2 cruise market, Shanghai has three international cruise terminals. Teresa Ooi reports.
F
ast becoming the mooring of choice for some of the world’s newest and biggest cruise ships, Shanghai is expected to lead the charge in turning mainland China into the world’s No.2 cruise market by 2017. The cruise business in China is still small by international standards; about 700,000 Chinese cruised in 2014 compared to 10 million Americans, six million Europeans and more than a million Australians, but Chinese numbers are soaring. Between 2012 and 2014 the number of Chinese cruise passengers grew by 79 per cent a year. Shanghai is well prepared for the expansion, with three international cruise terminals that between them can accommodate up to 10 cruise ships. The cruise lines that call at these three terminals include Crystal Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Costa Cruises, Star Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, P&O Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises and Oceania Cruises. Shanghai International Cruise Terminal is the most convenient port, sitting on the Huangpu River near The Bund, the financial hub of the city. However, ships larger than 87,000 tons are unable to cruise up the Huangpu because of low bridges. 22
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With an 880-metre waterfront position, the terminal spreads over 41 hectares and can accommodate up to three passenger liners of 70,000 to 80,000 tons at the same time. The terminal handles about one million passengers a year. It takes about 15 minutes by coach from the terminal to the Peace Hotel or the luxury Peninsula Hotel on The Bund. Taxis are readily available should you want to stay out late. As many Shanghai taxi drivers do not speak English, it is best to have the terminal’s name and address written in Chinese to show to the driver. Wusongkou Cruise Terminal is 25 kilometres from downtown Shanghai. From May, it became the homeport of the world’s second-largest ship, Quantum of the Seas. At 169,000 tons, the 4,180-berth, technologically advanced Quantum has been adapted to suit Chinese tastes with more boutique gift shops selling luxury brands, more gaming tables in casinos and a wider choice of Chinese dishes. The Wusongkou terminal has a constant water depth of nine to 13 metres and can accommodate three large cruise ships of 100,000-160,000 tons at a time. There is no direct public transport between the terminal and the Shanghai city centre. A taxi or a private transfer
Top: Wusongkou Cruise Terminal. Above: Shanghai International Cruise Terminal
may take up to 45 minutes. Quantum of the Seas passengers will be provided with a free shuttle to the nearest metro station, according to a spokesman from Royal Caribbean International. Shanghai Waigaoqiao Cruise Terminal is the third passenger terminal, situated at Waigaoqiao in Pudong New Area about 30 kilometres from downtown Shanghai. With a water depth of 12.5 metres it can berth the world’s biggest cruise ships, and can accommodate up to four large cruise ships at a time.
CRUISE NEWS
CRUISE RESEARCH
and boutiques selling designer said Princess Cruises Director of brands at duty-free prices. Southeast Asia, Farriek Tawfik. “More Asian travellers are “Cruise infrastructure in the region becoming educated on the has also progressed from 2014 with benefits of a cruise holiday and governments in ASEAN stepping up they are seeking hassle-free and efforts to collaborate and develop relaxed vacation, unique travel port infrastructure in order to boost experiences with a diversity of fun Southeast Asia’s cruise industry. activities and entertainment, special “We are optimistic about the culinary experience as outlook for the local well as localisation and cruise industry in 2015.” Costa also customisation of services,” Royal Caribbean’s offers Asian Singapore and Southeast Mr Bok said. Costa is hosting elements so Asia Corporate the theme Italy at Communications guests feel Sea on all of its ships, Manager, Chin Ying at home highlighting the flair of Duan said shorter the Mediterranean. It itineraries will sell first. also offers Asian elements on board “The popular cruises from experiences and decadent dining so guests feel at home. Singapore are the three- to fiveexperiences on board. Princess Cruises has extended nights to Penang, Langkawi, Phuket, Senior Vice President of Costa its homeporting in Singapore from Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh. The Cruises in Asia, Buhdy Bok November 2015 to March 2016. longer cruises from Singapore that said passengers enjoy themed “We continue to see emerging visit Japanese destinations are also experiences, now being tailored by profiles and segments of travellers very popular,” she said. “But we are the line. For example, Costa Victoria in Southeast Asia with an increasing seeing more guests here booking offers Asia’s first fashion cruise, growth of first-time cruisers, young our Europe cruises this year due to B:7.2” furnished with elegant Italian style families and working professionals,” new large ships deployed there.” T:7.2”
Asian cruisers seek excitement and innovation on board
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esearch by region’s popular cruise lines reveal that Asian passengers are looking for exciting and innovative activities that turn a ship into a destination. Costa Cruises, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruises predict guests will look for cruises with the best shopping, unique shows and
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Sanctuary Ananda Owner’s Suite
This year will see some of the biggest lines launch new ships on the river. In the past year, two boutique operators have unveiled luxury river ships on the Mekong: Aqua Expeditions’ uber-cool, 40-passenger Aqua Mekong and Sanctuary Retreats’ stylish, 21-cabin Sanctuary Ananda. Both have super-spacious cabins, all with private balconies, large ensuites, designer toiletries, gyms and chic contemporary interiors (with colonial touches on Sanctuary Ananda). They also have
This year will see some of the biggest lines launch new ships on the river. RIVERS BOOM
Rush TO THE RIVERS T
wenty years ago, the late actor Peter Ustinov and a contingent of wealthy Britons boarded a luxury river ship named Road to Mandalay, after a line in a poem by Rudyard Kipling. The genteel journey from Mandalay to Bagan on one of Asia’s most famous waterways, the Irrawaddy River, marked the entry of the first European luxury river company, Belmond, into Myanmar. How quickly things have changed. Today, Myanmar is the hottest destination for river cruises, and its many luxury-ship operators are experiencing enormous growth. The Irrawaddy, Chindwin and Mekong rivers, which flow through Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and
China, have never had it so good. The mighty waterways are seeing an invasion of European, Australian and American travellers keen to witness the unspoiled scenery and traditional way of life in the remote villages that hug the river banks. And Asians are quickly following suit. When Cruise Lines International Association Australasia recently announced new record numbers of cruisers in the region, its statistics revealed a dramatic rise in interest in Asia’s river cruise market – up more than 50 per cent from Australia alone. The Mekong is the star. It flows 4,350 kilometres north to south through six countries from China to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.
indulgent spas with the best local masseurs from Thailand and Vietnam. Scenic is building a new five-star vessel, the 34-suite Scenic Spirit, at a cost of US$8.5 million. The ship will be launched in January, 2016 to cruise the Mekong between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap, Cambodia. APT was one of the first to raise the level of luxury on the Mekong when it launched the brand in the region by chartering RV AmaLotus four years ago. From August 2015, RV AmaDara will become its second river ship plying the Mekong between Vietnam and Cambodia. The 30-suite RV Samatha, the first to be owned by APT, is to be unveiled in Myanmar next year and a second, RV Princess Panhwar, will follow. Avalon Waterways’ Avalon Myanmar, built by local craftsmen for 36 guests, cruises the Irrawaddy, while its allsuite Avalon Siem Reap operates itineraries on the Mekong. Uniworld has its luxurious boutique vessel River Orchid. Handcrafted in Frenchcolonial style, the luxurious ship has 27 staterooms and caters for up to 58 guests.
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CRUISE NEWS
PANDAW
A historic celebration
H
istorian Paul Strachan maintains he pioneered the rise in cruising the Irrawaddy, which today bustles with ships from lines across the world. When he arrived, his cruise line Pandaw was the first since World War II to reach as far as Bhamo, 1,300 kilometres from the sea. Today, Pandaw is 20
Pandaw owner Paul Strachan
years old and owns 12 ships, many built to a unique local design, and from local timber. This is not the only anniversary. In 1865, 150 years ago, the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company was established by Scottish merchants. It ran more than 650 vessels on the rivers of what was then known as Burma,
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making it the world’s largest privately owned fleet of ships. But in 1942, in the midst of World War II, the Japanese destroyed the whole fleet as a means of removing easy access to river transport. Mr Strachan based his vessels on the ships of the company and started the Pandaw line in 1995.
“We were the first since the Second World War to offer pioneering cruises on Burma’s spectacular Irrawaddy River, reaching Bhamo, one thousand miles from the sea, and went on to be a first on the stunningly attractive Chindwin River,” said Mr Strachan. And soon Pandaw will be the first company to operate on the Red River, which flows through Vietnam and China. “We have had to keep coming up with new, more adventurous, more cutting-edge routings and experiences,” Mr Strachan said. “As other ships get bigger, our ships are getting smaller; our latest Laos vessel has a very shallow draft to navigate in shallow waters.” Pandaw supports healthcare and education in Myanmar, with eight medical clinics treating more than 40,000 patients, and more than 12 schools. Pandaw profile: Page 80
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With over 100 airlines serving more than 250 cities worldwide, Singapore is easily accessible via Changi Airport, a well-connected airhub.
THE COUNTRIES
The Dragon Awakes Ten nations are determined to make Asia the “cruise playground of the world”.
Words Teresa Ooi
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ruise is growing, and what’s exciting Adam Goldstein, global chairman of Cruise Lines International Association and President of Royal Caribbean Cruises, is Asia. “For the first time, we know the true size of the Asian source markets. 2015 will be a record-breaking year in Asia, with more travellers cruising the region than ever.” Asian passenger numbers are a third up on last year. And other nations, hungry for new experiences, are turning to the region. Australia, which has the world’s biggest growth rate for cruise, sent another 24 per
cent or 55,399 passengers in 2014. Much of the cruise growth is due to the work of Asian nations in nurturing their cruise assets. The ASEAN Tourism Product Development Working Group is leading the charge, creating a framework for the 10 nations to work together. Leong Yue Kheong, Assistant Chief Executive, International Group, Singapore Tourism Board said: “We work closely with our regional neighbours to help Southeast Asia become the next cruising playground of the world, through increasing the awareness and attractiveness of the region to the international cruise industry. This is done by
enhancing the infrastructure, offering varied ports and destinations, and promoting Southeast Asia as a cruising region.” In March 2015, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines co-located their booths for the first time in an ASEAN zone at the Cruise Shipping Miami trade show. ASEAN members have also been contributing to the ASEAN Cruise News, a monthly e-newsletter. ASEAN is currently producing a cruise map of the region. “These initiatives mark a positive step for ASEAN Member States towards establishing a unified presence and branding to promote our cruise region globally,” said Mr Leong.
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SINGAPORE
New facilities make for smooth sailing M A L AY S I A
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ingapore is often seen as the natural homeport for cruising in Southeast Asia. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia CEO Ann Sherry described the country as the “hub” for growth in the region because of the lead role it plays and its advanced infrastructure. While its neighbouring countries only now start investing in better port facilities, Singapore completed a S$14 million rejuvenation of the Singapore Cruise Centre in 2012. This saw the hub receive an enhanced terminal experience, optimised operational space, upgraded terminal software and, more importantly, it was transformed into an infra-ready port capable of handling large ships. This, in addition to the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, opened in 2012, means Singapore can welcome four cruise ships at the same time. “Again confirming that port infrastructure is a key to growth, the Marina Bay Cruise Terminal in Singapore has played a significant role in attracting ships to these source markets,” Ms Sherry said. Since revealing its port enhancements, Singapore has been selected as the homeport for a number of new ships including Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess and Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas. Royal Caribbean is also sending Legend of the Seas to Singapore in 2015 to conduct a series of Southeast Asia cruises before the vessel sails to Australia.
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In addition to the newcomers, Singapore also plays host to Star Cruises’ SuperStar Gemini; and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Millennium. When ships aren’t homeporting in Singapore, S I N G A P O R E they’re using its facilities as a turnaround point to pick up new passengers during MARINA BAY CRUISE CENTRE repositioning cruises. Quantum of the Seas visited in June 2015 as part of her Global Odyssey from SINGAPORE New York to Shanghai, picking up STRAIT and letting off passengers before setting SINGAPORE off on a three-night cruise to Kuala CRUISE CENTRE Lumpur, and then on to China. Singapore’s commitment to infrastructure and attracting new ships has contributed to its steady increase of four per cent in annual cruise passenger throughput over the nine years from 2005 to 2014. Singapore’s tourism leaders are FACT FILE expecting this passenger growth rate to climb to five to eight per cent over the CAPITAL Singapore next three to four years.
CURRENCY Singapore dollar SEASON October-April CRUISE TYPE Ocean
THE YEAR AHEAD
Singapore will continue to play a big role in cruising, particularly as the sector continues to boom around Asia. In addition to receiving new ships, the country’s tourism leaders will play a major role in uniting surrounding Southeast Asia countries to work together and build the sector. In April 2015, the country signed an agreement with Vietnam to coordinate efforts and increase tourism and investment. The memorandum of cooperation will
SINGAPORE Singapore Flyer on Marina Bay; Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (opposite)
include joint activities such as cruise workshops. It will also promote an exchange of information on regional industry development and give Vietnam an opportunity to benefit from Singapore’s cruise expertise. In addition to country cooperation, Singapore will focus on promoting fly-and-
cruise packages. According to its tourism leaders, the country offers a seamless experience pre- and post-travel because of its extensive air connectivity and success as a cruise homeport. Singapore was the first Asian country to introduce the FlyCruise/CruiseFly service, developed by airport services in collaboration
with cruise lines and terminal operators. In the coming 12 months, travellers will also see Singapore play a bigger role in the construction side of cruising. Sembawang Shipyard, a Singaporean company, has long-term exclusive refit contracts with both Carnival Corporation and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Recently, Singapore ASEANCRUISING.COM
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SINGAPORE was the port selected to refit Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas as well as Silversea Cruises’ Silver Discoverer.
skin to leave feet fresh and exfoliated. And in the evening, book a Night Safari at the the world’s first nocturnal zoo. Riding on a tram, travellers will see what 900 nocturnal animals get up to when the sun goes down.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
You can’t go to Singapore without exploring the shopping haven of Marina Bay Sands. The Las Vegas-inspired buildings offer 92,900 square metres of retail space, featuring world-famous designers such as Chanel, Prada, Saint Laurent and Hermes. The three towers also offer some unique attractions, including SkyPark with its outdoor infinity pool on the 57th storey – the world’s largest pool at this height, offering Marina Bay Sands hotel guests a fabulous view of Singapore. Marina Bay Sands is also home to the ArtScience Museum, which holds permanent and temporary exhibitions such as The Deep, the largest collection of images and specimens of more than 40 deep sea creatures displayed for the first time in Southeast Asia.
PLACES TO STAY
Outside of Marina Bay Sands, travellers can explore Haji Lane for a mix of Middle Eastern cafes and design houses. Another must-try is a fish pedicure, which involves little Turkish fish nibbling away at dead
Passengers joining or leaving a cruise ship at Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore don’t have to look far for 5-star accommodation. In addition to a range or retail, theatre and food attractions, the Marina Bay Sands resort houses more than 2,500 hotel rooms and suites. The Orchard Hotel Singapore is another popular choice, offering elegance and comfort. There are also two V Hotels (Lavender and Bencoolen), both located about 20 minutes’ drive from Changi International Airport, as well as the international brands such as the Swissotel The Stamford, Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium, Mandarin Orchard Singapore and Royal Plaza on Scotts.
SINGAPORE: PORTS MARINA BAY CRUISE CENTRE Who goes there: Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Tui Cruises. Cruisers like: The terminal’s close proximity to the CBD, hawker centres and attractions, and free Wi-Fi. CruiseFly is available for passengers arriving at the terminal
and flying out on Singapore Airlines, SilkAir, Air China, China Eastern, China Southern and Jet Airways. Don’t miss: The Gardens By The Bay is an amazing sight at night and it is just a stone’s throw from MBCCS. Universal Studios Singapore and Sentosa Island are a 10-15 minute stroll away. Best for: Family groups, business incentive tours, couples and baby boomers. Getting around: Taxis are plentiful and well priced. Public buses and the MRT are also available.
SINGAPORE CRUISE CENTRE Who goes there: Star Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Holland America Line, Seabourn Cruise Line,
Clockwise from above: Haji Lane; Universal Studios Singapore; Supertree Grove
Silversea Cruises, Oceania Cruises. Cruisers like: While much smaller than Marina Bay, this is a busy terminal with a lot of movement from small ferries. Visitors can enjoy a taste of Singapore laksa and char kway teow at the hawker food centre in the terminal, and shop in the nearby Vivocity. The terminal also offers free Wi-Fi. The FlyCruise service is offered to Star
Cruises passengers arriving at Changi Airport. Don’t miss: Duty-free shopping with great discounts to celebrate Singapore 50th anniversary in 2015 are available at the terminal. The lush Mount Faber tourist attraction with great views over Singapore and Indonesia is only a cable-car ride away. Best for: Family and incentive groups. Getting around: Lots of cabs and the reliable MRT to take you to the CBD in about 15 minutes. It is also a ferry terminal with easy transfers to Indonesian islands such as Batam.
THE PHILIPPINES
Island destinations the key to cruise growth
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MANILA
PACIFIC hile ASEAN countries OCEAN such as Malaysia and Thailand focus SOUTH CHINA SEA on becoming homeport destinations, the Philippines BORACAY is working hard to entice more cruise ships to call at its EL NIDO CEBU undiscovered ports. According to Department of Tourism’s assistant secretary Benito C Bengzon Jr, the T H E P H I L I P P I N E S Philippines still lacks the required infrastructure to attract more cruise ships – an issue the country is focused on resolving in the coming years. Despite the shortage of port infrastructure, over the past four years travellers visiting the Philippines via a cruise vessel has steadily increased. In 2013, numbers soared by 48 per cent to 20,000 compared to 2011. This came alongside a sharp increase FACT FILE in the number of cruise ships visiting during the same period; from 10 to 16. In CAPITAL Manila 2014, this figure increased even further to CURRENCY Philippine peso reach 18 ships while the number of cruise SEASON Year round passengers remained at about 20,000. The Philippines is expected to welcome CRUISE TYPE Ocean two new cruise ships to Manila during the 2015/16 wave season. Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas will visit in August, October and November, then return again in May 2016. Celebrity Constellation will also make a rare appearance in early 2017 during round trips from Singapore. The vessel will stop at both Manila and Boracay. Other ships regularly sailing to the Philippines include Silver Shadow, Silver Whisperer, Celebrity Millennium, Costa
Victoria, Seven Seas Voyager, Europa 2, Queen Elizabeth and Seabourn Sojourn.
THE YEAR AHEAD
Mr Bengzon, who is in charge of market development, said that in order to get more cruise ships to visit the country, the government needs to invest in the development of suitable ports. “What we have seen over the past five years is a shift towards the island destinations such as Boracay, Palawan and Puerto Princesa and some of the destinations that not many people have heard of, such as the One Hundred Islands chain,” he said. “We need to increase the frequency of these port visits and to do that we need to make sure that the required level of port infrastructure is there and also to create a higher level of awareness, on the country as a whole, but also for specific destinations.” He said in addition to planning the required infrastructure, the country is also focused on attracting more ships to destinations other than Manila. Among those new destinations could be Sicogon Island, which was once a hot tourism spot. Located in northern Iloilo, the island was popular with tourists in the 1970s because of its long white sandy beaches lined with coconut trees. However, the island lost most of its popularity after martial law was introduced between 1972 and 1981 and tourists redirected their holidays to Boracay. Philippines Department of Tourism regional director Helen Catalbas said she ASEANCRUISING.COM
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THE PHILIPPINES
Ati-Atihan, a festival in honour of Santo Niño, is celebrated every January on Boracay
is hoping redevelopment of the destination will be completed soon and expects the island will make an ideal spot for cruise ships. She said it could be as popular as Boracay and Gigantes. Other non-traditional destinations that are starting to gain international cruise attention include Kalanggaman Island off Palompon, Leyte; Hundred Islands in Pangasinan; Santa Ana in Cagayan; and Coron Island in Northern Palawan.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
In Manila, one of the top attractions is Rizal Park, 60 hectares of gardens and woods, dotted with monuments, including the famous Rizal Monument, a symbol of Filipino nationhood. It is the resting place of José Rizal, whose execution here aided the country’s liberation from Spain. Nearby Manila Ocean Park is home to the city’s tallest musical fountain, which has
The Manila Cathedral dates back to 1571 and is known for its detailed stained-glass windows and octagonal dome. more than 1,600 water nozzles, music and special effects. The Manila Cathedral dates back to 1571 and is known for its detailed stainedglass windows and octagonal dome. On Boracay Island, Bulabog Beach is a popular spot to enjoy the sun, with waves ideal for both swimming and surfing. The island is also good for shopping for handmade jewellery, trying local food fused
with international flavours or scuba diving at one of 25 dive sites.
