2017 Asia Cruise Directory by Big Splash Media

BRUNEI • CAMBODIA • CHINA • HONG KONG • INDIA • INDONESIA • JAPAN • LAOS • MALAYSIA

ASIA CRUISE

ASEANCRUISING.COM

DIRECTORY

ISSUE 2 2016/17

Everything you need to know to sell cruise holidays Ships & Lines Ports & Countries Expert Tips

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER AT ASEANCRUISING.COM MYANMAR • PHILIPPINES • SINGAPORE • SOUTH KOREA • TAIWAN • THAILAND • VIETNAM

WELCOME

EDITOR’S LETTER

Reflection on an exciting year of cruise growth

elcome to the new and expanded second edition of the Asian Cruise Directory. When we launched our source book for travel agents and cruise industry professionals last year, we little realised just how quickly Asia would embrace this amazing form of vacation. But the figures produced by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) recently show a boom in waterborne holidays. Better ships and more destinations are creating a burgeoning trade for Asian families. There will be 5,570 Asian cruise calls in 2016, an increase of 43 per cent in a year. In just three years, passenger volume grew from 775,000 to nearly 2.1 million – up almost 40 per cent. These are mostly highnet-worth individuals who spend up big on holiday. The result: the cruise industry spreads its economic benefits across the region, helping communities everywhere. Destinations with the greatest growth in total port calls this year are Japan, China and South Korea. Other destinations with port call growth are Vietnam, Taiwan and Singapore.   As a source market for cruise tourism worldwide, the absolute volume of cruise travellers sourced from Asia has nearly tripled since 2012. Despite these robust growth statistics, market penetration is still well under 1 per cent, meaning the potential for the future is phenomenal. To realise this amazing potential for our region, there needs to be a big change in thinking among the cruise lines, travel agencies and governments. Firstly, there needs to be more agent training. Cruise lines are doing their bit but, as we report here, CLIA has still to realise its promise of well-researched and

universally accepted training modules. Secondly, the ASEAN grouping needs to do more to promote the need for further infrastructure. Cruise ships deliver large numbers of cashed-up passengers to countries, but today’s larger ships need modern port facilities, and passengers taking shore excursions need guides, transport and other amenities. The rewards are obvious. The vast majority of Asians cruise within the region, meaning the return on investment stays at home. More cruisers from overseas are coming to Asia, bringing muchneeded foreign exchange for little cost. As the CLIA report states, the cruise industry has the potential to reach 10.9 million passenger destination days this year.  With over 5,500 port calls scheduled, itineraries will touch 204 destinations across 17 countries.   That’s a lot of local communities touched by a good-news industry bringing money and jobs to the region. We’ve also been working hard this year to help travel agents benefit from cruising. Our new magazine, Cruise and Travel Asia, is also on its second edition and we are very pleased with the response. The magazine is our attempt to help communicate the value and fun of taking a cruise. It’s free and can be found on our website: cruiseandtravelasia.com We thank all our supporters and look forward to providing content, websites, online campaigns and magazines throughout 2017. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter at aseancruising.com Teresa Ooi, Editor Asia Cruise Directory

CRUISE MEDIA AUSTRALASIA

Publisher Peter Lynch Editor Teresa Ooi teresa@bigsplashmedia.com.au Art Director Catherine Martin Associate Editor Bernadette Chua Chief Subeditor Jac Taylor Commercial Director Leisa Chell leisa@bigsplashmedia.com.au Writers Peter Lynch, Teresa Ooi, Jac Taylor, Mark Chipperfield, Bernadette Chua, Sally Hammond, Lachlan Colquhoun Picture Research Bernadette Chua We thank the following for their invaluable help: Ted Blamey, Principal, Chart Management Consultants Peter Kollar, Head of Training and Development, CLIA Australasia 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.

Contents ASIA CRUISE YEARBOOK | VOLUME 2 2016/2017

CRUISE NEWS 2 4 6 10 12 14 17 18 19 20 22 89

Asia’s growing cruise market How the cruise statistics stack up 9 cruise trends for 2016 and beyond Where Asians love to cruise 7 ways to sell cruise RCI’s head looks into the future A peek aboard the Genting Dream Korean TV drama sparking boom CLIA: How to improve your business Training: cruise agent masterclass ASEAN cruise map ASEAN directory

OUR COVER Genting Dream photographed by Björn Hass at the Meyer Werft shipyard at Papenburg, Germany.

THE COUNTRIES 24 26 30 34 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 62

Singapore – regional hub powers on Malaysia – a player with big plans Japan – land of the rising numbers Indonesia – aims to double numbers South Korea – superstar of cruise India – stylish players ready for action Myanmar – stellar rise with new ships The Philippines – a challenging year Cambodia – rising from a plateau Vietnam – impressive comeback Brunei – cruising to boost tourism Laos – cruise newbie has big plans Thailand – smooth sailing ahead Taiwan – plenty more to offer China – powerhouse of Asian cruise Hong Kong – evergreen destination

ASIAN FLEET 65 Dream Cruises 66 Seabourn 68 Silversea/Ponant 69 Crystal Cruises/Regent Seven Seas 70 Oceania Cruises/Cunard 71 Azamara/Celebrity Cruises 72 Holland America Line 74 Princess Cruises 76 Royal Caribbean International 78 Costa Cruises 80 P&O/Norwegian Cruise Line 81 Star Cruises 82 Carnival Cruise Line/MSC Cruises 83 Star Clippers/ Bhaya Cruises 84 Pandaw 85 APT/Avalon/AmaWaterways/Aqua 86 Sanctuary/Ayravata/Jahan/Viking 87 Uniworld/Scenic/Belmond

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CRUISE NEWS Words Peter Lynch

rand new ships with the latest technology, more destinations and better itineraries: these are the tangible results of Asia’s love affair with cruising. Figures released recently by Cruise Lines International Association and Chart Management – the first comprehensive survey in three years – shows growth across all sectors, with young families and the older generation fuelling a cruising boom. CLIA North Asia chair Dr Zinan Liu said: “While we expected Asia to experience record-breaking growth in cruise travel, we are astonished at the rate at which the region is emerging as one of the most significant cruise destinations and cruise source markets in the world.” More than 1,560 sailings are scheduled throughout Asia for 2016 – up 43 per cent from last year. The number of days that cruise ships operate in Asia has risen from 4,307 in 2013 to 7,918 in 2016. Sixty ocean cruisers will sail throughout Asia this year – eight more than in 2015. Fourteen operate year-round while another 12 have extended deployment in Asia. Cabin numbers have soared by more than half, with CLIA saying overall passenger capacity on ocean cruise ships will reach 3.2 million in 2016.

Asia now has 204 cruise destinations across 17 countries, with Japan no 1. Most Asian passengers cruise within the region – only 16 per cent travelled to Europe and other areas. And many are much younger than their American and European counterparts, with 40 per cent under 40 years old. The growth in luxury cruises has been particularly strong, and a number of ships will be visiting this year. The data for the report came from 31 international and regional cruise lines. “Even we were surprised by 24 per cent growth and that is unprecedented,” CLIA head Cindy D’Aoust emphasised. “We see no signs of slowing down.” Ms D’Aoust told American travel agent web sites the growth in port destinations is a big opportunity. She urged agents to talk to clients about the new port options. “It [Asian cruising] also provides a very easy and comfortable environment for travelers to check off their bucket list,” D’Aoust tells Travel Agent. “For experienced cruisers who’ve never had that opportunity [to visit some Asian bucket-list ports], there’s an entirely new market.” Jeju Island, South Korea, is the most visited port in 2016 with 460 calls, beating China’s monolithic port Shanghai with 437 calls and Singapore at 391 calls.

The astonishing rise of the Asian cruiser 2

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After enormous numbers of ships calling there, China’s passenger numbers have grown at an annual compounded rate of 66 per cent – growing an amazing 40 per cent last year alone. Last year, 986,000 passengers were from mainland China, representing close to half of the Asian volume, compared to 703,000 in 2014. Almost three out of 10 Asian cruisers continued to choose two- to three-night journeys with 50 per cent taking four- to six-night cruises. Just under 20 per cent took extended cruises of seven to 13 nights. In China, the average age of cruisers is below 43 – with about 42 per cent of cruise travellers below 40 years old. For the region, the same segment represents 38 per cent of all cruisers. Most capacity, not unexpectedly, is on the two megaships in the region, as well as on 15 large ships. Twenty-one mid-sized ships will sail in Asia, plus 16 upscale smaller ships and six expedition ships. Asia-to-Asia cruises and short cruises will dominate the itineraries. More than 1,473 voyages are planned. Another 87 voyages will “pass through” the region. Nearly 50 per cent will be four-to-sixnight cruises, while nearly 38 per cent will be two-to-three-night cruises.

CRUISE NEWS Some 5,500 port calls are scheduled this year in Asia. Japan, China and South Korea will welcome the most calls. Sixteen Asian ports will each host more than 100 calls this year. Sean Treacy is Regional Vice President Asia Pacific for Royal Caribbean, which has Asia’s largest fleet of ships. His view: “Despite these impressive figures, we are just scratching the surface of the potential for the region where the combination of a growing middle class and low cruise penetration rate allows for much more cruise capacity in the years to come. “In Southeast Asia, Royal Caribbean International is tapping into this potential by offering its longest season ever for the 2016/2017 cruise season with a record 55 cruises from Singapore.” But as more capacity heads for Asia – and, in particular, China – there are concerns about maintaining prices. Carnival, the world’s largest cruise line, recently reported operations in China were profitable for the first fiscal quarter, with returns higher than the fleet average. But chief financial officer David Bernstein said results in the country for the quarter were “behind on pricing and not surprisingly behind on percentage occupancy, given our over 60 per cent increase in China capacity.”

Why Asia is taking to the waters

The Asia Cruise Trends author Ted Blamey recently unveiled his findings for 2016. He outlines the lessons from the region’s extraordinary growth. ■ Over the past three years there has been a large increase in Asian cruise tourists, with some 2.08 million Asians having cruised in 2015. The fastest growing major global source market is China, providing almost as many passengers as all other Asian markets combined and growing at about 250,000 passengers per year. Other important markets such as Singapore, Japan and Taiwan deliver over 100,000 passengers Hong Kong, India and Malaysia are delivering 50 to 100,000 passengers a year.

Who is the Asian guest? There are marked differences between Asian cruisers and Western passengers. The statistics tell us that Asians prefer short cruises, though preferences are lengthening. The very short 2 to 3-night cruise was the most popular, but it has

now fallen from 55 per cent to 30 per cent. Four-, five- and six-night cruises are now rising from 24 per cent to 50 per cent. Most Asian passengers are cruising within Asia with 81 per cent departing and returning to the same port. A growing number are cruising outside Asia, but it is still only 16 to 17 per cent. Their average age is broad – 41 per cent are between 40 and 59, with the average across all Asian passengers at 45 years old. There needs to be more itinerary options, ports of call within short distance of homeports, berths and turnaround facilities, and trained guides and tour buses. These in turn require infrastructure investment (but not necessarily in grand terminals), dredging, charts and marine surveys, and jerry facilities for tender landing. You can read the report in full on cruising.org

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ASIAN CRUISE PASSENGER AND A WESTERN CRUISER? ASIANS

WESTERNERS

What they want from a cruise To see and do as much as possible Enjoy time with family

Relax Enjoy meeting like-minded people

Who they cruise with Extended family Large groups

Partner and kids Couples

Favourite ships Activity-packed Tailored to Asians Large

Multiple dining options Western style From intimate to massive

Dining favourites Fast paced, busy Can be loud Tea, hot water, beer Family style, several dishes on table

A leisurely event Polite conversation Good wine, cocktails Three courses

Activties Day: Avoid sun, swimming Tends to stay indoors Evening: Casino, karaoke, Production shows, shopping Connecting online

On deck: pool or bars At dinner: bars, shows smaller venues and dancing

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CRUISE NEWS: ASIAN GROWTH

ASIA CRUISE BY NUMBERS… More ships, more destinations and more choice… cruise is expanding at a huge rate in Asia.

2.4m 316,200 60 cruise ships will cruise will go to the this year

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within Asia

Caribbean or Mediterranean

CRUISE NEWS: ASIAN GROWTH

Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top 5,570 1,560 destinations Asian ports cruises Singapore Jeju Island, South Korea Hong Kong Shanghai, China Penang, Malaysia Phuket, Thailand Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Taipei, Taiwan Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

of call

3.1m

1.2m

passenger cruisers capacity under 40

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CRUISE NEWS: TRENDS

cruise trends

The North Star observation pod onboard Ovation of the Seas

for 2016 and beyond

New ships, new destinations and new onboard features – cruisers have a lot to look forward to. Teresa Ooi reports.

BIG IS BEAUTIFUL

It looks like the mantra ‘the bigger the better’ will be a recurring theme as international cruise lines compete to launch the world’s biggest cruise ships. Singapore sees an extended season for Ovation of the Seas, the world’s fourth-largest cruise liner. Dream Cruises’ new Genting Dream will be Asia’s first luxury ship purpose built for the market, she will also be one of the largest to sail in the region. Also launching next year will be Princess Cruises’ Majestic Princess which will cater for over 3,500 guests. Rounding up the lineup of Asia’s big new ships launching over the next 12 months is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Joy. Out of the four big ships, she will be the biggest by the end of 2017.

FAMOUS FACES IN THE KITCHEN

Cruise ships are also ‘going big’ for celebrity chefs as they sign up marquee names to create menus and front specialty restaurants. Asia’s first luxury cruise line Dream Cruises has signed Mark Best, an Australian chef, to produce The Bistro on Genting Dream. Melbourne-born chef Curtis Stone works for Princess Cruises and 6

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renowned Hawaiian chef Roy Yamaguchi for MSC Cruises. Australian chef Luke Mangan introduced Salt Grill on P&O’s Pacific Aria, Dawn, Eden, Jewel and Pearl, Australian-Vietnamese chef Luke Nguyen on APT’s Mekong river ship AmaLotus, renowned Japanese star chef Nobuyuki Matsushita launched Nobu restaurant on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, British Jamie Oliver for Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas. If you prefer Thai street food the way the locals enjoy it, then renowned Australian chef David Thompson is on board Aqua Mekong in Southeast Asia.

INDIA ON THE MAP

India is becoming the new cruise destination in Asia. Costa Cruises recently announced it would be homeporting the Costa neoClassica in Mumbai which will call at other Indian ports like New Mangala and Cochin. It will also stop at Colombo in Sri Lanka and Mormugoa in Goa.

HOT NEW DESTINATIONS

Myanmar continues to gain popularity as new ships launch on the Irrawaddy from APT, Avalon, Pandaw and Scenic. Costa Rica is an eco-and-adventure-packed destination, attracting boutique operator Windstar to base two of its ships there. This summer Norway will still grow in popularity, thanks in part to the movie Frozen which glamorised the country’s fjords. Since Norway is usually an expensive country by land, cruises offer a great-value alternative.

STAY CONNECTED AT SEA

Once expensive and ever-so-slow, today’s technology is the latest, to keep you connected while you’re cruising. Royal Caribbean recently announced it would roll out high-speed Voom internet across its entire fleet, following its success on Quantum-class ships. MSC Cruises has also announced a new multi-device package which, at about $5 per day, is the best value at sea. Carnival’s international fleet offers similar packages for $5 per day – here’s hoping they are extending the same fast internet service on Asianbased ships.

CRUISE NEWS: TRENDS

ADVENTURE GOES HIGH END

Luxury expedition cruising is fast emerging as the hottest market in the industry. In the last few months three lines have announced major new ships to begin this year and launch in 2018. Australian line Scenic was the first to announce a new ship, the 114-suite Scenic Eclipse. The ship will be ranked Ice Class – 1A Super category – a new benchmark for passenger ships. It will operate over 20 cruise itineraries around the globe, carrying two twin-engine helicopters, custom-built Zodiacs, a 240-seat theatre, heated pools and a submarine. Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Endeavor is next up, offering huge, ultra-luxe suites as well as plenty of toys including two helicopters, two submarines, eight Zodiacs, jet skis and wave runners. French line Ponant has announced four new expedition ships with the first to launch in 2018. The small ships will carry less than 200 people and will be ice-class and equipped with the latest technologies. Ponant ships will have a key attraction – an underwater bar lounge.

JAPAN AND KOREA

More cruise lines are exploring Japan and Korea. Named in the Asia Cruise Trends report as two of the most popular cruise destinations, lines like Royal Caribbean and Dream Cruises will be sending their biggest and best to the region. Earlier this year, RCCL announced it would be sending an Oasis-class ship to Japan. The new Genting Dream will be sailing around Japan from April 2017.

FLYING HIGH

Cruise lines are taking to the air. Crystal Cruises recently launched a Bombardier Global Express XRS jet to accommodate 12 passengers who prefer to customise their Crystal vacations. The line plans to add a larger Boeing 787 to its fleet in the future. Crystal’s butlers will be trained as flight attendants and food will be

prepared by celebrity chefs. This Northern Hemisphere summer, Celebrity Cruises will launch Jet Set Sail, an exclusive private charter from the UK to the Mediterranean on selected itineraries.

RISE OF THE DRAGON

They came. They saw. And now they are conquering. Between 2012 and 2014, the number of Chinese cruisers grew by a staggering 79 per cent each year. In 2016, there will be more than one million cruise passengers from China – and by 2030, there will be a staggering seven million. International lines are refitting existing ships and send them to China, and building new billion-dollar ships specifically for China’s new breed of passenger. Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International are all launching Chinese-specific ships in future.

EXPLORE THE WORLD WITH HOLLAND AMERICA LINE Cruise in classic style to more than 400 destinations in the comfort of a well-appointed, mid-size ship. Encounter fascinating lands and cultures. And make lasting memories on a Holland America Line cruise.

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CRUISE NEWS: NEW SHIPS

MORE SHIPS

ahoy

As the cruise boom continues, we’ll be seeing more new ships launching on both oceans and rivers – from boutique vessels to bigger-than-ever megaliners. OCEAN REGENT SEVEN SEAS EXPLORER Launched July 2016

The US$450-million Seven Seas Explorer embarked on her maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Venice. Billed as the most luxurious ship on the sea, the all-suite, all-balcony ship carries 750 passengers. The ultra luxurious Regent Suite, priced at about US$10,000 a night, measures 281 square metres and is bigger than the average home and features an in-suite spa with unlimited treatments, two bedrooms, two balconies, a Steinway Arabesque piano, Murano glass bowls, Lalique objets d’art, personal butlers and a limousine waiting at every port.

SEABOURN ENCORE Launching December 2016

Silver Whisper

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Regent Seven Seas Explorer

elements and fashionable interiors of Seabourn’s elegant Odyssey-class ships. Encore will carry just over 600 guests and, in keeping with the line’s high standards of personalised service, there will be one staff member for each guest on board. Accommodation is all suites with private balconies and the Wintergarden suites will be more like private apartments. After her christening in Singapore, Seabourn Encore will spend a maiden season sailing around Australia and New Zealand before heading to homeport in the Mediterranean.

SILVER MUSE Launching April 2017

MAJESTIC PRINCESS Launching summer 2017

Built specifically for the Chinese market, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Joy will have a host of first-at-sea features, including a two-level go-kart track for guests to race against each other. There will also be an open-air laser tag field, hovercraft bumper cars and state-of-the-art simulator rides. Outside, there will be two multi-storey waterslides and a tranquil open park for morning tai chi sessions. The name ‘Norwegian Joy’ translates into Chinese as ‘Xi Yue Hao’.

The Majestic Princess will be her fleet’s newest ship. Built for the Chinese market, she will have a multistorey atrium, and an over-ocean SeaWalk extending eight metres beyond the edge of the ship. Princess Cruises will also be sourcing entertainers from Hollywood as well as onboard venues and experiences catered for the Asian market. The ship will have a Chinese name on her hull translating as ‘grand world’ or ‘grand spirit’.

Silversea’s ninth ship will also be its largest, weighing just over 40,000 tonnes and carrying 596 passengers. All guests will stay in luxurious verandah suites ranging from 36 square metres all the way up to the 142-square-metre, two-bedroom Royal Suite. There will be eight onboard restaurants, including one from Relais & Chateaux.

NORWEGIAN JOY Launching mid-2017

CRUISE NEWS: NEW SHIPS Scenic Aura

Asian destinations such as Malaysia and Singapore.

RIVER LOUISIANE Launched August 2016

WORLD DREAM Launching November 2017

The World Dream, the second ship from Dream Cruises is launching next November. Like her sister ship, the Genting Dream, she will be catering for Asian cruisers with a multitude of restaurants serving cuisine from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand as well as regional Chinese food. It will also have the Dream Mansion, the exclusive ‘ship within a ship’ concept, complete with European and Chinese butlers. The ship will also have the famous Zouk nightclub on board and may be heading to Southeast

The first ship for the new French America Line, Louisiane is a luxury 75-cabin vessel with a distinctly French atmosphere. She is homeported in New Orleans and sails along five of America’s great rivers: Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee and Red. Her small size means she can access ports other ships cannot and there will be a focus on the French-American history of the region.

SCENIC AURA Launched September 2016

The 44-passenger Scenic Aura sails on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, cruising between Mandalay and Pyay, including a visit to the famed temples of Bagan. On board there is a swimming pool, sun deck,

BIG, BIGGER, BIGGEST Expect to see a lot more enormous ships on the water over the next few years. MSC Cruises will launch two ships, each with the capacity for 6,300 passengers, from 2019. Carnival has ordered four ships holding more than 6,000 passengers each to be deployed across its brands from 2019 to 2022. open-air cinema, gym, wellness centre, library and two restaurants.

CROISIEUROPE Launching in 2017

French line CroisiEurope is launching its very first river ship in Africa next year. The as-yet-unnamed vessel will carry 16 passengers in eight balcony suites and sail on five-night itineraries along the Zambezi and Chobe rivers in southern Africa. Guests will combine the cruise with a stay at safari lodges and a visit to Victoria Falls.