PLACES TO STAY
For the true aqua lovers, Manila has an ocean-themed hotel within walking distance of the cruise port. The four-star Hotel H2O is the only marine-themed resort hotel in the Philippines and features rooms with signature aquarium walls. Every aspect of the property is related to the water, including the seafood specialty restaurants. Also within walking distance of the port is the four-star Manila Hotel, which embodies luxury and rich tradition. Guests have access to free high-speed internet, a pool, fitness centre, restaurant, bar and tennis court. More affordable locations close to the port include the Bayview Park Hotel, City Garden Suites Manila and Waterfront Manila Pavilion Hotel & Casino.
THE PHILIPPINES
THE PHILIPPINES: PORTS MANILA Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Cunard, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: The densely populated capital has been a fortified trading centre since the 13th century. History spans centuries, from the walled Spanish settlement of Intramuros and the 16th-century San Augustin church to the tranquil Manila American Cemetery and Memorial with graves of thousands of Americans who died in WWII. Keen shoppers should head to the many malls or the indooroutdoor Greenbelt haven of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, south-east of central Manila. Don’t miss: Notable landmarks include the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the historic Manila Hotel lobby. For real shopping bargains, nothing beats the Divisoria and Quiapo flea markets. Best for: All ages, bargain hunters.
Getting around: The cruise terminal is within walking distance of Old Manila. There are taxis in town, just be sure to agree on a rate before you go anywhere.
BORACAY Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: Guests may choose to simply relax and enjoy the
beautiful beaches, especially the well-sheltered White Beach on the western side of the island. Cliff-diving from Ariel’s Point offers an adrenalin rush, while Bulabog Beach’s reef-protected waters offer windsurfing, kiteboarding, sailing, snorkelling, diving and jet skiing. There’s trekking and mountain biking for access to remote villages in the island’s interior. Talipapa market is good for souvenirs and seafood. To see it all, take a helicopter ride over the island. Don’t miss: The Motag Living Museum is the place to learn about Philippines history and culture. Best for: Couples, active people. Getting around: Caticlan is Boracay’s main port and only small ships can dock here. It is a 30-minute drive from the jetty to the island. There are plenty of taxis.
CEBU Who goes there: Cunard, P&O Cruises. Cruisers like: The 225-kilometrelong island, surrounded by 167 smaller islands, is photographers’ and divers’ heaven, with spectacular reefs and colourful sea life. Its white beaches are ideal water activities. In the south, Tumalog and Aguinid waterfalls are worth a visit. Modern Cebu City offers high-rise excitement with the Sky Experience Adventure at the Crown Regency Hotel, including the Sky Walk and Edge Coaster. The quirky and very traditional Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House offers a peep into Cebu’s rich and gracious history. Don’t miss: Colon Street, the oldest street in the Philippines, dating back to the Spanish colonial area. The historic area includes the Basilica of Santo Niño, the oldest church in the country, Fort San Pedro, Magellan’s Cross and the 1730 Jesuit House. Best for: Couples, adventure lovers, active types. Getting around: The only way for
tourists to get around is by taxi or colourful jeepney buses, which are safe and reliable. It is best to avoid private taxis as they will charge five to 10 times the normal fee.
EL NIDO Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: The fishing village on the northern tip of Palawan is protected by towering limestone cliffs and overlooks a bay dotted with islets. There are 30 dive sites and clear waters filled with coral
reefs and caves, ideal for all skill levels of scuba diving. Sea life includes dugongs, turtles, rays and numerous fish species. There are 50 beaches (Nacpan is clean and quiet) and Big Lagoon is a long canal of clear water, which is good for kayaking. Burial sites in limestone caves reveal centuries of habitation. Food-lovers are well catered for at the many restaurants in town. Helicopter Island has wide white sands and good waves. Don’t miss: Balay Tubay Home of Arts and Music and the Balay Tubay Bistro offer cultural experiences of live music and local dishes. The best view of El Nido is found by scaling the rocky parts of Miniloc Shrine on Matinloc Island. Best for: Couples, active people, water lovers. Getting around: Local operators offer island-hopping day tours. Clockwise from below: Palawan; jeepney, Manila; Sky Experience Adventure, Cebu City
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INDONESIA
Aiming for four million cruisers by 2019
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hile cruising is still relatively SABANG new to Southeast Asia as a LEMBAR whole, Indonesia has been MAKASSAR SEMARANG enjoying the economic benefits of the sector since the 1920s. Today, cruise continues to play a large role in delivering I N D O N E S I A international visitors to the destination. The latest figures show that in 2014 Indonesia had more than 9.4 million JAKARTA international visitors. Of that, about one million were marineSURABAYA BENOA related – more than double the KOMODO 400,000 sea visitors a decade earlier. ISLAND Despite the rise, the figure is still PROBOLINGGO well behind the goal of four million set for 2019; an ambitious figure revealed by tourism minister Arief Yahya in early 2015. He believes the 400 per cent increase in marine visitors is achievable, particularly as the country starts to roll out initiatives such as port development and new tourist FACT FILE visitor policies. During 2015/16, Indonesia will CAPITAL Jakarta welcome at least two new ships, including CURRENCY Indonesia rupiah Legend of the Seas, which will stop by Bali SEASON November-April during an 18-night sailing from Hong Kong to Brisbane, Australia. The ship will CRUISE TYPE Ocean arrive on November 29, 2015. Another newcomer, P&O Cruises’ new Pacific Eden, will visit in May, June and July, 2016 during her 12-night Indonesian Explorer itinerary from Fremantle, Western Australia stopping at Komodo, Makassar, Lombok, Probolinggo and Bali. Other ships visiting Indonesia’s main ports regularly include the Sapphire Princess, Sun Princess, Diamond Princess,
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MS Volendam, MS Amsterdam, Crystal Serenity, Astor and Celebrity Solstice.
THE NEXT 12 MONTHS
One of the biggest changes expected to boost Indonesia’s tourism is the extension to its free-visa policy. In early 2015, Indonesia announced it would extend the policy, initially available to China, Japan, South Korea and Russia, to up to 30 countries, aiming to encourage more tourists to visit by waiving to the US$35 visa-onarrival fee for tourists. Expected to roll out in 2015, countries such as the USA and Canada – two of the world’s biggest cruise markets – will benefit from the visa-free policy. Travellers from the UK will also be given visa exemptions along with those from other parts of Europe, the Middle East, Africa and South America. Meanwhile, Indonesia is injecting millions into new port infrastructure to cater for larger vessels. The biggest port development is planned for tourist favourite Bali. The country is hoping to turn the resort destination into a major cruise hub for ships in Southeast Asia. Ali Sodikin, general manager of seaport operator Pelindo III for Benoa (Bali’s port), said the aim was to expand the port so it can be used as a destination for cruise ships as well as an embarkation terminal. This would benefit Bali economically, as
INDONESIA
Pura Ulun temple, Lake Beratan, Bali; National Geographic Orion at Komodo Island (opposite)
cruise passengers would need to fly in or out of Bali, as well as book pre- or postcruise accommodation on the island. “Cruises would originate from this port and return here after completing their journey,” Mr Sodikin said. Facility upgrades are projected to start in 2017 and could take up to 10 months. Once complete, the wharf will be able to accommodate up to three ships at a time.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
The most popular Indonesian destination, Bali offers cultural, culinary and activity based excursions. One of the top attractions is Ubud. The town, surrounded by rice paddies, has existed for a little over
The most popular Indonesian destination, Bali offers cultural, culinary and activity based excursions. a century and is famous for its fine arts and music. During shore days, cruisers can also visit Bali’s capital, Denpasar, which has museums, shops and beaches. Neighbouring Lombok is known for its traditional craft villages. Among the top things to see on the island is the Lingsar
Temple, built some 300 years ago. The temple features a Hindu shrine and is popular amongst Buddhist and Muslim worshippers. For those looking for a more natural experience, the 100 metre-high Sendang Gile Waterfall can be found in Lombok’s Mount Rinjani national park.
TOP PLACES TO STAY
Nusa Dua is an enclave of five-star resorts, just a 20-minute drive from Bali’s cruise terminal at Benoa. Luxury accommodation includes the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, Grand Hyatt Bali, Ayodya Resort Bali and Mulia Resort. About 30 minutes from the port, Seminyak on Bali’s west coast is popular for its beaches and restaurants. ASEANCRUISING.COM
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INDONESIA: PORTS
BENOA, BALI Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean. Cruisers like: If time allows, visitors take a day trip to the volcanoes and temples to the north of the island, via the artist centre of Ubud. Alternatively, visit the capital, Denpasar, with its “Gold Street” and bustling four-storey market one day, then concentrate on the beaches and bars, cafes and restaurants at Kuta, or the high-end resorts of Nusa Dua. Around the port area, every kind of water sport is available, with good surfing off the east coast. Don’t miss: Ubud’s town centre with its artists’ galleries, quirky
cafes, maze-like central market and palace, which is still home to members of local royalty. Not far away is the Holy Spring temple and Monkey Park, and a wide range of coffees at a plantation in Gianyar. Best for: All ages, couples, surfers, shoppers, art lovers. Getting around: The cruise terminal port of Benoa is about 10 kilometres from Denpasar and the international airport. There are many taxis outside the terminal and you can hire a car or van and driver for about US$65. Make sure your driver speaks some English.
SEMARANG, CENTRAL JAVA Who goes there: Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises. Cruisers like: The city’s interesting multicultural background serves up Dutch colonial museums, stately churches and homes, as well as relics of the Dutch East India Company, mosques and the crimson Sam Poo Kong Buddhist temple. Lawang Sewu (a thousand doors) was built in the early 1900s as the headquarters of the local railway company. Drive a couple of
hours south to explore Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, lost in the jungle for centuries and now restored as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walls of each level of the pyramid-shaped temple are covered with intricate stone carvings, telling the history of Buddha. Don’t miss: Make sure you allow several hours to climb the nine levels to the top of Borobudur for a magnificent view of the area. If you have time, go on to the city of Yogyakarta, a cultural centre known for fine art, batik, ballet, drama, music, poetry and puppet shows. Best for: History and art lovers, shoppers.
Getting around: The Semarang port is about six kilometres from the town centre. There are taxis available from the port and shuttle buses provided to head downtown.
JAKARTA, JAVA Who goes there: Crystal Cruises. Cruisers like: The Old Batavia area has a tranquil square surrounded by 18th-century buildings from the time of the Dutch East India Company. On one side of the square, there’s good coffee from a heritage cafe, still retaining its colonial air and filled with interesting artwork. Shopping is good at the city’s many large, modern shopping centres. Don’t miss: Sampling the local Clockwise from left: Borobudur temple, Central Java; dragon statue, Bedugul, Bali; gado-gado 36
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food – spicy (this is the centre of the Spice Islands, after all) with a tantalising sweetness. Many favourite dishes, such as nasi goreng and gado-gado, are available at street-food stalls, along with tropical fruit and iced desserts. Best for: History buffs, food lovers. Getting around: Jakarta’s port terminal is located in Tanjung Priok, about four kilometres from the CBD. Depending on the traffic, it can take up to 45 minutes to get there. Taxis are available and shuttles are generally provided.
SURABAYA, EAST JAVA Who goes there: Holland America Line. Cruisers like: Indonesia’s secondlargest city played a vital role in Indonesia’s independence. The 41-metre Heroic Monument and museum is the main symbol of Surabaya. A thriving multi-ethnic seaport, it has massive shopping malls, museums and mosques, most notable the turquoise-domed Al-Akbar Mosque. Tour the less-modern parts of Surabaya to learn about Indonesian life, and be sure to try East Java’s spicy-yet-sweet cuisine. Ciputra Waterpark, Surabaya Zoo and Taman Safari II, a drive-through safari park, are worth a visit. Families might also enjoy an ex-Soviet submarine that is now a museum. Don’t miss: Visit the House of Sampoerna, a former orphanage that is now a factory and museum, to watch kretek (clove cigarettes) being made. Best for: All ages. Getting around: Port Tanjung Perak is about seven kilometres from the centre of Surabaya and should take 20 minutes. There will be taxis waiting at the port terminal.
LEMBAR, LOMBOK Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean.
INDONESIA
INDONESIA: PORTS Clockwise from left: Javanese children; underwater life off Lombok; Komodo dragon
Cruisers like: Some call this island “an unspoiled Bali”. It has beautiful beaches and the volcano of Mount Rinjani looming above. It is easy to get around. Rent a motorised boat for a trip to the resort island of Gili Nanggu, just 20 minutes offshore, to snorkel among brilliant coral and tropical fish. Swim, relax on the dazzling white sand and watch the perahu, traditional twin outrigger fishing boats, and floating fishing houses. Selong Belanak is a long, wide beach, perfect for sunset viewing. Families and nature-lovers enjoy nature and wildlife tours. Don’t miss: Shopping at the local markets for carvings, shells or woven work. Watch artisans at work, or visit Banyumulek for pottery made in open fires. Best for: All ages, couples, active people, water lovers. Getting around: As soon as you leave the cruise terminal, you will be mobbed by street sellers. For about US$50, you can hire a van or car with a driver. Inside the cruise terminal gates, the fare will be more expensive. Do not pay the driver until you arrive at your destination.
SABANG, ACEH Who goes there: P&O Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: The most northern and western city in Indonesia, Sabang sits on an island off the tip of Sumatra. Remote and unsophisticated, the area has world-class beaches and diving spots. Water activites, fishing and mountain biking are available. Gapang Beach is popular, as is sandy white Iboih Beach with its enchanting underwater
scenery, while Rubiah Island has a fascinating “sea garden”. There are hot springs and an unusual undersea geothermal bubbling away offshore. The corals have regenerated after the 2004 tsunami and the locals are happy to show tsunami relics and talk about it. The nearby city of Banda Aceh has a Tsunami museum and memorial. Don’t miss: Visit traditional fishing villages to see how life has been lived here for centuries, and one of the country’s oldest museums, the Museum Negeri Banda Aceh. Best for: Active people. Getting around: Sabang is the first stop for many cruise ships arriving in Southeast Asia from the west. The port is within walking distance of the town of Balohan and about an hour’s drive from Sabang. Taxis are available outside the terminal, but be sure to agree on the fare before you leave the port.
KOMODO ISLAND Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Lindblad Expeditions (National Geographic), P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises. Cruisers like: Part of the Komodo National Park, this island is famous for the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest living lizard. Other animals include deer, water buffalo, macaque monkeys and civets, as well as crabs and birds, and tours
will enable visitors to see them. The Komodo dragons are dangerous, so all visitors must go with guides for their own safety. Watch the lizards being fed and take photographs or video to show everyone at home. The coastline is equally interesting with rich sea life. Make sure you see the pink-sand beach, one of only seven in the world. Day cruises allow guests to enjoy snorkelling in the clear waters. Don’t miss: Visiting some of the other nearby islands such as Rinca and Flores for hiking and photography, or take a boat trip around the islands. Best for: Nature lovers. Getting around: Cruises are not able to dock here so passengers are ferried ashore on tenders.
PROBOLINGGO, EAST JAVA Who goes there: Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises. Cruisers like: This busy harbour on the Java Sea is brightened by the colourful fishing vessels that moor there. A walk around Probolinggo town gives an insight into the various cultures that make up this unpretentious, industrious East Javanese city. Not far away is the Jabung Temple, an interesting 14th-century, red-brick Buddhist funerary shrine. Inland the landscape is dramatic and to see it best, hire a driver and guide in a Jeep or private minibus for the 90-minute drive to the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park. While there, visit the accessible Madakaripura Waterfall. For more excitement there are rafting and tubing tours that allow you to see bat caves, guano deposits and waterfalls. Taste the area’s excellent produce grown in rich volcanic soil: sweet green mangoes, rice, corn, sugar and coffee, and the local seafood. Don’t miss: Visit Mt Bromo, the most famous volcano in Indonesia, best viewed at sunrise. Best for: Active people.
Getting around: The town is a kilometre and a half north of the port. There are no taxis at the cruise terminal, but plenty of becak (pedicabs) for transport to the town centre for about US$5.
MAKASSAR, SOUTH SULAWESI Who goes there: Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises. Cruisers like: Shopping alert! Karebosi Link is Indonesia’s first underground shopping mall. Near the waterfront, the beautifully preserved 17th-century Dutch building, Fort Rotterdam, has an interesting museum, and the Ballalompoa Museum, on the site of a former royal residence, is also worth visiting. South of the city is the old Gowa kingdom and the Pelantikan Stone where the kings of Gowa were crowned. Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park, 40 kilometres to the north, is a well-known karst area, and also famous for a remarkable collection
of brilliant local butterflies. Don’t miss: Snorkel at Samalona Beach or visit Losari Beach, known for its beautiful sunsets. Trans Studio Makassar is a huge indoor theme park, the third-largest in the world. Best for: All ages. Getting around: There are taxis at the cruise terminal, but be sure to negotiate your fare before you drive off. ASEANCRUISING.COM
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Building a new Riviera in Southeast Asia LANGKAWI
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KINABALU s one of the more developed It is also looking at improving cruise destinations in Asia, secondary ports to give cruise IA Malaysia has been a big lines new locations to choose KUCHING S M A L AY S I A KUANTAN Y beneficiary of the region’s from for future itineraries. A L KUALA double-digit industry growth in The plan has already seen A LUMPUR the past two years. Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of M (KELANG) A While China and Singapore the Seas expand its horizons SI E have traditionally been the in Malaysia, with its first MELAKA ON D larger cruise markets in Asia, sailing to Kuantan in early IN Malaysia has grown steadily and 2015. On the three-night cruise, is now among the top four. During the Mariner called at a number 2015, 52 cruise ships will operate of different spots near Kuantan, around Asia, offering 1,065 sailings. giving cruisers the chance to visit Of those, roughly 580 port calls are Lake Chini, Malaysia’s second-largest expected in Malaysia. natural freshwater lake, and an indigenous According to Tourism Malaysia, cruise in community where they were shown how to the country has been growing at an average hunt using a blowpipe. of 14 per cent annually for the past 10 years. Meanwhile, Star Cruises has confirmed The Malaysian Cruise Council, an SuperStar Libra will remain homeported in advisory body comprising government Penang throughout 2015, her third season representatives and private cruise operators, from the port. The ship will continue to said Penang dominated the market with a conduct three-night cruises to Phuket and FACT FILE total of 211,554 passengers from 139 cruise Krabi in Thailand, as well as one-night ship visits in 2012. Kuala Lumpur’s Port itineraries out to sea. The line’s SuperStar CAPITAL Kuala Lumpur Klang hosted 141,266 passengers from 98 Gemini will frequent Penang, Langkawi, CURRENCY Malaysia ringgit ship visits, and Melaka came in third with Port Klang and Melaka throughout 2015 54,166 passengers and 52 ship visits. and 2016 as she continues to sail on two- to SEASON October to April Malaysia’s tourism leaders have three-night itineraries from Singapore. CRUISE TYPE Ocean ambitious plans to turn the country A third Star Cruises ship will visit into one of the largest homeport cruise Malaysia when SuperStar Virgo arrives in destinations in Asia, with bold aims of November 2015 on her 48-day voyage generating M$1.75 billion in income and around Southeast Asia and Australia. creating 10,000 jobs by 2020. Royal Caribbean will send Legend of the Seas to Malaysia regularly over the next THE NEXT 12 MONTHS three years as the ship moves between The Malaysian government plans to Southeast Asia and Australia. The first develop a “Straits Riviera”, which will visit will be in September 2015 during include purpose-built integrated cruise a 14-night cruise from Singapore to terminals in Penang, Port Klang, Kota Fremantle. The ship will call at Port Klang Kinabalu, Langkawi, Melaka and Kuching. and Langkawi before sailing on to Thailand.
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Kuala Lumpur boasts the country’s largest indoor amusement park at Berjaya Times Square.
The Petronas Twin Towers dominate the Kuala Lumpur skyline; Boheydulang Island (opposite)
Malaysia will also receive a visit from Star Clipper when she returns to Southeast Asia during the 2016/2017 wave season. The ship’s return marks Star Clippers’ first visit to Southeast Asia since 2010. Although the vessel will be based out of Phuket in Thailand, she will make regular visits to Ko Butang and Penang in Malaysia from December 2016 to April 2017.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Port Klang Cruise Centre is the closest terminal to the country’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, about 50 kilometres away. It is a well-equipped terminal with foreign-
exchange counters, restaurants, duty-free outlets and taxi service. Kuala Lumpur offers photo opportunities with the 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers. It also boasts the country’s largest indoor amusement park at Berjaya Times Square, and the relaxing 93-hectare Lake Gardens. In Penang, travellers can enjoy sampling local food and also learn to cook it by taking a quick cooking class during a shore excursion. Classes are offered regularly at the Tropical Spice Garden and Nazlina Spice Station. Penang also offers outdoor activities at Escape, a fun park featuring Waterplay and Adventureplay.
TOP PLACES TO STAY
For unique accommodation, Penang has a number of heritage properties, including the luxurious Seven Terraces, which was once a mansion and now offers eight high-end rooms. There is also Suffolk House, once the home of Sir Francis Light, the founder of the British Colony in Penang. For more mainstream accommodation, Penang has a Shangri-La, Oriental Hotel, Novotel and ParkRoyal. Kuala Lumpur also has some of the biggest hotel brands, such as a Mandarin Oriental, Sheraton, Grand Hyatt, Le Méridien and Ritz-Carlton.
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MALAYSIA: PORTS MELAKA Who goes there: Costa, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: The influences of traders and colonists – Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese, Malay and British – all come together here. An easy way to see the old town is in one of the colourfully decorated pedicabs waiting outside the rose-pink Christ Church in the main square. Drivers pass the main sights – the Stadthuys, Cheng Hoon Temple and the riverside and can drop you back to the tender wharf. The Portuguese Fort A Famosa is nearby and up the hill behind the Stadhuys is the Dutch St John’s Fort offering a good view of the entire area. Don’t miss: Nyonya cuisine, a unique blend of Chinese and Malay flavours; try the chicken rice balls. The Portuguese influence is also strong in the food, so try the Portuguese custard tarts, too. Best for: Families, food lovers, history enthusiasts. Getting around: Ship tenders drop
passengers almost in the centre of the city. There are lots of cyclos and taxis. Bargain for your fare.
PENANG Who goes there: Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Silversea Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises. Cruisers like: Popular for its beaches and food, there is also mall 40
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shopping and lots of history. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed area of Georgetown (Penang’s capital) has old shop-houses and traders making everything from shoes to cookies. In this multicultural town, Chinese temples, mosques, churches and Hindu temples are often close together. Nearer the waterfront, a trendy new cafe and bar scene is growing. Don’t miss: Colourful Little India with its parrot fortune tellers and flower garlands, or the newly restored 19th-century jetties, once home to families of Chinese traders. Chew Jetty welcomes tourists with food stalls and souvenirs. Best for: Food lovers, families. Getting around: Cruise passengers will often be tendered into the city centre. Hiring a taxi will cost about US$14 an hour.
KELANG, KUALA LUMPUR Who goes there: Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises, Windstar Cruises. Cruisers like: Malaysia’s sleek, modern capital is often simply called KL. Take the lift to the observation deck of the Petronas Twin Towers, although the best city views are from Menara KL, the telecommunications tower on Bukit Nanas. The stunning collection of commercial buildings (KLCC) near the towers are the place for shopping and dining. KL has everything from high-end malls to ethnic markets. Nature-lovers should go to the KL Bird Park in the Lake Gardens. For religious and historical interest, visit the nearby Islamic Arts Museum. Thirty minutes out of town, climb the steep steps to Batu Caves and Hindu shrines, home to monkeys. Don’t miss: The wet and dry Pudu market, Little India and Chinatown for good food. Best for: Families, food lovers, shoppers.
Clockwise from above: Kota Kinabalu City Mosque; Hindu statues, Batu Caves; pedicab, Melaka Getting around: Port Kelang is about 50 kilometres from the city centre and 75 kilometres from KL International Airport. Taxis are available from the terminal in a limited number. There is no public transport from the port.
KOTA KINABALU, SABAH Who goes there: Crystal Cruises. Cruisers like: Mount Kinabalu, two hours east of the city, is worth a visit to enjoy cooler air at 2000 metres and stunning views. Much of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital, was destroyed in WWII and rebuilt with wider streets. There are several large shopping centres, as well as restaurants and cafes, many serving
excellent local seafood. Nearby islands have resorts. Diving, whitewater rafting, jungle trekking and river cruises are also on offer. Don’t miss: The large growers’ market sells tropical fruit and vegetables, fruit and flowers from the highlands. Next door, the handcrafts market is a good place for textiles, pearls and carved items. Best for: Families, nature lovers. Getting around: The port is only a couple of kilometres from town, and taxis are available. Tour buses leave from the port, but there is no public transport to the centre of town.
LANGKAWI Who goes there: Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Silversea Cruises, Seabourn. Cruisers like: The largest of more than a hundred islands off Malaysia’s north-west coast, Langkawi has the most to offer. Pantai Cenang’s long beach offers white sand, bars and restaurants, plus the interesting Rice Garden Museum. Water sports include parasailing, snorkelling and scuba diving. There are also mangrove tours and jungle trekking. The Seven Wells Waterfall tower has
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MALAYSIA: PORTS 360-degree views. The duty-free shopping has Malaysia’s best prices. If there’s time, explore one of the three UNESCO-listed World Geoparks. There’s rich wildlife at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and Pirate Lagoon is stunning. Underwater World at Pantai Tengah beach has a variety of marine life. Don’t miss: Langkawi Skybridge, slung along a 700-metre-high mountain ridge, is accessible by cable car from the Oriental Village, which has a 3D art museum. The views of the Andaman Sea make it a must for photographers. Best for: All ages, couples, shoppers, nature lovers. Getting around: The tiny island has no public transport so the only option is to use a taxi or rent a car or scooter. Tour buses meet passengers at the dock. For taxis, walk to the far end of the pier and negotiate.
KUCHING, SARAWAK Who goes there: Lindblad Expeditions (National Geographic), Oceania Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: Kuching, on the Sarawak River, offers a peep into
the past. Many guests visit the Sarawak Cultural Village, a living museum, and 19th-century castlelike Fort Margherita. Old meets new with kampong (Malay village) houses north of the river and Chinese businesses (and a thriving Chinatown) to the south. To see tropical rainforest and monkeys, visit Bako National Park. Gardeners will be impressed with the Sarawak Orchid Garden. For the more active, there is kayaking and canoeing, caves and jungle treks. Explore the many souvenir shops on the South Bank riverside promenade, visit museums and sample the local cuisine (rice-based and spicy). Or take a cooking class. Don’t miss: The Cat Museum is a must for animal lovers (kuching means cat in the local
language). There are also cat statues throughout the city. Meet orangutans at nearby Matang Wildlife Centre orphanage and rehabilitation program. Watch out for orangutan murals around town. Best for: All ages, animal lovers. Getting around: The port is about six kilometres from the city centre and there are a number of buses to town. There are also taxis.
KUANTAN Who goes there: Royal Caribbean, Star Cruises. Cruisers like: A young, rich Malay culture is appearing in this traditional east-coast city, with new resorts at some of Malaysia’s most famous yet tranquil beaches. For food lovers, there is great street food as well as restaurants on Jalan Besar; the local tom yam soup is spicy and delicious. The Teruntum Complex, Kuantan Parade and Berjay Megamall are good for shopping, as are the riverside and other night markets. The heart of Hindu culture is at Kuli Sri Maraimman temple in the city’s centre, and the State Mosque’s blue dome and four minarets is worth seeing. Families enjoy the waterpark, a safari park and the Crocodile Farm, which has more than 2000 reptiles. A little out of town, Gua Charah and its caves are a respected Buddhist sanctuary. Nearby is the Pandan waterfall. Don’t miss: Kuantan Bazaar has a wide range of the excellent local arts and crafts: batik, silk weaving, silver filigree, wood carving and pandanus woven hats and bags. Best for: All ages. Getting around: The port is about 25 kilometres from the city centre. A taxi will cost about US$80 for a round trip plus US$10 waiting time. Clockwise from left: rainforest waterfall, Langkawi; tom yam soup; proboscis monkey, Bako National Park, Kuching
SANDAKAN, SABAH Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Holland America Line, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: Nature lovers will appreciate Sabah’s ecotourism focus and its work with many native animals. Military historians will be interested in WWII links such as the site of the Japanese airfield that was built with the forced labour of locals and prisoners of war, the Sandakan Memorial Park, and the Japanese Cemetery. All are sobering and moving. In town, there’s also the World Heritage site of St Michael’s and All Angels Church built in 1897, Kampung Buli Sim Sim, a fishing village built on stilts, temples, mosques, and the bustling Sandakan Market. Don’t miss: The many animal santuaries, including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (the largest in the world), the neighbouring Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Turtle Island Park, which is encouraging turtles to nest there again, and the birds at Rainforest Discovery centre, complete with canopy walk. Best for: All ages. Getting around: The cruise port is right in the centre of town so there are plenty of options. ASEANCRUISING.COM
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cruisers onboard international ships such as Celebrity Century and Queen Elizabeth who want to go ashore in Vietnam for sightseeing now only have to pay US$5 – a dramatic drop from US$45. The change came into effect on January 1, 2015 and according to Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dun, will encourage more passengers aboard the larger international vessels to embark on shore tours.
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In addition to seeing the country’s new relationship with Singapore result in major improvement to the cruise sector, the next 12 months could potentially see Vietnam focus on simplifying its visa process. The prime minister has called for an easier visa process for overseas sea arrivals. Currently, cruise passengers are required to apply for individual shore visas for every port they visit. Mr Tan Dun believes this system discourages tourists from visiting. Vietnamese tour operators agree. “Vietnam is making it hard for people to get off the ship and spend money here,” Industry Travel Asia general director David Watson said. Meanwhile, the chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association, Nguyen Huu Tho, has urged the government to expand its visafree entry for travellers from key markets. Currently, Vietnam offers the visa-free entry for Japan, South Korea, Finland, Denmark, Sweden and Russia. Mr Nguyen has asked for this to be expanded to citizens of Australia, France, the UK and Germany.
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A junk cruising Halong Bay; beach at Nha Trang (opposite)
As Vietnam’s tourism leaders focus on ocean cruising, river cruising along the Mekong will continue to take off, as more river cruise lines launch new ships. CroisiEurope will add a new cruise ship on the Mekong River for the 201617 season. The 60-passenger RV Princesse Apsara will sail between Angkor, Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, calling at Siem Reap, Angkor, Tonle Sap, Kampong Chhang, Kampong Tralach, Koh Chen and Phnom Penh. Scenic also has a new ship coming to the Mekong, with Scenic Spirit launching January 2016. The 68-passenger vessel will also sail between Cambodia and Vietnam and will feature a pool, steam sauna and open-air cinema. Early in 2015, Avalon Waterways’ new 36-passenger Avalon Siem Reap set sail on the Mekong, with itineraries between Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh, while Aqua Expeditions’ first Asia vessel Aqua Mekong
set sail in late 2014. Other Mekong vessels include the Mekong Princess, a 24-passenger all-suite vessel that sets itself apart by being the first “spa concept” ship on the river, offering treatments, yoga and meditation. Operated by Haimark Travel, the ship has a one-toone staff-to-guest ratio and serves dishes created by world-class chef Jorge Penneke.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
From Ho Chi Minh City, travellers can visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, the underground network used by the Viet Cong during the war. Guides offer background information before demonstrating how they hid from the American army. At the end of the tour there is a gun range, where travellers can trial weapons that were used during the war. Other popular Ho Chi Minh City attractions include the Notre Dame Cathedral, which showcases the European influences in Vietnam, and the National
Museum of Vietnamese History featuring prehistoric artifacts and Han tombs. Nha Trang is a popular tourist destination famous for its beach. However, for those looking for something a little more cultural there’s the Stone Church, which stands 12 metres high and is influenced by western architecture. Cruisers can also explore the Cho Dam Market for local foods and outfits.
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Ho Chi Minh City has a number of four and four-and-a-half star hotels including big names such as the Pullman Saigon Centre, Sofitel Saigon Plaza and InterContinental Asiana Saigon. To spend a night like royalty, there is the castle-like Caravelle Saigon (formerly the Caravelle Hotel), a four-and-a-half star property with free high-speed internet, a pool, restaurant, fitness centre, hot tub and its own casino area.
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VIETNAM: PORTS islands, including the Hospital Cave, a secret, bomb-proof clinic used during the American War. Or take a ferry to Cat Ba Island’s national park. Don’t miss: Cruising around the multitude of steep limestone karst islands in the bay. In Hanoi, visit the water puppet theatre near the lake. Getting around: Many ships moor off Halong City and tender guests to the Bai Chay Tourist Wharf. At the pier, you will be able to rent a junk for about US$60 for four hours. There are buses to Hanoi, and a private car or taxi will cost about US$85. Best for: Families, food lovers, shoppers, photographers.
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DA NANG Who goes there: Ponant, Windstar Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: During the American War, Da Nang had a major US air force base. Many US and Allied troops enjoyed R&R here, and you can visit the famous China Beach. The Museum of Cham has the world’s largest collection of 5th to 15th-century Cham artefacts. Da Nang also has the largest Cao Dai temple in Central Vietnam, worth visiting for its architecture and decor. Visit the Marble Mountains
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to explore caves and tunnels and see Buddhist and Hindu shrines. Don’t miss: Within easy reach of Da Nang, Hoi An is a riverside town known for its arts and crafts, distinctive food and tailors. Best for: Families, food lovers, bargain hunters, history buffs. Getting around: The port of Tien Sa in Da Nang is a 30-minute bus ride from the centre of town. Taxis cost about US$10 each way. To get to Hoi An will cost about US$16-25.
HALONG BAY Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Avalon Waterways, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises, Uniworld, Viking River Cruises, Windstar Cruises. Cruisers like: Hanoi is a three-hour drive away. The city is growing fast, but the ancient bones are still there and the painted houses echo French colonial times. It is a good place to buy art, silk, clothing, lacquer and handcrafts. In picturesque World Heritagelisted Halong Bay, take a boat tour to visit caves and grottoes on the
Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Avalon Waterways, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, AmaWaterways, Crystal Cruises, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises, Uniworld, Viking River Cruises, Windstar Cruises. Cruisers like: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a huge city with chaotic traffic, yet with an elegant side. Food features fresh herbs, spice and a finesse from the French era (especially breads and pastries). Try the locally grown coffee which drips thickly into a glass with condensed milk. Take a cooking class, be fitted for a silk dress or shirt, and haggle in the massive city market. Also visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, the history-making Reunification Palace and its basement war rooms and tunnels, and the sobering War Remnants Museum. Don’t miss: The city, the Cu Chi Tunnels, constructed by the Viet Cong in the war. Or take a tour of the Mekong Delta, where the city’s food comes from. Best for: Families, food lovers, bargain hunters, shoppers. Clockwise from left: statue of Shiva, Marble Mountains; floating markets, Mekong Delta; Hoi An
Getting around: Small and midsize ships cruise up the Saigon River to three piers in the centre of town. Trishaws and taxis are available. Larger ships dock at Phu My on the South China Sea, a 90-minute drive from the city. There are shuttle buses and taxis available.
NHA TRANG Who goes there: Cunard, Holland America, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Ponant, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: One of the world’s most beautiful bays with a sweeping beach and jewel-like waters dotted with islands. The city is backdropped by mountains and the waterside has parks and sculpture gardens. There’s scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and
other water sports and, on Vinh Nguyen Island, mountain biking and bike tours. Visit Po Ngar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda. Revive in mineral-rich mud at the Thap Bo Hot Spring Centre, or have fun at Vinpearl Amusement Park. Don’t miss: The Alexandre Yersin Museum, for scientific history, and the National Oceanographic Museum. If you have time, travel up to Hon Ba Peak where the air is cooler and ideal for walking. Best for: All ages, couples, active people, photographers. Getting around: Nha Trang is about 12 kilometres from the Cau Da Port. There are taxis, trishaws and a free shuttle offered to cruise guests.
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New ships on the way as cruising takes off
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will make regular appearances at Sihanoukville before heading to Australia for her first cruise season based out of Brisbane. Other ships that will sail regularly to and from Cambodia’s main port in the coming 12 months include Princess Cruises’ Dawn Princess, Sun Princess and Sapphire Princess; Regent’s Seven Seas Voyager of the Seas; Seabourn’s Sojourn; Aida Cruises’ AIDAbella; Cunard’s Queen Mary 2; and P&O Cruises’ newest vessel, Pacific Eden. In river cruising, CroisiEurope has unveiled plans for its first Mekong-based ship, which is expected to set sail in time for the 2016/17 cruise season. The 60-passenger Apsara Princesse will sail between Angkor, Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Calls along the way will mostly be Cambodian ports: Siem Reap, Tonle Sap, Kampong Chhang, Kampong Tralach, Koh Chen and Phnom Penh. Aqua Expeditions’ first Asia-based vessel Aqua Mekong also sails along the Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia. Avalon Waterways took its first Suite Ship, Avalon Siem Reap, to Asia in March this year. The 36-guest vessel sails on 12-night itineraries between Cambodia and Vietnam and includes three nights in Siem Reap. Other river cruise lines with a big presence in Cambodia are Pandaw Cruises, APT, Scenic, Uniworld and Travelmarvel.
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ike neigbouring Vietnam, Cambodia benefits economically from two types of cruise visitors – those who arrive via the ocean and those who fly in to cruise its rivers. However, it wasn’t until the past 18 months that the country really began to benefit from the cruise boom. According to the country’s Ministry for Tourism, international visitors arriving via Cambodia’s waterways declined between 2010 and 2013, falling from 81,144 to 75,053. This turned around in 2014 when the country welcomed 96,950 cruise visitors; almost 30 per cent more than the previous year. The sector continued to climb in 2015, with cruise arrivals reaching 45,425 between January and March; up 40.4 per cent on the same period in 2013. Cruise now makes up about three and a half per cent of the total tourism share – a considerable jump from less than two per cent two years ago. These figures are expected to reach new heights by the end of 2015, as new ships launch on Cambodia’s rivers and additional ocean vessels visit its shores.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
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Angkor Wat, part of the Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap
capital Phnom Penh, it offers a variety of activities to keep cruise passengers entertained during port days. There are two temples, Wat Krom and Wat Leu. One is on a small hill and the other on top of a mountain, overlooking the entire town. Local beach, Sokha, offers snorkelling and scuba diving, and nearby Ream National Park is home to more than 150 species of animals. A trip to Cambodia wouldn’t be complete without visiting the ancient Angkor Wat complex. It is the largest religious monument in the world, and one of the best preserved, and can take days to see in full. The original temples were built in the 12th century by Hindu Khmer King Suryavarman II and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to seeing the country’s bigger tourist spots, river cruisers can 46
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The Angkor Wat complex is the world’s largest religious monument and one of the best preserved. explore Cambodia’s smaller towns, which offer intimate exchanges with locals. For example, during Pandaw Cruises’ sevenday Classic Mekong cruise, guests visit Kampong Cham for silk-weaving lessons before stopping at the Peam Chi Kang to visit the monastery and school.
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The embarkation and disembarkation point for most Mekong river cruises in Cambodia, Phnom Penh offers a number
of four- and five-star hotels. The fourand-a half-star Raffles Hotel Le Royal has a pool, fitness centre, bar, spa and free high-speed internet. The four-and-a-half star Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra offers similar amenities. For a more unique experience, try the White Mansion Boutique Hotel, which was the historical residence of the American Embassy, right in the heart of the city. Also a four and a half star property, it has 30 rooms and was one of the winners in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards in 2015. In Sihanoukville, the Deluxx Boutique Hotel is a 20-minute drive from the cruise port. The three-and-a-half star property offers rooms for families and individuals, with free internet. The fourstar Independence Hotels, Resort & Spa, is about 10 minutes from the port and is ideal for families and couples.