SEABOURN’S

ELEGANCE AT SEA

To book your clients on a Seabourn cruise call Seabourn at +1-206-626-9835 or visit Seabourn.com

EXTRAORDINARY WORLDS

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CRUISE NEWS: WHERE ASIANS CRUISE

Where Asians love to cruise

Jeju Island, South Korea

Each year over two million Asians book a cruising holiday, heading off to every corner of the globe. The latest research suggests that, while large numbers of Asian cruisers are venturing to Europe, North America and the Caribbean, the majority prefer to stay in their own region.

he luxury cruise ship market is booming, driven in part by the phenomenal number of Asian people who are now choosing this type of holiday experience. Despite the growing popularity of Europe, North America and the Caribbean as cruise destinations, the citizens of China, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan and India are still choosing to cruise within the Asian region. Statistics show that there were 10.9 million passenger destination days to Asia in 2016, a 55 per cent increase over the seven million days from 2015. The top five Asian ports were Jeju Island (South Korea), Baoshan/Shanghai (China), Singapore and Fukuoka ( Japan). According to Ted Blamey, author of Asia Cruise Trends, 81 per cent of Asian cruise passengers are departing and returning to the same port in Asia. Of those who do choose to cruise elsewhere, 75 per cent head for Europe, with significant numbers now choosing the Caribbean, Alaska and 10

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Canada as their preferred destinations. Thanks to the expansion of cruise capacity the volume of passengers visiting Asian ports continues to grow exponentially, with a 43 per cent increase in traffic between 2015 an 2016. The impact of larger ships, added cruises and multiple port call visits is tipped to drive further growth in the Asian cruise market in 2017. “The fastest growing major source market is China,” says Blamey. “This country provides almost as many passengers as all other [Asian] markets combined. That [Chinese] market alone is growing by a

Japan

quarter of a million passengers per year.” Blamey argues that, in order to maintain its pre-eminent position in the cruise market constellation, the Asian region will need greater infrastructure development, better dredging of its waterways, improved charts and surveys and new jetty facilities to accommodation for tender landings. “More and more ships specially built for the Asian market are being sent to the region every year and there is growing co-operation between the European cruise lines and the Chinese shipyards,” he continues. “And one day China will build its own ships.” Behind these impressive growth statistics, the way that Asian passengers cruise is also changing. Research suggests that while Asian cruisers still prefer short itineraries of two or three nights, their preference for longer cruises, upto six nights, is growing – although only one per cent book cruises lasting two weeks or more.

CRUISE NEWS: WHERE ASIANS CRUISE “There are marked differences between Asia’s Best Performers Cambodia’s Siem Reap, renowned for the Asian cruisers and their Western China: Cruise lines send their biggest and ancient ruins of Angkor Wat. Vietnam is counterparts,” says Blamey. “The statistics best ships to the east, in particular China, also popular with ocean liners including tell us that Asians prefer short cruises, they are also sending an important message; plush lines Crystal, Ponant, Silversea and though their preferences are lengthening.” there is a rising interest from the world’s Seabourn. The report points to another interesting cruising aficionados. Not only that, China’s Japan: The land of the rising sun, is fact about Asian cruisers – namely that they burgeoning middle class has saturated with culture and tradition. cover a much broader age range than their also been smitten and wants The food is seasonal and you can FAVOURITE Western counterparts. Indeed, 41 per cent to holiday at sea. eat well and reasonably cheaply CRUISE SPOTS of all Asian cruise ship passengers are aged Myanmar: Since the if you follow the locals. Lines ASIA between 40 and 59, with the average age government lifted its that cruise regularly to Japan EUROPE being 45. self-imposed isolation from include Princess Cruises, THE CARIBBEAN Although a number of new players, such the western world, Myanmar Ponant, Royal Caribbean, ALASKA as India, Indonesia and Myanmar, entered is now a hot spot for cruise Celebrity Cruises and Holland CANADA (or returned to) the Asian cruise ship passengers. New players have America Line. market in 2016, industry analysts believe entered the river-cruise market with Singapore and Hong Kong: These that a number of primary Asian countries scenic, APT and Avalon launching new two established destinations both offer a will continue to dominate passenger ships and itineraries. Even Pandaw, one of combination of 21st-century glamour, numbers over the next few years. These the older operators in the region, is pushing delicious food and a highly competitive include Japan, China, South Korea, the boundaries and offering cruises further shopping scene. Many of the world’s Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore, six up the Irrawaddy into China. leading lines start their cruises from the super-popular destination that already Vietnam: Vietnam’s electrifying capital super-efficient cruise terminals in both receive over 300 ship calls per year. Based Ho Chi Minh City is one of Asia’s most cities. From Singapore, you will be spoilt for on current trends, East Asia will continue to amazing places to visit. It is also home to choice of short breaks up the coast of record the highest number of port calls, many river cruises that traverse two Malaysia to Thailand. From Hong Kong, of followed by Southeast Asia and south Asia. countries, with cruises ending in course, you can cruise up the coast of China. ASEAN Cruise YearBook2016_124mmx183mm_HIRES1.pdf 1 25/7/16 often 10:48 am

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CRUISE NEWS: SELLING CRUISE

7 ways to sell cruise 1 NEW SHIPS

This cruising season is big – literally. Not only is Princess Cruises sending its biggest ship, and Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class Ovation of the Seas setting new standards in terms of size, but every new ship is pushing the envelope in every way. Along with the world’s biggest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, other new ships are entering the market, fully loaded not only with passengers (though with their high profiles, that’s almost a given), but with activities, technology and the latest cruising hardware to keep it all steady in the highest of seas.

FOOD

Ocean-sailing ships porting in Asia (and around the world) now sport eateries that list like a Who’s Who of the culinary arts today: Luke Mangan, Curtis Stone, Jamie Oliver, Marco Pierre White… each offering a cruise line-specific foodie experience on board. You will often also find signature restaurants, chef’s tables, galley tours and even cooking classes to perfect your own haute cuisine skills, all masterminded by some of the world’s greatest chefs.

SERVICE

Butler service and VIP access have been a feature of cruising for generations, but the new ships are bringing this level of service to the people, so to speak, spreading the for-and five-star service throughout the ship. Those lucky few in the top suites don’t miss out, though, with cruise lines reaching ever higher to outdo each other here, too. The Genting Dream will have Dream Butlers in its ‘shipwithin-a-ship’ area. The line has trained both European and Mandarin-speaking butlers.

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ACTIVITIES

Sky diving, aerial cycling, 10-storey water slides, bumper cars and simulated surfing – activities on new ships are tending toward the extreme, but there’s plenty for those who would prefer to keep their feet on deck. Order a drink from a robot bartender on Royal Caribbean’s newest ships, race around on the first every go-kart track onboard the new Norwegian Joy and enjoy Tai Chi on the Majestic Princess. The sky is (sometimes literally) the limit.

CRUISE NEWS: SELLING CRUISE

PRICE

The all-inclusive nature of cruising has always spelled relaxation for passengers; how else can you see five different countries, dine in your choice of restaurants (or enjoy 24-hour room service), experience sports, activities, pools and spas, and have your accommodation waiting for you every night at this kind of price? Furthermore, as competition is getting fiercer and standards are being raised ever higher, the value for money represented by cruising is getting even better.

SHORE EXCURSIONS

Innovation and adventure doesn’t end on board (although many ships are now destinations in their own right). Multiple cruise lines are offering gourmet food tours that feature tastings, Michelin-starred stops and wine-tasting. Adventurers can channel their inner David Attenborough – or Indiana Jones – as they kayak, snorkel with turtles, dog sled, horse ride, walk through lava tubes and take roads less travelled with small-group tours. Say goodbye to the tour bus.

FAMILY CABINS

From Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises or Holland America’s Koningsdam family suites and family staterooms, featuring multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, through to P&O’s interconnecting rooms that combine in every way (quad-quad, twin-quad, triple-triple, twin-twin), families of any shape and size are catered for. Carnival’s family cabins can offer an extra bathroom, while lines such as Celebrity make the most of their cabins with Pullman beds or convertible single/queen beds.

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CRUISE NEWS: ROYAL CARIBBEAN

SETTING COURSE FOR THE future

Royal Caribbean International now has the largest-capacity fleet in Southeast Asia. Managing Director Sean Treacy tells Peter Lynch of the challenges and opportunities this brings.

Q: What do you see as the best prospects for growing the Southeast Asian cruise market in the next 12 months? A: The region’s cruise market should be experiencing a growth milestone in the upcoming year, featuring more new ships with more exciting amenities entering the scene. This will surely boost the market’s interest, while bringing more choices for consumers to book and for agents to sell. The new ships may come in larger sizes, like the 4,905-guest Ovation of the Seas which is an almost 30 per cent increase in capacity from the current largest ones here. And cruise lines like Royal Caribbean International will be embarking on longer seasons in Southeast Asia – which translates to more sailings, hence growth. Q: What do you see as the challenges – and what can be done to overcome them? A: We need to grow the distribution network and educate the travel agents faster than ever, especially with all the new cruise hardware coming up in Southeast Asia and other parts of the world. 14

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There are still many agents out there who are unfamiliar with the cruise product, how to sell it or even the benefits of selling it. Our company has been actively promoting our products to the travel agent community and training them on product knowledge through workshops and familiarisation tours and sailings, and will continue to do so. At the same time, the slow development of adequate port and tourism infrastructure in the region – especially for larger ships – still needs to be addressed urgently. The industry needs to work closely to engage authorities in the region on this issue, to develop more attractive and feasible cruise itineraries and grow the market. Q: RCL operates the biggest ships and the largest fleet – it has already invested in new destinations like Vietnam. Is more investment planned to improve port infrastructure? If so, where do you see most development? A: On top of Chan May Port last year, we also continue to look for other ports-of-call that we can develop or enhance around the ASEAN region in order to accommodate

our larger ships, which is crucial for itinerary and product development. Other areas that need urgent development are cruise terminals with adequate facilities and sufficient berths, more tourism attractions nearer to the ports and better road infrastructure and transport around the ports to accommodate ships of any size. Q: Ovation of the Seas is described as a ‘game-changer’. Will it change Asia’s view of the cruise industry? And if so, how? A: As Asia’s largest and smartest cruise ship, Ovation of the Seas is creating a new wave of excitement and changing people’s mindset about cruising wherever she goes. Her next-generation experiences – skydiving and surfing simulators, elevated glass capsule, robotic bartenders, Jamie’s Italian restaurant and the fastest internet at sea for instance – appeal strongly to guests of all ages. With the arrival of this ship, cruising is no longer seen as typically just for seniors or families. It has widened its audience to more effectively capture the wired generation of teens and young adults as well.

CRUISE NEWS: ROYAL CARIBBEAN Q: What are the main differences in demand from Asian cruise passengers compared with others around the world? A: Many of our Asian cruise guests tend to travel in multi-generational families. We observe that there are usually more groups than FITs in the newer markets and customers tend to book late in comparison. Q: How important are travel agents to Royal Caribbean’s success in the region? A: A strong distribution network is essential to our business growth; agents play an important role in multiplying and diversifying our touchpoints with our customers while value-adding to our products through their individual sales and marketing efforts. To us, they are not only our most valuable channels but our most passionate ambassadors in representing and promoting Royal Caribbean. While aiming to grow our network, we are looking at more agencies which can work in tandem with us across all our markets in the region.

Q: Are you planning any further changes to the Royal Caribbean fleet in Southeast Asia? A: We are lining up three of Asia’s largest ships in Southeast Asia from this October – Ovation of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas – for a longest-ever season. Q: How is Royal Caribbean setting about educating potential passengers in new markets? And what are the main means of reaching potential Asian cruise passengers? A: Through marketing and PR campaigns, media stories, speaking at consumer seminars and partnering with travel agents. In our new markets, such as Vietnam, in the recent years we are seeing significant growth thanks to proactive travel agents who have put in a lot of effort to promote our cruises through advertising and media collaboration. We are also working with various tourism boards and agents in promoting cruises at national or regional travel fairs. The Singapore Tourism Board is an example of proactive collaboration with industry players like us in promoting cruises through advertising, publicity and travel fairs.

Q: Is Royal Caribbean carrying out special agent training across the region? Can you tell us what it entails and what incentives are available? A: We have an online training platform, Cruising for Excellence, which our agents can engage in. Moreover, we conduct regular sales calls and visits to our travel partners that include training sessions. Q: How do commissions and other incentives compare to land and air travel for agencies in Southeast Asia? Cruise commissions are competitive in comparison. Moreover, for land travel bookings whereby travel agents still have to be heavily involved in the operational arrangements, cruise companies have an advantage as we take up the operational part of the work. In short, it is basically hassle free when agents book a cruise with us. Q: What would your best sales tip be for a travel agent trying to convert clients to cruise products in Southeast Asia? - Great value proposition with virtually everything included in the fare - Convenient getaway, unpacking only once on a trip to multiple destinations - Particularly for Royal Caribbean International, a wide array of unique, exciting onboard entertainment and activities for guests of all ages, with the cruise ship as a true destination on its own.

Q: Some suggest that creating new itineraries is essential to create variety in the short cruise offering. Is Royal Caribbean working to increase diversity? What areas do you see as having the best potential? A: We’d love to add more ports in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia when the infrastructure is ready some day. At the same time, Royal Caribbean is also deploying new ships with more sailings to the region, starting from next year. Q: Is making the ship the destination – with vessels like Ovation – one answer? A: Ships and destinations go hand-in-hand to make a truly meaningful cruise vacation. With two Quantum-class ships including Ovation of the Seas and two Voyager-class ships plying Asia, we have the best hardware in the region. When the market grows, there is always a possibility of bringing in other ships. Q: Do you foresee more ‘Asianisation’ of cruise ships, with food offerings and entertainment geared to the Asian market? A: Based on guest feedback, right now our guests in Southeast Asia are largely comfortable with our balance of international and Asian offerings onboard our ships, which is our way of distinguishing our brand. Q: Short cruise itineraries are appealing to young adults, but also inhibit growth. Is this something Royal Caribbean is working on? A: We are beginning to see changes in vacation pattern in our markets ever since we have brought in the larger ships starting with the 15-deck Voyager-class ships and afterwards, the 18-deck Quantum-class ships. As ship size increases, so does the variety of offerings on board. Consumers are beginning to realise that the very short cruises of 2 or even 3 nights are not enough for an in-depth cruise experience and now appreciate the sailings of 4 nights and more. Q: How does Royal Caribbean view the long-term prospects for cruise in the Southeast Asian region? A: Highly positive, with an enormous population, an expanding middle class and a growing appetite for cruising as a novel way of vacation. The low penetration rate for cruising in the market also underlies its great potential for growth, with the right products, consumer education and travel agent distribution. ASEANCRUISING.COM

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CRUISE NEWS: GENTING DREAM

Genting Dream butlers

Living the Asian dream Now agents in Asia have a home-grown luxury brand they can call their own. Bernadette Chua was at the German shipyard when the Genting Dream was unveiled.

he luxury sector is one of the fastest growing in cruise, with more being packed onto increasingly beautiful ships. Launched amid media fanfare, Asia’s first luxury cruise line heralds a new age of refined travel for a region whose high-net-worth clients have sometimes been misunderstood by the cruise industry. Aboard the Genting Dream, they’ll feel right at home. She accommodates over 3,000 passengers, and embodies what President and CEO of Dream Cruises, Thatcher Brown, believes is the future of luxury holidaying. Mr Brown said that Dream Cruises is unlike any other line in the region. Purpose-built, the new Genting Dream has 35 restaurants, bars and clubs, specialised Asian and Western spa areas, more interconnecting family cabins and Asian restaurants from regional areas. Mr Brown is relying on word of mouth from the initial sell-out sailings of the ship from Singapore to Hong Kong for marketing. It is completely full, and around 40 per cent of those are first time cruisers from China. “The ship is unlike any other in Asia. What is being served in terms of the quality of the

food and the quality of the retail brands, as well as the entertainment is our effort to appeal to a younger crowd and give them something different. Our itineraries are designed for Asians who have short breaks. “What makes us different is aspects like the largest Asian spa at sea. Our approach is very authentic – we have reflexology. And it’s more informal – families can go there. There is a sense of combining this Asian product with international influences. “The Dream Mansion concept has Asian and European butlers. These butlers will deliver a service which is culturally sensitive. “Another example is the quality of our karaoke rooms. It’s not just a room with a simple selection of songs and a microphone but it is an area which is a very sophisticated food and beverage entertainment area. It’s extremely authentic in terms of the food and drink selection as well as the song selection. “The ship provides a very comfortable environment for the Asian market. It provides a comfortable setting in which guests can try new experiences like the submersibles or different destinations.”

Mr Brown said the cruise line would be incentivising agents by providing them with famils as well as extensive training modules. Over the last seven months, Dream Cruises has used online training programs which he personally participates in. He talks to the agents about what will be on board. The online module is based on a question and answer program where agents can ask Mr Brown and the sales staff about Dream Cruises over a video call. He said roadshows through China have been very successful. “For agents, we have the traditional volume incentive. Then we are also offering an early bird incentive as well as a cooperative marketing funding incentive. Then we also have training funding incentives, so there is a big sales tool chest that we use. But we are looking to move the booking curve further out which means we are encouraging agents to try and sell early. We are providing a bit more flexibility by giving them the option to be able to change bookings for their clients. “Our marketing idea is about how to fulfill the guests’ dream, so we train the agents about every aspect of the ship. We use the metaphor of the mermaid and the astronaut in our advertising campaign, as an aspirational message – anything is possible on the ship.” Thatcher Brown

HIGH 5: WHAT MAKES DREAM CRUISES DIFFERENT 1. The biggest Asian and Western spa at sea which has 100 massage chairs as well as a specialised reflexology service. 2. Karaoke rooms with a wide variety of song selections. 3. The Dream Mansion has personalised European as well as Mandarin-speaking butlers. 4. More Asian restaurants at sea than any other ship, serving regional Chinese cuisine, Malaysian and Singaporean hawker food and Indian curries. 5. More mahjong rooms than any other ship in Asia.

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CRUISE NEWS: DESTINATIONS

How Korean TV drama is sparking a boom in shore excursions

sia’s love affair with Korean TV dramas and shopping is driving cruise growth, Assistant General Manager at Chan Brothers Worldwide Cruise Centre, Nancy Koh, has revealed. The number of people sailing to the region has doubled, particularly on journeys to Japanese and Korean ports. “Korea is touted as one of the more popular cruise destinations,” Koh said, “due to its reputation as heaven for passionate shopaholics, who can rejoice in Korea as they kick off their style adventures and shop to their heart’s content in Jeju or Busan.” Television shows have driven some cruise lines like Royal Caribbean International and Princess Cruises to create shore excursions around film sets. “The hugely popular South Korean TV drama serial Descendants of the Sun (DOTS) has contributed to the rise in popularity of the destination as it has captured the imagination of legions of fans from all over the world with its romantic plot and unforgettable characters. “Travellers can retrace the steps of the leading characters in the memorable scenes, 18

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showcasing South Korea’s many cultural and natural attractions. Most cruise itineraries featuring Korea are often paired with Japan, offering travellers the chance to experience the best of both worlds. The destinations complement each other with their close proximity and one of a kind experiences,” she said. According the recent Asia Cruise Trends 2016 report, Japan and Korea are at the top of the list of destinations Southeast Asians want to cruise to. Japan had 1,526 port calls last year, while South Korea had 850. With the cruise industry booming, the Japanese government announced it would be investing more into port infrastructure. Funds will go into landing bridges and other infrastructure for large cruise ships and work will also take place to deepen ports. Kelvin Wong, commercial vice president for Costa Cruises Asia, said this will benefit the cruise industry. “This will help to ease berth congestions that we are seeing, such as at Hakata, which will, in turn, allow cruise operators to make more calls and bring in more foreign passengers,” he said.

Currently, Royal Caribbean International offers the most extensive number of cruise programs to Korea. Travellers can opt to go on the Legend of the Seas or Mariner of the Sea. Both feature docking in Busan and Jeju where travellers can experience what Korea has to offer.” Corporate Communications Manager of Singapore and Southeast Asia for Royal Caribbean International, Ying Duan Chin, said that five of its ships offer sailing from Shanghai, Tianjin, Hong Kong and Xiamen. “This year Ovation of the Seas joined Quantum of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Legend of the Seas in North Asia. The five ships offer sailings from Shanghai, Tianjin, Hong Kong, and Xiamen – and itineraries to destinations in Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam.” “Japan and Korea have always been one of RCL’s top destinations in the region because we bring our customers to a mix of

Most cruise itineraries featuring Korea are often paired with Japan, offering the best of both worlds. popular and lesser known destinations such as Sasebo, Miyazaki (Aburatsu), Kochi, Fukuoka and Jeju. “The draw of these places is the cosmopolitan dynamism and rich culture. The stopover at Fukuoka, for example, allows you to visit the city but also explore the nearby areas of Kokura and Karatsu on our shore excursions. “What’s more, with the overnight stays we have lined up in Yokohama and Okinawa, our cruisers will be able to discover and experience more of its attractions day and night.”

CRUISE NEWS: CLIA

CLIA: How to improve your business

Cindy D’Aoust (right) with CLIA Commercial Manager Brett Jardine

t Australasia’s recent Cruise360 conference, global CEO and president of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Cindy d’Aoust gave her personal seven tips to agents about improving their business. Stay connected The most exciting thing that your passengers and your clients will do

when they are on vacation is post their experience [on social media]. Be part of the conversation. You need to be engaged and show up in that community. Stay one step ahead Really think about and get to know your clients: what their family milestones are, suggest trips for future events whether it’s a key anniversary or something going on with their family. Be creative and help them think forward, maybe to plan a bigger cruise than they’ve taken in the past. Create an itinerary for yourself By that I mean a road map. You’re creating all these great creative destinations and itineraries for your customers; do that for yourself. Understand where your business is today, and where you want it in five years’ time and then create the plan to get there. We all take journeys, but rarely do we get where we intended without some kind of plan or map.

Build a brand There is not an industry that is better at building their brands. than the cruise industry. When we say Celebrity, Ponant, Silversea, we know exactly what we expect from that brand, because they’ve done an amazing job. Do that for yourself. We also have research that if you specialise you will earn more. But your customers need to know what your specialty is. Is it river cruises? Is it Asian markets? Is it the big ships for the families? What is it? Personalise A cruise can be personalised down to a single individual, and what they want to do day by day. Make sure that you are personalising the level of experience for your customers, that that is part of your brand, they know what you will deliver. Match what they are looking for in their experience, with the product – that is the cruise. Make sure that you

are doing a lot of work on the personalisation. Narrowing the search We know that there are thousands of ports, many different itineraries, different destinations, different amenities, but that does not help when you talk to a client. It just overwhelms them. Don’t present them with the top 10 destinations, Don’t present them with the top 10 cruise lines. Know them, know what they are looking for, use that personalisation, select down and give them a choice of the top three based on what you know about them and what they are trying to create. Learn to earn Invest in yourself. Whether it’s being a member of CLIA, participating in your community, serving on boards, continuing to get training, and accreditation. Invest in yourself. The more you know, the more value you bring to your customers.

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CRUISE NEWS: TRAINING

Masterclass Peter Kollar, CLIA Australasia’s head of training and development, shares his tips with Peter Lynch on how agents should sell Southeast Asians on cruise.

What do you think is the main challenge facing agents selling cruise in 2017? • There are two challenges that travel agents in the Asian region will now face with so much inventory on their doorsteps. Firstly, overcoming client apprehension. I see this in Asia more than any other market. A client will only ever hesitate about a cruise purchase because of the outdated image in their mind, making the client uncomfortable with the purchase. This may be that cruise is an expensive holiday, or that it is confining, or there is nothing to do. A savvy agent, one that knows how the cruise experience has changed dramatically even in the past five years, can re-tell the story so that new imagery evokes an emotional connection. They use pictures, videos, and other media to help illustrate concerns along with positive and sincere dialogue. Confidence in dialogue is best overcome by actual experience, so all agents should do their best to experience a cruise and partake in ship inspections. It’s one thing to see nice pictures in brochures, it’s another to feel the synergy of how all the features flow into an individual holistic holiday experience. The other challenge is the diversity of product that is now present in Asian waters. It can be confusing at first, but the more an agent can commit to learning about the industry, who the players are, and the differentiation between the products, the better they will be equipped to match their clients and their individual needs. 20

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Could you give us a breakdown of the different passenger segments in the Asian cruise market – and what agents need to do to convince them to cruise? • The one thing that is consistent in Asian cruise reports and other regions is that age statistics are now so spread across the spectrum that age-related segments are void. Segmentation should be distributed amongst the categories of contemporary, premium, and ultra-luxury experiences. You can throw in river cruising (still untapped in Asia) and expedition cruising. As far as these big three segments are concerned, agents need to concentrate on experiences. Contemporary lines tend to have large to resort-style ships that can accommodate so many features and new experiences. An agent’s knowledge of these will help them sell contemporary cruise brands. Ultra-luxury clients focus on the service and inclusion elements of the cruise, so agents need to understand what luxury is. It’s definitely not the beautiful chandelier hanging in the atrium – all ships have that. Know how service and inclusions completely change the atmosphere of a cruise. Agents need to find the right equilibrium with the premium segment, one that has a nice balance of features (which mid-size to large ships can accommodate) to the luxury price points they can provide. Understanding the nuances of all three experiences will help an agent convince clients to cruise – so know your client!

What do you feel Asians look for: the ship; the destination; the activities? And how do agents sell this diversity? • I understand Asian statistics point more towards the ship experience, but I think this is because of the number of short cruises on offer. Overall I believe there is no stereotype, as aggressive deployment will change these statistics to cover all three aspects. Is Asianisation of ships important to help agents get across the cruise message? Is this about language, food, activities like gaming or shows? Or is there something else? • Asianisation is important, as we found in our own market with Aussification. Modifying the cruise experience, whether re-designing layout, bringing familiar local suppliers onboard, or creating activities and services that passengers are used to, are all important in creating a comfort level that sits between ‘never cruised before’ and ‘taking the leap’. It allows passengers to ease into cruising, as Jennifer Vanderkreeke, Vice President of Carnival Australia, once explained in regards to Australians embracing the once-American-designed Carnival Spirit. Although the first year of year-round deployment was successful, many lessons were learnt from the passengers about what they wanted, and an even greater Aussification adaptation was then brought in so that now, it is the perfect balance of home creature comforts and trying things that are new and exotic.

CRUISE NEWS: TRAINING When you are training agents in Asia, what’s the overarching message you give about selling cruise? • Putting aside the product and destination experience that a cruise holiday provides, you have to remember first and foremost that purchasing is a universal behaviour, and a good seller is one that can get their client emotionally connected to what they are selling. However, they can’t do this if they don’t understand the motives of their client (the reason they want to go on a holiday), or the experience they want (what are their needs and expectations). This qualifying period is so crucial in sales, and unfortunately with society’s online culture evolution, this communication art form is slowly disappearing. If this continues, then the client experience will all come down to finding the right price online and an agent’s role starts to diminish. To overcome this an agent has to find ways to be relevant, not only by engaging with online mediums and creating virtual communities, but also transferring online queries to offline, as people still have a natural affinity to buy from people. How has agent training changed over the last 12 months? • On the surface not much has changed in Asia, though we have spent the year behind the scenes planning a structure that addresses a better cruise training focus. Asia is a very tough market for Westerners to understand; there are major differences in retail culture even amongst nations close together, distribution channels all vary, business models are dissimilar, and key partnerships play a large role in getting our resources to the many front line types. It has so many variables compared to other traditional source markets we have already established. At CLIA, we are working hard to ensure that, when we do provide the next phase of both training and support, it is in the right medium and content, and written to the right angles of delivery, balanced to fit into the scope of retail models of each region. All this has to be structured in a way that not only aligns itself with CLIA global strategies, but also provides Asian training direction, consistency, and resource allocation so that Asian cruise retail businesses can evolve in a credible pathway. For all these reasons, it has taken longer than most of us would have liked.

Do agents in Asia have enough collateral: training, brochures and knowledge? If not, what can be done to give them more? • From my experiences visiting many ASEAN countries, I feel that there is definitely a strong awareness and competency in group sales, from charters to affinity group departures and incentive cruises. This is actually quite unusual as it is a segment I’ve been trying to get Australians and New Zealanders to embrace for some time now. On the other hand, general cruising knowledge needs a lot more attention, as many agents, like their clients, have an outdated mindset of what the current cruise experience is, and the scope of products that make these experiences so variable. This is not any fault of the agent; I believe the Asian travel agent community is strongly lacking resources and needs more support. We all talk about ships being deployed in the region, infrastructure and destinations being assembled, but it is the agents who then fill the beds – cruise lines can’t do it themselves as all other markets have shown. For the longevity of Asian cruise business it is critical that agents fill them but with the right people. Despite cruise lines promoting to the new-to-cruise segment, all markets around the world have grown because of the underlying strength of repeat customers. An unmatched booking that leads to a negative experience can cause greater harm to an industry in its infancy than established markets, particularly with social media reach today. So support needs to be given to Asian agents so that this doesn’t happen. What do cruise lines need to do to help agent training? • I feel the cruise lines are doing an adequate job in trying to reach out and support the agent community, though they are also limited in their resources and capacity. It will take a collaborative approach by all cruise lines – as the more diversity in conversation can only help with a more well-rounded agent and, as a result, a satisfied customer. In saying that, we as an industry body need to take responsibility more as well. If an agent only ever gets to engage with one or two cruise lines then they become limited, and it can hurt an industry that is trying to establish credibility. As mentioned, we are well aware of this and want to bring to Asia what we bring to other markets: an holistic approach to cruise industry training that fulfils all the facets of a cruise retailer.

What are the big trends for the next 12 months and how can agents get equipped to sell these changes? • Both CLIA and the cruise lines have taken the same approach over the past two years: pointing to the new to cruise market, the multi-generation cruiser, and the millennial. This is because the cruise lines don’t actually fight over the same passenger. They welcome competition amongst themselves – so long as the passenger is coming from land alternatives. The Australian cruise market has, for the past two years, had the highest market penetration rate at over 4 per cent. This mean 4.5 per cent of Australians are cruising. Is this good? Maybe. But it also means that during short breaks, holidays, the festive season, 95.5 per cent are choosing something else. So the cruise lines are desperate to attract some of this market. One message we need to get across, and it applies to all three segments mentioned, is the connectivity evolution. Ten years ago I’d have said the evolution of cruising was the dining experience. Then it was the features and experiences. But over the last two years it has been about connectivity. With almost every line now partnered with providers, connectivity has changed dramatically. Per-minute charges have changed to per-day, packages and bundles are now available, and most important for the industry, broadband width and speed have gone up while pricing has come down. Agents need to be aware of this and relay it to their client base, as no matter what age spectrum we target, connectivity in today’s society is important. It’s been said that agents need to convert retirees in Asia to longer and/or diverse cruise itineraries. Do you agree? What can they do to convince older Asians to cruise? • Let’s face it, most retirees have time at hand to enjoy their holidays, and in cruising terms this means longer itineraries, so yes I would showcase these options first. Do most of them have the money to spend? • They probably do, but they are also the ones counting every penny because they have a strategic financial plan to last the rest of their lives. The best way to attract a retiree to cruising is showing them the ‘per person’ or ‘per day’ cost of a cruise and what is included. With their experience of living they quickly learn what a great deal it is! ASEANCRUISING.COM

CRUISE NEWS

Cruise destinations in Asia From the villages of Myanmar to the bright lights of Singapore, port countries in Asia have had a big year. BRUNEI The oil-rich nation of Brunei is a small but growing cruise ship destination, offering first-class modern facilities, royal palaces, glitzy shopping centres, traditional water villages and immaculate public gardens. CAMBODIA One of the rising stars of the cruise ship world, Cambodia is actively promoting all aspects of cruising, with new voyages on the Mekong and land-based excursions to the ruins at Angkor Wat. CHINA With its rapidly developing infrastructure China is the powerhouse of the Asian cruising market. Visitors are drawn to its modern cities, national icons and astonishing natural beauty.

SINGAPORE Authorities are determined that Singapore must maintain its position as Southeast Asia’s pre-eminent cruising hub, investing heavily in advanced infrastructure so that it can accommodate the most technologically advanced ships in the world.

LAOS A relative newcomer to the cruise ship market, Laos is quickly developing its offerings on the Upper Mekong, opening this fascinating region for tourists. The country’s scenic mountains, gorges, and jungle villages are big drawcards.

SOUTH KOREA South Korea’s intoxicating mix of 21st-century technology and traditional Buddhist culture have proven irresistible to cruise ship passengers who have been exploring the country in record numbers – in fact, two million came in the 2015-2016 period.

MALAYSIA Consistently ranked in Asia’s Top 10 cruise destinations, Malaysia has enjoyed spectacular growth in recent years. The government continues to invest in the industry, with new terminals planned at Penang, Langkawi, Kuching and other Straits ports.

TAIWAN Cruise ship arrivals to Taiwan jumped by an impressive 34.5 per cent in 2016 and are tipped to continue on this upward trajectory, thanks to the country’s extraordinary natural beauty, thriving modern cities and seductive cuisine.

INDIA Making its inaugural appearance in the yearbook, India has huge potential, with ports such as Mumbai, Goa, Chennai and Kochi already attracting ships, and demand for river cruising growing.

MYANMAR Some of the world’s biggest cruise companies are turning their focus to Myanmar, developing exciting new itineraries, especially on the Irrawaddy River. Cruisers are fascinated by its colonial architecture, untouched villages and pristine countryside.

THAILAND Having shrugged off civil unrest and terrorism attacks, the Thai cruise market continues to perform well, with plenty of exciting new developments and improved government spending on its ports in Phuket, Laem Chabang and Ranong attracting ships.

INDONESIA Despite its long association with cruising, Indonesia today is one of Asia’s quieter cruise ship destinations, with only around one million ship-based tourists visiting the country each year in a situation the government is hoping to improve.

PHILIPPINES As a far-flung archipelago with beach resorts, colonial architecture, coral reefs, tropical forests and traditional villages, the Philippines is an ideal cruise destination. New ship arrivals and better port infrastructure will substantially add to its appeal.

VIETNAM The cruise industry figures prominently in the government’s plans for growing tourism to the country, with a particular focus on Mekong River cruises. The arrival of new river cruise ships and cheaper visas should drive growth beyond present figures.

HONG KONG A consistent high performer in the cruise market, Hong Kong now faces stiff competition from mainland China, but remains a favourite with cruisers who love its vibrant culture, shopping and food.

JAPAN Japan remains Asia’s most popular cruise ship destination with 1,526 port calls in 2016 – twice those of China. Japan’s modern transport infrastructure, healthy cuisine and celebrated na tural beauty, all make the country an obvious choice for cruise tourism.

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NORTH KOREA

SOUTH KOREA

JAPAN

CHINA

TAIWAN MYANMAR

HONG KONG LAOS THAILAND CAMBODIA

VIETNAM

THE PHILIPPINES

BRUNEI MALAYSIA SINGAPORE INDONESIA

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S I N G A P O R E

Singapore’s glittering Marina Bay

Regional hub powers on

ngoing infrastructure investment has positioned Singapore as a regional hub for the cruising industry in Southeast Asia. With cruising one of the cornerstones of the Singapore Government’s US$515million tourism plan, announced in April, that status is set to continue with ongoing investment in advanced infrastructure. Speaking at the Tourism Industry Conference in April, Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry Mr S Iswaran described the cruise industry as a “niche sector with high growth potential” for the Singapore economy “which generates significant spill-over economic benefits.” Asia, he said, had emerged as a “new

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S I N G A P O R E MARINA BAY CRUISE CENTRE SINGAPORE STRAIT SINGAPORE CRUISE CENTRE

growth frontier” for cruise tourism. “Within this market, Singapore is the leading regional homeport, and the first Asian country to win the award for Cruise Destination of the Year,” the Minister said. After doubling capacity with the opening of the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore in 2012, cruise passenger throughput reached one million passengers in 2015. The investment in infrastructure has attracted cruise operators. Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean have both selected Singapore as the homeport for a number of their newest ships, such as the Sapphire Princess and the Mariner of the Seas. Royal Caribbean’s largest ship in the Southern Hemisphere, Ovation of the Seas,

SINGAPORE is also homeported in per cent. Singapore. Among all Asian In 2016, German ports, CLIA says that MAJOR PORTS operator TUI Cruises Singapore will host the 2 – a joint venture with third-most calls in 2016 BUSIEST PORT Royal Caribbean - made with 391 visits scheduled. Singapore Singapore its seasonal homeport and began THINGS TO SEE AND DO NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) a partnership with the The City State is the 391 Singapore Tourism Board natural gateway to ANNUAL GROWTH and the Changi Airport emerging cruising 4.8 per cent Group. The partnership destinations in Southeast is aiming to attract Asia. Singapore itself 90,000 cruise passengers from Germany, has a rich cultural mix of Chinese, Malay Switzerland and Austria to Southeast Asia and Indian traditions, which come alive in in the next three years. the city’s language, food and architecture. Cultural festivals include Chinese New THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Year, Hungry Ghost and Mooncake According to the Cruise Lines International Festivals and also Thaipusam. Association (CLIA), growth in the The Ann Siang Hill area offers a wide Singapore cruise market was 5 per cent in range of boutique restaurants and colonial2016, which compares with 15 per cent in era heritage architecture. 2013-2014 and 12 per cent in 2014-15. Visitors can take walking tours through With an absolute increase of 35 per cent historic shop-houses and eat in traditional in port calls from 2013 to 2016, Singapore hawkers’ markets, or they can choose worldhad a combined annual growth rate of 10.6 class shopping at Marina Bay Sands.

The three towers offer unique attractions such as the SkyPark with its outdoor infinity pool atop the 57th floor – the world’s largest pool at this height. In addition to housing a casino, Marina Bay Sands also offers 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. TOP PLACES TO STAY Singapore offers a world-class array of accommodation, from boutique hotels in heritage buildings to some of the newest five-star hotels in the world. Passengers disembarking at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre will find themselves right next to the celebrated five-star Marina Bay Sands resort. Orchard Road is a popular location for hotels, with the Hyatt, the Orchard and other major hotel groups in the area. There are also two V Hotels (the Lavender and Bencoolen) located around 20 minutes’ drive from Changi Airport.

SINGAPORE: PORTS MARINA BAY CRUISE CENTRE Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea, Seabourn. Cruisers like: The terminal’s proximity to the CBD, shopping boulevard of Orchard Road, numerous hawker centres and tourist attractions, such as Sentosa Island. The purpose-built, US$370million two-berth cruise terminal opened three years ago and is capable of hosting the world’s largest ships. Don’t miss: Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort with its observation deck and infinity pool on top of the three towers. Universal Studios on Sentosa Island is only a taxi-ride away. Best for: Family groups, business incentive tours, couples and baby boomers. Getting around: Taxis are plentiful and well priced.

SINGAPORE CRUISE CENTRE Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd, Norwegian Cruise Line, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Star Cruises.

Cruisers like: While much smaller than Marina Bay, this is a very 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 Vivo City with its cheap and cheerful local brands and shoe shops. The terminal also offers free Wi-Fi. Don’t miss: Duty-free shopping with great discounts 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: Passengers sailing on smaller ships. 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. Clockwise from above: Universal Studios, and some young visitors ASEANCRUISING.COM

M A L AY S I A

Regional player with big plans

alaysia is one of the region’s most mature cruise destinations and has SOUTH consistently ranked in the top 10 in CHINA SEA LANGKAWI SANDAKAN terms of total port calls. As Asia has enjoyed double-digit KOTA PENANG economic growth over recent years, KINABALU Malaysia’s tourism – and cruise – A industry has been a direct beneficiary. SI M A L A Y S I A KUANTAN KUCHING Y Tourism is now the third-largest LA KUALA A contributor to the Malaysian economy LUMPUR M and, according to a Malaysian (KELANG) IA ES Government report, the cruise N MELAKA DO industry is also booming. There was IN a 50 per cent increase in passenger numbers over 2015 to more than 523,000 but, for 2016, the numbers are a little softer for Malaysian cruise. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Malaysia

IA ES

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is set to experience a 27 per cent fall in call volume in 2016 compared with 2015. Malaysia, fifth in call volume among destinations in Asia in 2015, has been scheduled to welcome 422 port calls in 2016, 98 per cent of them transit. Kuala Lumpur/Port Kelang and Georgetown/Penang continue to be the leading ports, with a combined 62 per cent of the Malaysian total. According to the CLIA, the destinations are forecast to host 740,000 Passenger Destination Days in 2016, down from 871,000 in 2015. The next most popular ports are Langwaki, Melaka and Kota Kinabalu. Since 2013, Malaysian port calls have grown 10.8 per cent in absolute volume terms for a combined annual growth rate

MALAYSIA Kuala Lumpur’s glitzy skyline

of 3.5 per cent – lower than the Southeast Asian growth average of 6.1 per cent. Highlights of 2016 included the visit to Langkawi by the P&O ship Pacific Eden in August, the first time a P&O ship had visited the region and making up one of a number of maiden Asian calls for the line. Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas also called into Malaysia for the second time in 2016 as part of the ship’s extended global itinerary. THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Malaysia continues to develop its ‘Straits Riviera’ strip of ports, comprising purposebuilt integrated cruise terminals in Penang, Port Kelang, Kota Kinabalu, Langkawi, Melaka and Kuching. These efforts continued over 2016, and

Cruise Council,” he said. Saripuddin said that, as tourists preferred terminals which were closer to the local attractions, the development of the Melaka Gateway would not only help develop the cruise industry, but in-bound tourism.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO Malaysia combines the big-city atmosphere of Kuala Lumpur with eco-tourism, beach holidays, plus Penang’s Chinatown and the country’s fascinating indigenous culture. Passengers aboard the Mariner of the Seas, for MAJOR PORTS example, visited Lake 5 Chini when the ship BUSIEST PORT stopped at Kuantan, and Port Kelang/Kuala Lumpur visited an indigenous NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) community where 442 passengers were taught how to use a blowpipe. ANNUAL GROWTH At the other end of 3.5 per cent the spectrum, passengers stopping at the Port Kelang Cruise Centre, are able to visit the iconic 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. Food is a major attraction in Penang, and passengers can not only sample the famous variety of cuisine, but can also enjoy cooking lessons during shore excursions. The Tropical Spice Garden and Nazlina Spice Station are two locations offering cooking classes. A different type of entertainment is offered in Penang at Escape, a fun park featuring watersports and adventure play. The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a gateway to the natural beauties of the Malaysia has been able to attract significant rainforest and orangutan watching. foreign investment. China invested a reported US$10 billion into the Melaka TOP PLACES TO STAY Gateway project, an off-shore development The capital Kuala Lumpur has a wide of manmade islands, completed in 2015 and range of major-brand hotels, such as the now expected to bring an extra 2.5 million Mandarin Oriental, Le Meridien, Ritztourists to the region over the next 12 years. Carlton, Grant Hyatt and Sheraton. The setting up of three ports as tourism Penang has a diverse accommodation gateways is set to attract more cruise ship mix. Travellers can choose from heritage visits and turn the country into a cruise hub, properties such as the luxurious Seven according to Transport Ministry secretaryTerraces, a former mansion, and Suffolk general Datuk Seri Saripuddin Kasim. House, the former home of the British He said the three ports – Kota Kinabalu, founder of Penang, Sir Francis Light. Labuan and Kuching – have high potential At the top end of the market are hotels to be further developed as gateways to spur from major brands such as Shangri-La, the country’s cruise industry. while the atmospheric Eastern & Oriental “We are working towards developing the Hotel – which opened its doors in 1885 – cruise industry as one of the driver of future offers a glimpse of colonial luxury and fine economic growth and via the Malaysia views over the Andaman Sea. ASEANCRUISING.COM

MALAYSIA

MALAYSIA: PORTS MELAKA Who goes there: Costa Cruise Lines, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Silversea. 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 to take a ride in one of the many bicycle rickshaws waiting outside the rose-pink Christ Church. Drivers pass the main sights and can drop you back to the tender wharf. The Portuguese fort A Famosa is nearby and, if you walk up the hill behind the Stadhuys, you’ll find the Dutch St John’s Fort and a view of the entire area. Don’t miss: Nyonya cuisine, a unique blend of Chinese and Malay flavours, is well worth sampling; try the local chicken rice balls. Best for: Families, food lovers and history enthusiasts. Getting around: A tender from the cruise ship will drop passengers almost in the centre of the city. From here you can take a cyclo, walk or hail a taxi.