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CAMBODIA: PORTS PHNOM PENH Who goes there: AmaWaterways; Aqua Expeditions; Avalon Waterways; Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Cruisers like: Phnom Penh is a place of extremes: remnants of elegant French colonial architecture and the magnificent Royal Palace, dripping with gold, silver and precious stones. But this is played out against chilling displays in the Genocide Museum and the stacks of human skulls at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, not for the fainthearted. More pleasant is the hilltop Wat Phnom, complete with monkeys or, opposite the Royal Palace, a stroll along the parklike riverside boulevard flanked by cafes, shops and smart bars. Take a tuk tuk ride by day or return in the cool of the evening when the pace quickens. Don’t miss: The National Museum, the Royal Palace and the stunning Silver Pagoda. At dawn watch locals do calisthenics in front of the Royal Palace at Sisowath Quay. Best for: All ages. Getting around: The easiest way to tour the city is by hiring a cyclo, tuk tuk or moto (motorcycle taxi). Negotiate the price in advance .
SIHANOUKVILLE Who goes there: Holland America, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Laidback, with tranquil beaches such as the wellnamed Serendipity Beach, it’s hard to believe this was the site of the last official battle of the US Army in the American-Vietnam war. Now it has numerous small places serving good-value meals and a wide
range of drinks, such as the chilled La Rhumerie bar, as well as good international dining at themed restaurants. From here you can explore more than a dozen islands, although many visitors choose to stay at the beach, swimming, scuba diving, fishing or snorkelling. For local culture, visit the central market or a Buddhist temple. Don’t miss: The fishing village at
Steung Hauv, Kbal Chhay waterfall, and Ream National Park are not far from town. Coastal towns, Kampot, Kep and Bokor Mountain, are two hours away, and two shipwrecks off one of the islands beckon keen divers. Saturday night brings a market with food and live music, and Syn Absinthe organic distillery nestled in a tree house in the jungle is worth finding. Best for: All ages, photographers, water lovers and couples. Getting around: Ships dock close to the Victoria Beach area. Most arrive early in the morning and there will be buses to take passengers downtown. There are plenty of tuk tuks.
SIEM REAP Who goes there: Aqua Expeditions, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Cruisers like: There is plenty
Clockwise from right: National Museum, Phnon Pehn; Kep; statues at Buddhist temple, Sihanoukville of entertainment in the area, including the Phare Cambodian circus, Bambu stage shows, Rosanna Broadway, Apsara dance performances and traditional Khmer dancing. For those who wish to do rather than watch, there are also photographic tours. If there is time, visit one of the three local floating villages for a peep at village life – on the water. Cruising from Siem Reap on the Mekong River offers chances to visit busy local markets and fish farms, and watch locals making rice paper, candy and other traditional handicrafts. In town, there is a market for food and souvenirs, a war museum, the miniature Cambodian Cultural Village, and Artisans Angkor, a silk
farm and Khmer crafts workshop, all giving insights to local culture. Don’t miss: Angkor Wat, unmatched worldwide, and Bayon, both found in the 400 square kilometre Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors should consider their fitness levels and wear appropriate footwear. Some parts of the tour can be demanding. Best for: Active people of all ages. Getting around: Many attractions are easy to walk to. Hiring a car and driver will cost about US$25 a day.
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cruises on two different routes. Mrs Twichasri expects announcements like this to continue rolling out over the next few years, particularly as the country invests heavily in port infrastructure. Port investments include the recently approved multi-million dollar extension of Phuket Port. Once renovations are complete, the terminal will be 60 metres longer and able to accommodate two cruise ships at the same time. It will also be equipped to handle bigger cruise ships, which will come in handy if Royal Caribbean decides to send its Oasis-class vessels to the region.
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ig changes are coming to Thailand’s cruise sector over the next few years, as the government focuses on turning the destination into more than a just a port of call. Tourism Authority of BANGKOK Thailand’s Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and KRABI Business, Vilaiwan Twichasri revealed in early 2015 that Thailand is interested in working PHUKET with Singapore and Malaysia to attract more cruise ships to homeport in Thailand. Currently, the country welcomes 75 ships a year from 26 cruise lines. Of those, only a few are permanently based in Asia, such as the Star Cruises and Princess vessels. Costa Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn make regular visits throughout the year, while Holland America and Royal Caribbean are increasing their deployments. Despite the frequency of their visits to Thailand, these vessels are only calling at the destination and not utilising it as an embarkation and disembarkation destination. Until now. Thailand’s plan to become a major Southeast Asia cruise hub received a big push in May 2015, when Star Clippers announced it will base its 170-passenger Star Clipper in Phuket in 2016. Not only will this be the first time the cruise line has sent a ship to the region in five years, it will be the first time it has homeported one of its vessels at a Thai island. During her time in Thailand, Star Clipper will operate seven-night round-trip
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FACT FILE CAPITAL Bangkok CURRENCY Thai baht SEASON November to April CRUISE TYPE Ocean
In the next year, expect to see Thailand working closer with its Southeast Asia neighbours, while continuing marketing efforts and infrastructure investment. Mrs Twichasri said cruise is one of the tourism segments that needs “good cooperation internationally”. She explained that while infrastructure will cater for different types of ships, working with other countries on marketing and promotional activities is needed to attract more cruise lines to be deployed in the region. In addition to teaming up with other ASEAN countries, Thailand’s government will put more attention into promoting cruise tourism in the country. This will be achieved through a new joint cruise plan to be revealed later in 2015. Also expect to see the country pushing cruise tourism to new
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Phang Nga Bay in the Malacca Strait near Phuket; Ko Samui (opposite)
up-and-coming ports such as Ranong. Mrs Twichasri said the destination is ideal for itineraries travelling from Phuket to Dawei Port in Myanmar.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
As most of Thailand’s major ports are already top tourist destinations, cruisers are able to experience the best of the country during one-day visits. In Ko Samui, guests can enjoy Thailand’s famous elephant trekking, riding an elephant through jungles and local plantations. Animal lovers will also enjoy the monkey demonstrations where monkeys climb palm trees and pick fruit for their handlers. Cultural travellers can visit the Wat Phrayai or Big Buddha, named after the
In Ko Samui, guests can enjoy Thailand’s famous elephant trekking through jungles and plantations. 12 metre statue that sits on the temple’s premises. Phuket also has cultural and religious attractions such as Wat Chalong, the biggest and most ornate of the island’s 29 temples. There are water activities such as snorkelling in the Andaman Sea or enjoying local culinary treats in Phuket City. In Bangkok, cruisers can take shore
excursions to the Vimanmek Mansion Museum, the world’s largest teakwood building, or visit the Grand Palace, the former residence of the royal Siamese court.
TOP PLACES TO STAY
As Phuket becomes a Star Clipper homeport, cruisers may choose to stay in the city, a half-hour drive from the port, or closer to the terminal. The four-and-a-half star Sri Panwa Phuket Resort, near the port, is spread over 16 hectares, with two pools, a tennis court and sauna. It has family rooms for up to five people, plus one- and two-bedroom suites. More affordable accommodation is available at the Radisson Blu Plaza Resort, Regent Phuket Cape Panwa, Panwa View Point Hotel or the Bel Air Panwa.
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THAILAND: PORTS
PHUKET Who goes there: Crystal Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean. Cruisers like: Phuket Town with its shop-houses, cafes and temples is interesting, but many guests head across the island to take a kayak or speedboat tour among the stunning Phi Phi limestone islands and caves. Or you can stay on shore and enjoy the long sandy beaches and water sports including snorkelling or diving in the clear water around coral reefs. Dine on spicy food at a beachside restaurant or enjoy a spa treatment at one of the many high-end resorts. There are several shopping malls, and the Royal Paradise market. For more handmade local crafts head for the OTOP market. Don’t miss: Watching the sunset from famous Patong Beach. Best for: Couples, photographers, active people and water-sport fans. Getting around: During high season, ships moor off Patong Beach and tender passengers to shore. In the monsoon season, they dock at Phuket Deep Sea Port. It is a 20-minute drive to Phuket Town taxis or bemos (three-wheel mini50
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Clockwise from above: Wat Arun, Bangkok; rock climbing near Krabi; colourful reef off Phuket bus) will be waiting at the pier. A taxi to Patong Bay, a 45-minute trip, costs about US$50 round trip.
Nearby, Or Tor Kor is a huge growers’ market, ideal for tasting unusual tropical fruit. Elsewhere, there are shopping centres and temples such as the Temple of Dawn, but one of the most fun things to do is to take a longtail motor boat along the Chao Phraya River, which loops through Bangkok and the network of klongs (canals) to see how people live along the waterways. Don’t miss: The Grand Palace, perhaps the world’s most sumptuously decorated royal property. Everything glitters and reflects the importance of royalty in Thailand: gold, precious stones, mosaics, mirrors. Wander though temples and galleries, courtyards and allow plenty of time. Best for: Food lovers, photographers, shoppers. Getting around: Most ships dock at Laem Chabang, a two-hour drive from Bangkok. Taxis will offer a fixed price, from about US$95 to Bangkok and US$40 to Pattaya. Some smaller ships head up the river to Khlong Toei Port near central Bangkok.
KO SAMUI BANGKOK Who goes there: Viking River Cruises, Avalon Waterways, Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises, Silversea, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Crystal Cruises. Cruisers like: Shopping alert: if you are in port at the weekend, visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market which has more than 15,000 stalls selling almost everything.
Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Holland America, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seven Seas, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: Thailand’s third largest island is an oasis ringed by its only road and pristine white sandy beaches, with a mountainous jungle inland. The brilliant corals are ideal for diving and snorkelling, while turquoise lagoons and waterfalls offer postcard views. To the north, there’s the Big Buddha, and several other temples. It’s possible to explore it all by hiring a bicycle or teaming up with a local driver and guide. There are plenty of clubs, bars, beachside restaurants and cafes, as well as cooking classes. Don’t miss: Visiting other nearby
islands. A speedboat can deliver you to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park. With enough time, a day trip to the gorgeous Ang Thong National Park is a must. Best for: All ages, especially water lovers and active people. Getting around: Cruise ships anchor off Nathon and take passengers ashore via tender. The city centre is within a 15-minute walk of the pier. Taxis are available and the fare should be agreed before departing the pier.
KRABI Who goes there: P&O cruises, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: Krabi town is relaxed and low-key. Hike up the hilly streets to local cafes for affordable authentic dishes. Head further to see Buddhist shrines still in use in Tiger Cave, the major drawcard. It’s worth climbing the 1200 steps for the view over the island and town. Venture inland to experience lush jungle and waterfalls, or head to the dazzling white beaches for sea caves in limestone cliffs (for keen rock climbers) and islands (some 130 of them). Don’t miss: Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, a very small elephant camp in the forest, where visitors may bathe them. Huay Toh waterfall is worth seeing. Chua Sui Do is a relaxing monastery, and there are also hot springs, and a wildlife sanctuary on the island. Best for: Couples, active people. Getting around: Hire a tuk tuk to get around on land or a traditional longtail boat from the beach for independent island hopping.
www.thailand.net.au
Ko Phi Phi, Thailand
LAOS
New ships open up the Upper Mekong C H I N A V I E T N A M
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to Laos the shallower the water becomes. To deal with the problem, LUANG PRABANG cruise lines such as Pandaw have L A O S had to custom design their vessels. In November 2015, the VIENTIANE Laos Pandaw will be launched – a 20-passenger vessel with a low draught and an additional power engine to allow it to it sail T H A I L A N D smoothly to the Upper Mekong. The Laos Pandaw has 10 staterooms, keeping the passenger count low to minimise weight. It has an open-air lounge, a bistro-style C A M B O D I A dining room with outside seating and air-conditioning inside, and a bar that will be open around-the-clock. The river cruiser will initially offer 10-night itineraries from the French colonial city of Vientiane, just across the river from Thailand, north to Ban Paklay, Pak Lai, Tha Deua and Luang Prabang. There will be a stop at the Pak Ou caves FACT FILE and the itinerary will end in Chiang Khong, Thailand. CAPITAL Vientiane In 2016, Laos Pandaw will give travellers CURRENCY Laos kip the chance to cruise Laos along with SEASON September to April Thailand, Myanmar and China in one itinerary. The itinerary has eight departure CRUISE TYPE River commencing 29 February to 18 April 2016. It will sail from Chiang Saen in Thailand to Myanmar, Laos and then cross the border for the first time into China for a visit to the city of Jinghong. “It has been a long-held ambition to sail the length of the navigable sections of the Upper Mekong River,” said Pandaw founder Paul Strachan. “With the construction of our new vessel and working with our partners, this journey is now possible.
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t is surrounded by destinations that have taken advantage of the boom in river cruising for years, but Laos is only now starting to test the waters. In general, tourism to Laos is still somewhat niche compared to its Southeast Asia neighbours. However, like Myanmar, it is expected to see a major boost in the coming years as travellers look for new and unique destinations. According to Laos Tourism Development Department’s latest figures, the country welcomed 3.7 million tourists in 2013, a 13 per cent rise on the 3.3 million the previous year. By the end of 2015, Laos’ tourism leaders are expecting visitor numbers to reach 4.2 million and 4.6 million by 2020. Despite the modest growth rate, the average length of stay for travellers has increased from 7.2 days in 2012 to 8.4 days in 2013. The tourist bureau estimates it will reach 12.3 days by the end of the decade. This comes as travellers take more time to explore the country and it’s main waterway, the Mekong River. While Vietnam and Cambodia have mastered Mekong river cruises, Laos is just beginning to explore its benefits. Currently, Avalon Waterways, APT and Pandaw are among the lines cruising the river in Laos.
LAOS “There is much to explore in this undiscovered region. Travellers need to be up for a real adventure as the daily itinerary might change, but with a flexible attitude they will have the trip of a lifetime.” APT’s Mekong Sun and Mekong Explorer sail on the Upper Mekong offering itineraries in Laos as well as trips that include Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia on a single itinerary.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
The majority of Laos river itineraries start in either another Southeast Asian destination or in Laos’ capital Vientiane. A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Luang Prabang is a must. It is known for its many Buddhist temples, royal palace and night markets, where travellers can pick up locally made products. Another must-see is Vang Vieng, about four hours north of Vientiane. Described as a “piece of heaven on earth”, it is surrounded by scenic mountains and rivers.
TOP PLACES TO STAY
Laos is home to a number of smaller, boutique properties that offer four-and-ahalf star luxury. Satri House in Luang Prabang is a mansion-style property with spacious rooms and air-conditioning, a restaurant, bar, fullservice spa, two outdoor pools and a health club. It is close to the Royal Palace Museum and the night market. Also in Luang Prabang, near the international airport, is the intimate Hotel De La Paix with 23 guest rooms, a restaurant, bar, full-service spa, outdoor pool and four spa tubs. Other intimate properties in Luang Prabang include The Luang Say Residence, which caters for a maximum of 48 guests, and the Kiridara Hotel, which has 24 guest rooms, a fitness centre, outdoor pool and full-service spa.
LAOS: PORTS LUANG PRABANG Who goes there: Avalon Waterways, APT, Azamara Club Cruises, Mekong River Cruises, Pandaw, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Cruisers like: Formerly the royal capital of Laos, the old town centre is now a World Heritage Site. The splendid Royal Palace Museum (Haw Kham) and the Wat Xieng Thong are among the bestknown historical sites, but the main street is dotted with many smaller wats (temples) such as Wat Hosian Voravihane, well worth seeing. Come to town early to witness hundreds of monks walking the streets collecting alms from locals and visitors. Wat Chom Si is reached by 190 steps and worth the climb for the 360-degree views of the Mekong and farmlands. Further from town are Kuang Si Falls, Tat Sae Waterfalls and Pak Ou Caves, best reached by mountain bike. Don’t miss: The night market at the end of the main street is a fascinating place to shop at stalls selling shirts, bracelets and other souvenirs, and local street food. Take a 15-minute boat ride from town on the Mekong River to Ban Chan, a fascinating pottery village. At another village, see weaving
and paper being made from the pulp of mulberry trees. Best for: All ages. Getting around: The main sites in town are within walking distance. Alternatively take a tuk tuk or hire a longtail boats from the main pier to visit nearby villages.
VIENTIANE Who goes there: APT, Mekong River Cruises, Pandaw. Cruisers like: Visitors are spoiled for choice with the many temples and Buddhist monuments. The golden stupa of the 16th-century Pha That Luang is 45 metres tall and said to contain a relic of the
Lord Buddha. Also see Wat Si Muang, built on the ruins of a Khmer Hindu shrine, the Lao National Museum, the Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan Buddhist monastery and the impressive stupa of That Dam. For a taste of French colonial charm, pop in to the elegant Settha Palace Hotel for a drink or just to soak up the atmosphere. Don’t miss: Buddha Park, 25 kilometres from the city, lies at the edge of the Mekong River. It was built in 1958 and contains a collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, scattered among gardens and trees. Shopping is good, with a vibrant night market as well as a morning market bursting with silks, silver, Hmong bags, clothing, and jewellery – right next to a shopping mall. Best for: All ages. Getting around: Walk around the city centre, or hire a bicycle. Taxis are available to travel further afield.
Clockwise from above: monks, Luang Prabang; Nam Song River; Kuang Si Falls; Buddha Park, Vientiane. Opposite: Royal Palace, Luang Prabang ASEANCRUISING.COM
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Cruise contributes to tourism boom
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ver the past two years, Sydney to Dubai and the Azamara MANDALAY Myanmar has gone from a Quest on her 13-night Spice Route niche hot spot to one of the II itinerary from Chennai most in-demand destinations for to Singapore. tourists around the world. There is no shortage of luxury M YA N M A R VIETNAM According to the Ministry cruise lines calling at Yangon, L A O S of Hotels & Tourism’s latest including Seabourn, Silversea BAGAN statistics, in 2014 the country and Regent Seven Seas. Other welcomed 3.08 million arrivals, cruise lines making regular more than a million more than visits include Swan Hellenic, the 2.04 million in 2013 and Holland America, Oceania and almost three times the number Celebrity Cruises. T H A I L A N D of visitors in 2010. On the rivers, there has been NAYPYIDAW Of these tourists, 18,077 took an explosion of new offerings A YANGON I a cruise along the Irrawaddy and particularly from boutique D O Chindwin rivers, a rise from the 15,809 operators such as Belmond’s Orcaella, B M the previous year. AmaWaterways and Sanctuary Ananda. CA This sharp increase comes as cruise Then there’s Pandaw River Expeditions, lines such as APT and Avalon Waterways APT, Avalon and Viking. introduce new vessels on the rivers, opening THE NEXT 12 MONTHS up more beds and new itineraries. Don’t expect the river cruise wave to The fame in river cruising has also slow down any time soon. APT and pushed Yangon up the ocean port rankings. Travelmarvel are going after the fastIn 2014, Myanmar received 18 ship visits, FACT FILE growing river cruise market, each launching bringing with them some 18,611 cruise a new ship to sail in Myanmar from January passengers. This was more than double the CAPITAL Naypyidaw 2016. The new vessels will both offer 15-day eight cruise ships that arrived in 2013 and CURRENCY Burmese kyat itineraries between Yangon and Mandalay. well over the 6,308 ocean arrivals. SEASON Year round APT’s new RV Samatha will feature 30 According to Myanmar Ports Authority, suites ranging from 27 square metres to the country is proving popular among large CRUISE TYPE River & ocean 48.7 square metres, plus a swimming pool, cruise ships, welcoming 11 round-the-world observation deck, a spa and two restaurants, cruises during the first three months of 2014 including the main dining room and a alone. “Starting in February, 2014, there were private fine-dining venue. six cruises and in March, five. The number Travelmarvel’s new RV Princess Panhwar of cruises is more than 2013 which is the will have 36 suites ranging from 26 square recorded year of most cruise entrances,” a metres to 42.5 square metres, many with Myanmar Port Authority official said. balconies. There will be a restaurant, spa Ships visiting the growing Southeast and massage facility and an air-conditioned Asia destination include Dawn Princess lounges area on the sun deck. during her 24-day World Cruise from
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MYANMAR Scenic is also set to launch a new river ship on the Irrawaddy in September 2016. The Scenic Aura will travel on 10-night itineraries between Mandalay and Pyay, carrying 44 guests in 22 all-balcony suites. Rooms feature separate bedroom, living room and balcony, and range from the 24 square metre Balcony Suite to the 70 square metre Royal Panorama Suite, the largest suite on the Irrawaddy which features four separate zones and a forward-facing deck complete with daybed and Jacuzzi. Avalon Waterways will follow up its January 2015 debut on the Mekong with Avalon Myanmar scheduled to launch on the Irrawaddy in September 2015 to sail 14-day itineraries starting and ending in Yangon. Similar to Avalon Siem Reap, the vessel will offer the same Avalon style and comfort found on its Suite Ships in Europe, however, it will be smaller with only 18 suites. The ship will be fitted out in contemporary Asian style with wall-to-wall panoramic windows that slide back to create an open-air balcony. Pandaw Cruises will launch shorter river itineraries in Myanmar as a means of attracting more land visitors. Commencing September 2015, the line will run two-night itineraries aboard 60-passenger RV Orient Pandaw. The cruise will take guests between the country’s two ancient capitals, Mandalay and Bagan. Along the way, passengers will be able to visit the monastery city of Pakokku and the pottery village of Yandabo. In ocean cruising, Yangon will be included in a number of world itineraries over the coming year, including Insignia’s 180-day World Odyssey round trip from Miami; and Fred Olsen’s Black Watch, which will arrive in March 2016 during a 115-night Around the World cruise. Silver Shadow will visit during a 12-day Venetian Society cruise from Singapore and Seabourn Sojourn will stop by regularly throughout December on itineraries circling Southeast Asia. Other vessels making appearances over the next 12 months include MS Volendam, Seven Seas Voyager, MS Europa, MS Rotterdam and Silver Whisperer.
Hot-air ballooning over temples at Bagan; U-Bein footbridge, Mandalay (opposite)
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
One of the most popular tourist activities in Myanmar is hot-air ballooning. It attracted nearly 17,000 people last year. Cruisers who add a couple of nights in Myanmar’s largest city and former capital, Yangon, can explore the colonial-style buildings and visit the award-winning Shwedagon Pagoda, which is more than 2,600 years old and is often referred to as The Crown of Burma. There is also a temple embedded with more than 7,000 diamonds, rubies, topaz and sapphires. Mandalay also offers access to ancient temples, including the Golden Palace Monastery and the Maha Myat Muni
Pagoda. It also has the Jade Market featuring dozens of stalls selling everything from jewellery to local culinary treats.
TOP PLACES TO STAY
Yangon offers a number of high-end properties including the Belmond Governor’s Residence and The Strand Yangon. Both have elegant accommodation, internet, a pool, restaurant and bar. Yangon is also home to Sule ShangriLa and the Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon, both named in the 2015 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards, plus the four-star Mandalay Hill Resort, Hotel by the Red Canal and Hotel Yadanarbon.
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MYANMAR: PORTS BHAMO Who goes there: Avalon Waterways Cruisers like: The northernmost point for navigating the Irrawaddy River, and close to the Chinese border, Bhamo has long been a trading town. It’s subtropical and very relaxed, although the central riverfront, lined with ancient teak houses and leafy “rain trees”, gets lively on Friday market day. Take a taxi, motorised tri-shaw or bicycle to the Shwekyinar Pagoda with two gold-topped stupas marking the site of fifth-century Shan city, north of town. The Theindawgyi Pagoda in town has a gilded bell-shaped stupa. Burmese food is a blend of neighbouring cuisines. Rice, vegetables and seafood feature strongly. See the ingredients at the pre-dawn vegetable market. Don’t miss: The Bamboo Bridge, four kilometres north in old Bhamo, rebuilt every year after the rains. Face your fears and make your way across the wide Tapin River to enjoy the untouched natural scenery. Best for: Couples, adventurers, photographers.
YANGON Who goes there: Avalon Waterways, Azamara Club Cruises, Holland America, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises,
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Seabourn, Silversea Cruises. Cruisers like: Formerly Rangoon, Myanmar’s largest city was isolated for five decades. Called the Garden City of the East, its web of historic streets reveals some showpieces of British colonial architecture. It’s a busy place with shops and vibrant open-air markets, but the biggest drawcard is the friendly locals. The golden stupa Shwedagon Paya, the oldest in the world, can be sighted from almost anywhere in town, its glittering pinnacle studded with priceless gems. The 10-metre century-old Chauk Htat Gyi Buddha, carved from one block of marble, was shipped down the Irrawaddy River, a journey depicted as you enter. By contrast the sobering Taukkyan War Cemetery, out of town, recalls the terrible legacy of the Burma Railway where thousands died. Don’t miss: The Myanmar Gem Museum, home to priceless rubies, sapphires, jade and the world’s largest pearl, discovered in 2001. More gems at the Cultural Museum on the regalia of the last Myanmar king and his imperial throne.
Clockwise from above: Shwezigon Pagoda, Bagan; fisherman, Inle Lake; Mount Popa south-east of Bagan
Who goes there: Avalon Waterways, Azamara Club Cruises, Belmond. Cruisers like: Over three centuries, more than 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas and monasteries were constructed in the area, formerly known as Pagan. More than 2,200 survive, dotted on the Bagan plains. Ananda is one of the most famous temples, built in the 12th century with four gilded Buddhas, and Dhammayangyi Temple is the largest, however only the outer areas are now accessible. Three-storey Bagan Archaeological Museum is a thousand-year-old field museum housing rare objects including the original Myazedi inscriptions, the Rosetta stone of Burma. Anawrahta’s Palace was recently rebuilt on the foundations of the old palace site. Don’t miss: Bagan Archaeological Zone and museum, said to equal Angkor Wat. Activities include
BAGAN Who goes there: Avalon Waterways, Azamara Club Cruises, Belmond. Cruisers like: Over three centuries, more than 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas and monasteries were constructed in the area, formerly known as Pagan. More than 2,200 survive, dotted on the Bagan plains. Ananda is one of the most famous temples, built in the 12th century with four gilded Buddhas, and Dhammayangyi Temple is the largest, however only the outer areas are now accessible. Three-storey Bagan Archaeological Museum is a thousand-year-old field museum housing rare objects including the original Myazedi inscriptions, the Rosetta stone of Burma. Anawrahta’s Palace was recently rebuilt on the foundations of the old palace site. Don’t miss: Bagan Archaeological Zone and museum, said to equal Best for: Adventurer seekers.
travelling the plains by horse and cart, hot-air balloon rides over the hundreds of temples and pagodas, especially at sunrise, and photographing the domes and minarets as the sun sets. Best for: Adventurers, photographers, couples.
MANDALAY Who goes there: Avalon Waterways, Belmond. Cruisers like: Visitors need to choose between dozens of spectacular temples and Buddhas.
Brunei a golden experience
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Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien mosque; rhinoceros hornbill (right); Empire Hotel (below)
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runei’s appeal to cruise passengers lies in its vast stretches of virgin tropical rainforests, its rich Malay culture and traditions. Its colourful history reads like the pages of an adventure epic, replete with tales of sultans, princesses, pirates, headhunters and swashbuckling European adventurers. The Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam (Brunei, the Abode of Peace) is an aptly named, little-known gem nestled on the northern shores of the huge island of Borneo, which it once ruled. This enchanting kingdom is ruled by a beloved and benevolent Sultan, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, considered the world’s wealthiest monarch and descending from an unbroken royal lineage dating back to the early 15th century. He provides generously for the welfare of the
383,000 inhabitants, exempting them from personal income taxes and providing almost free education and medical care. Brunei is packed with easy-to-reach attractions. The tiny capital of Bandar Seri Begawan is probably Southeast Asia’s loveliest capital and home to one of the region’s architectural wonders, the majestic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien mosque, with its gilded minarets. Further along the Brunei River sits the impressive Istana Nurul Iman, the Sultan’s palace and the world’s biggest residential palace with 1,788 rooms, which opens to citizens and visitors only once a year. The city’s modern shopping complexes and department stores include the impressive Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah complex in Bandar and the newly opened Mall in the commercial area of Gadong. Outside Bandar, in the Tutong and Belait districts, a number of interesting natural and cultural attractions can easily be visited on day trips. These include the hauntingly beautiful Tasek Merinbun, a remote black-water lake surrounded by jungle that is a haven of tranquility and an ASEAN national heritage site. More serious nature lovers will head across Brunei Bay to Temburong, separated
from the rest of Brunei by the Limbang Division in Malaysia’s state of Sarawak. Temburong is the least populated, hilliest and most heavily jungled district in Brunei, home to the world-famous Ulu Temburong national park and the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre. It offers an exciting array of ecotourism and adventure activities. So much pristine nature means Brunei can boast having some of the freshest and purest air and one of the least polluted environments anywhere. The jewels in the crown of Brunei’s manmade attractions are the enormous Jerudong Park, a fairyland playground built by the royal family for the enjoyment of locals and visitors, and the nearby Empire Hotel and Country Club, an exquisite seven-star property, complete with private beach, golf course, theatre, Cineplex, bowling alley, some 10 food and beverage outlets. Brunei offers surprisingly good value for money, having a good range of accommodation and food outlets, while most tourist attractions are free or charge nominal fees. ASEANCRUISING.COM
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Cruise arrivals bolster tourism numbers MUARA
THE NEXT 12 MONTHS
Although Brunei’s tourism leaders aren’t focused on building new port infrastructure or attracting cruise ships to secondary ports for the moment, the country can expect another record cruise season in 2015/16. Thirteen cruise ships will visit Bandar Seri Begawan throughout the season, making a total of 21 calls. 58
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Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas will kick off the season a week early when she makes her inaugural call at Bandar Seri M A L AY S I A Begawan on August 24, 2015. B R U N E I The ship’s visit will be part of a 10-night Brunei, Philippines and Taiwan cruise from Singapore. She will be followed by Oceania Cruises’ Insignia, which will visit on her 70-day New World Quest from Hong M A L AY S I A Kong to Miami. Sapphire Princess will return several times during her second season sailing from Singapore, calling at Brunei’s port in December, January and February. She will be one of two Princess ships visiting this season. Pacific Princess will also stop by in February 2016 during her 94-day World Cruise segment from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale. Other ships making an appearance this FACT FILE season include Silver Shadow, MS Volendam, MS Europa, Costa Victoria, Nautica, Seven CAPITAL Bandar Seri Begawan Seas Voyager, Astor and Queen Victoria. CURRENCY Brunei dollar Seabourn’s Sojourn will join Insignia to close SEASON October-April the season in April 2016.
IN DO NE SI A
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t may still be a lesser-known Southeast Asian destination, but Brunei is seeing a steady, slow growth in cruising. The destination’s overall tourist development has come to a halt in recent years, after hitting a big peak in 2003 of 944,000 tourist arrivals. After that and until 2012, the country welcomed an average of 250,000 visitors annually. This was followed by a drastic drop with only 179,000 arrivals in 2014. Despite the decline in tourist arrivals, cruise visitors have steadily increased as the number of ship visits rises. According to Brunei Tourism, in 2009 the country welcomed about 19,400 cruise passengers, an increase from 17,450 the previous year. In 2014, it had its busiest summer season, welcoming 15 ocean ships and a record of 30,000 cruise visitors. Lines that called at Bandar Seri Begawan (Muara Port) from December 2014 to April 2015 included Princess Cruises, Costa, Silversea, Crystal, Regent Seven Seas, Hapag-Lloyd, Celebrity, Cunard, Oceania, Azamara Cruises and Seabourn.
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
CRUISE TYPE Ocean
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Take a mosque tour of Bandar Seri Begawan to see the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, which is within easy walking distance of the Royal Regalia Museum. The mosque is a spectacular sight with its mix of Mughal architecture and Italian styles. It was completed in 1958 and is named after Omar Ali Saiffudein III, the 30th Sultan of Brunei.
BRUNEI
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and a royal barge
Inside the Royal Regalia Museum, visitors can find ceremonial dresses and artifacts that belonged to the country’s former royals as well as many lavish gifts that the Sultan has received from overseas official visitors, displayed in galleries overlooking his elaborate coronation chariot. Not far from the Sultan’s palace is the largest mosque in Brunei, Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque. Its interior is elegant and its centrepiece is a Swarovski crystal chandelier weighing three tonnes.
DON’T MISS
Take a fast motorboat to a water village across the bay from the city centre. Locals have lived here for generations in houses built on stilts and connected by timber walkways. Schools and mosques, police and fire stations are part of each village and some homes welcome tour groups with cakes and drinks.
TOP PLACES TO STAY
Brunei only has about 2,500 hotel rooms spread among 30 establishments ranging from guesthouses to the super-luxurious hotels. The best places to stay in Bandar Seri Begawan include the Rizqun International Hotel. It only has three and a half stars, but is conveniently located close to malls, restaurants and supermarkets. For a more luxurious stay, there is the four-and-a-half star Capital Residence Suites on the edge of central Bandar, or the Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam. One of the most attractive properties is the seven-star Empire Hotel and Country Club, which is about 20km from the centre of Bandar on the South China Sea in Kampong Jerudong. It is Brunei’s most prestigious beach resort and features a 12-storey marble and gold lobby, 180 hectares of manicured gardens and an 18-hole golf course.
BRUNEI: PORT MUARA, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN Muara Port on Brunei Bay is 28 kilometres from Bandar and 24 kilometres from the international airport. It is essentially a cargo port with a cruise ship centre. Facilities include a lounge, stage for cultural performances, currency exchange booth, souvenir kiosks, convenience shop, cafe, phone booths and free Wi-Fi. Brunei gives cruise visitors a warm, traditional welcome when they arrive in port.
Garden near Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
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THE SHIPS OF THE WORLD ARE CONVERGING ON ASIA Words Teresa Ooi
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study on cruising trends in Asia by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) shows ship deployments in the region have grown about 10 per cent year on year for the past three years. More than 10 lines will make their maiden calls in 2015/2016 including TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 1, which will sail to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur during its season in Singapore. Large ocean ships tend to operate in specific regions such as Australia to Southeast and East Asia, between Singapore and China, from Singapore to Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Hong Kong and around China, Japan and Korea. Indian ports are visited as ships leave Dubai and head towards Southeast Asia and Australia or on relocation cruises between Asia and the Mediterranean or Caribbean. Size does not matter. Today the focus is on unique designs and amenities. Speciality
cruises are de rigueur, ranging from boutique luxury yachts to elegant ocean liners. CLIA says savvy travellers are looking for global experiences and want to call at ports with UNESCO World Heritage status. They are also more demanding and expect bow-tostern Wi-Fi and phone connectivity. River cruising has become popular with those looking to explore relatively unspoiled Myanmar or the World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, Laos. There is a wealth of itineraries to choose from. Holland America Line has three ships in Southeast Asia visiting Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Princess Cruises has seven ships in Asia including three that depart from Fremantle. Royal Caribbean has five ships in Southeast Asia and East Asia and Costa will have three ships in East Asia. Lines such as P&O Cruises and Cunard call at Asian ports during world cruises and, for
luxury cruising, there’s Seabourn Sojourn, Silver Shadow, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Of course, all this shipping activity is based around the growth in demand. Passengers sourced in Asia are up 34 per cent at 1,398,037 for 2015. Ted Blamey of Chart Management Consultants predicts that more than 2.05 million passengers will cruise in Asia on 115,360 voyagesin 2016. Meanwhile, cruise lines are set to reap a huge harvest in China, with escalating domestic demand. Carnival has increased its share of Chinese cruises by 140 per cent over the past two years and expects to carry more than 500,000 Chinese passengers this year. It is the first global cruise company to have three ships homeported in China. Royal Caribbean has a strong presence, with the most technologically advanced ship, Quantum of the Seas, homeported in Shanghai since June, 2015.
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LUXURY
SEABOURN
Seabourn Quest
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eabourn’s three intimate, 229-suite ships, Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest, comprise the newest, most modern and uniform fleet in the ultra-luxury segment. This trio of beautiful, ultra-luxury vessels have been repeatedly named the best small ships in the world. No matter where in the world travellers wish to cruise, Seabourn’s fleet assures them an award-winning on-board lifestyle that is consistently rated among the world’s finest travel experiences. Seabourn’s unique appeal results from the intimate size of its ships. Guests quickly feel at home, recognised by a crew numbering nearly as many as guests. This level of sincere, personalised service creates a sense of membership, at once relaxing and exhilarating. And tipping is neither required nor expected on Seabourn. Suites are thoughtfully designed and elegantly furnished, providing invitingly cosy vacation homes spacious enough for entertaining. All
SIGNATURE SUITE
Approx 125.5 sqm • expansive ocean views • forward-facing windows • dining for four to six • bathroom with whirlpool bathtub • pantry with wet bar • two flat-screen TVs • Free Wi-Fi
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offer expansive ocean views, and most have private verandas. Seabourn’s cuisine has been voted the best afloat by experts and readers in travel and culinary publications. A variety of open seating options means guests dine where, when and with whom they wish. Meals are prepared to order and graciously served. Dinners ordered from the restaurant menu may be served in a guest suite. All dining, fine wines and spirits, including champagne and caviar, are complimentary throughout the cruise. Global itineraries visit must-see ports and hidden gems where larger ships cannot go. Seabourn’s ships possess an array of amenities and features: swimming pools and whirlpool spas, inviting lounges, indoor and outdoor bars, a casino, showroom and expanses of open deck. The Spa at Seabourn is the largest on any luxury ship, with services from therapeutic treatments to a fully equipped gym, and a full-service salon. A unique water-sports marina can be deployed from the stern on select itineraries.
PENTHOUSE SUITE
Approx 50 sqm • dining table for two to four • separate bedroom • glass door to veranda • two flat-screen TVs • fully stocked bar • spacious bathroom with tub, shower and large vanity
VERANDA SUITE
Approx 34 sqm • full-length window and glass door to private veranda • dining table for two • walk-in closet • interactive flat-screen TV • fully stocked bar and refrigerator • separate bath and shower
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LUXURY DINING Award-winning gourmet cuisine in four openseating venues, plus a coffee/snack bar and 24hour room service. Guests dine where and when they wish, and food is prepared to order. Dinner from the restaurant menu can be served in the your suite or veranda. Dining, spirits, wines, champagne and caviar are complimentary.
Vessels: 3 Passengers: 458, based on double occupancy WHAT’S NEW: Coming December, 2016: Seabourn Encore. The next evolution of ultra-luxury cruising, the new ship will have 300 ocean-view suites with private verandas, designed by Adam D Tihany. There will be multiple stunning dining venues, including one new specialty restaurant, and the award-winning Seabourn service with all-inclusive value.
ACCOMMODATION Suites are 27.5 to 110 square metres, most with private verandas. They feature: comfortable living area; queen or twin beds; fully stocked bar and refrigerator; large TV with music and movies; spacious marble bathroom, separate tub and shower; desk with personal stationery; plush robes and slippers; hair dryer; 110/220 A/C.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
HIGHLIGHTS Seabourn’s fleet circles the globe, providing easy, elegant access to the wonders of Northern Europe; the Mediterranean; Adriatic & Greek Isles; Africa, Arabia & India; Southeast Asia & China; the Americas, Antarctica; Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific; the Panama Canal and the Caribbean.
• Accommodation in a spacious, ocean-view suite
• All dining on board including alternative restaurants
• Full open-bar service, fine wines, spirits and champagne
• A variety of enrichment and entertainment day and night
• The most acclaimed service at sea, no tipping required
FACILITIES Library, computer centre, concierge, five lounges and bars, the largest spa on any luxury ship (ocean-view gym, motion studio, full-service salon), six outdoor whirlpools, two outdoor pools, nine-hole golf putting course, casino, three duty-free shops, laundry and drycleaning service, free guest laundrettes.