PENANG Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea, Windstar Cruises. Cruisers like: Always popular for its beaches and food, there is also mall shopping and heaps of history. Wander the UNESCO World Heritage-listed area of Georgetown (Penang’s capital) with its old shophouses. Closer to the waterfront, a trendy new cafe and bar scene is growing. Scattered throughout the city are examples of the famous graffiti art, murals ranging from life-sized to two storeys high. Don’t miss: Colourful and noisy Little India with its parrot fortune tellers and flower garlands. Best for: Food-lovers, families, almost anyone! Getting around: Cruise passengers will often be tendered into the city centre. A taxi will cost about US$14 an hour. Buses are infrequent and signage is poorly posted.

KELANG, KUALA LUMPUR Who goes there: Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea, Windstar Cruises. Cruisers like: Port Kelang is some distance from the city, but the city centre’s sleek modernism and cosmopolitan air sets it apart as Malaysia’s capital, often simply called KL. Take the lift to the observation deck on the twin 88-storey Petronas Towers, although best city views are from Menara KL, the telecommunications tower on Bukit Nanas. The stunning collection of commercial buildings (KLCC) near the twin towers, are sometimes called the Golden Triangle and there’s shopping and dining to match. Thirty minutes out of town, visit the Batu Caves, with steep steps to the caverns and Hindu shrines, and plenty of cheeky monkeys. Don’t miss: If you like food, visit the wet and dry Pudu market, Little India or Chinatown. Shopping’s your thing? There’s everything from high-end malls to ethnic markets and stalls. Nature-lovers should go to the KL Bird Park in the Lake Gardens, Brickfields, or for religious and historical interest, visit the nearby Islamic Arts Museum. Best for: Families, food lovers, shoppers. Getting around: Port Kelang is located about 50 kilometres from the city centre and around 75 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Taxis are available from the terminal, but there are a limited number. There is no public transport from the port.

KOTA KINABALU, SABAH Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International. Cruisers like: Mount Kinabalu, two hours east of the city is worth a visit. Even without time to climb it, you can still get stunning photographs and enjoy cooler air. Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital, suffered heavily in WWII and has been largely rebuilt. There are several large modern shopping centres, as well as restaurants and cafes. Nearby islands have resorts that can be visited. Diving, whitewater rafting, jungle trekking and river cruises are also fun to do. Don’t miss: In town, at the waterside large central growers’ market ranges from tropical fruit to cooler climate vegetables, fruit and flowers brought from the highlands. Next door is a handicrafts market, a good place to find textiles and carved items. Best for: Families, photographers, nature lovers. Getting around: The port is two kilometres from town. Taxis are clean and plentiful.

LANGKAWI Who goes there: Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: The largest of over a hundred islands off Malaysia’s north-west coast, Langkawi has the most to offer. Pantai Cenang’s long Clockwise from left: Colourful trishaw in Melaka, the magnificent Batu Caves and canoes in Sabah Borneo.

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MALAYSIA: PORTS six kilometres from the city centre and there are a number of buses from the terminal to town.

KUANTAN

beach offers sparkling white sand, many bars and restaurants, plus an interesting Rice Garden museum. Water sports include para-sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving, or a mangrove tour, or jungle trekking. The viewing tower at Seven Wells Waterfall has excellent 360-degree views. Dining and night life can be hip and active, or secluded and tranquil. And if you like bargains, the duty-free shopping on this island has Malaysia’s best prices. With enough time, explore one of the three UNESCO-listed World Geoparks. There’s rich wildlife at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and nearby Pirate Lagoon is stunning. Don’t miss: The 125-metre Langkawi Skybridge slung along a 700-metre-high mountain ridge is accessible by cable car from the Oriental Village where there is a 3D art museum. Best for: All ages, couples, incurable romantics, shoppers Getting around: This tiny island has no public transport so the only option is to use a taxi or rent a car. Cruise guests can rent a motorbike/ scooter or, if a tour has been booked, tour buses are able to meet the passengers directly at the dock.

KUCHING, SARAWAK Who goes there: Oceania Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea. 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-meetsnew with kampong houses north of the river and Chinese businesses (and, of course, a thriving Chinatown) to the south. To experience tropical rainforest and see monkeys, visit Bako National Park, while gardeners will be impressed by the Sarawak Orchid Garden. For the more active, there is kayaking and canoeing, caves and jungle treks. Explore the many souvenir shops when strolling the South Bank riverside promenade, visit some museums, and sample the local cuisine – rice-based and spicy. Don’t miss: Kuching means cat in the local language, so if you like cats, the Cat Museum is a must. Also, play spot the cat as there are many statues and reminders throughout the city. Best for: All ages, animal lovers. Getting around: The port is about

Who goes there: Royal Caribbean International, Star Cruises. Cruisers like: A young, rich Malay culture is appearing in this eastcoast city, plus new beach resorts at some of Malaysia’s most famous yet tranquil beaches. For food lovers there is great street food on Jalan Besar. Contemporary shopping centres are worth checking out, as well as the riverside and other night markets. The heart of Hindu culture is at Kuli Sri Maraimman temple in the city’s centre, while the State Mosque’s blue dome and four minarets is worth seeing. A little out of town, Gua Charah and its caves is a respected Buddhist sanctuary. One cave has a sculpture of Buddha that makes for a great photo spot. Don’t miss: There is a waterpark and a safari parks which families

may find worth experiencing. 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. The local spicy Tom Yam soup is spicy and delicious. Best for: All ages. Getting around: The port is about 25 kilometres from the city centre of Kuantan so you will need to take a taxi. It will cost about US$80 for a round trip plus US$10 waiting time. There are no facilities around the port so you will need to head towards the city.

SANDAKAN, SABAH Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Holland America Line, Silversea. Cruisers like: Nature-lovers will marvel at Sabah’s ecotourism focus and its work with native animals. Military historians will be interested by the WWII links such as the site of the Japanese airfield built by 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 and mosques, and the bustling Sandakan Market, which is worth a couple of hours. Don’t miss: All ages will enjoy the Crocodile Farm with more than 2,000 reptiles. Also worth visiting are Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the largest in the world, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary and the Turtle Island Park which is encouraging turtles to nest again there. There is a Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Rainforest Discovery centre, complete with a canopy walk. Best for: All ages Getting around: The cruise port is right in the centre of town so there are plenty of options. Clockwise from top left: Tan Sakaran marine park, floating mosque in Kota Kinabalu, and a proboscis monkey ASEANCRUISING.COM

J A PA N

Shrine of reflections, Itsukushima

Land of the rising cruise numbers

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service to Japan to cater for the growing Chinese cruise travel market. The biggest number of Japan’s cruisers hail from China, R MURORAN who are fascinated with Japanese health HAKODATE products, cosmetics, food and culture. AOMORI The SuperStar Virgo has started NORTH sailing from Nansha port in south KOREA JAPAN China’s Guangzhou city, as well as TOKYO Hong Kong’s Ocean Terminal, to S O U T H HIROSHIMA Okinawa and Miyakojima. KOREA The Costa Victoria started a SHIMIZU 10-night cruise from Japan visiting HAKATA KOBE destinations like Fukuoka, Maizuru, NAGASAKI BEPPU Kanazawa and Matsue. The cruise will be geared to Japanese passengers. The KAGOSHIMA MIYAZAKI Italian cruise line also set up its Japanese office at the end of last year which is a sign OKINAWA of its commitment. Costa Group Asia Japan country manager Yusuke Itokawa said that

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he recent figures from CLIA show that the most popular destination for Asians to cruise to is Japan. The land of the rising sun saw 1,526 port calls in 2016, followed by China with 850 visits – less than half compared to Japan. The transportation ministry has recognised that cruise liners are fuelling the rise in visitors to Japan with 92 ships arriving in July 2016 – a 40 per cent increase from last year and nearly 10 per cent of tourists who visited Japan that month. In 2015, there were 956 port calls of foreign cruise ships which is an increase of 50 per cent from the year before and Japan hopes to continue to grow the figure. Last year, Star Cruises announced it would be launching a direct cruise liner

JAPAN local tips for tourists. Over the next 12 months, more cruise ships will be pouring into Japan with Asia’s first luxury cruise line, Dream Cruises announcing this year that it would be sending the new Genting Dream to Japan. The ship, which is purpose built for the Chinese market, includes 35 restaurants, bars and clubs, the famous Zouk nightclub, the Dream Mansion which is an area for the ship’s VIP guests as well as amazing fireworks displays at sea. Royal Caribbean announced it will be sending one of its Oasisclass ships to the region. These ships are incredibly MAJOR PORTS technologically advanced 10 and have the capacity to hold up to 5,400 BUSIEST PORT passengers. Fukuoka

NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) 1,526 ANNUAL GROWTH 169 per cent

office would help the company to attract more Japanese travellers towards cruise. “We are thrilled to finally set up our own office in Japan,” he said. “We will build greater synergies with our travel agents and other travel and tourism partners, and interact more intimately with the people of Japan through more focused marketing efforts designed specifically for them.” But the cruise lines are also tapping into Japan as a source market, not only as a destination. Reports from CLIA show that around 179,900 Japanese actively cruise. Lines like Costa Cruises have positioned ships in Japan, specifically for the Japanese cruise ship passenger. This year also saw the Japanese government easing up on visa regulations, particularly visitors from mainland China.

THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Japan is seeing an increasing number of ships coming from China and other parts of Asia. In response to the recent CLIA figures, the Japanese government plans to establish a platform to centralise information about ports across the country that are capable of docking larger vessels. The government also hopes to boost the local economy in each region by improving port infrastructure. Currently, most foreign ships are docking at ports like Nagasaki and Hakata which are both on the Kyushu island in southwestern Japan. The government will be setting up a special team to collect port data from 120 local authorities and all the information will be shared on a website including vacancy at the port, types of vessels that can dock and

THINGS TO SEE AND DO One of the most visited Asian cruise ship destinations, Japan has numerous attractions, from the bright lights of Tokyo to volcanic towns such as Kagoshima. There are lots of historic palaces, serene temples and shrines, and beautiful national parks. One of the most famous ports, Shimizu, sits in the shadow of Mount Fuji. Visitors can take a walk through Miho, home to a 650-year-old black Japanese pine tree. For the water enthusiasts, the coastal town of Muroran is great for surfing during the summer months. Tokyo, the capital, is a hot house of restaurants and bars and one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. PLACES TO STAY Visitors to Japan should take the opportunity to stay in a traditional ryokan ( Japanese inn). These range from the very basic to the ultra luxurious and will generally involve sleeping on a futon rolled onto the floor, dining on kaiseki (degustation-style) cuisine and bathing in an onsen (hot spring bath). In Tokyo, cruise ship passengers are spoilt for choice with everything from luxury hotels like the Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons to tiny capsule hotels where you can lay your head – but not much else. Kyoto and several of Japan’s other smaller cities offer a good choice of accommodation, from historic hotels to ulra-modern luxury hotels. ASEANCRUISING.COM

JAPAN

JAPAN: PORTS the top, or relax in one of the delightful hot springs such as Yunokawa Onsen. Visit The Old Public Hall and don’t miss the remains of the famous Westernstyled fortress. There is an art gallery at the Goryokaku Park. Best for: Families and historylovers. Getting around: Hakodate’s main ferry and cruise terminal is four kilometres from the centre of the city and there are buses that run regularly. Hakodate has a streetcar, with trams every 10 minutes and you can buy a one-day pass from the driver. If you want to visit the top of Hakodate Mountain, there is a cable car that costs about US$13.50 per person.

AOMORI Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: There isn’t a lot to see in Aomori itself, but there are plenty of attractions nearby. A short train ride away is Asamushi Onsen, a hot-spring resort on the coast, which has interesting rock formations nearby, or you can visit the Sukayu Onsen and Lake Towada. Best for: Couples and families. Getting around: Downtown Aomori is easily accessible by foot and the train station is a 15-minute walk from the dock.

BEPPU Who goes there: Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International. Cruisers like: This city is known as the spa city of Japan and is surrounded by beautiful sea and mountains. There are a number of hot springs including sand baths and steam baths. One of Beppu’s most famous onsens is the Jigoku (‘hell’) in the Kannawa area. Best for: Couples. Getting around: It is easy to get around the town by foot and the JR 32

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Beppu Station is a 30-minute walk from the port or 10 minutes by taxi.

HAKATA Who goes there: Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Hakata is the port for Fukuoka, which is known for its shopping. Tenjin is Fukuoka’s largest shopping district with an abundance of designer stores housed in towering retail blocks. Don’t miss the Canal City Hakata, a huge, uniquely designed mall with some 250 shops and restaurants. Best for: Shopaholics and foodies. Getting around: You can buy a Fukuoka Tourist City Pass, a one-day ticket allowing foreign visitors unlimited rides on buses and train.

HAKODATE Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Hakodate Port was opened with Yokohama and Nagasaki as Japan’s first international trading ports. Take a trip to beautiful Mount Hakodate which has spectacular views from

HIROSHIMA Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Hiroshima was the site of the world’s first atomic bomb attack in 1945 and there are now many shrines commemorating the civilians who died on that day. It is now a thriving modern city with great food and nightlife. One of the best things to eat in Hiroshima is okonomiyaki, a sort of pancake made with local flour, egg, cabbage, pork, shrimp or other seafood and topped with condiments such as sweet sauce, Clockwise from top left: Kobe’s impressive skyline, the famous ‘sea hell’ hot springs in Beppu and a stack of sake barrels in Kobe.

mayonnaise, dried seaweed and dried fish flakes. One of Hiroshima’s top attractions is the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Best for: Families and history buffs. Getting around: Hiroshima has an extensive tram network. Albeit slow, it is a reliable way to see the city. The trams are a mix of old rattle-traps and new ‘Green Movers’. There are plenty of sightseeing buses as well. There are also taxis, which can be expensive.

KAGOSHIMA Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Cunard, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Holland America Line, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Kagoshima has palm tree-lined streets and is home to Sakurajima, an active volcano. A ferry runs between Kagoshima and the volcanic island and from Sakurajima Harbour a two-hour hike or a 15-minute drive will take you to the Yunohira Lookout. Because the volcano is still active, tourists are forbidden to go within two kilometres of the crater. Best for: Hikers and nature enthusiasts. Getting around: Trams connect the station at the port and the city centre. The Kagoshima City View tourist bus connects the main attractions including Senganen and the ferry pier to Sakurajima.

KOBE, OSAKA Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Holland America

JAPAN

JAPAN: PORTS Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Kobe is one of Japan’s busiest districts. The waterfront area has the largest concentration of sake breweries in Japan. Take a wander around the Fruit Flower Market, a park surrounded by flowers and greenery. Visit in spring to see as many as 10,000 plants in bloom. Kobe is also famous for its beef, from the cattle fed with specific grains and beer. Best for: Families. Getting around: There is a free shuttle bus service between the cruise terminal and downtown.

NAGASAKI Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, HapagLloyd Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Nagasaki is one of Japan’s biggest ports and boasts a number of unique festivals that

SHIMIZU Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Shimizu is one of the most beautiful ports in Japan and the city is in the shadow of Mount Fuji. Walk through the pine groves of Miho to see a 650-year-old Japanese black pine tree. You

Cruisers like: It is one of the busiest cities in the world so don’t be too concerned about ticking the tourist sights off your list. For most visitors, the biggest part of the Tokyo experience is just about being in the city. Tokyo has many different districts – from the Imperial Gardens and shrines of Chiyoda to the youth culture hub of Shibuya. Visit the Meji Shrine in Harajuku and try to get to the Tsukiji fish

MIYAZAKI Who goes there: Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International. Cruisers like: This is a popular destination for both international and local tourists. The city’s attractions include the SeaGaia resort and event centre, the Phoenix Zoo and the Miyazakijingu Shrine, built deep in the woods with a Torii Gate (shrine gate) made from cedar. Best for: Couples and families. Getting around: Take a taxi from the port to the city centre.

MURORAN Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International. Cruisers like: Itanki Beach is popular for swimming and surfing. The beach is very wide with fine brown sand. Visit the lighthouse at Cape Earth where you can spot falcons. Best for: Surfers and bird-watchers. Getting around: There are free shuttle buses to the city, and free buses to take tourists to four or five stops to pick up some free souvenirs such as kites, calligraphy samples and cotton candy. There are also free maps for tourists to take themselves on their own walking tours of the city.

highlight the city’s food culture and local traditions. The Atomic Bomb Museum commemorates the thousands of Japanese who died in the 1945 attack. Best for: Hikers and nature-lovers. Getting around: Trams, buses and taxis are the best options.

OKINAWA Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Okinawa has its own unique language, music and traditions including arts and crafts. Shuri Castle in Naha, the former palace of the Ryukyu Dynasty, was almost destroyed in 1945 by the US Army and Navy. After the war, the University of the Ryukyus was constructed on the site and the castle was reconstructed and registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Shikina-en Garden near Naha which was built at the end of the 17th century. Best for: Families and hikers. Getting around: Cruise ships arrive at Naha Port and it is easy to walk to local restaurants and attractions.

can take a tour of Toro and get a glimpse of feudal life in Japan in 200BC. Best for: Nature-lovers and families. Getting around: There are plenty of taxis or you can take a bay cruise and learn about Japan’s first sushi museum. There are also lots of shore excursion tours available.

TOKYO Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea.

market early in the morning, to get sushi straight from the chopping block. There also many small restaurants and stalls. Bring cash. In November 2016, the markets will be closed and moved. Best for: Food-lovers, design enthusiasts, walkers, couples. Getting around: Tokyo Metro and Toei subway companies run an excellent network of trains. Taxis are expensive but plentiful.

Clockwise from top left: A building in Okinawa, and splendid Mt Fuji ASEANCRUISING.COM

I N D O N E S I A

See the dragons on Komodo Island

Destination aiming to double tourist numbers by 2020

ndonesia has been a vital shipping destination for centuries. It was key to the lucrative Spice Route from the 1500s SOUTH CHINA SEA then, much later, welcomed passengers on luxury ocean liners from the 1920s SABANG LEMBAR onwards. Now, Indonesia is enjoying its SEMARANG latest wave of popularity with cruise MAKASSAR passengers. There is much to love about I N D O N E S I A Indonesia. Its beaches are superb, the landscape beautiful, the people welcoming, and the food tantalisingly complex. However, as a destination, JAKARTA the country has some difficulties. The country’s infrastructure is SURABAYA BENOA something the government is looking to KOMODO ISLAND address, in order to reach its 2020 goal of PROBOLINGGO doubling the number of tourists coming to the country. 34

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In comparison to fellow ASEAN countries, Indonesia attracts significantly fewer tourists per year. In 2015 it welcomed 9.7 million visitors, while nearby Singapore received 15 million, and Malaysia 27 million. Understandably the government wants to turn this around and, armed with a $98.4m marketing budget for 2016, continued its ‘Wonderful Indonesia’ campaign. A vital key to future success is the cruise industry. While many ports are actively welcoming increasing numbers of visitors each year, more are needed. Figures show that in 2014 Indonesia welcomed more than 9.4 million visitors. Of that, around one million were marine related, more than double the seagoing

INDONESIA port development is planned for tourist favourite, Bali. The country is hoping to turn this resort destination into a major hub and embarkation terminal for ships in south-east Asia. Facility upgrades are scheduled to begin in 2017, taking 10 months to complete. Once finished, it will be able to accommodate three ships at a time. New ships such as Legend of the Seas in late 2015, and P&O’s Pacific Eden in mid-2016 have boosted passenger-arrival numbers, and Azamara Club Cruises ships Azamara MAJOR PORTS Journey and Azamara Quest 9 have undergone extensive BUSIEST PORT bow-to-stern renovations Benoa, Bali in 2016, before heading NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) to south-east Asia late in the year. Their Spice Route 61 itinerary sees the ship sail ANNUAL GROWTH from Singapore to Dubai unknown via Indonesian ports.

visitors that came a decade earlier. While this is encouraging, it is still well behind the long-term goal of four million by 2019. In the first half of 2016, the number of foreign tourist arrivals in Indonesia reached 5.29 million, up 5.9 per cent from the same period a year earlier. Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry’s target is to welcome a total of 12 million foreign visitors in 2016. Australians accounted for 13.6 per cent of this. As an added incentive, in 2015, the Indonesian government extended its free visa facility to 169 countries in an effort to attract more overseas tourists. Citizens from these nations now do not need to obtain a visit visa prior to entering Indonesia, and they can stay in Indonesia for a maximum period of 30 days. Bali remains the country’s most popular

drawcard having seen a growth of 10 per cent in February 2016, recording a total of over 367,000 short-stay visitors against 333,100 visitors the same month in 2015. THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Many cruise lines will visit Indonesia in 2017. They include Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Ponant, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, P&O Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea, and Crystal Cruises. Port developments and new visitor policies are in progress throughout the country as Indonesia plans to inject millions into new port infrastructure in an effort to cater for larger vessels. The most impressive

THINGS TO SEE AND DO Bali tops the list of Indonesian ports, offering something for everyone, from kid-friendly water theme parks and monkey gardens to artisan shops and villages around Ubud. Ubud’s market can take hours to explore, and then there’s the old palace (still with royalty on site) across the road. But visitors should not forget the magnificent and fairly recently unearthed Borobodur temple a couple of hours’ drive inland from Semarang, the temples and craft villages on Lombok, as well as its 100-metre Sendang Gile waterfall in Mount Rinjani National Park. In Jakarta, if you see nothing else, spend some time wandering around the colonial remnants of Old Batavia for a sense of how this important spice-trail city gained importance. TOP PLACES TO STAY Bali has long been the playground for international visitors and offers world-class accommodation. Nusa Dua is an enclave of five-star resorts, 20 minutes or less along a sweeping new bridge and highway from Benoa. Options include Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, Grand Hyatt Bali, Ayodya Resort Bali, and Mulia Resort. In Jakarta, Hotel Mulia Senayan is also an excellent choice to stay in the city, as it offers both luxury accommodation and fine dining. ASEANCRUISING.COM

INDONESIA

INDONESIA: PORTS BALI (BENOA) Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Coral Expeditions, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Ponant, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: With an extra day sometimes available here, guests may have time to take a day trip to the volcanoes and temples to the north of the island, via the alternative centre of Ubud, or fan out from the port to see the capital, Denpasar, and 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 (spa treatment, anyone?) of Nusa Dua. Hindu temples attract everyone from the religious to keen photographers, and around the port area, every kind of watersport is available, with good surfing off Bali’s many beaches.

Don’t miss: Ubud’s town centre with its artists’ galleries and quirky cafes, the maze-like central market and across the road, a palace which is still home to members of local royalty. Not far away is the Holy Spring temple and Monkey Forest, and a wide range of coffees at a plantation in Gianyar. Best for: All ages, romantic couples, surfers, shoppers, artlovers. Getting around: Benoa is about 10 kilometres from Denpasar and the airport. Taxis are available from outside the port terminal, and minivans cost about US$65 for a tour. Check that your driver speaks English and agree firmly on the fare.

SEMARANG Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Ponant, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea 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, Islamic mosques, and the crimson Sam Poo Kong Buddhist temple. Lawang Sewu, meaning ‘a thousand doors’, was built in the early 1900s as the headquarters of the local railway company and is now an eye-catching colonialstyle landmark. Drive a couple of hours south to explore Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple – lost in the jungle for centuries, it is now restored and a UNESCO 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: Allow several hours to climb the nine levels to the top of Borobudur for a magnificent view of the area. With time to spare, go on to the major city of Yogyakarta, a cultural centre known for fine art, batik crafts, ballet, drama, music, poetry and puppet shows. Best for: History-lovers, shopping, art-lovers. Getting around: The port is about six kilometres from town and taxis and shuttle buses are usually available.

JAKARTA Who goes there: Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Ponant, Silversea. Cruisers like: Don’t let the heavy traffic in this huge, dense city put you off. Spend time in the Old Batavia region and you will quickly be captivated by the charm of its tranquil open square surrounded by original 18th-century buildings from the time of the Dutch East India Company. Jakarta’s food is worth trying. Spicy (this is the epicentre of the Spice Islands, after all) or sweet, many favourite dishes such as nasi goreng – the national dish – are available at street-food stalls, as well as tropical fruits and iced desserts. On one side of the square, there’s good coffee from a heritage cafe, still retaining its colonial air and filled with 36

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interesting artwork. Don’t miss: Interested in US memorabilia? Ask to be shown the school Barack Obama attended as a small boy. There is a statue of him near the entrance and inside is the quadrangle where he first played basketball. Shopping is good at the city’s many large modern shopping centres. Best for: Dutch colonial history buffs. Food-lovers. Getting around: The port terminal

is located in Tanjung Priok about four kilometres from the city centre. Traffic can be slow so allow up to 45 minutes for this. If leaving the ship independently, allow plenty of time to get back for boarding. There are taxis, and shuttles may be available.

SURABAYA Who goes there: Coral Expeditions, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Silversea 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, Surabaya boasts massive air-conditioned shopping malls, museums, and mosques, most notably the turquoise-domed Al-Akbar Mosque. Visitors may tour around the less modern parts of Surabaya to learn about Indonesian lifestyles, or visit the House of Sampoerna, a former orphanage and now factory and museum, to observe kretek (clove cigarette) making. There are many Clockwise from left:The Indonesia Museum in in Jakarta and colourful Balinese dancers in action

INDONESIA

INDONESIA: PORTS specialty restaurants, international and Indonesian, so don’t miss the chance to try the East Javanese spicy-yet-sweet fare. Don’t miss: Watch a dance and art performance at Balai Pemuda or visit Ciputra Waterpark. There’s Surabaya Zoo and also Taman Safari II, a drive-through safari park which is well worth a visit. Families might also like visiting a decommissioned ex-Soviet submarine that has been reassembled and now functions as a museum. For inexpensive clothes and children’s things, the Factory Outlet is the answer. Best for: All ages. Getting around: Port Tanjung Perak is about six kilometres (20 minutes) from the centre of town. Taxis are available from the port terminal.

LOMBOK (LEMBAR) Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Holland America Line, P&O, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruisers like: Some call this island ‘an unspoiled Bali’. It’s similar, with beautiful beaches and the volcano of Mount Rinjani looming above. It’s easy to get around by simply renting a motorised boat for a trip along Gili Nanggu Beach, allowing a different view of the local lifestyle. The resort island of Gili Nanggu is just 20 minutes offshore by outrigger, and it’s where the best conditions for snorkelling are found, amongst brilliant coral formations and bright, flashing 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. Don’t miss: Shopping at the local markets to buy Lombok souvenirs – carvings, shells or woven work. Watch the artisans at work, or visit Banyu Mulek for pottery made in open fires. Families or nature-lovers will want to book a wildlife tour. Best for: All ages, couples active people, water-lovers. Getting around: Be prepared for the street sellers who will mob

you as soon as you leave the port terminal. Inside the port gates, you can hire a car and driver for about US$50, but fares will be cheaper outside the gates. Pay only on your return.

SABANG, ACEH Who goes there: P&O, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises Cruisers like: The northernmost and westernmost city in Indonesia, Sabang is located on islands off the tip of Sumatra. Remote and unsophisticated, but ideal for water-lovers as the area is known for its world-class beaches and diving spots. Gapang Beach is popular as is sandy white Iboih Beach with its enchanting underwater scenery, while Rubiah Island has a fascinating ‘sea garden’. Visit traditional fishing villages to see how life has been lived here for centuries, and spend some time in one of the country’s oldest museums – the Museum Negeri Banda Aceh. The nearby city of Banda Aceh has a Tsunami Museum

Getting around: The port is within walking distance of the town, but in this relaxed place, shared transport from the port to Sabang town is common. Prices for minibuses (shared transport) to and from the harbour are fixed for the vehicle – even if there is only one passenger. Becaks (local trishaws) or motorbikes are cheaper, but bargain hard and agree before leaving, or rent a motorbike for the day.

KOMODO ISLAND

and Memorial. Don’t miss: Many sorts of water activities are available, such as diving, snorkelling, and fishing, plus there is mountain biking for the adventurous. There are hot springs and an unusual undersea geothermal, bubbling away underwater off Pulau Weh. The corals have regenerated after the tsunami and the locals are happy to show tsunami relics and talk about it. Best for: Active people, watersport lovers.

Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Coral Expeditions Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O, Ponant, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruisers like: Part of the Komodo

National Park, this island is famous for the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest living lizard that is found here and on some of the neighbouring islands. Other animals include deer, water buffalo, macaque monkeys, and civets, as well as crabs and birds, and tours 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 sealife. Make sure you see the pink sand beach, one of only seven in the world. Daytrip 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 boat trips around the islands. Best for: Nature-lovers and active people. Getting around: Ships cannot dock, so transfers are by tender. Visitors may only explore the island with a certified guide. Clockwise from left: Majestic Mt Bromo, coral reef in Lombok and a fearsome Komodo Dragon ASEANCRUISING.COM

S O U T H K O R E A

Songdo Central Park, Incheon

Superstar of the cruise ship world, and getting stronger

ew other destinations can match South Korea’s impressive track record when it comes to attracting cruise ships. Ship visits to its three major ports, Jeju Island, Busan and Incheon, have grown steadily since 2013 but went into overdrive in 2016 when port calls leapt by a staggering 97.6 per cent – indeed, South Korea is expected to host just under two million passenger destination days this year, doubling its PDD figures from 2015. South Korea continues to outperform many other countries in Asia. In 2016, Jeju Island was the most visited port in the whole region with 460 calls, beating Shanghai, Singapore and Fukuoka.

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SOUTH KOREA

JEJU

The 2016 Asia Cruise Trends study, released by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), suggests that the market for cruise ship holidays will SEA OF continue to power ahead among Asian JAPAN consumers – more than 2.08 million passengers sailed in the region last year, which can only be good news for SEOUL (INCHEON) South Korea. “Even we were surprised by 24 per cent growth,” CLIA head Cindy BUSAN D’Aoust said. “We see no signs of JAPAN slowing down.” The study predicts more than 1,560 sailings throughout Asia for 2016 , an increase of 43 per cent from last year, with the number of days that cruise ships operate in Asia rising from 4,307 in 2013 to 7,918 in 2016.

SOUTH KOREA According to the report 60 ocean cruise ships will sail throughout Asia this year, eight more than in 2015; of these, 12 have extended deployment in Asia.

passengers visiting the country in 2016. The prospects for its major ports, such as Jeju Island, over the next few years look distinctly rosy.

MAJOR PORTS 3 BUSIEST PORT Jeju Island

THINGS TO SEE AND DO NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Although South Korea 745 Given its impressive is one of Asia’s most ANNUAL GROWTH growth over the past successful economies, 97.6 per cent few years, experts are the visitor will find a optimistic about the country with a rich future of the South Korean cruise ship cultural legacy, beautiful landscapes, market. In 2015 almost 35,000 South intriguing festivals and a stunning national Koreans took a cruise ship vacation, with cuisine. Whether you are exploring the the majority taking a fly-cruise holiday ultra-modern streets of Seoul, visiting a outside the region and 34 per cent traditional Buddhist monastery or hiking booking non-fly cruises within Asia. Most through one of its national parks, South passengers choose premium cruise liners. Korea will constantly surprise and delight. The national cruise ship market has Step back in time with a visit to Jeonju grown by 35.6 per cent annually since Hanok Village which contains some 800 2012 and gives no indication of slowing traditional hanok houses which are warmed down. At the same time, South Korea is by a unique underfloor heating system. becoming a magnet for cruise ships from For something a little more contemporary around the entire region, with two million plunge into the fray at the Boryeong

Mud Festival – one of the country’s most photographed events. History buffs will enjoy visiting the DMZ, the heavily mined border which separates North and South Korea. Outdoor types should spend some time at Naejangsan National Park’s mountain ranges, waterfalls, temples and pristine forests – the park is spectacular in Autumn. Gyeongyu, meanwhile, is a wonderful place to learn about preindustrial South Korea. Known as “the museum without walls” the extensive site contains many tombs, rock carvings, pagodas, statutory and palace ruins. TOP PLACES TO STAY South Korea has a modern, sophisticated and constantly changing accommodation scene, with plenty of upmarket hotels, coastal resorts, skiing lodges and golf destinations. Some of the best hotels are naturally located n the capital Seoul, where you will find top international properties such as Ritz Carlton, Park Hyatt, InterContinental, W Hotel and the Banyan Tree Club.

SOUTH KOREA: PORTS BUSAN Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, HapagLloyd Cruises, P&O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city and the country’s largest seaport. Beomeo-sa Temple is one of Korea’s five great temples and this complex is located up in the mountains. One of Busan’s largest attractions is the white lighthouse which overlooks the green sea. Lots of people enjoy eating raw rish on the rocky shore. Also check out the famous Ja-galchi Fish Market, which displays freshly caught fish and live sea creatures. Best for: Everyone. Getting around: There is a Busan hop on/hop off tour with two different routes. The Taejongdae route runs every 40 minutes and has a stop near the cruise terminal. Busan also has a subway and there are lots of taxis available, both regular and deluxe.

INCHEON (SEOUL) Who goes there: Crystal Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: This charming city, an hour from Seoul, is known for its therapeutic hot springs. All the downtown hotels have public bath facilities and swimming pools where visitors can bathe in spa waters. It is believed the waters help cure skin ailments, eye problems, neuralgia and gynaecological diseases. It is also one of the best places in South

Korea to buy ceramics. Visit the Incheon Ceramics Village where there are hundreds of studios and shops with traditional wood-fired kilns. Best for: Families. Getting around: Cruise ships dock close to the centre of town and it is only an hour and a half to Seoul by bus. Visitors can also catch a cab from the port to the East Incheon subway station for a train that takes an hour and 20 minutes to get to the centre of Seoul.

JEJU Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, HapagLloyd Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Regent Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean, Silversea. Cruisers like: Located just off the southern tip of the Korean peninsula, Jeju is a semi-tropical paradise with luxury hotels, authentic regional cuisine, natural scenery and beautiful beaches. For years, this island has been a popular vacation destination for Koreans

and Japanese. Visit the Cheonjaeyeon Waterfall. Legend has it that seven nymphs descended from heaven at midnight to bathe in the waterfall’s pool. Nearby is the Hallim Park where visitors can explore underground caves and Bonsai Gardens. Best for: Nature lovers. Getting around: Buses from the terminal in Jeju City go to a number of destinations. Major hotels and tourist agencies also offer one- or two-day tours around the island. Clockwise from left: Waterfalls in Incheon, river cruising in the city. ASEANCRUISING.COM

I N D I A

Gateway to India, Mumbai

Stylish players are ready for action

ndia enters our yearbook for the first and Goa. Port Blair in the Andaman time in 2016, positioned uniquely Islands – sometimes known as the between Asia and Europe on the ‘Maldives of India’ – is India’s other major international ocean cruising map, and more transit stop, while Chennai on the eastern CHINA obliquely between this vast country’s coast is the nation’s least visited port. BHUTAN burgeoning river cruising market and its The subcontinent of India has more NE PA less bullish ocean cruising scene. than 7,000 kilometres of coastline, but L Hosting about 82,000 Passenger lack of infrastructure and berthing Destination Days this year, India has facilities have kept growth somewhat experienced a downturn from last stymied, especially with internationally year’s 121,000 days, and port calls based cruise lines. BANGLADESH INDIA MUMBAI overall have experienced a 16 per cent Government authorities have NEW DELHI drop from last year. identified such ports as Goa, Kochi GOA Longer-term trends place India’s (Cochin) and Mumbai on the western CHENNAI MANGALORE combined annual growth rate at 2.6 per coast of India as particularly ripe for cent compared to South Asia’s 12.8 per development as major global-standard KOCHI cent. Overnight stops are in Mumbai and ports of call. Another notable point is the SRI LANKA Cochin, which are both on India’s western continued popularity of nearby Sri Lanka. coast along with transit stops Mangalore Colombo is a very popular stopover. 40

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INDIA by the French, with THE NEXT 12 MONTHS boulangeries and alfresco In a major move to cafes. The west coast MAJOR PORTS kickstart the industry, offers a more relaxed vibe 5 Monarch Cruises has among palm trees on BUSIEST PORT announced a cricketthe plains and verdant Mumbai themed cruise in March hills further back. At 2017, sailing from the top of the coast lies NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) Singapore to Mumbai via the thriving metropolis 95 Sri Lanka, Thailand and and utter melting pot of ANNUAL GROWTH Malaysia, with sporting Mumbai. minus 15.9 per cent luminaries such as Sachin Rajasthan nestles Tendulkar, Shane Warne against the Pakistani and Kumar Sangakkara on board. The border and is a tourist hotspot, thanks to its company is showing its commitment to rich and vibrant culture, soaring architecture India by investing almost US$15 million in and many palace hotels. the country’s cruise market. Delhi contains both the nation’s capital – New Delhi, offering some fantastic public THINGS TO SEE AND DO spaces and modern monuments – and The sights of India range from sandy desert historic, bustling Old Delhi. In the country’s to snow-capped mountains, from multihued north-east, the giant metropolis of Kolkata Hindu temples in the south to silent, beckons, with its enjoyable boulevards, tranquil Buddhist stupas in the north. fascinating planetarium and the famed The towns and cities of the east coast, Bengali regional cuisine. around and including Chennai, still show In the northern reaches of India are the influences from their former life occupied beginnings of the Himalayan mountain

range, with hill stations built during the days of the British Raj providing cool relief from the heat of the plains. Sikkim feels entirely its own country, with a Chinese influence, rhododendron forests and Buddhist temples. TOP PLACES TO STAY Mumbai is a wonderful place to finish a cruise, with a wide range of accommodation. Overlooking the Gateway of India and the harbour itself is the famous Taj Mahal Hotel, an historic property sometimes compared with the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Oberoi Hotels throughout India are highly regarded and the Mumbai property enjoys a prime location on the waterfront. The Leela Mumbai also offers five-star luxury and a lagoon-like swimming pool. For those wanting to be closer to nature the Farmer’s Den in Devloli Village is a family-friendly, down-to-earth inn that sprovides good quality rooms, fine cuisine and excellent sporting facilities. Likewise, Grassroots is a popular tribal homestay village in Malad Mumbai.

INDIA: PORTS

CHENNAI Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises. Cruisers like: Chennai boasts a unique mixture of the traditional and contemporary. Visit Sri Kapaleeswarar, the oldest museum and art gallery in the country stroll along Marina Beach. Some of India’s best silk saris, from Kanchipuram, can be bought in Chennai. Best for: Beach-lovers, history buffs. Getting around: The Chennai Beach station is closest to port, but tourist cabs are the best choice to get around the city.

MANGALORE Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven

Seas Cruises, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Mangalore is home to the Hindu Kadri Manjunath Temple and Catholic sites dating back to the 17th century. The Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and tourists flock here to celebrate the Mangalore Dasara festival. Nature-lovers should visit the Sultan Battery watchtower. Best for: Culture and nature-lovers. Getting around: The port is 10 kilometres from the city . Taxis and tuk-tuks are both available.

GOA (MORMUGAO) Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Cruisers like: Portuguese heritage is still evident in the architecture and local love for siestas. The famous Mormugao Fort was built to protect the harbor near Vasco de Gama town. Don’t miss out on the world famous Goa beaches fringed with restaurants and resorts. Best for: Everyone. Getting around: Taxis are readily available at the port.

MUMBAI Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Mumbai is the financial and commercial hub of India. Today, this vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures and home to some of India’s richest and most influential citizens. The Gateway of India is the symbol of Mumbai and a visit to the ornate Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station and University of Mumbai is a must for some of the best examples of

British colonial architecture. Best for: Those interested in Indian culture, history and architecture. Getting around: The port is a tenminute drive from the town centre. Taxis are plentiful..

KOCHI, KERALA Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Kochi has been a harbour since the 14th century when Arab, Chinese and European merchants began to visit. Most of the scenic and heritage sites can be found in the Fort Kochi area. No trip to Kochi will be complete without a visit to the Portuguese Mattancherry Palace. Best for: History-lovers and families. Getting around: Plenty of taxis, ferries and and tuk-tuks are available. Bring your haggling skills. Clockwise from left: Hindu temple in Trichy and Kerala from the sea. ASEANCRUISING.COM

M YA N M A R

Magnificent Shwezigon Paya

Stellar rise is set to continue with new ships, itineraries

V I E T N A M

hile some ASEAN countries are struggling to maintain visitor C H I N A numbers, Myanmar has become BHAMO one of south-east Asia’s most popular tourist destinations. MANDALAY Up to 4.5 million visitors arrived in Myanmar in 2015, while the M YA N M A R VIETNAM government is forecasting that figure to reach seven million by 2020. L A O S A new 30-day visa-free scheme BAGAN will begin in December. Myanmar has already signed visa-exemption memorandums of understanding with T H A I L A N D Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, NAYPYIDAW Brunei and the Philippines. A YANGON Tourist spending per day is expected DI O to grow to $150 and $170 by 2015 and B M 2017 respectively. CA In 2015 Myanmar welcomed 25 luxury

42 ASEANCRUISING.COM

cruise ships carrying 26,000 visitors, an almost 50 per cent increase on the 18 luxury cruise ships carrying 18,611 tourists in 2014. THE NEXT 12 MONTHS River cruising has become a major drawcard, with Avalon Waterways, Belmond, AmaWaterways, Pandaw River Expeditions, APT and Viking offering four-, five- and seven-day tours to several ports on the Irrawaddy river. New additions are APT’s 30-suite RV Samatha, while Travelmarvel has released its new journeys for 2017/18 featuring 16 Irrawaddy river cruise departures aboard its newly launched boutique rivership, the RV Princess Panhwar. Also plying the

MYANMAR rivers are AmaWaterways, dot the landscape, Amapura in late January, glowing golden in the March, and April, Avalon early morning sunshine. MAJOR PORTS Waterways Avalon Cruisers who have 1 Myanmar, for a threea couple of nights in BUSIEST PORT day Irrawaddy river Myanmar’s largest city, Yangon cruises, from January to and former capital, April, and September to Yangon, can explore NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) December. the colonial-style old 51 Scenic launched a new town, and visit the over ANNUAL GROWTH river ship, Scenic Aura, 26-centuries-old awardminus 30 per cent on the Irrawaddy in winning Shwedagon September 2016, offering Pagoda, often referred to 10-night itineraries between Mandalay and as the Crown of Burma. There is also a gem Pyay. museum rich with diamonds, rubies, topaz THINGS TO SEE AND DO and sapphires. Hot-air ballooning is one of the most Inle Lake is a peaceful place, littlepopular and photogenic ways to see changed for thousands of years with wooden Myanmar, especially when passing over the stilt-houses, and fascinating leg-rowing plains of Bagan where hundreds of temples fisherman.