• Complimentary water sports on warm-water itineraries
• Complimentary shoreside events on select itineraries
• 24-hour room service and full in-suite dinner service on request
BEST FOR HISTORY & CULTURE • SPA & WELLNESS • WILDLIFE • FOOD & WINE SHOPPING • SIGHTSEEING • ENTERTAINMENT • ONBOARD
• ADVENTURE •
CHOOSING YOUR ITINERARY Seabourn Sojourn explores Southeast Asia including Malaysia, Myanmar, Indonesia, the Philippine Archipelago and more. Thailand & Vietnam: 14 nights Singapore /Hong Kong in January and February, 2016 including Bangkok, Cambodia, Da Nang, overnight in Ho Chi Minh City and scenic cruising of Ha Long Bay, plus a Caviar in the Surf beach party on a private beach. Remarkably all-inclusive fares range from $5,999 to $34,999* per person, based on double occupancy of an ocean-view suite. Voyages of seven to 24 days are combinable for Extended Explorations at extra savings.
CONTACT: Seabourn W: seabourn.com
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN NIGHTS MYANMAR & MALAYSIA
14
SOUTHEAST ASIAN SEAS
28
THAILAND & VIETNAM
14
ASIAN KINGDOMS EXPLORATION
49
ASIAN EMPIRES EXPLORATION
63
ASIAN ICONS EXPLORATION
35
CHINA, JAPAN & KOREA
21
LANDS OF SILK & SPICE
35
PEARLS OF THE PHILIPPINES & BORNEO
14
ISLANDS, INDIA & ARABIA
32
SILK EMPIRES EXPLORATION
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*Select sailings. All fares are in US dollars, cruise-only, for new bookings only, per guest, double occupancy, subject to availability, and valid only for residents of the Americas. Some suite categories may not be available. Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses from $371.64 per person are additional. Fares are not combinable with any other offer, may vary by sailing date, are capacity controlled, and are subject to change without prior notice. All savings amounts are included in fares shown. Certain restrictions apply. Information herein is accurate at time of printing. Seabourn reserves the right to correct errors. Ships’ registry: Bahamas. ©2015 Seabourn.
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LUXURY
SILVERSEA
DINING Expedition ships have one to three eateries featuring continental and regional specialities as well as cocktails at the outdoor or piano bar. Other vessels include Le Champagne (the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant at sea), La Terrazza for Italian fare, Pool Bar & Grill for casual dining, and a bar. ACCOMMODATION Suites from 14 square metres, flatscreen TV, wardrobe, radio/alarm with iPod dock.
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s well as its luxury ships, Silversea offers expeditions onboard Silver Galapagos, Silver Explorer and Silver Discoverer. Within Asia, the Discoverer cruises Japan and Southeast Asia, while luxury ships Silver Shadow and Silver Whisperer sail from Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo. With all-inclusive fares, guests receive butler service, transport into town, select wines, premium spirits and specialty coffees. All gratuities are also included. On the expedition ships, fares cover the use of adventure gear and tours, room service, butler service and onboard lectures.
FACILITIES Beauty salon, lounge, fitness centre, Jacuzzi, library, piano bar, internet cafe, theatre, boutique shops.
Vessels: 8 Passengers: 100-540 Destinations: Africa, Alaska, Antarctica, Arctic, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Canada & New England, Caribbean & Central America, Galapagos, Mediterranean, Micronesia, Melanesia & Polynesia, Northern Europe & the British Isles, Russia, South America. CONTACT: Silversea silversea.com
PONANT DINING The main restaurant is unpretentious and has openseating. Breakfast and lunch are buffets served at the indoor/ outdoor Grill, which also offers dinner al fresco. ACCOMMODATION About 130 suites and cabins including three prestige suites of 28 square metres with large balcony.
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rench cruise line Ponant has five small luxury ships including Le Lyrial, launched in April 2015. The ships are contemporary with Frenchinspired cuisine. The line is well patronised by French-speaking cruisers who like the yacht-like, understated elegance. The uncluttered design of the ship makes it suitable for young-minded couples. The maximum number of passengers is about 260. At least one Ponant ship heads to Asia during the local wave season. In November 2015, Le Soleal will have two itineraries cruising to Manado in Indonesia.
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FACILITIES Swimming pools, spa, fitness room, steam room, kinetic wall, massage and body treatments, library, show lounge/lecture hall. Crew is Frenchand English-speaking.
Vessels: 5 Passengers: up to 260 Destinations: Adriatic, Africa, Alaska, Antarctica, Arctic, Asia, Caribbean, Greece & Turkey, Latin America, Mediterranean, Northern Europe & The Baltic, Ocean Voyage, Pacific & Oceania, Russia. CONTACT: Ponant W: ponant.com
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LUXURY
CRYSTAL CRUISES DINING As well as the elegant main Crystal Dining Room, there are two speciality restaurants, Prego offering fine Italian cuisine and Silk Road with Japanese/Asian fusion by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa.
ACCOMMODATION Cabins range from 21 square metre deluxe outside view rooms to 125 square metre Crystal Penthouses with balcony. All come with a pillow menu, Aveda toiletries, bathrooms with double basins, and walk-in wardrobe.
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he most-awarded cruise line has just two five-star ships, and was taken over by Genting Hong Kong in May 2015. The line’s clientele are well travelled and expect good food, fine wine and excellent service. Top suites come with a butler. The all-inclusive cruise means champagne on tap, chocolates, canapés, fine wine and spirits. Crystal Serenity will arrive in Southeast Asian waters in February 2016, with a succession of Asian itineraries ranging from six to 19 days as the ship makes it way from Indonesia to Tokyo, before sailing on to the US in April.
Vessels: 2 Passengers: 960-1090 Destinations: Africa, Alaska, Antartica, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Mexico, North and South America, Northern Europe, Panama Canal, South Pacific. CONTACT: Crystal Cruises W: crystalcruises.com
FACILITIES Two swimming pools, observation lounge, jogging promenade, fitness centre, spa, Computer University@ Sea, library, theatre, luxury boutiques, putting green.
REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES DINING Four restaurants with open-seating so you can dine when you want and with whoever you choose. The main restaurant is the 570seat Compass Rose. Additional restaurants include the Prime 7 steakhouse, which seats up to 80. ACCOMMODATION Cabins start at 28 square metres. The Voyager offers suites from 48 to 108 square metres, with butler service in the top grades. All have marble bathrooms with tub, walkin closet and private balcony.
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he three-ship luxury line (in which Genting Hong Kong holds a stake) suits well-heeled, well-travelled couples, aged over 50. Ships are stylish and the passenger space ratio is one of the highest in the cruise industry. Itineraries are all-inclusive with unlimited free shore excursions. The Seven Seas Voyager, the line’s second “all-suites, all-balconies” ship will sail to Singapore in late 2015 and offer a variety of cruises to Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Brunei, The Philippines, Taiwan, South Korea, China and Japan from January to March 2016.
Vessels: 3 (plus Seven Seas Explorer launching in 2016) Passengers: 490 to 708 Destinations: world-wide including Africa, Alaska, Asia/Pacific, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America. CONTACT: Regent Seven Seas Cruises W: rssc.com
FACILITIES Pool, hot tubs, fitness centre, library and beauty parlour.
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OCEANIA CRUISES DINING Open-seating and no dining surcharges means plenty of dining choice. Options include the Grand Dining Room, serving a range of European-inspired cuisine and healthy signature dishes, Toscana’s for Italian and the Polo Grill, where guests can dine on prime-cut steaks. Complimentary room service is available 24 hours a day.
ACCOMMODATION There are nine different cabin types, ranging from a 15-square-metre Inside Stateroom to a luxurious 92-square-metre Owner’s Suite.
O
ceania Cruises’ Insignia and Nautica call at a number of ports in Southeast Asia. The sleek Insignia has undergone a multi-million dollar transformation and the decks have been laid with teak and custom stone and tile work, while the lounges and suites boast neoclassical furnishings. The Nautica also has undergone extensive renovations. The ships are intimate and the suites are lavish; about 70 per cent have balconies. Both ships cater for about 680 passengers with a crew of about 400. Entertainment includes lecturers by historians and naturalists.
Vessels: 6 Passengers: 684-1,252 Destinations: Africa, Alaska, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Baltic & Scandinavia, Canada & New England, Caribbean, Panama Canal & Mexico, Mediterranean, South America, South Pacific. CONTACT: Oceania Cruises W: oceaniacruises.com
FACILITIES Pool, hot tubs, casino, pool, spa, lounges, bars and clubs, entertainment.
CUNARD DINING Aside from the buffet available onboard all three ships, Cunard offers a range of specialty restaurants. Guests can try cuisines from Asia and Europe, or even pub classics. Traditional afternoon tea is served every day. ACCOMMODATION There is a range of accommodation, from inside cabins that measure about 14 square metres to the Grand Duplex Suites at 208 square metres.
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he sight of a Cunard ship can take one’s breath away and they quickly become the centre of attention on the harbour. These iconic ships are also lavishly decadent inside and emulate old-world glamour. The line’s newest ship, Queen Elizabeth, built in 2010, along with the Queen Mary and Queen Victoria frequent Asia, visiting ports in Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines as part of round-the-world cruises. A highlight of a Cunard cruise is afternoon tea served in the splendid Queens Room by white-gloved staff while a string quartet plays.
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FACILITIES Enrichment programs, spa, fitness centre, casino, cinema, boutiques with brands such as Harrods and H.Stern, lounges, bars and clubs.
Vessels: 3 Passengers: 2,104-2,620 Destinations: Africa, Atlantic Isles & Canaries, Australasia & Pacific Islands, British Isles & North West Europe, Caribbean, Central America, Middle East, The Baltic, Scandinavia & Iceland, USA & Canada. CONTACT: Cunard W: cunard.com
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PREMIUM
AZAMARA CLUB CRUISES DINING In addition to the main dining room, specialty restaurants include Martini Bar, Aqualina and Prime C. There’s also Windows Café, Mosaic Café and a poolside grill serving fast-food items.
ACCOMMODATION Staterooms from 14.7 square metres, with flat-screen TV, thermostat-controlled airconditioning and desk. Suites from 24.7 square metres, with verandah, some with separate living room.
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zamara’s almost identical four-star ships, Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey, are best suited to mature couples who appreciate fine food and a country-club feel. Standard spirits, beer, wine and gratuities are included in itineraries. Suite guests are provided with an English butler service, 235 internet minutes, one free bag of laundry and dining in specialty restaurants. On select voyages, solo travellers pay just 125 per cent of double-occupancy rates. Cruises range from three to 20 nights.
Vessels: 2 Passengers: 676-716 Destinations: Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Central and North America, Mediterranean, Northern and Western Europe, West Indies. CONTACT: Azamara Club Cruises W: azamaraclubcruises.com
FACILITIES Spa, acupuncturist, fitness centre, hair salon, sun deck, cabaret lounge, casino, jogging track, swimming pool, hot tubs.
HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES DINING Gourmet dining experiences such as Europa Restaurant, featuring culinary specialties from regions on the itinerary; Venezia for Mediterranean cuisine; 26-seat Restaurant Dieter Muller, serving modern dishes inspired by French, Asian and Mediterranean cuisine. Lido Café has an open grill for the evening buffet. Pastries are served at the pool bar.
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apag-Lloyd’s luxury ships, Europa and Europa 2, were named the only five-stars-plus cruise ships in the world by Berlitz Cruise Guide 2015. The company entices passengers with extras included in the cruise price, such as welcome champagne, in-suite Nespresso machine, bicycles and snorkelling equipment for free use. In addition to it’s two super-luxury cruise ships, Hapag-Lloyd has two five-star expedition vessels. Excursions include cruising via Zodiac to beaches in the South Seas and glacial landscapes, as well as hiking and snorkelling.
Vessels: 4 Passengers: 155-500 Destinations: Africa, Antarctic, Arctic, Asia, Baltic Sea, Central & South America, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Middle East, North America, South Pacific. CONTACT: Hapag-Lloyd Cruises W: hl-cruises.com
ACCOMMODATION Rooms from 18 to 144 square metres, flat-screen TV, DVD player, Wi-Fi access. FACILITIES Spa, fitness classes, library, saunas, 3D cinema.
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PREMIUM
PRINCESS CRUISES Sapphire Princess in Singapore
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cruise holiday with Princess Cruises® is a travel destination in itself, an experience both intimate and captivating that will revitalise and renew every guest on board. Sail far and wide to discover Asia’s awe-inspiring sights and off-the-beaten-path wonders, creating memorable vacation experiences. Whether for short cruises from Singapore to explore Southeast Asia, or longer adventures around the Japanese archipelago, the array of enriching programs, sumptuous culinary offerings and five-star service make every Princess Cruises® experience an exceptional one. Exclusive activities are
OCEANVIEW
17 to 18 sqm • fridge • TV • bathroom with shower • wardrobe • window
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selected to entertain and enthral. Indulgence can be guilt-free with some of Princess Cruises® exclusive activities, carefully selected to entertain and enthral the senses. Join the Ultimate Ship Tour for an insightful behindthe-scenes experience, or encounter even more of Alaska with the unique North to Alaska! regional culinary concept, featuring fresh seafood. Embark on a voyage infused with moments of self-discovery through enlightening, cherry-picked shore excursions, world-class wellness retreats and invaluable stories exchanged with fellow guests and friendly crew members. Expand your horizons. Come back new with Princess Cruises®.
BALCONY STATEROOM
22 sqm • fridge • TV • sitting area with desk • bathroom with shower • wardrobe • balcony
MINI SUITE
33 sqm • fridge • two TVs • separate sitting area • sofa bed and desks • upgraded bathroom • welcome glass of champagne • balcony
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PREMIUM DINING Princess Cruises® creates a gastronomical experience to ignite the senses and revive the wearied traveller. Foodies have a chance to excite their palates with special 50th Anniversary offerings, including popular Chocolate JourneysSM, an industry-first experience on board in partnership with Master Chocolatier Norman Love.
Vessels: 18 Passengers: 672-3,600
ACCOMMODATION Guests are greeted with more than just a bed in the Princess Cruises® staterooms. Imagine taking a welldeserved night’s sleep in 100 per cent Egyptian cotton, indulging in a healthy fresh fruit basket among other fine amenities when you awake, and enjoying the refreshing salty breeze with dramatic ocean views on the private balcony.
WHAT’S NEW: As part of the Discovery@Sea program, guests can learn more about nature and wildlife while cruising. The newest activity to debut across the fleet is the Stargazing at Sea experience, where guests can learn how to find bearings and identify the major constellations, as well as listen to ancient folk tales about stars.
HIGHLIGHTS Bringing guests the best entertainment, festivals from around the world and the classic Movies Under the Stars®, Princess Cruises® promises a holiday brimming with spectacular experiences. Indulge in fine dining or afternoon tea at one of our five elegant dining rooms, join our entertaining activities like game shows, trivia quizzes and Bingo.
• Accommodation • Main meals (selected restaurants) • Entertainment • Room service • Onboard activities • Port taxes
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
CONTACT: PRINCESS CRUISES P: Singapore (65) 6922 6788; Malaysia 1(800) 806656; Indonesia (007) 803 651 0004 E: support@carnival-sg.com W: princess.com
FACILITIES Providing restful renewal for body, mind and soul, Princess Cruises® rewards guests with world-class spa facilities at the Lotus Spa® and a state-of-the-art gym, Lotus Fitness. Enjoy a workout in our Zumba classes or test your golf at our nine-hole putting green. There’s also ping-pong, shuffleboard, a jogging track and a basketball and volleyball court.
CHOOSING YOUR ITINERARY Princess Cruises® has more than 150 different itineraries, offering travellers the opportunity to cover the globe, with sailings to all seven continents that call at more than 300 ports and destinations around the world. For guests in the Asia Pacific, the more popular itineraries include the long-haul voyages in Alaska and the Japanese archipelago, as well as the fourto seven-day trips around Southeast Asia.
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN NIGHTS
$ FROM
ALASKA
7-10
$799pp
JAPAN
4-11
$844 pp
MEDITERRANEAN
7-28
$1,689pp
SCANDINAVIA
11-16
$2,105pp
SOUTHEAST ASIA
3-11
$468pp
WORLD CRUISE
8-111
$1,890pp
Prices listed are in Singapore dollars and exclude prevailing taxes and gratuities worth $12 per person per night. Our guests have the option to book cruise tour packages for a sea and land vacation.
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PREMIUM
HOLLAND AMERICA LINE
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tep onto one of Holland America Line’s graceful mid-sized ships and be welcomed with a generous amount of personal space. Be treated to award-winning service, with nearly one crew member for every two guests. Choose from quality dining options as diverse as our enrichment programs, and onboard activities that suit your every whim. Your convenience is our priority, with the luxury of unpacking once while visiting multiple ports. For over 140 years, Holland America Line has been a recognised leader in cruising, taking our guests to exotic destinations around the world. If you are looking for some of the most spacious and
NEPTUNE SUITE
47-55 sqm • private balcony • private ensuite with full size whirlpool bath • complimentary laundry, pressing and dry cleaning • exclusive Neptune Lounge access
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comfortable ships at sea, you’ve come to the right place. We are committed to our mission: through excellence, we create once-in-alifetime experiences, every time. Today, Holland America Line’s fleet of 16 elegant ships offers more than 500 sailings a year visiting all seven continents. Cruises include both popular and less-travelled ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Mexico, South America, the Panama Canal, Australia, New Zealand and Asia – as well as unique voyages to the Amazon, Antarctica and our extended Collectors and Grand Voyages.
OCEAN-VIEW STATEROOM
VERANDAH STATEROOM
15-25 sqm • outside cabin with window • private ensuite with bathtub • flat-panel TV and DVD player • complimentary 24-hour in-room dining • Elemis Aromapure amenities
20-35 sqm • private teak verandah • private ensuite with bathtub • flat-panel TV and DVD player • complimentary 24-hour in-room dining • Elemis Aromapure amenities
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PREMIUM DINING Throughout your cruise holiday, you may enjoy delicious and innovative menus across a broad range of dining venues. From gourmet burgers poolside at the Dive-In to a formal five-course affair in our classic main Dining Room, where you can choose traditional pre-set seating or a flexible open schedule. Take advantage of 24-hour room service, or enjoy a sophisticated meal in the Pinnacle Grill.
Vessels: 16 Passengers: 835-2,650
ACCOMMODATION Refined amenities and our signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed grace each elegant stateroom. Most of our spacious staterooms are ocean-facing; many have teak-lined verandahs for dining alfresco or sunbathing in private. Look forward to an abundance of conveniences, including Elemis Aromapure bath products, flat-panel TV and DVD player, fresh fruit delivered upon request, nightly turndown service, complimentary 24-hour room service.
WHAT’S NEW: Koningsdam represents a new Pinnacle Class of ship when it sets sail on its Premiere Voyage on 8 April, 2016. The vessel will debut several innovative concepts and new public venues while still featuring popular amenities guests associate with Holland America Line. Koningsdam will feature our first purpose-built family staterooms as well as single staterooms.
HIGHLIGHTS Every day brings a wealth of cruise activities and indulgences. Whether you want to workout in the Fitness Centre, pamper yourself with a spa treatment or check your email in the Explorations Café. At night discover a lively dance band. Take in a thrilling show on stage. Share a martini flight in Mix, sing along in the Piano Bar or stay up late with the BB Kings Blues Club band.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
• Accommodation • All main meals • Daily entertainment and
FACILITIES During days at sea, you’re spoilt for choice with facilities that include multiple swimming pools, bars and lounges, and a Broadway-style theatre. Alternatively you can relax at the Greenhouse Spa, visit the beauty salon or take a yoga class at the gym. There is also an onboard casino, demonstration kitchen at the Culinary Arts Center, library, café and cinema.
BEST FOR
• HISTORY & CULTURE • SPA & WELLNESS • CHILDREN • ONBOARD ACTIVITIES
FOOD & WINE
•
CONTACT: To find the Holland America Line representation in your region, please refer to www.hollandamerica.com
SIGHTSEEING
CHOOSING YOUR ITINERARY A vast variety of itineraries ranging from one to 115 days and visiting all 7 continents. Popular Holland America Line itineraries include Alaska, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Bermuda, Canada & New England, Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mediterranean, Baltic and Northern Europe and South Pacific.
activities
• Club HAL for ages 3-17 • 24-hour room service • Taxes, fees and port expenses
• ENTERTAINMENT •
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN NIGHTS
$ FROM
ALASKA
7-14
$299pp
ASIA
14-58
$1,299pp
AUSTRALIA/NZ/SOUTH PACIFIC
11-33
$999pp
7
$549pp
CANADA & NEW ENGLAND
7-15
$349pp
CARIBBEAN
7-21
$499pp
EUROPE
7-33
$699pp
36-115
$3,199pp
BERMUDA
GRAND WORLD CRUISE MEXICO
7
$499pp
PANAMA CANAL
10-21
$1,599pp
SOUTH AMERICA/ANTARCTICA
14-47
$1,299pp
Prices are in US dollars, based on exchange rates at the time of publication. The prices provided are for a range of cabin classes on a twin-share basis and include all fees and charges. Information provided is subject to change and should be used as a guide only. Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for card payments which vary.
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PREMIUM
ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL
Quantum of the Seas in Singapore
A
milestone year for Royal Caribbean International in Asia, 2015 sees six of its ships calling in Singapore, including Asia’s largest and most revolutionary Quantum of the Seas for the first time. The 18-deck, 168,666-tonne Quantum of the Seas, which featured sailings from Singapore in June, has redefined cruising with her many first-atsea amenities, such as the North Star elevated glass capsule, skydiving simulator, the Bionic Bar, transformative venues such as Two70, which fuses technology and entertainment and SeaPlex, the largest active indoor area at sea, which features bumper cars, rollerskating and a circus school. Meanwhile, the Vision-class Legend of the Seas, a long-time favourite in Asia, will be back in Singapore in August 2015 offering three- to 10-night itineraries to Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Brunei, the Philippines, Hong Kong and Taiwan until November. The revitalised ship
LEGEND OF THE SEAS
Vision Class • 11 decks high • 2,074 guests (total capacity)
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features the Centrum aerial-acrobatic show and new dining options. In October, the Voyager-class Mariner of the Seas returns to Singapore for a season of three- to eight-night cruises to Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The ship features the Royal Promenade, a boulevard of duty-free boutiques and cafes, an ice-skating rink, full-sized sports court, DreamWorks Entertainment and numerous dining options. Accommodation ranges from luxurious suites to Promenade staterooms overlooking the Royal Promenade. Offering longer cruises from Singapore to Australia in October are Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas. Come 2016, prepared to be wowed again by the arrival of the new Ovation of the Seas in June, as Royal Caribbean plans to bring a second Quantum-class ship to Asia with a three-night itinerary to Kuala Lumpur as part of her Singapore offerings.
MARINER OF THE SEAS
Voyager Class • 15 decks high • 3,807 guests (total capacity)
OVATION OF THE SEAS
Quantum Class • 18 decks high • 4,905 guests (total capacity)
ASIAN FLEET
PREMIUM DINING Quantum Class: Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine, Jamie’s Italian and Michael’s Genuine Pub. Voyager Class: Chops Grille Steakhouse and Giovanni’s Table. Vision Class: Chef’s Table, Izumi Japanese Cuisine and Chops Grille Steakhouse. Ships: 23 (4 based in Asia) Guests: 2,000 to 6,300
ACCOMMODATION Quantum Class: Loft Suites, Virtual Balcony interior staterooms that come with real-time view of the ocean and destinations, Family-Connected Staterooms and Studio Staterooms for single travellers. Voyager Class: Family Suites/Staterooms and Promenade Staterooms.
WHAT’S NEW: Legend of the Seas returns to Asia from August, 2015 and Ovation of the Seas begins its first Asian season in June, 2016.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
• Accommodation • All meals in main dining and
HIGHLIGHTS Quantum Class: North Star, Two70, SeaPlex, Ripcord by iFly skydiving simulator and Bionic Bar. Voyager Class: Royal Promenade, DreamWorks Entertainment, Full-sized Sports Court and Studio B Ice Skating Rink. Vision Class: Centrum WOW aerial spectacle, Viking Crown Lounge, Solarium indoor pool with Park Café and rock-climbing wall.
buffet restaurants
• Room service • Most entertainment and
activities including all theatre and ice shows • Adventure Ocean activities for kids and teens • Most DreamWorks Entertainment programs
FACILITIES Known for first-at-sea innovative features notably the North Star elevated glass capsule, Two70 transformative venue, Zip Line, AquaTheatre, Central Park, surf and skydiving simulators, iceskating rink and Royal Promenade.
CONTACT: Royal Caribbean International P: (65) 6305 0033 W: royalcaribbean.com.sg
BEST FOR
• HISTORY & CULTURE • SPA & WELLNESS • FOOD & WINE • ADVENTURE • SHOPPING • SIGHTSEEING • ENTERTAINMENT • CHILDREN • ONBOARD ACTIVITIES CHOOSING YOUR ITINERARY With 23 ships sailing every major sea we go to 272 incredible destinations in 77 countries on six continents so you know there will be an itinerary for any occasion.
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN NIGHTS
$ FROM
THAILAND EXPLORER
5
$1,183pp
THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM
10
$1,276pp
SOUTHEAST ASIA
4
$520pp
SPICE OF SOUTHEAST ASIA
5
$758pp
THAILAND & VIETNAM
7
$817pp
EXOTIC ASIA
9
$1,134pp
All prices are in US dollars per person based on twin sharing before taxes and gratuities. Prices may be subject to change at any time without notice.
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NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
N
orwegian Cruise Lines, which is part owned by Genting Hong Kong, visits a number of destinations throughout Canada, Alaska, USA, South America and Europe. Alaska is one of its most popular destinations, with its snow-capped mountains, ancient glaciers and wildlife, including humpback and killer whales, eagles and bears. Cruises visit picturesque ports and passengers can join adventures such as glacier hiking, dog sledding and gold panning. Another favourite is the Panama Canal and Mexican Riviera itinerary, which takes in Cartagena, Colombia, the Panama Canal, the rainforests
DINING An array of eating areas includes two complimentary dining rooms, a buffet where you can also order made-to-order omelettes and pasta dishes, and fresh salads. There are also Asian restaurants serving Japanese, Thai and Chinese cuisine, and 24-hour room service. ACCOMMODATION Norwegian is one of the only lines that caters for singles, with singleoccupancy studios. Solo travellers also have access to their own lounge and bar. At the top of the scale, The Haven is an exclusive
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of Costa Rica, the old white-washed homes of Puerto Vallarata and beautiful beaches of Cabo San Lucas in Mexico and the famous sights of Los Angeles such as Hollywood Hills and Sunset Boulevard. Onboard, there is a range of entertainment for adults and children, from broadcasts of big sporting events to activities such as rock climbing or playing Wii on a two-storey television screen. The line also operates special Behind The Scene Tours showing how a cruise ship operates. For the adventurous traveller, some of Norwegian’s shore excursions include cave tubing or zip lining.
enclave of suites at the top of the ship with a private courtyard, private access to the spa and butler service. FACILITIES Multiple pools & hot tubs, casino, two-deck spa, fitness centre, theatre , Aqua Park with multiple slides, rope course and rockclimbing wall.
Vessels: 14 Passengers: 1,928-4,500 Destinations: Alaska, Bermuda, Canada & New England, Caribbean & Bahamas, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Hawaii, Panama Canal & Mexican Riviera, South America. CONTACT: Norwegian Cruise Line P: (65) 6832 9811/9812/9817 W: ncl.com
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STAR CRUISES
S
tar Cruises is the biggest and most popular line among Asian cruisers. Calling at ports in China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan and Thailand, the line features shorter itineraries, ideal for first-time cruisers. In China, guests can visit Sanya, dubbed “East Hawaii�, a rare ecological environment where hills, rivers and sea meet. In Japan, Star Cruises calls at the Yaeyama Islands, famous for ancient stalactite caves, black-pearl farming and local beer. Hong Kong offers visitors great shopping, dining and sightseeing. The line also visits several ports in
DINING Be prepared to feast onboard Star Cruises, with a number of different eateries. From Chinese restaurants such as the Genting Palace to the Palazzo, which serves modern Italian and Western cuisine. For children, there is even an outdoor ice-cream bar and snack area. The Blue Lagoon is a 24-hour dining outlet specialising in Asian cuisine. ACCOMMODATION Cabins range in size from 11 square metres for an Inside Stateroom to the luxurious Executive Suite at 60 square metres.
Taiwan, such as Kaohsiung, Keelung, Penghu and Taichung, offering a mixture of fast-paced city life as well as beautiful archipelagos. Onboard, Star Cruises offers a variety of world-class entertainment, from award-winning international artists to multi-million dollar inhouse productions. Each ship has its own style, all offering good value and a relaxed atmosphere. Activities are available for all ages and the line also tailors programs and themes cruises, such holiday camps at sea, red-hot Fiesta celebrations, wellness, spa and fitness programs and marriage cruises.
FACILITIES Onboard entertainment includes special events with K-Pop and Canto-Pop stars such as Nanta. There are also plenty of dance shows such as Viva Latina and Magic on the Dance Floor. For singing enthusiasts, all ships have state-of-the-art karaoke facilities. Boutiques sell duty-free products such as perfume, cosmetics and designer handbags. There are a number of pools on the ships as well as a gym and salon.
Vessels: 6 (plus 2 new ships launching in 2016 & 2017) Passengers: 1,246-2,800 Destinations: China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan. CONTACT: Star Cruises P: Singapore (65) 6223 0002 Hong Kong (852) 2317 7711 W: starcruises.com
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MID-RANGE
COSTA
DINING The main dining rooms include Sinfonia Restaurant and Fantasia Restaurant, both offering two assigned seatings. Ristorante Magnifico by Zeffirino is one of many specialty restaurants the line offers across its ships. A buffet-style eatery is also available. ACCOMMODATION Cabins from 11 square metres, with satellite television, mini bar and safe. Suites from 32 square metres, with a pillow menu and daily menu delivery.
T
he largest European cruise operator and part of the Carnival Corporation, Costa Cruises is the first company to have an allChinese ship sail around the world. Costa Atlantica left Shanghai in March 2015 on an 86-day cruise bound for 20 countries. The Costa fleet ranges from three to three-and-a-half star ships, all with an Italian feel. Mediterranean-based vessels cater for larger families with young children and are ideal for those who enjoy socialising and meeting new people.
Vessels: 15 Passengers: 1,308-3,800 Destinations: Asia, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean, Indian Ocean & Mauritius, Mediterranean, Norwegian Fjords, Northern Europe, Pacific Ocean, Red Sea, South America, United Arab Emirates. CONTACT: Costa W: www.costacruisesasia.com
FACILITIES Spa, Jacuzzis, pools, 4D cinema/ theatre, library, beauty salon, sauna and steam room, walking track, casino, kids & teen’s clubs.
MSC CRUISES DINING Most ships feature at least two formal dining rooms with plush tablecloths and fine furniture, plus an extensive buffet with a “visible kitchen” and dedicated sections covering a range of food, freshly prepared by chefs 20 hours a day. ACCOMMODATION Staterooms from 13 square metres, with TV, telephone, mini bar and safe. Suites from 26 square metres, with balcony and Nintendo Wii console.
P
rivately owned Swiss-based cruise line MSC sails year-round in the Mediterranean, where it began. It pays homage to its heritage with traditional Mediterranean hospitality and cuisine on board. The MSC Club offers privileges to regular cruisers, such as discounts on fares and priority tender disembarkation. Passengers have plenty of opportunity to socialise on board, and cruises are suited to multi-generational family holidays with activities for all ages, including an arcade and a jungle adventure playground. Swarovski detailing appears throughout the interior.
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FACILITIES 4D cinema and rides, casino, gym, pool, whirlpool, hair salon, spa, jogging track, nightclub.
Vessels: 12 Passengers: 2,069-4,363 Destinations: Arabian Peninsula, Canary Islands & Morocco, Caribbean & West Indies, Mediterranean, North America, Northern Europe, South Africa, South America. CONTACT: MSC Cruises W: msccruises.com
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MID-RANGE
P&O CRUISES
DINING Salt grill by Luke Mangan and Trattoria are specialty eateries, as is patisserie Charlie’s Bar. Plantation and The Waterfront are two of the main restaurants; Plantation is open 24 hours a day, while The Waterfront serves a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner. ACCOMMODATION Staterooms from 17.3 square metres, with flat-screen TV and airconditioning. Suites from 34 square metres, with private balcony, separate sitting area and fresh fruit.
P
&O has been part of the cruise industry for more than 175 years, and is now part of the Carnival Corporation. In late 2015, it will add two new ships – Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden – to its fleet. Each vessel offers at least eight dining experiences, including Salt grill by Luke Mangan, the only Australian celebrity-chef restaurant at sea. Original shows are produced and choreographed specifically for P&O. The ships are popular among young singles and couples, as well as those looking for a short getaway. There is also a kids’ club, popular with young children and parents alike.
Vessels: 3 (plus Pacific Aria & Pacific Eden from late 2015) Passengers: 1,692-2,020 Destinations: South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Asia CONTACT: P&O CRUISES W: pocruises.com
FACILITIES Theatre, themed nightclub, casino, spa, pool, swim-up bar, sun deck, Strictly Come Dancing (on select cruises).
“2015 will be a record breaking year in Asia”
- Adam Goldstein, global chairman of Cruise Lines International Association and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines
Make sure you have the best information to take advantage of the biggest year in Asian cruise Sign up for our FREE newsletter for agents and travel professionals WWW.ASEANCRUISING.COM ASEANCRUISING.COM
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LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS DINING Generally, one main restaurant per ship, featuring high-quality fresh ingredients. ACCOMMODATION Cabins from 6.7 square metres, with armchair, reading lamps and flat-screen TV. Suites from 17.8 square metres, with mini bar and video player. FACILITIES Spa, Jacuzzi, sauna, fitness centre, theatre, library, sun deck.
Vessels: 10 Passengers: 28-148 Destinations: Alaska, Amazon, Antarctica, Arctic, Atlantic Crossing, Australia, Britain, Canada, Caribbean, Costa Rica & Panama, Galapagos, Mediterranean, Pacific Islands, Pacific Northwest, South American, Southeast Asia. CONTACTS: Lindblad Expeditions W: expeditions.com
I
n 2015, Lindblad announced it would extend its partnership with National Geographic through to the end of 2025. Lindblad prides itself on giving adventurous travellers the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most remarkable places, since its small ships are able to access more places than large vessels. Some of Lindblad’s highlight destinations include Asian countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and Borneo. In Borneo, guests have the opportunity to visit orangutans and in Indonesia, dive or snorkel the Raja Ampat Islands.
HURTIGRUTEN DINING A single restaurant serves a selection of Norwegian and international cuisine at set times, with reserved seating. There is also a 24-hour cafe where you pay as you go. Guests are allowed to bring their own alcohol on board.
H
urtigruten’s expedition ships travel in and out of the picturesque Norwegian fjords and the glaciers in Antarctica. One of the lines’ newest ships, the MS Fram promises to take guests closer to nature, wildlife and unforgettable experiences. All the ships have a number of lounges and Jacuzzis so guests can relax after a day of exploring. The ships are small so it’s an intimate experience. On the Arctic Circle Cruise, guests may have the opportunity to experience the Northern Lights or the Midnight Sun, and can also try sea kayaking and hiking.
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ACCOMMODATION Accommodation ranges from an inside or outside cabin with a separate bed that can be turned into a sofa, to a 45-square-metre Owner’s Suite, with two rooms, a lounge area with a dining table, Internet access, mini bar and private balcony. FACILITIES Lounges, gym, Jacuzzi, library, conference room, playroom, laundry.
Vessels: 12 Passengers: 153-640 Destinations: Antarctica, Iceland, Greenland, Norway. Contact: Hurtigruten W: www.hurtigruten.com
ASIAN FLEET
MID-RANGE
BHAYA CRUISES DINING Fine-dining restaurant or dining room incorporating feng shui principles, open-air bar.
ACCOMMODATION Cabins from 12.5 square metres, with refrigerator, individually controlled air-conditioning and bathrobes. Suites from 16.5 square metres, with bathtub and standing shower, in-room tea and coffee facilities, flowers and fruit basket.
B
haya Cruises offers private-charter day cruises through Halong Bay and the Gulf of Tonkin on its eight Legend Halong junks, with one to four cabins. Its larger vessels also cruise Halong Bay, visiting Lan Ha Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay and Cat Ba Island. Two cool white The Au Co vessels have 32 French-balcony cabins with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. In contract, there’s an oriental theme running through four Bhaya Classic junks. Onshore activities include cycling tours, visits to floating fishing villages, rock climbing and kayaking in hidden lagoons.
Vessels: 14 Passengers: 2-66 Destinations: Vietnam CONTACT: Bhaya Cruises W: bhayacruises.com
FACILITIES Lounge deck with dining room and bar, Jacuzzi, sun deck, library, massage and spa area, complimentary Wi-Fi.
CELEBRITY CRUISES DINING There are a range of dining options onboard the Celebrity Millennium. Passengers can dine in the main restaurant as well as specialty restaurants, which serve French fare such as filet mignon with foie gras and blue cheese sauce. ACCOMMODATION Onboard the Celebrity Millennium, there are nine different types of cabins, ranging from the Standard cabin to the ultra-luxurious Penthouse Suite, which is about 133 square metres.
L
uxury line Celebrity Cruises was founded in 1988 and has grown its cruise itineraries to include a number of ports in Southeast Asia. The Celebrity Millennium, one of the lines’ Millennium-class ships, was built in 2000 and frequents ports such as Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, Boracay and many more, with itineraries ranging from five to 18 days. The Celebrity Millennium was refurbished in 2012 and now has an additional 60 cabins. The line is famed for it spa facilities, casinos and James Beard-awarded restaurants. Onboard is a range of luxury duty-free shopping.
Vessels: 11 Passengers: 98-3,046 Destinations: Alaska, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Canada, Caribbean, Europe, South America, USA. CONTACT: Celebrity Cruises W: celebritycruises.com
FACILITIES Spa, fitness centre, duty-free shopping, entertainment, casino, lounges, bars and clubs.
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RIVER
PANDAW
T
he 12 Pandaw ships that sail on rivers through Southeast Asia, India and China are a beautiful sight. Handcrafted and finished in brass and teak, the expedition ships are designed to manoeuver in shallow waters, so they can reach remote parts of Asia. The staterooms are a good size, but passengers tend to spend much of their time sitting outside on the promenades or on the open-air observation deck. Pandaw cruises the Irrawaddy and Chindwin Rivers in Myanmar and the Mekong River between Saigon in Vietnam and Angkor Wat in
DINING Dining onboard Pandaw’s ships includes local cuisine and exotic foods. The line sources supplies from local growers and producers. Breakfast and lunch are buffets. Guests who do not enjoy spicy food are offered a European alternative. Dinners are candlelit and indoor dining rooms are air-conditioned. On each cruise, at least two nights onboard are themed. Some of Pandaw’s newer ships also have an outdoor dining area. Guests can also join cooking classes that include a visit to the local market.
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Cambodia. During the dry season in Myanmar, the ships are tied up on the sandbank and the crew put on a barbecue beach party. Pandaw aims to avoid using private cars or coaches, in favour of local transport, so guests may find themselves in the back of a truck heading for a working elephant camp. Pandaw continues to expand its offering, pioneering new programs on the Red River in Northern Vietnam, the Upper Mekong in Laos and India’s Brahmaputra, Ganges/Hooghly Rivers and Kerala Backwaters. From 2016, it will cruise the Mekong all the way to China.
ACCOMMODATION Most cabins are about 15 square metres, with twin beds, airconditioning and French windows. The bathrooms have robes, hair dryers and slippers. FACILITIES Spa, play pool, painting and photography courses, talks and film presentations on local history and culture.
Vessels: 12 [plus Laos Pandaw from September, 2015) Passengers: 20-60 Destinations: Cambodia, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam. CONTACT: Pandaw W: www.pandaw.com
ASIAN FLEET
RIVER
APT DINING Expect gourmet cuisine on all APT river ships. Chefs use regional produce, and open-seating dining means guests can dine when and with whom they like. Some ships offer al fresco dining. Complimentary beverages are served throughout the cruise. ACCOMMODATION Suites are spacious and most have outside views and elegant ensuites. Cabins range from about 16 square metres up to 28 square metres for a Royal Suite.