Mandalay also offers access to ancient temples, including the Golden Palace Monastery and Maha Myat Muni Pagoda, as well as the Jade Market which features dozens of stalls selling everything from gold and jewellery to street food. TOP PLACES TO STAY Yangon offers a number of high-end properties, including the Belmond Governor’s Residence and The Strand Yangon. Both offer elegant accommodation, internet, a swimming pool, high-end dining options and a bar. Yangon is also home to the Sule Shangri-la 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.

MYANMAR: PORTS YANGON

BHAMO Who goes there: Avalon Waterways, Noble Caledonia Cruisers like: The northernmost point for navigating the Irrawaddy River, Bhamo has long been a trading town. It is subtropical, attractive and very relaxed, with ancient stained-teak houses and leafy ‘rain trees’. Highlights include the Shwekyinar Pagoda and the Theindawgyi Pagoda. Bhamo is also a great place to sample traditional Burmese cuisine, which features local vegetables and seafood.. Don’t miss: The Bamboo Bridge, four kilometres north in old Bhamo, rebuilt every year after the rains. Face your fears and make your precarious way across the wide Tapin River.. Best for: Adventurers, photographers, couples. Getting around: Bhamo is small enough to walk around. Take a taxi to the ferry terminal.

Who goes there: APT, Avalon Waterways, Azamara Club Cruises, Coral Expeditions, Holland America Line, Noble Caledonia, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Scenic, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Called the Garden City of the East, tYangon’s downtown area features a web of historic streetsand British colonial architecture. The golden stupa Shwedagon Paya, the oldest pagoda in the world, can be sighted from almost anywhere in town. Visit the Chauk Htat Gyi Buddha, carved from a single block of marble, and Taukkyan War Cemetery, where victims of the Burma (Death) Railway are buried. Don’t miss: The Myanmar Gem Museum, is home to priceless rubies, sapphires, jade, as well as the world’s largest pearl. More gems at the Cultural Museum on the regalia of the last Myanmar King and his imperial throne. For affordable shopping head to Strand or Pansodan Street. Best for: Adventurers, photographers, couples. Getting around: Taxis are the best option, and genuine ones have red license plates and driver identification on the dashboard. .

BAGAN Who goes there: APT, Avalon Waterways, Belmond, Noble Caledonia, Pandaw, Sanctuary, Scenic. Cruisers like: Bagan once had over 10,000 Buddhist temples, of which 2,200 still survive, dotted in magical profusion on the plains. Ananda is one of the most famous temples, built in the 12th century with four gilded Buddhas. The three-storey Bagan Archaeological Museum houses rare objects including the original Myazedi inscriptions, the Rosetta stone. Don’t miss: The Bagan Archaeological Zone and museum, the main drawcard for the country’s growing tourism industry and said to equal Angkor Wat. Best for: Adventurers, photographers, couples.

Getting around: While a rented horse and cart is a romantic option (as is a hot air balloon tour) a private air-conditioned taxi at a daily rate is also possible. Budget travellers may want to hire a bicycle for under US$2 a day (check the condition carefully before setting off) or an e-bicycle or e-scooter from the town.

MANDALAY Who goes there: APT, Avalon Waterways, Belmond, Noble Caledonia, Pandaw, Sanctuary, Scenic. Cruisers like: Visitors need to plan carefully and choose between dozens of spectacular temples and Buddhas. Worth seeing is Kuthodaw Pagoda, the Maha Muni Pagoda and the Mandalay palace complex. Don’t miss: Yadanabon Zoological Gardens, a small zoo between the Mandalay Palace and Mandalay Hill, and the only zoo with the rare Burmese Roofed Turtles Best for: Everyone. Getting around: Walking is the best way, but taxis are cheap and plentiful. Cycle rickshaws are also available – ideal for two people. Clockwise from left: Hot air balloons over Bagan and a reclinng Buddha. ASEANCRUISING.COM

T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

El Nido Bay, Palawan

An idyllic destination facing a challenging year

he Philippines continues to work hard to attract cruise ships, but after a strong 2014 the industry has faced some challenges in 2016. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) the Philippines has experienced a 40 per cent decline over 2016, hosting 47 port calls. To put this in perspective, however, the fall has been caused almost exclusively by only one ship, operating from Kota Kinabalu to China, which has cut Palawan from its itinerary. The three-year growth rate for the Philippines, which has seen the industry more than double, compares with 96 per cent for all of Asia, and just under 20 per cent for south-east Asia. The local industry and the government

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MANILA PACIFIC OCEAN SOUTH CHINA SEA BORACAY EL NIDO

T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

CEBU

are focusing on 2017 and beyond with plans to build up infrastructure in the capital of Manila and entice cruise ships to call at its largely undiscovered waters around Boracay, El Nido and Cebu. Transit traffic still comprises the majority of calls to Philippine ports, so the goal for the future is to build up the number of overnight calls, of which there were only three in 2016. New ships continued to be welcomed into Philippine waters, with Royal Caribbean Internationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Legend of the Seas, which made its first visit in 2015, returning in May to October 2016. Celebrity Constellation is also set for a rare appearance in early 2017 on a round trip from Singapore, where it will stop at both Manila and Boracay.

THE PHILIPPINES THE NEXT 12 MONTHS THINGS TO SEE AND DO The government The capital Manila has continues to be strongly a significant number of MAJOR PORTS behind the development attractions. Visitors can 3 of the cruise industry, enjoy the city’s unique BUSIEST PORT with the Department of Spanish heritage in a visit Manila Tourism having launched to the city’s Cathedral, a 2016 campaign to draw which dates back to 1571 NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) more sea-based tourists to and features stained glass 47 the country. and architectural features ANNUAL GROWTH The Cruise Tourism typical of the style. minus 26.6 per cent Plan has identified One of the top development in the attractions in the capital is ‘Turquoise Triangle’ linking Manila, Rizal Park, comprising 60 hectares of gardens Boracay and Puerto Princesa, as well as new and woods including the Rizal Monument. cruise destinations in Northern Luzon. The monument is a major symbol of Sicogon Island in northern Iloilo is Filipino nationhood as the site of the also the focus for potential development. execution of Jose Rizal, whose death was a The island enjoyed popularity as a tourist catalyst for liberation from Spain. destination during the 1970s but was later Filipinos are renowned throughout Asia eclipsed by Boracay. for their musical talent, and the Manila Investment is naturally the key to Ocean Park is home to the city’s tallest developing the industry further, and the musical fountain with more than 1,600 government is focused on a public-private water nozzles, music and special effects. partnership model as it looks to deliver Visitors flock to the Philippines to more cruise-friendly infrastructure. enjoy its myriad beaches, with the resort

of Boracay a leading attraction. Boracay also has 25 dive sites. Bulabog Beach accommodates both surfers and swimmers, while the resort also offers unique shopping, with stalls selling handmade jewellery and local and international cuisine. Resorts at El Nido continue to develop their sustainability credentials, and are accessible through Palawan. TOP PLACES TO STAY Manila boasts a number of internationalstandard hotels, some of them with quirky themes. The four-star Hotel H2O, for example, is a maritime-themed resort for aqua lovers and features rooms with signature aquarium walls. Also within walking distance of the cruise port is the four-star Manila Hotel, an historic hotel on the bay which was the headquarters of General Douglas Macarthur during World War 2. The popular resort of Boracay offers a range of accommodation types, from villastyle developments through to leading hotel chains such as Shangri-La.

THE PHILIPPINES: PORTS MANILA Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Cunard, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Manila still has something for everyone. History spans centuries from the walled Spanish settlement of Intramuros and the World Heritage 16thcentury San Augustin church, to the tranquil and touching Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. Keen shoppers should head to the many malls or the indoor-outdoor Greenbelt haven of Bonifacio

Don’t miss: Notable landmarks include the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the historic Manila Hotel lobby and the Manila Zoo. Best for: All ages, nature-lovers, bargain hunters. Getting around: The cruise terminal is located within walking distance of Old Manila. Taxis are the best way to get around.

BORACAY Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Visitors may choose to simply relax and drink in the beauty of the many beaches or try something more challening such as cliff-diving , windsurfing, kiteboarding, sailing, snorkelling or scuba driving. Don’t miss: The Motag Living Museum for an understanding of Pilippines history and culture. Best for: Couples, active people. Getting around: Caticlan is Boracay’s main entry. It is a 30-minute drive from the jetty to

the island of Boracay. There are plentiful taxis at the wharf.

CEBU Who goes there: Cunard, P&O Cruises. Cruisers like: The 225-kilometrelong island is heaven for divers, with spectacular reefs and colourful sealife, while its white beaches are ideal for other water activities. Modern Cebu City offers high-rise excitement, while Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House is filled with antiques, and offers a peep into Cebu’s rich and gracious history. Don’t miss: Colon Street, the oldest street in the Philippines, dates back to the Spanish colonial area. Best for: Couples, adventure-lovers, active types. Getting around: Hail a taxi or a colourful jeepney bus.

EL NIDO Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: This quiet fishing

village on the northern tip of Palawan is protected by towering limestone cliffs and overlooks a bay dotted with islets. For water-lovers, there are 30 dive sites and crystalclear waters filled with coral reefs and caves to explore, an ideal spot for scuba-diving. Don’t miss: Balay Tubay Home of Arts and Music, and the Balay Tubay Bistro offer live music and local dishes, while Helicopter Island has a perfect stretch of wide white sand and very good waves. Best for: Couples, active people, water-lovers Getting around: Book an islandhopping tour of the island. Clockwise from left: Aquanauting in Palawan, windsurfing in Boracay ASEANCRUISING.COM

C A M B O D I A

Bewitching Angkor Wat

Numbers plateau but annual growth still good

LA O S

CAMBODIA PHNOM PENH SIHANOUKVILLE

VIETNAM

SIEM REAP

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THAILAND MY

fter an impressive result in 2015, when cruise passenger arrivals surged by 126.7 per cent, Cambodia is looking forward to more modest growth in the sector over the next few years. According to the latest report from Asia Cruise Trends, Cambodia recorded 58,000 destination days in 2016, but things are expected to slow up over the next 12 months. The report says that while the latest figures are well down on 2016, the overall trend has been impressive – port call volume has grown 118 per cent since 2013. The figures on cruise passengers are roughly in line with those for Cambodian tourism as a whole. In 2015 Cambodia attracted 4.8 million tourists – up 6 per

cent from the 4.5 million visitors in 2014 but short of Prime Minister Hun Sen’s projection of 5 million visitors. Despite this, Mr Top Sopheak, the undersecretary of state for tourism, said tourists spent US$3.5 billion in the country. He promised that there would be more international promotional campaigns to attract more foreign tourists to visit Cambodia, including promotions on the US television news network CNN. Cruise arrivals in 2016 increased by 2.9 per cent, representing a nominal growth in the 42,000 passengers who arrived in the country during the previous year. All 34 ship arrivals docked at Sihanoukville, one of three major ports in the country.

CAMBODIA THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Crystal, Seabourn, Cambodia’s historic Regent Seven Seas, attractions of Angkor Oceania have ships that MAJOR PORTS Wat in Siem Reap sail the region year 1 continue to entice round. With the BUSIEST PORT neighbouring and extensive Angkor Wat Sihanoukville international visitors. ruins located inland, Increasingly, more many of the international NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) tourists are taking river cruise lines offer shore 35 cruises on the Mekong excursions from ANNUAL GROWTH to reach the ruins. Sihanoukville to visit the 2 per cent This has spawned the ruins and temples in proliferation of more Siem Reap. international cruise lines to open up new itineraries on the Mekong in a bid to THINGS TO SEE AND DO attract more tourists to visit Cambodia. The ancient ruins of Angkor Wat are Scenic, APT, Uniworld, Viking, Pandaw Cambodia’s top attraction and a source of and Avalon have all launched new national pride. Spread over 200 hectares, itineraries often marrying the best it is the biggest religious monument in attractions of Cambodia with Vietnam. the world and can take days to visit the International cruise lines including UNESCO World Heritage Site. Running Princess, P&O Australia, Norwegian a close second is the capital Phnom Penh, Cruise Lines, Costa’s Aida, Voyages of which blends Khmer architecture and Discovery and Holland America ships will French colonial influences. A visit to the make regular calls to Cambodia as part of city’s notorious Tuol Sleng prison is a their grand cruises. Luxury lines including must-do. For a taste of pre-backpacker

Cambodia visit the city of Battambang on the banks of the Sangker River. Other popular travel destinations included Kratie, Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri. Beach lovers should head for the laid-back coastal city of Sihanoukville and the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. TOP PLACES TO STAY Phnom Penh, the capital city, offers a good range of luxury hotels as well as more affordable options. Raffles Hotel with its enormous pool, beautiful gardens and grand lobby is the city’s most famous address. Sofitel Phnom Penh has similar amenities and for a more boutique experience, while the stately White Mansion Hotel is another top destination. The provincial city of Siem Reap, stepping off point for Angkor Wat, also offers a good range of luxury hotels, with international hotel brands such as Sofitel and the Grand Hyatt, plus a good choice of mid-range hotels and stylish guest houses.

CAMBODIA: PORTS SIHANOUKVILLE Who goes there: Coral Expeditions, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Laidback, with tranquil beaches, it’s hard to believe this was the site of the last official battle of the US Army in the American-Vietnam war.From here you can explore more than a dozen islands, although many visitors choose to stay at the beach, swimming, sunning, scuba diving, fishing, and snorkelling.

Don’t miss: The coastal towns of Kampot and Kep as well as Bokor Mountain are two hours away, and two shipwrecks off one of the islands beckon keen divers.. Best for: All ages, especially photographers, water-lovers and couples. Getting around: Ships dock close to the Victoria Beach area. Take a bus or tuk-tuk into town.

markets and fish farms. Don’t miss: Angkor Wat, unmatched worldwide, and Bayon, both found in the 400-squarekilometre Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Best for: Active people of all ages, especially photographers. Getting around: : Motorcycle taxis are cheap and plentiful.

SIEM REAP

Who goes there: AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, G Adventures, Mekong River Cruises, Pandaw, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Cruisers like: Phnom Penh offers elegant French colonial architectur, the magnificent Royal Palace, dripping with gold, silver and precious stones, the Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. 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

Who goes there: AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, G Adventures, Mekong River Cruises, Pandaw, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Cruisers like: There is plenty of entertainment in the area, including the Phare Cambodian circus, Bambu Stage shows, Rosana Broadway cabaret, classical Apsara dance performances and traditional Khmer dancing. If there is time, visit one of the three local floating villages where you can see traditional houses. Cruising from Siem Reap on the Mekong River offers chances to visit busy local

PHNOM PENH cool of the evening when the pace quickens. Don’t miss: Tour the city by private cyclo and visit the National Museum, the Royal Palace and the stunning Silver Pagoda. Otherwise join a walking tour through the rural villages of Prek Bang Kong and Angkor, or catch the dawn at Sisowath Quay where locals do their morning calisthenics. Best for: All ages. Getting around: : Motorcycle taxis are cheap and plentiful. Clockwise from left: Your lobster is ready, and fishing boats in Kep ASEANCRUISING.COM

V I E T N A M

Rural bliss in Ninh Binh Province

An impressive comeback with even more to come O

MY MA R

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the help of Singapore in helping to develop the cruise industry. VIETNAM Vietnam has an abundance of attractions, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, the capital of Hanoi, Ho HALONG Chi Minh City and the beach resorts of HANOI Da Nang and Nha Trang. Ho Chi Minh City has a particular DA NANG focus on cruise ships, with plans for a river festival to promote cruise THAILAND tourism. Unfortunately, low bridges over the Mekong River block access NHA to large vessels, but a partial solution TRANG CAMBODIA is a rowboat service on the Nhieu Loc Canal, which was launched in 2016. Vietnam is also trying hard in other HO CHI areas, such as cutting red tape and visa MINH requirements. Prime Minister, Nguyen CITY Xuan Phuc, has announced plans to

ietnam has big plans for its tourist industry, and cruise has a significant role to play. The country has set a goal of bringing in US$20 billion in tourism revenue by 2020. Already, the plans would appear to be on track with overall tourism numbers up by more than 20 per cent over 2016. In terms of the cruise industry, the government understands that changes need to be made in everything from visa access to infrastructure and tourist services at seaports. The cruise business currently accounts for only around 5 per cent of international tourists each year. The government has already responded by slashing the cost of shore-leave visas for international cruise passengers and enlisting

VIETNAM implement an e-visa system in 2017 and local authorities have scrapped the midnight curfew in Hanoi in a bid to attract more foreign tourists.

its Mekong cruises and has constructed new vessels in Vietnam to MAJOR PORTS add to its four-vessel 4 fleet. The 60-passenger BUSIEST PORT RV Princesse Apsara has Da Nang/Hue/Chan May begun sailing from Ho THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Chi Minh City, while NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) After flat and negative Scenic’s new ship – the 466 growth for two years, 68-passenger Scenic Spirit ANNUAL GROWTH 2016 has seen Vietnam’s – began sailing from 47.5 per cent cruise industry grow 47.5 Vietnam to Cambodia per cent in 2016. . in January. Other new According to CLIA, Vietnam is Mekong vessels include Avalon Waterways’ scheduled to welcome 466 cruise calls in Avalon Siem Reap and Aqua Expeditions’ 2016, up from 316 in 2015. first Asian ship Aqua Mekong. Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City are the lead destinations, with a combined 57 per THINGS TO SEE AND DO cent of total port calls. Vietnam is an exotic combination of unique From 2013 to 2016, compound growth local cuisine and culture, architectural has rebounded from slightly negative to a vestiges from the French colonial era positive 11 per cent. While Ha Long Bay is and fascinating sites from the Americana more established touring destination, the Vietnam War of the 1960s. Mekong River accessed from Ho Chi Minh The former national capital of Hue City is a focus for growth. encompasses the Imperial City and the CroisiEurope has continued to develop Forbidden Purple City all surrounded by a

moat and thick stone walls. In Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can enjoy Notre Dame Cathedral and take in the prehistoric artefacts and Han tombs at the Museum of Vietnamese History. From the city, travellers can visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, the underground network used by the Viet Cong during the war between the South and the North. Hanoi offers Buddhist temples, unique theatres and French colonial architecture, while Nha Trang is a popular beach destination, as is Da Nang, which is also a popular base for exploring the inland Ba Na hills. TOP PLACES TO STAY One of the country’s best-known hotels is the Caravelle Saigon, a four-anda-half-star property which opened in 1959. Other hotels in the city include the InterContinental Asia, the Sofitel Saigon Plaza and the Pullman Saigon Centre. The capital Hanoi has hotels from many international brands Sofitel with its retrostyled Metropole, InterContinental and Crowne Plaza.

VIETNAM: PORTS HALONG BAY

DA NANG Who goes there: Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Ponant, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea, Windstar Cruises. Cruisers like: History buffs will enjoy the Museum of Cham, which has the world’s largest collection of 5th- to 15th-century Cham artefacts. Da Nang also has the largest Cao Dai (mixed religion) temple in Central Vietnam. Don’t miss: Hoi An, a riverside town known for its arts, crafts and food. Best for: Families, food lovers, bargain hunters, history nuts. Getting around: The port of Tien Sa in Da Nang is a 30-minute bus ride from the city. Taxis will cost about US$10 each way.

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: Come here for the vibrantly painted houses which echo French colonial times and the local craft, such as silk, clothing, lacquer and other handicrafts. Take a boat tour to caves and grottoes on the islands or take a ferry to Cat Ba National Park. Don’t miss: A cruise around the multitude of steep limestone karst islands in the bay. Best for: Everyone. Getting around: From the Bai Chay Tourist Wharf you can hire a taxi. Regular buses depart for Hanoi.

HO CHI MINH CITY Who goes there: Ama Waterways, Avalon Waterways, Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Ponant, Princess Cruises,

Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea, Uniworld, Viking River Cruises, Windstar Cruises. Cruisers like: Ho Chi Minh City is a huge city with remnants of the French colonial period. Highlights include the Jade Emperor Pagoda, Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. Don’t miss: The Cu Chi Tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the war. Best for: Families, food lovers, bargain hunters, shoppers. Getting around: Ships arrive are various piers along the river. Trishaws and taxis are readily available. There are shuttle buses from the Phu My port..

NHA TRANG Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Ponant, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea. Cruisers like: Nha Trang is one of the world’s most beautiful bays with a sweeping beach and jewel-like waters, all framed by dramatic mountain. Visitors will find plenty of outdoor pursuits to keep them busy, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, mountain biking, motorbiking and bike tours. Don’t miss: Travel 60 kilometres to Hon Ba Peak. At 1,578 metres, the air is cooler and ideal for walks. Best for: All ages, couples, active people, photographers. Getting around Nha Trang is about 12 kilometres from the Cau Da Port and there are taxis and trishaws available outside the port gate. A free shuttle bus also operates. Clockwise from left: serenity in Marble Mountains, sailing on Halong Bay ASEANCRUISING.COM

B R U N E I

Cruising set to boost tourist numbers in this tiny country

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BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

MUARA

B R U N E I

M A L AY S I A

a negative factor when pitching to cruise ship passengers. In fact, it seems that more tourists from outside the ASEAN countries prefer to visit Brunei, perhaps because of its wealth and apparent first-world conditions, and the fact that it is one of the M A L AY S I A most environmentally conscious destinations in the region. Reports state that in 2014, while the greatest percentage of foreign tourists arrived by land, one per cent arrived by sea and these numbers have steadily increased in the past year. According to Brunei Tourism, in 2014 the country had its busiest summer season, welcoming 15 ocean ships and a record of 30,000 cruise visitors. Lines scheduled to call at Bandar Seri Begawan (Muara

IN DO NE SI A

ne of the world’s richest countries, Brunei is a newcomer to cruise ship based tourism. Its high standard of living and booming economy has not been translated into success in attracting more tourism, especially from the region. Over the past decade Brunei’s tourism sector has experienced a rollercoaster ride, descending from a peak of almost a million visitors in 2003 to less than a quarter of that over the next 12 years. One of the reasons for this is the strength of the Brunei dollar within the ASEAN region, resulting in a drastic drop of international visitors. Although some of the country’s tour packages remain expensive compared to other nearby nations, this is not necessarily

BRUNEI

BRUNEI: PORTS BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Oceania Cruises, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Cruisers like: Brunei is a sovereign state governed by the Sultan of Brunei. Visit the Royal Regalia Museum where the Sultan displays the lavish gifts he has received. These are displayed in galleries overlooking his massive coronation chariot on permanent display below. Not far from the Sultan’s palace, the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, set in beautiful gardens, is the largest one in Brunei, yet the interior is elegant and understated – apart from the Swarovski crystal chandelier weighing three tonnes.There are several museums and shopping centres as well as parks and gardens in which to relax. Don’t miss: Take a fast motorboat visit to a water village across the bay from the city centre. Locals have lived here for generations in houses The Sultan’s royal barge

Port) in 2017 are Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Ponant and Celebrity Cruises.