O
ne of the most recognised cruise companies, APT specialises in river cruises around the world, from the historic cities and towns of Europe to the temples and jungles of Asia. In Europe, APT explores the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle, Seine, Douro, Rhône and Garonne rivers, plus Russia’s Volga, Svir and Neva rivers. In Vietnam, food-lovers can cruise the Mekong River with world-renowned Australian chef Luke Nguyen. Alternatively, cruise the Irrawaddy in Myanmar, the Lower Ganges in India, the Yangtze River in China, the Nile in Egypt or the Mississippi in the US.
Vessels: 18 (plus 2 launching in 2016) Passengers: 60-164 Destinations: Burma, China, Egypt, Europe, India, Russia, USA, Vietnam. CONTACT: APT W: aptouring.com.au
FACILITIES Wi-Fi, free bicycle use, library, lounge, bar, beauty salon, massage therapist.
AMAWATERWAYS DINING Dining options vary between ships and itineraries. On European ships such as AmaCerto, AmaVerde and AmaBella, guests can choose from multiple dining venues including a main restaurant and an intimate chef’s table restaurant with a tasting menu.
A
maWaterways offers a unique river experience where guests can discover the history and culture of destinations in Europe, Asia and Africa. On European rivers, passengers can view historic castles and fortresses on both sides of the ship and dock in picturesque towns to visit museums, markets and landmarks. In Asia, cruises travel the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar. For an adventure, the Zambezi Queen has been designed for safari river cruising on the Chobe River in Botswana.
Vessels: 20 Passengers: 24-164 Destinations: Africa, Asia, Europe. CONTACT: AmaWaterways W: amawaterways.com
ACCOMMODATION Cabins start at about 15 square metres and feature deluxe amenities. Many ships include French balconies, in-room internet access, twin-balcony staterooms and suites with a bathtub. FACILITIES Gym, massage and hair salon, gift shop, sun deck, walking track, whirlpool, Wi-Fi, lounge.
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AVALON WATERWAYS DINING Avalon cruises offer a full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine, a lunch buffet with pasta and carving stations and four-course a la carte dinners, as well as afternoon tea and snacks. ACCOMMODATION In Southeast Asia, luxurious suites are about 22 square metres, with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, ensuites, Egyptian supercombed-cotton linens, slippers and L’Occitane premium bath products.
A
valon Waterways operates one of the most modern fleets in Europe and also cruise the Irrawaddy and Mekong Rivers, and waterways in China. All ships offer luxury and style. Some of the highlights of the Yangtze River cruise in China include visits to the Forbidden City, Imperial Palace, Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors. On the Irrawaddy in Myanmar, guests can visit a monastery and meet children at a village school as well as local farmers. In Europe, guests have the option of cruising on the Rhine, Seine, Danube or multi-river cruises.
Vessels: 22 Passengers: 36-392 Destinations: Asia, Europe, North Africa, South America. CONTACT: Avalon Waterways W: avalonwaterways.com.sg
FACILITIES Lounge, club, bars, fitness centre, library, hair salon, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship, whirlpool.
AQUA EXPEDITIONS DINING One dining room on each ship with meals designed by award-winning chefs (Pedro Miguel Schiaffino in South America and David Thompson in Asia – his Bangkok restaurant Nahm was named No.1 in the 2014 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards).
F
ive-star luxury river cruise company Aqua Expeditions runs two ships on the Amazon in South America and one on the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia. Aqua Expeditions is renowned for impeccable service, sleek, modern vessels and its exhilarating shore excursions. Naturalists guide guest through the Amazon’s complex river systems to spot sloths and pink dolphins, and meet local villagers. On the Mekong, guides lead tours through the jungles of Cambodia and Vietnam to visit ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries. Cruises run for three to seven nights.
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ACCOMMODATION Aqua Mekong has 20 airconditioned suites, which are 30 square metres and styled with local materials, eight have balconies. Suites on the Aqua Aria and Aqua Amazon have natural fibres and hues and floor to ceiling windows. FACILITIES Gift shop, pool (only on Aqua Mekong), Jacuzzi, spa, games room, gym, library.
Vessels: 3 Passengers: 24-40 Destinations: Cambodia, Peru, Vietnam. CONTACT: Aqua Expeditions W: aquaexpeditions.com
ASIAN FLEET
RIVER
VIKING RIVER CRUISES DINING Asian and European cuisines are served in a restaurant with panoramic views. Complimentary beer, wine and soft drinks are served with lunch and dinner. Tea, coffee and cappuccinos are also complimentary.
ACCOMMODATION On Asian ships, staterooms start at 15.6 square metres, with safe, hair dryer and air-conditioning. Suites are from 24.2 square metres, with panoramic windows and bottled water replenished daily.
V
iking has the world’s largest fleet of river cruise ships, which it promotes as “elegant, stylish and exceptionally comfortable”. Its all-inclusive packages cover port charges, Wi-Fi, meals, lectures (on topics such as the rise and fall of the Khmer empire, the archaeological excavations at Angkor, or the history of Vietnam and Cambodia), activities and shore excursions. Viking’s onboard daily newspaper, Viking Daily, is delivered every evening with information about the next day’s activities, shore excursions and tour departure times.
Vessels: 47 Passengers: 60-256 (Asian ships) Destinations: Asia, Europe, Russia. CONTACT: Viking River Cruises W: vikingrivercruises.com.au
FACILITIES Internet cafe, hairdresser, doctor, laundry, sun deck, wraparound deck, library.
BELMOND DINING Buffet-style dining for breakfast and lunch, gourmet dinners inspired by Eastern and Western flavours, served with complimentary soft drinks, mineral water, local beer and house wine.
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elmond’s fleet varies quite a bit between Europe and China. In France, vessels carry as few as four passengers on private charters. In Myanmar, Road to Mandalay (celebrating 20 years of cruising) and Orcaella carry 50 to 82 passengers along the Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers. Entertainment includes lectures on traditional life and Myanmar culture and local marionette performances. Cocktail parties encourage social mingling. Onshore excursions include visits to the Sagaing Hills, Min Hla Fort, Paw-lan gyi elephant camp and the Buddha Lotus Garden.
Vessels: 7 Passengers: 4-82 Destination: France, Myanmar. CONTACT: Belmond W: belmond.com/river-cruises
ACCOMMODATION Single cabins from 10.6 square metres, with single bed, wardrobe and safe. Cabins from 11.3 square metres, with complimentary tea and coffee, Wi-Fi, satellite TV. Suites from 29.1 square metres, with complimentary spa treatment, welcome flowers and fruit basket, and butler service. FACILITIES Observation deck, pool, wellbeing and fitness area, boutique shops, lounge bar.
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HAIMARK
DINING One dining room per ship: Customs House (Irrawaddy Explorer), serving regional and Western cuisine; Andes (Amazon Discovery), using local ingredients and taking inspiration from the Amazon; East India (Ganges Voyager), offering tastes of India; Le Marche (Mekong Navigator) serving cuisine from Southeast Asia; Indochine (Mekong Princess), offering a fusion of traditional Southeast Asian cuisine and Western gastronomy, linking to the slow-food movement.
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aimark promotes its service as “luxury river expeditions”, complemented by the highest crew-to-guest ratio in Southeast Asia. Entertainment on its stylish vessels includes cultural performances, educational talks, cooking classes and ship tours. Culture seekers will be in their element on excursions offered by Haimark: piranha fishing in the Peruvian Amazon, seeing coconut-candy makers in Vietnam, watching the Hindu faithful bathe in the Ganges, taking a hot-air balloon ride over the temples of Bagan, or riding an elephant in Siem Reap.
Vessels: 5 Passengers: 24-56 Destinations: Cambodia, India, Myanmar, Peru, Vietnam. CONTACT: Haimark W: haimarktravel.com
ACCOMMODATION Suites from 21.7 square metres, with panoramic windows, French balcony and spa bath. FACILITIES Spa, library, internet lounge, fitness centre, sun deck.
SCENIC DINING Crystal Dining, the main restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch and fourcourse dinner, with buffet and a la carte available. Portobellos offers Italian fine dining. River Café has light meals, snacks and refreshments. Table La Rive serves a six-course degustation paired with wines for Diamond Deck guests. 24hour room service is also available. ACCOMMODATION Suites from 15 square metres, with private balcony, satellite TV, safe and mini bar.
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cenic began in 1986 operating coach tours in Australia. It now runs more than 500 tours to 66 countries. Considered one of the higherend cruise lines, Scenic’s fares are all-inclusive, providing access to the wellness area, Wi-Fi and electric bicycles. Gratuities are also included in the fare. In January 2016, Scenic Spirit will launch on the Mekong, boasting the largest suites on the river. The new ship will cruise between Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and Siem Reap, Cambodia. The Scenic Enrich program introduces passengers to unique experiences in the areas they visit.
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FACILITIES Sun deck, pool, sauna, open-air cinema, massage, gym, hair and beauty services.
Vessels: 11 Passengers: 68-169 Destinations: China, Ecuador, Europe, Myanmar, North America, Russia, South America. CONTACT: Scenic W: scenic.com.au
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UNIWORLD
DINING Panoramic restaurant, bar. ACCOMMODATION River Orchid has 27 staterooms, from 15.6 square metres, and two suites, from 21.5 square metres, with ensuite, individual climate control, pillow menu and French doors opening onto the shared promenade.
Vessels: 19 Passengers: 56-398 Destinations: Cambodia & Vietnam, China, Europe, India, Egypt, Russia. Contact: Uniworld W: uniworld.com
FACILITIES Sun deck with bar, lecture and movie room, boutique, spa for massage treatments.
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niworld operates 19 river ships across the world, including River Orchid, which plies the waters of Southeast Asia. The 58-passenger handcrafted, colonial-style ship was built in 2013 and sails seven-night itineraries along the Mekong and TonlĂŠ Sap Rivers, between My Tho, Vietnam and Kampong Cham, Cambodia (as part of a larger 14-night tour). Cabins have French doors opening to a communal promenade. Each group of 20 passengers is assigned a local guide for shore excursions which include visits to villages to meet residents and even dine in their homes.
JAHAN CRUISES DINING One dining hall on each ship serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. ACCOMMODATION Staterooms from 24 square metres, with tea-making facilities and mini bar. Suites from 48 square metres, with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balcony.
Vessels: 3 Passengers: 46-52 Destinations: Cambodia, Vietnam. CONTACT: Jahan Cruises W: jahancruises.com
FACILITIES Sun deck, beauty and wellness spa, gym, steam rooms, observatory, pool (RV Jahan only).
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ahan Cruises’ RV Jahan is considered its most romantic ship as it evokes the opulent vessels of British India. The interior and exterior of this signature vessel showcases the talents of local woodworkers, weavers and artists. The Raj of India Lounge, with a British Indian backdrop, is the ideal area for culture lovers to relax. For the more active passengers, tai chi lessons are offered on the sun deck. Passengers are invited to visit the wheelhouse to learn how a ship is piloted. Jahan Cruises are ideal for older guests who are interested in history and culture.
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AYRAVATA CRUISES DINING Meals are served in the dining room on the main deck and include a combination of cuisine from the East and West. Vegetarian meals can be prepared when the crew is informed in advance.
Vessels: 4 Passengers: 32-55 Destinations: Myanmar. CONTACT: Ayravata Cruises W: ayravatacruises.com
ACCOMMODATION Cabins from 23 square metres, with private bathroom. Suites are 38 square metres with floor-to-ceiling glass doors.
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he flagship of the Ayravata fleet, the RV Paukan 1947 was built in Glasgow in 1947 and has sailed in Myanmar since 1950. It originally carried cargo and passengers between Mandalay and Bahmo, the northernmost town on the Irrawaddy and was converted into a luxury passenger vessel in 1989, one of the first sailing in the region. The fleet’s three other ships are built in the same style with timber-walled cabins, French windows and intricately carved doors and ceilings. The ships cruise the Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers on itineraries from one to 10 nights.
FACILITIES Sun deck, Writers’ lounge, spa, fitness centre. Cruise price includes transfer between the ship and airport, meals, sightseeing tours and monument entrance fees.
CRUISECO DINING One restaurant on each ship serves local, Asian and Western dishes. ACCOMMODATION Main-deck cabins from 21 to 26 square metres, with French balcony, writing desk and chair, and mini bar. Upper-deck cabins from 21 to 26 square metres, with private balcony, writing desk and chair and mini bar. Suites from 26 to 50 square metres, with private balcony, some with Jacuzzi.
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ruiseco launched its first ship, Cruiseco Adventurer, on the Mekong in 2007, and sister ship Cruiseco Explorer in Myanmar in 2014. The fivestar ships have French or external balconies, timber floors, flat-screen TVs and intricate cabin detailing. Passenger facilities are spread across three decks and cabins are stocked with extras such as a bathrobe, slippers and luxury toiletries. Shore excursions include visiting villages, riding in ox carts, exploring markets by trishaw and cruising smaller channels on local boats. Many itineraries also visit world-famous attractions such as Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh’s Silver Pagoda. Tours range from 11 to 18 days and include pre- or post-cruise accommodation at luxury hotels.
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FACILITIES Sun deck, bar, fitness centre, spa, gym, lounge, library, whirlpool (Cruiseco Adventurer).
Vessels: 2 Passengers: 56-60 Destinations: Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam. CONTACT: Cruiseco W: cruising.com.au
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SANCTUARY RETREATS DINING A la carte restaurant, al fresco buffet dining, cocktail bar. Private dining is also available.
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he luxurious Sanctuary Ananda is the latest addition to the Sanctuary Retreat portfolio. Known for its high-end safari lodges, Sanctuary also runs cruises on the Yangzi River in China and the Nile in Egypt. Sanctuary Ananda has been sailing Myanmar’s Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers since late 2014. Furnished with local fabrics, teak and lacquerware, it is the only all-balcony ship on the Irrawaddy and boasts the largest entry-level suites and a high staff-to-guest ratio. Cabins have separate living areas, monsoon showers and an iPad with free Wi-Fi. Cruises range from three to 10 nights.
ACCOMMODATION The Sanctuary Ananda has 16 suites and deluxe suites, from 27 to 28 square metres with balconies. Four luxury suites, 31 to 33 square metres, have balconies, butler service and complimentary laundry. The 67 square metre owner’s suite has a king-size bed, butler service, private guide, complimentary laundry and exclusive dining experiences.
Vessels: 6 Passengers: 42 Destination: China, Egypt, Myanmar. CONTACT: W: sanctuaryretreats.com
FACILITIES Sun deck, outdoor plunge pool, library, gym, spa with Thai massage, reflexology and treatments.
ASIA CRUISE YEAR BOOK Just US$9.95 per online copy Order your copy at aseancruising.com
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DIRECTORY
ASEAN DIRECTORY CLIA Southeast Asia Cruise Lines International Association 20 Bendemeer Road, 04-02 Cyberhub Singapore 339914 W: cruising.org BRUNEI Association of Travel Agents Brunei PO Box 485 Gadong Bandar Seri Begawan BE3978 Brunei Darussalam P: (673) 2 237 935, (673) 2 237 936 E: enquiries@bruneitravelagents.org.bn
Port of Jakarta, Indonesia Jalan Raya Pelabuhan Nomor 9 Tanjung Priok, Jakarta Utara 14310 Indonesia P: (62) 21 436 7305 E: priok@inaport2.co.id W: priokport.co.id LAOS
Brunei Tourism Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources Jalan Menteri Besar Bandar Seri Begawan BB3910 P: (673) 238 28 22 E: helpdesk@industry.gov.bn
Laos Association of Travel Agents LNTA Building, 2nd Floor, Lanexang Avenue Vientiane Laos P: (856) 21 251 769 W: latalaos.org
Ports Department Ministry of Communications Muara BT1728 Negara Brunei Darussalam P: (673) 2770 222-5 W: ports.gov.bn
Department of Tourism Marketing, Ministry of Information, Culture & Tourism PO Box 3556 Lane Xang Avenue Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR P: (856) 21 212 251 ext. 103 or 101 E: info@tourismlaos.org
CAMBODIA Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA) House 65, Street 240 Sangkat Chaktomuk Khan Daun Penh Phnom Penh Cambodia P: (855) 23 212 421 E: cata@online.com.kh W: catacambodia.com Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia Lot 3A, St. 169, Veal Vong Commune, Prampi Makara District, Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia P: (855) 23 88 49 74 E: info@tourismcambodia.org W: tourismcambodia.org INDONESIA Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies (ASITA) 4th Fl. Wisma Nugra Santana Jl Jendral Sudirman Kav. 7-8 Jakarta 10220 P: (62) 21 571 1706, 570 0455 E: info@asitajakarta.org W: asitajakarta.org Ministry of Culture and Tourism Jl. Merdeka Barat No. 17 Jakarta 10110 Indonesia P: (62) 21 383 8167 W: www.indonesia.travel
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MALAYSIA Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) No. 6, Jalan Metro Pudu 2, Fraser Business Park, Off Jin Yew, 55100 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia P: (60) 3 9222 1155 W: matta.org.my Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia No. 2, Tower 1, Jalan P5/6 Precinct 5 62200 Putrajaya Malaysia P: (60) 3 8000 8000 E: info@motac.gov.my W: motac.gov.my Port Klang Authority Mail Bag Service 202 Jalan Port Klang, Pelabuhan 42005 Malaysia P: (60) 3 316 882 11 E: onestopagency@pka.gov.my W: www.pka.gov.my MYANMAR Union of Myanmar Travel Association No. 29 Room 802, 8th Floor, UMFCCI Building, Min Ye Kyawswa Road, Lanmadaw Township,
Yangon, Myanmar P: (951) 214 941, (951) 214 945 E: office@umtanet.org Ministry of Hotels & Tourism Building No. 33, Nay Pyi Taw, Union of Myanmar P: (9567) 406129, (9567) 406130, (9567) 406460, (9567) 406244 E: mo.moht@mptmail.net.mm, mohtmail@gmail.com, director. information.moht@gmail.com W: myanmartourism.org Myanmar Ports Corporation Traffic Dept, Agency Div 83-91 Bo Aung Gyaw Street Yangon, Myanmar P: (95) 1 283 122 PHILIPPINES Philippine Travel Agencies Association 12-1G EGI Rufino Plaza, Taft cor. Sen Gil Puyat Avenue, Pasay City, Phils P: (63) 2 5520026 to 29 E: ptaa@ptaa.org.ph W: ptaa.org.ph Philippine Department of Tourism Tourism Attache Suite 703, Level 7, 301 George Street, Sydney P: (61) 2 9729 3380 E: info@morefuninthephilippines. com.au W: tourismphilippines.com.au Manila North Harbour Port, Inc Pier 6, Manila North Harbor, Tondo, Manila, Philippines P: (632) 588 9000 SINGAPORE National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) 120 Lower Delta Road, 03-16 Cendex Centre, Singapore 169208 P: (65) 6534 0187 E: industry.affairs@natas.travel Singapore Tourism Board Tourism Court 1 Orchard Spring Lane Singapore 247729 P: (65) 6736 6622 Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) 460 Alexandra Road
19-00 PSA Building Singapore 119963 P: (65) 6375 1639 E: qsm@mpa.gov.sg W: mpa.gov.sg THAILAND The Association of Thai Travel Agents 33/42-43 Wallstreet Tower Office Condominium 10th Floor, Surawong Road Suriyawong Sub-Dist., Bangrak Dist. Bangkok 10500 Thailand P: (662) 237 6046 8, (662) 632 7400 2 E: info@atta.or.th W: atta.or.th Port Authority of Thailand 444 Tarua Road, Klong Toey Bangkok 10110 Thailand P: (66) 2269 3000 E: info@port.co.th W: port.co.th VIETNAM Vietnam Travel Association (VITA) Building 7th Floor NCPT Tourism Institute 58 Kim Ma Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam P: (844) 3942 7620 E: webmaster@vita.vn W: vita.vn Vietnam National Administration of Tourism 2 Nui Truc Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam P: (844) 3943 7072 W: vietnamtourism-info.com Port of Phu My Baria Serece J. S. Company Phu My borough Tan Thanh, Ba Ria-Vung Tau P: 8464 876603 E: bsquality@hcm.vnn.vn