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 and an opportunity to see how they live over water. Best for: Families, shoppers Getting around: Water taxis can be hailed from numerous ‘docking ports’ along the banks of the Brunei River. Most popular are organised

tours with a guide, although frequent daytime public buses begin and terminate at the bus terminal at Jalan Cator. Metered taxis are available at most hotels and shopping centres.

Clockwise from top: a traditional water village, and off to school

has been quoted as predicting that the contribution of travel and tourism to Brunei’s economy is set to grow in the 10 years following 2015-2016. THE NEXT 12 MONTHS In 2017, 10 ships on a number of cruises Understanding the importance of tourism will visit Bandar Seri Begawan. Celebrity to the country, the Constellation on her government’s National Thailand and Vietnam Development Plan cruise begins the season (NDP) is reported to in February, followed by MAJOR PORTS have allocated $300,000 Seven Seas Voyager at the 1 towards tourism end of February on an BUSIEST PORT initiatives in 2015. Steps Exotic Lands and Vast Muara are also being taken with Oceans cruise. Regent NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) a number of overseas Seven Seas Voyager also 21 agencies to attract direct calls in as part of the foreign investment. Empires of Asia and ANNUAL GROWTH The World Travel Asia in Bloom cruises. Unknown and Tourism Council World cruises have

become popular and Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 visits Brunei in March as part of her 132-night world cruise, as does Crystal Symphony on her 99-night Grand Pacific Explorer Cruise. Oceania Cruise’s Insignia is next, also cruising around the world. The bulk of the visits to this port occur in the early part of the year, during February and March, as part of the southern cruising season, but Ponant’s L’Austral has scheduled June and October visits as part of her Gems of Southeast Asia and Vietnamese Shores cruises. Silversea wraps the year with Silver Shadow’s arrival in late October on the Voyage 3729 cruise, spending 12 nights journeying from Hong Kong to Singapore via the Philippines and Brunei, Sabah and Sarawak. ASEANCRUISING.COM

L A O S

Vientianeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Buddha Park.

This cruise newbie has big plans for future growth

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season, Laos Pandaw is a 20-passenger vessel with a low draught and an additional power engine to allow it to it sail smoothly to the Upper Mekong. The passenger count VIETNAM is low to further minimize weight. The river cruiser initially offered LUANG 10-night itineraries from the French PRABANG LAOS colonial city of Vientiane, just across VIENTIANE the river from Thailand, north to Ban Paklay, Pak Lai, Tha Deua, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Luang Prabang and a stop at the Pak THAILAND Ou caves, ending in Chiang Khong, Thailand. In February, Laos Pandaw also began sailing to Thailand, Myanmar and China CAMBODIA in the one itinerary with Laos; the cruise begins in Chiang Saen in Thailand then goes on to Myanmar, Laos before crossing

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n 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. While Vietnam and Cambodia have mastered Mekong river cruises, Laos is just beginning to explore its benefits. Currently, Avalon Waterways and Pandaw are cruising the river in Laos. One of the reasons Mekong river cruising hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t taken off sooner for Laos is its shallower waters. The closer the river cruise ships get to Laos the shallower the water becomes. To deal with the problem, cruise lines such as Pandaw have had to custom-design their vessels. Launched in the 2015/16

LAOS the border for the first time include Vientiane and into China for a visit to Luang Prabang for the city of Jinghong. two nights, then Laos’ MAJOR PORTS “It has been a long stunning gorges and 2 held ambition to sail the visit remote jungle tribal BUSIEST PORT length of the navigable villages before moving on Mandalay/Bagan/Bhamo sections of the Upper to Thailand. Mekong River,” said On the other side NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) Pandaw founder Paul of the coin, APT have Unknown Strachan. “With the announced that Laos ANNUAL GROWTH construction of our new will no longer be a part Unknown vessel and working with of their Asian itineraries our partners, this journey looking forward to 2017; is now possible. they will now concentrating on China, “There is much to explore in this Vietnam and Cambodia for their river undiscovered region. Travellers need to be cruising in the region. up for a real adventure as the daily itinerary might change, but with a flexible attitude THINGS TO SEE AND DO they will have the trip of a lifetime.” The majority of Laos river itineraries start in either another Southeast Asian destination THE NEXT 12 MONTHS or in Laos’ capital Vientiane. A visit to the Pandaw is actively promoting Laos at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Luang top of their 2017 cruise schedule, with Prabang is a must. It is known for its many the 10-night cruise between Vientiane Buddhist temples, royal palace and night to Chiang Khong, onboard the RV Laos markets, where travellers can pick up locally Pandaw topping their literature. Stops 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, such as Satri House in Luang Prabang, a mansion-style hotel with spacious rooms and air-conditioning, a restaurant, bar, full-service spa, two outdoor pools and a health club. The hotel is located 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 just 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 to a maximum of 48 guests and offers a cooked-to-order breakfast and the Kiridara Hotel, which has 24 guest rooms, a fitness centre, outdoor pool and a full-service spa.

LAOS: PORTS LUANG PRABANG Who goes there: APT, Avalon Waterways, 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 UNESCO 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 best reached by mountain bike. Don’t miss: The night market is a fascinating place to shop, with stalls selling shirts, bracelets and local street food. Take a 15-minute boat ride from town on the Mekong River to Ban Chan, a fascinating pottery village. Best for: Shoppers, adventurers. Getting around: The city is small enought to explore by foot or bike, but tuk-tuks are widely available.

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 and old world atmosphere. Don’t miss: Buddha Park, 25 kilometres from the city at the edge of the Mekong River, was built in 1958 and contains a collection of

Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, scattered amongst gardens and trees. The city also offers street markets selling silks, silver, Hmong bags, clothing, and jewellery . Best for: Everyone. Getting around: Taxis, tuk tuks and hire motorbikes are the popular modes of transport. Clockwise from left: Royal Palace Luang Prabang, and young monks ASEANCRUISING.COM

T H A I L A N D

Romantic Bangkok by night

Smooth sailing ahead after a few choppy waves

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reathtaking beaches and clear waters havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been enough for Thailand this year, with a significant fall in port calls and growth rates across the board. The government said in 2015 that it had no interest in increasing the number of visiting cruise ships, hoping to attract more homeporting instead. However this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s figures show 291 port calls, with an approximate 465,000 BANGKOK passenger destination days, both down from the 2015 figures of 374 KRABI and 579,000 respectively. Thailand entered this year as the PHUKET 10th most popular destination worldwide and the third most popular in Asia, after China and Hong Kong, but civil unrest and various terrorist-related threats have tarnished its reputation as a safe haven

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for tourists. Statistics so far, however, have shown the tourism industry to be surprisingly resilient. For example, the tourism industry was rocked once more by bombing incidents in August; however visitor arrivals dropped only slightly, with tourist arrivals increasing again only a week later. The Pacific Eden still called in to Phuket as one of the main destinations on its inaugural Asian sailing with no itinerary change requested. THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Some good news arrives with the fourth ship in the Star Clippers fleet, and the largest square-rigged passenger ship ever built, the Flying Clipper, arriving in its new homeport of Phuket in December 2016 to

THAILAND begin its inaugural sailing at 47 calls this year. With season – a great coup for Asia easily outstripping the port. the rest of the world as MAJOR PORTS Phuket’s long-awaited the fastest-growing cruise 3 port expansion has market, there are plenty BUSIEST PORT received the green light of opportunities for Bangkok to further welcome cruise Thailand. Although many ships by lengthening new ships are choosing NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) the 360-metre quay and Singapore or Chinese 291 adding immigration and ports as their homeports, ANNUAL GROWTH customs areas plus shops, Thailand’s position minus 22.2 per cent restaurants and amenities. between these two places The port can currently holds it in good stead. only take one large ship at a time, resulting Expect to see the country pushing cruise in queues of cargo vessels and passenger tourism to new up and coming ports such as ships alike; after the upgrade, two ships can Ranong, ideal for itineraries travelling from dock simultaneously. The project had been Phuket to Dawei Port in Myanmar. held up for five years while waiting for an environmental impact assessment which has THINGS TO SEE AND DO now been completed. As most of Thailand’s major ports are Bangkok and Phuket remain the already top tourist destinations, cruisers are country’s main port cities, although it has able to experience the best of the country been Laem Chabang port – Bangkok’s main during one-day visits. port, though actually two hours’ drive away On the island of Ko Samui, guests can from the capital – that has hosted the most enjoy Thailand’s famous elephant trekking, overnight calls in Asia from passenger ships riding an elephant through jungles and local

plantations. Animal lovers will also enjoy the monkey demonstrations. Cultural travellers can visit the Wat Phra Yai or Big Buddha and the many sites in Phuket, such as Wat Chalong, the biggest and most ornate of the island’s 29 temples. In Bangkok, cruisers can partake in 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 Phuket has a good range of accommodation in the city and closer to the port. The four-and-a-half star Sri Panwa Phuket Resort, near the port, is spread over 16 hectares, with two main pools, a tennis court. The popular hotel offers rooms for families of up to five people, plus one- and two-bedroom suites with ocean views. Travellers are spoiled for choice around the Panwa area. Options include the Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort, Panwa Beach Resort Phuket, Cape Panwa Hotel and The Mangrove Panwa Phuket Resort.

THAILAND: PORTS PHUKET Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Oceania Cruises, P&O, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Phuket Town offers shop-houses, cafes and temples, but many guests head off to the Phi Phi islands. Or you can stay on Phuket and try your skills at a number of watersports. Don’t miss: Watching the sunset from Patong Beach. Best for: Beach lovers, explorers. Getting around: Ships moor

off Patong Beach and tender passengers to shore. It is a 20-minute taxi ride into town.

BANGKOK Who goes there: Avalon Waterways, Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Oceania Cruises, P&O, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, Silversea, Viking River Cruises. Cruisers like:The Chatuchak Weekend Market has more than 15,000 stalls. Elsewhere, there are temples such as the Temple of Dawn. Take a longtail motorboat along the Chao Phraya river and see how people live on the city’s waterways. Don’t miss: The Grand Palace, perhaps the world’s most sumptuously decorated royal property. Best for: Everyone. Getting around: Most cruise ships dock at Laem Chabang, a two-hour

drive from Bangkok. Taxis offer a fixed price to Bangkok and Pattaya.

KO SAMUI Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea. Cruisers like: Thailand’s thirdlargest island is an oasis ringed by pristine white sandy beaches. The brilliant corals are ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling. Don’t miss: A trip to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park. Best for: Everyone. Getting around: Cruise ships anchor off Nathon and take passengers ashore via tender. The city centre is a 15-minute walk.

KRABI Who goes there: P&O, Silversea Cruises, Star Cruises. Cruisers like: Kraibi is a laid-back tourist town, with plenty of cafes,

restaurants and guesthouses. Venture inland to find Buddhist shrines, lush jungle and waterfalls. Along the coast you’ll find dazzling white beaches, sea caves, and limestone cliffs. Don’t miss: Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, located 20 kilometres north of Krabi. Find walking trails, waterfalls and virgin rainforest. Best for: Couples, active people. Getting around: Cruise ships anchor off Nathon and take passengers ashore via tender. The city centre is a 15-minute walk. Clockwise from left: Street trader in Bangkok and tourist boats Phuket ASEANCRUISING.COM

TA I W A N

Mt Jade, another peak destination

A busy destination with plenty more to offer

ASEANCRUISING.COM

PENGHU

offshore islands and hot spring resorts have made Taiwan a popular destination for visitors who enjoy hiking, mountain biking, surfing and other outdoor pursuits. TAIPEI Thanks to its diverse Chinese, Japanese and Western cultural influences, Taiwan offers a lively culinary scene. Diners can enjoy such varied delights as stinky tofu, milkfish and pig’s-blood pudding alongside more HAULIEN conventional Chinese fare. For the more adventurous gourmand, Taipei offers several bizarre themed restaurants, plus a good range of coffee spots, cocktail bars and pubs. A modern transport system and friendly locals make Taiwan a relatively easy country to travel around, especially for native Mandarin speakers.

TA IW AN

he island nation of Taiwan has been a strong performer in the cruise market over recent years, with the vast majority of passengers choosing Keelung/Taipei as a preferred destination. Cruise ship arrivals jumped by 34.5 per cent in 2016 and are tipped to continue this upward trend over the next few years. Visitor numbers to the island nation have been steadily growing over the past decade as the world discovers Taiwan’s natural beauty, thriving cities, vibrant culture and seductive cuisine. Nature is one of Taiwan’s biggest drawcards. The country’s towering mountains, national parks, beautiful

KAOSHIUNG SOUTH CHINA SEA

TAIWAN THINGS TO SEE AND DO former battlefields on Taiwan’s major the island of Kinmen, attractions can neatly explore the streets of MAJOR PORTS be divided into two Lugang old town and 4 categories: cultural and the former capital of BUSIEST PORT natural. Those who enjoy Tainan, which is home Keelung/Taipei the great outdoors will to several impressive find impressive temples and centuriesNUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) mountain ranges, old fortresses. 234 pristine lakes and wild ANNUAL GROWTH surf beaches. Some of TOP PLACES TO STAY 34.5 per cent the most popular sites Taipei has a good range include Sun Moon Lake, of five-star and Kenting National Park, Taroko National boutique, properties. Top-end hotels Park, Lanyu/Orchid Island and Yushan/ include W Taipei, W5 Best Hotel, and the Jade Mountain. Sun Moon Lake is one of Mandarin Oriental. Travellers looking for the island’s most famous inland resorts, something a little quirkier will find while the peaks of Yushan attract both well-reviewed boutique hotels such as hikers and climbers. Humble House, Solo Singer Inn and History buffs will want to visit the Hotel Quote.

TAIWAN: PORTS HUALIEN

KEELUNG/TAIPEI Who goes there: Royal Caribbean International, Volendam Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises Cruisers like: Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is celebrated for its attractive blend of modernity and antiquity offering towering skyscrapers alongside historic Buddhist shrines. The city is home of some of the country’s most important museums, including the National Palace Museum, as well as bustling food markets, palaces and shops selling the latest electronic gadgets and western fashions. With a population of around 2.7 million, modern Taipei is a bustling commercial hub and a showpiece for capitalist Taiwan, which separated from mainland China in 1949. During the 19th century Taiwan was ceded to Japan which renamed the province Taihoku. Many of its public buildings, such as the Presidential Office Building, date from this era . Don’t miss: The National Palace Museum, just north of the city, is rated as one of the four top museums in the world, alongside MoMa, the Louvre and the British Museum. Best for: Lovers of history, modern design and Taiwanese cuisine. Getting around: The modern

subway system (MRT) is the easiest transport option, but there are also affordable bus and taxis available.

PENGHU Who goes there: Royal Caribbean International, Star Cruises Cruisers like: Penghu is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering clean beaches, watersports and excellent seafood, including its world-famous oysters. This destination will especially appeal to those interested in both underwater adventure and sports fishing. The region is a wildlife sanctuary with many sea birds, nesting sea turtles and other threatened creatures. Don’t miss: The region’s main town of Magong is popular for its pristine beaches, aquarium, historic fort and 300-year-old Banyan tree. Best for: Outdoor types of all ages. Getting around: Hiring a scooter is the best transport option.

Who goes there: Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line, Seabourn. Cruisers like: This pleasant regional city, located between the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountain Range, appeals to anyone who wants to explore the island’s Buddhist heritage, sample its delicious cuisine or visit famous beauty spots such as Taroko Gorge. Hualien is also celebrated for its beautiful parks, beaches and nature reserves. The town is popular with hikers, kayakers, mountain bikers and other outdoor types. Don’t miss: Qixingtan Beach, also called Chihsingtan Beach, is a magnificent black pebble beach offering stunning views over the Pacific Ocean, hiking trails and beach pavilions. Best for: Couple, families, adventure seekers

Getting around: Visitors can easily walk around the old city, but hire a scooter if you want to go further afield.

KAOSHIUNG Who goes there: Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International. Cruisers like: This thriving port city began life in the 17th century as a small fishing village and is now the world’s sixth largest container port. Begin by exploring the Cijin District, near the harbour. From here you can take a ferry ride into the city proper. Unlike Taipei, Kaohsiung is a planned city with wide streets and slightly less traffic congestion than the capital. Nature lovers will enjoy Shoushan Shoushan, also known as Monkey Mountain, which offers walking trails, a small zoo and, of course, plenty of wild monkeys. Don’t miss: The Dome of Light, a public artwork in the Formosa Boulevard MRT Station. Best for: Families, couples, shoppers Getting around: The city’s metro line (MRT) is clean and efficient, but you can also hire a scooter.

Clockwise from top left: Eternal Springs, Dome of Light and pagodas ASEANCRUISING.COM

C H I N A

Bustling Pudong, Shanghai

Welcome to the powerhouse of the Asian cruise economy

hina is shaping up as the world’s biggest cruise market as nearly one million Chinese passengers took a cruise holiday this year – up a phenomenal 66 per cent since 2012. The average Chinese cruiser is much younger – 43 years of age – than those from other countries, reflecting the trend for China’s wealthier middle class choosing to take a cruise holiday. Not only are more Chinese cruising, the vast majority tend to cruise regionally, spending an average five nights on cruise holidays in Asia. Gambling is prohibited in mainland China, but not on cruise ships sailing from Chinese ports. On-board casinos are a big drawcard for Chinese passengers. 58

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China as a cruise destination has also taken off with more international cruise IA lines making a beeline for the Middle Kingdom. The country welcomed 850 port calls this year – up from 300 last year. Indeed, port calls in China leapt by DALIAN 183 per cent in 2016 compared to minus 23 per cent in the previous JAPAN 12 months. Baoshan/Shanghai is TIANJIN/ the country’s most popular cruise BEIJING destination, followed by Tianjin, Hainan/Haikou, Xiamen, Hainan/ BAOSHAN/ Sanya, Guangzhou/Nansha and SHANGHAI Dalian. NANSHA XIAMEN

MONGOLIA

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HAIKOU SANYA

THE NEXT 12 MONTHS Despite a slowing of the Chinese economy in the third quarter of 2016 the cruise market in the country is going from

CHINA things to do. Surely no visit to China is complete without seeing the Forbidden City in Beijing or strolling along The Bund in Shanghai. You could easily spend a week just exploring Beijing alone, including a side trip to the Great Wall of China. The same is true of Shanghai, its southern rival, which teems with wonderful new buildings, great museums, bustling street markets, lovely old temples and up-market fashion outlets. Shanghai even has its own version of Disneyland. For those with more time on their hands, China also offers some spectacular MAJOR PORTS natural attractions such 7 as The Yellow Mountains, BUSIEST PORT the Precipitous Pillars of Baoshan/Shanghai Zhangjiajie, the unspoilt rural district of Wuyan NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) and the picturesque 850 mudflats of Xiapu. Those ANNUAL GROWTH with a little more time 183 per cent on their hands could also visit the mountain kingdom of Tibet, the Stone Forest of Yunnan and Zhangjiajie national park, inspiration for the 2009 movie Avatar directed by James Cameron.

strength to strength. The latest report by Asia Cruise Trends says that “China as a destination is becoming the growth powerhouse for the Asian Cruising economy” and predicts that the inbound market could grow to two million passengers over the next couple of years. The country’s maritime infrastructure is rapidly expanding to meet this expected growth in demand. Stage one of the Tianjin International Cruise Home Port, which services Beijing, is complete but the port will eventually cover 1.2 million square metres with six berths. Work continues at Nansha, China’s third important cruise port. When finished the facility will have a quay stretching 790m to berth two cruise ships, one at

100,000 tonne and the other at 250,000 tonne. A number of ships including SuperStar Virgo and Genting Dream are now homeporting at Nansha. Phase Two of the development of Nansha Cruise Terminal will be completed in 2018.

TOP PLACES TO STAY A phenomenal boom in hotel construction over the past decade has transformed China as a travel destination. Today’s visitor will find all of the world’s major hotel chains well represented in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Yunnan and Pudong. In 2015 readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine voted The Peninsula Shanghai as China’s best luxury hotel, closely followed by Jing An Shangri-La Hotel in Shanghai and the Ritz Carlton in Beijing. As China’s tourism market evolves, many smaller, design-focused hotels are also coming online.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO How do you sum up a destination as complex, multi-faceted and vast as China? Putting aside its geographical size and equally impressive population there are several places that should feature on every bucket list. These naturally include big ticket items such as the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Army and the Giant Pandas in Chengdu. China’s main cities, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen are also brimming with exciting ASEANCRUISING.COM

CHINA

CHINA: PORTS a 267-hectare park which contains about 4,000 ancient knotted cypress trees, lakes, temples, prayer halls and ceremonial gates. Best for: Couples, families, foodlovers, shopaholics Getting around: The port of Tianjin is 170 kilometres south east of Beijing. Bullet train and taxis are the two most popular forms of transport, but private transfers are also available.

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BAOSHAN/SHANGHAI Who goes there: Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruise Lines, Cunard, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Star Cruises, Viking River Cruises. Cruisers like: Shanghai is one of the architectural gems of China, offering beautifully restored historic buildings and breathtaking modern skyscrapers. The city is also famous for its excellent shopping and delicious cuisine. A stroll along The Bund, a romantic boulevard dating back to the 1920s, should be at the top of every agenda. Other highlights include People’s Square, the modern business district of Pudong, and the popular Fengshan Market. Don’t miss: The upmarket Xintiandi district, a diplomatic precinct which has been gentrified with many cool shops, jazz clubs, boutiques, pavement cafes and eateries. Best for: Everyone 60

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Getting around: Large ships dock at Boashan Port, about 24 kilometres north of the city. Shuttles are available. Smaller ships may dock at a river terminal near The Bund. Taxis are plentiful and cheap. Otherwise use the city’s Metro system – destinations are written in Chinese and English.

TIANJIN/BEIJING Who goes there: Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, P&O, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea. Cruisers like: Some of China’s most famous monuments, palaces, parks and museums are located in Beijing. Tian’anmen Square, the Summer Palace and The Forbidden City are major drawcards, but the city offers many lesser-known delights, such as strolling around a traditional hutong, exploring the Panjiayuan Antiques Market and doing a spot of kite-flying in a local park. Guided tours to the Great Wall of China can be organised. Don’t miss: The Temple of Heaven,

Who goes there: Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Pacific Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International. Cruisers like: Lapped by the South China Sea, Hainan island is one of China’s fastest growing provinces, famous for its balmy tropical climate and fine sand beaches. Billed as China’s version of Hawaii, visitors to the island enjoy great watersports, pristine jungles, abundant wildlife and Hainan’s world-famous cuisine. Most cruisers land at Sanya, the island’s most southerly city, a booming holiday spot famed for its dazzling beaches, surf and coral reefs. Don’t miss: Nanwan Monkey Island, home to more than 1,800 endangered macaque monkeys, and the 108-metre-tall statue of the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Guanyin. Best for: Nature lovers, surfers, food lovers Getting around: The Port of Sanya is a short walk from the city. Shuttles and buggies are available if you have luggage. The best way to get around Sanya is by

bus. For longer excursions take a sightseeing bus or a taxi.

HAINAN/HAIKOU Who goes there: Silversea Cruises, Star Cruises Cruisers like: Haikou, known as “Coconut City”, is the biggest city on Hainan island, one of China’s fastest growing provinces. The port, which is located on Nandu River, dates back to the 12th Century and contains many historic buildings. The old part of the city is definitely worth exploring – many of these houses were built by wealthy expatriate Chinese families in the 19th

century. The roads are lined with coconut trees, hence the city’s colloquial name. Haikou is a great place to holiday with excellent beaches and waterways to explore – China’s national windsurfing and sailing teams train at Xixiu Beach. Apart from these aquatic delights the city offers several important historical sites, including the Wugong Temple, the Tomb of Hai Rui and the Xiuying Emplacement. Visitors will find a good range of hawker stalls and restaurants serving traditional Hainanese food. Don’t miss: Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove Natural Reserve Area, about 20 kilometres from the city. The first of its type in China, this park contains every type of mangrove plant, plus a vast array Clockwise from top left: The Great Wall of China, Guanyin sculpture in Sanya and Beijing’s Forbidden City.

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CHINA: PORTS

of tropical birds. The park is home to fish, shrimp and many other species of shellfish. Best for: Nature lovers, surfers, food lovers Getting around: Visitors will find a wide range of transport options, including tourist buses, city buses and taxis. For those who want to explore further there are hire cars.

NANSHA (GUANGZHOU) Who goes there: Star Cruises, Crystal Cruises Cruisers like: Guangzhou (also known as Canton) is a thriving port city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning modern architecture and a bustling commercial lifestyle. Visitors will find a brilliant range of museums, municipal parks, street markets and temples to explore. The city played a crucial role in the Communist Revolution and there are many monuments to this era. Highlights include the Chen

Clan Ancestral Hall, Mausoleum of the Nanyue King, Guangxiao Temple, Martyrs’ Park, Guangzhou Orchid Garden and Guangzhou Art Gallery. Don’t miss: Guangzhou Opera House. This futuristic performance space was designed by British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid and features the extravagant use of exposed granite and glass panels. The building opened in 2010. Best for: Culture vultures, foodlovers, couples Getting around: Nansha port terminal is 54 kilometres south of Guangzhou. Transport options include express bus, taxi and Metro (line expected to be complete by end of 2016).

most successful football teams. The nearby coastline is particularly beautiful, with some lovely beaches to enjoy. Don’t miss: Dalian International Fashion Festival, held each September for the past decade, is one of the major events on the city calendar, attracting the world’s best designers, models, fabric traders and exhibitors. Best for: Adventurers, fashionistas, shoppers Getting around: The port is walking distance from town, but taxis and a free shuttle bus is also available. Taxis are one of the cheapest and most reliable ways of getting around Dalian. The bus system is also reliable.

XIAMEN Who goes there: Seabourn Cruise Line, Crystal Cruises, Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line. Cruisers like: Located in Fujian Province, Xiamen is a vibrant,

modern city with a long and colourful past. Make sure you allocate some time to visit Gulangyu Island. Settled by wealthy foreigners in the early part of the 20th Century, the island still contains many lavish mansions, European-style churches and picturesque squares. The car-free island is just a five-minute ferry ride from Xiamen. Once voted one of the world’s most liveable cities, Xiamen is also worth exploring, with museums, historical sights, botanic gardens and plenty of street life. Don’t miss: Wanshi Botanical Garden is a carefully designed botanical garden located on the northern slope of Shi Mountain. The large garden is divided into more than 20 botanical zones and also contains display rooms, scenic spots and other natural attractions. Best for: Shoppers, history buffs Getting around: Taxis are the preferred mode of transport, but the modern elevated bus network is fast and comfortable.

DALIAN Who goes there: Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn. Cruisers like: Dating back to the year 220, Dalian passed through many foreign hands, most notably Russian, before emerging as the modern financial powerhouse of today. Despite its epic scale, the city is known for its scenic gardens, lawns, squares and fountains. Dalian is also sports mad and boasts one of China’s Clockwise from top left: Grazing Giant Panda, the Karst Mountains and a Cormorant fisherman on the Li River ASEANCRUISING.COM

H O N G K O N G

A traditional junk in Hong Kong

An evergreen destination with plenty more to offer

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mainland China, pushing tourism spending down to HK$288 billion for the year.

THE NEXT 12 MONTHS To help stimulate the economy, the CHINA government is undertaking major infrastructure projects such as new rail connections to mainland China and the proposed Hong Kong-ZhuhaiMacau bridge which will cut travel time from three hours to half an hour. Three years ago, Hong Kong HONG KONG ES opened the state-of-the-art cruise IN gateway at the former Kai Tak airport P SOUTH IP CHINA SEA site which has been transformed to Kai IL Tak Cruise Terminal, capable of handling PH E two of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest cruise ships at the TH same time. Customs, immigration and health

ong Kong remains one of the most popular destinations for cruise ships in the whole of Asia. In 2016 the territory, famous for its luxury shopping, excellent seafood and soaring skyline, hosted over 403,000 cruise passengers, slightly down on the previous 12 months. Despite this slightly disappointing result Hong Kong remains the second most popular cruise ship destination in China after Shanghai, still ahead of Tianjin, Hainan, Xiamen and Guangzhou. The decline in cruise ship arrivals mirrors a general cooling of the Hong Kong tourism sector. General tourist arrivals dropped by 10.5 per cent in 2016, with a marked decline in visitors from

HONG KONG

MAJOR PORTS 1 BUSIEST PORT Hong Kong NUMBER OF PORT CALLS (2016) 185 ANNUAL GROWTH minus 8 per cent

officials can clear up to 3000 passengers an hour. An efficient system of taxis and coaches take passengers to Hong Kong Central, the airport or connecting rail services to mainland China. With Asia’s cruise market continuing to grow at record numbers – up an unprecedented 24 per cent last year, mainland Chinese cruisers accounted for almost half the region’s growth with 986,000 passengers. In addition, Hong Kong Tourism Board has launched a fly-cruise collaboration with several cruise lines to promote fly-cruise tourism in the city. It has also formed an alliance Asia Cruise Co-operation to maximise the growth of cruise tourism with neighbouring Hainan Island, the Philippines, Taiwan and Xiamen.

HONG KONG: PORT HONG KONG Who goes there: Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean International, Star Cruises, Dream Cruises, MSC, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea. Cruisers like: Hong Kong has been one of the world’s most popular destinations for many decades. Apart from its celebrated shopping malls,

hawker food and glittering skyscrapers, there’s also plenty for families to enjoy, such as Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park. A ferry ride to Lantau Island takes you to visit the Giant Buddha. Few visitors realise that Hong Kong is a sprawling archipelago of 260 islands, so hire a Chinese junk and explore the islands. Don’t miss: On a starlit night, visit Victoria Peak. At 552 metres high, it is the highest point in Hong Kong and offers panoramic views of the city

and its famous harbour. Best for: Hipsters, shopaholics and food lovers Getting around: The city’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is modern, clean and efficient. For something more old world try the Star ferry to Kowloon. Above: Take the cable car to The Peak for panoramic views ASEANCRUISING.COM

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THE ASIAN FLEET

t’s going to be a bumper cruise season for Asia, with the newest, biggest, most technologically advanced ships visiting our shores thanks to our amazing love affair with cruising. Our fleet in Asia will now number 60. There will be two megaships and 15 ‘large’ ships; 21 mid-size ships and 16 small upscale vessels. There will be six expedition ships deployed on limited seasons.   The stars will be Genting Dream – first of our own home-grown luxury line – Royal Caribbean’s Ovation

Norwegian Joy

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of the Seas, complete with robot barmen, iFly and surf pool; and foodie vessel Emerald Princess. Seabourn, Ponant and Costa will feature, and home-grown favourite Star Cruises will also be a big player. An incredible 1,560 cruises are scheduled, up from 1,095 from a year ago. And over three million mainly young families and retirees will take them. The ships will tie up at over 5,500 ports in 204 destinations across 17 countries.   It’s going to be a big year!

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L U X U R Y

DREAM CRUISES

Genting Dream

ream Cruises is Genting Hong Kong’s brand new cruise line catering to the rapid-growing high-end market in Asia. The cruise line offers inspirational luxury delivering the highest level of guest service and spacious comfort in the region. The fleet’s inaugural ship Genting Dream will arrive in Singapore in November for a 2-night High Seas cruise, followed by a 6-night cruise from Singapore to Hong Kong. The maiden cruise itinerary from her homeport of Nansha (Guangzhou) on November 13 offers Vietnam destinations. Genting Dream will accommodate a lower berth of 3,400 guests, attended by 2,000 crew members, forming the leading crew-to-guest ratio in Asia-based cruising. Conceived by Chinese pop-artist Jacky Tsai, DINING Delight in over 35 restaurant and bar concepts capturing the flavours of Asia and the world, and a 610-metre wraparound promenade to allow for dramatic seaside dining and lounging from sunrise to sunset in a multitude of themed venues. ACCOMMODATION A range of comfortable accommodation options are offered, with over 70 per cent of staterooms featuring private balconies. 100 connecting rooms will ensure that family and larger group vacations have never been more convenient. Guests can also

the hull of Genting Dream is adorned by an art piece envisaging a fantastical journey of love between a mermaid and an astronaut in a stunning and inspired ‘East-meets-West’ aesthetic. Inspirational onboard experiences include a comprehensive and ever-changing program of opportunities for self-discovery, including guest speakers orating on a multitude of topics, wine and whisky appreciation, and myriad educational activities and events to enrich guests’ time at sea. The ship also offers swimming pools, six water slides, play rooms, a rock climbing wall, and mini-golf. A full complement of wellness facilities will further enhance the guest experience including state-of-the art spas, a beauty salon, barbershop, and health club. experience the ultimate luxury in the exclusive ‘Dream Mansion’, a ‘ship within a ship’ with two floors of lavish suites featuring European-style butler service and special guest privileges. HIGHLIGHTS Feast your senses with China’s Got Talent – The Dream Experience, a 45-minute theatrical portrayal of the worldwide hit TV series. Guests can also dance to world class DJs and enjoy a dazzling fireworks display at Zouk Beach Club – Singapore’s legendary nightclub. Two submersibles take you under the sea, and our

VESSELS: 1 PASSENGERS: 3,352 DESTINATIONS: China, Vietnam. CONTACT: Dream Cruises P: (65) 6223 0002 E: reservations@ dreamcruiseline.com W: dreamcruiseline.com

Waterslide Park features six rides. Enjoy the first-ever Johnnie Walker House at sea, where guests can taste and purchase the rarest whiskies, and engage in whisky conversations.

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L U X U R Y

SEABOURN

Seabourn Quest

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 at sea 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 awardwinning Spa at Seabourn includes services from therapeutic treatments to a fully equipped fitness centre, and a full-service salon. A unique watersports 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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L U X U R Y DINING Award-winning gourmet cuisine in four venues, plus a coffee/snack bar and 24-hour room service. Guests dine where and when they wish, and food is prepared to order. Dinner from The Restaurant menu can be served in your suite or on your 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 suites, all with private verandas, and interiors designed by Adam D. Tihany. There will be multiple stunning dining venues, including The Grill by Thomas Keller, Sushi – a new venue exclusive to Seabourn Encore – and 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. 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; Alaska; Southeast Asia & China; the Americas, Antarctica; Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific; the Panama Canal and the Caribbean.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

• Accommodation in spacious oceanview and veranda suites

• All dining on board including alternative restaurants

• Full open-bar service, fine wines, spirits and champagne

• A variety of enrichment experiences and entertainment day and night

• Acclaimed service at sea, no tipping required • Complimentary watersports on select

FACILITIES Library, computer centre, concierge, five lounges and bars, award-winning spa (oceanview gym, motion studio, full-service salon), six outdoor whirlpools, two outdoor pools, nine-hole golf putting course, casino, three duty-free shops, laundry and dry-cleaning service, free guest laundrettes.

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 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. Voyages of seven to 24 days are combinable for Extended Explorations at extra savings.

CONTACT: Seabourn W: seabourn.com

OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP NIGHTS MYANMAR & MALAYSIA

SOUTHEAST ASIAN SEAS

THAILAND & VIETNAM

ASIAN KINGDOMS EXPLORATION

ASIAN EMPIRES EXPLORATION

ASIAN ICONS EXPLORATION

CHINA, JAPAN & KOREA

LANDS OF SILK & SPICE

PEARLS OF THE PHILIPPINES & BORNEO

ISLANDS, INDIA & ARABIA

SILK EMPIRES EXPLORATION

*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. ©2016 Seabourn.

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L U X U R Y

SILVERSEA CRUISES

Silver Muse

ilversea’s small luxury ships are designed for those who delight in the thrill of discovery while indulging mind and body in the most lavish surroundings imaginable. All accommodations are spacious, ocean-view suites that include butler service and most include private verandas. Silversea voyages and cruise expeditions sail to over 800 destinations on all seven continents, more than any other cruise line. Our intimate, ultra-luxury ships can sail up narrow waterways into the heart of a city, or tie up right at the pier while others must DINING With the importance of food in Italian culture you would expect dining to be a high priority at Silversea. Moreover, gastronomic excellence is a given, thanks to our partnership with the prestigious Grands Chefs Relais & Châteaux. No matter where you dine, their influence is readily apparent in the great diversity and freshness of your selections. ACCOMMODATION Silversea’s suites offer one of the highest space-per-guest ratios of any luxury cruise accommodations. All of our suites feature ocean views and butler service.

anchor off shore. And for those who yearn to explore the new and unknown, Silversea Expeditions can transport you to the furthermost boundaries of the planet. Renowned for culinary excellence and innovative spirit, Silversea’s luxury cruises offer a choice of open-seating dining options throughout the fleet, as well as several specialty venues aboard all non-expedition ships. Enjoy the ease, convenience and value of an all-inclusive cruise fare that includes almost all of your discretionary onboard expenses. For a truly personal experience, customise your suite with an abundance of optional amenities. From toiletries to a bar with your favourite wines and spirits, we offer only the finest comforts in luxury cruise accommodation. HIGHLIGHTS Personalised Service. Our Signature. Breeze through embarkation and step into the warm welcome of white-gloved staff. Enjoy a flute of champagne as you are escorted to your suite. It is the quality of our service that imparts such a wonderful sense of well-being as soon as you set sail on a Silversea luxury cruise.

VESSELS: 9 PASSENGERS: 100-596 DESTINATIONS: Our small luxury ships explore the 7 continents and over 800 destinations on an all-inclusive cruise. Sail into the heart of St. Petersburg, around the tip of Cape Town, along the sheikdoms of the Middle East, across Sydney Harbour and through Chilean fjords. CONTACT: Silversea Cruises P: +65 6223 7066 E: singaporesales@silversea.com W: silversea.com

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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-squaremetre 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.

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. In 2017, Crystal Symphony will arrive in south-east Asian waters in February, and will sail a succession of Asian itineraries through destinations such as Indonesia, Philippines, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, Cambodia, China and Hong Kong.

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 whenever you want and with whomever you choose. The main restaurant is the 570-seat 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.

his 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 is spending late 2016 in India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia, also spending February to April 2017 in Asia and adding China, Malaysia and Philippines to its Asian itineraries during that period.

VESSELS: 4 (including Seven Seas Explorer launched in 2016) PASSENGERS: 490 to 708 DESTINATIONS: worldwide 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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L U X U R Y

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.

ceania Cruises’ Insignia and Nautica call at a number of ports in south-east Asia. Both vessels have been quite freshly renovated; the sleek Insignia‘s decks are now laid with teak and custom stone and tile work, while the lounges and suites boast neoclassical furnishings. 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. Some sailings to Asia offer free three-night pre- or post-cruise land tours.

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.

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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P R E M I U M

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.

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.

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.

uxury line Celebrity Cruises was founded in 1988 and has grown its cruise itineraries to include a number of ports in south-east 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 its 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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P R E M I U M

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

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. It’s our privilege to offer enriching, classic-style cruises that connect you to the world’s most fascinating people, places and cultures. Today, Holland America Line’s fleet of 14 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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P R E M I U M 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 the 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: 14 Passengers: 835-2,650

WHAT’S NEW:

ACCOMMODATION Refined amenities and the signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed grace each elegant stateroom. Most of our spacious staterooms are ocean-facing; many have 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.

In April 2016 Holland America Line welcomed ms Koningsdam to the fleet, the first of their new Pinnacle Class of ships, combining the best of what guests love with engaging new experiences and public venues. The vessel will debut several innovative concepts and new public venues while still featuring popular amenities guests associate with Holland America Line. Koningsdam features the first purpose-built family staterooms, as well as single staterooms.

ENTERTAINMENT Nights aboard are filled with abundant world-class entertainment options and exclusive experiences curated for each cruise. Music Walk, available on select ships, is an immersive showcase for outstanding live performances. It includes Lincoln Center Stage, an ideal setting for nightly chamber music; B.B. King’s Blues Club, the best of Memphis soul and funk at sea; and Billboard Onboard, featuring 50 years of chart-topping hits.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

FACILITIES During days at sea, you’re spoilt for choice with facilities that include the Fitness Center, 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, and the most extensive library at sea. BEST FOR

• HISTORY & CULTURE • SPA & WELLNESS • CHILDREN • ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

FOOD & WINE

• Accommodation • All main meals • Daily entertainment and activities

• Club HAL for ages 3-17 • 24-hour room service CONTACT:

•

SIGHTSEEING

CHOOSING YOUR ITINERARY A vast variety of itineraries ranging from one to 113 days and visiting all 7 continents – the Grand Voyage in 2017 is 111 days long. Popular Holland America Line itineraries include Alaska & the Yukon, Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific & Asia, Bermuda, Canada & New England, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Baltic and Northern Europe, Grand Voyages, Hawaii, Mexico and Panama.

• ENTERTAINMENT •

To find the Holland America Line representation in your region, please refer to www.hollandamerica.com

OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP NIGHTS

$ FROM

ALASKA

7-14

$299pp

ASIA

14-58

$1,299pp

AUSTRALIA/NZ/SOUTH PACIFIC

11-33

$999pp

$549pp

CANADA & NEW ENGLAND

7-15

$349pp

CARIBBEAN

7-21

$499pp

EUROPE

7-33

$699pp

36-115

$3,199pp

BERMUDA

GRAND WORLD CRUISE MEXICO

$499pp

PANAMA CANAL

10-21

$1,599pp

PANAMA CANAL, S. 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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P R E M I U M

PRINCESS CRUISES

Sapphire Princess in Singapore

pending time with Princess Cruises® is an unforgettable experience that provides every guest on board with the perfect rejuvenation holiday and is replete with a broad range of world-class services and award-winning facilities. Taking guests beyond their familiar home territory, but in luxurious comfort and style, a journey with Princess Cruises® promises to be both sanctuary and adventure. These qualities and more have clinched Princess Cruises® the honour of being voted the top cruise line in Alaska for eight consecutive years by Travel Weekly.

OCEANVIEW 17 to 18 sqm • fridge • TV • bathroom with shower • wardrobe • window

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Young or old, guests can feel revitalised on board by experiencing intimate, captivating and memorable moments. Marvel at the expansive views from Tamatorizaki Observatory on a cruise to the Japanese archipelago, or take a short cruise from Singapore to explore off-thebeaten-track wonders of south-east Asia. The wide array of enriching programs, sumptuous culinary offerings and exquisite five-star service are further complemented by eye-opening, adventure-filled shore excursions. Set sail on an exceptional voyage filled with wonder and discovery with Princess Cruises®. Come Back New.

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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P R E M I U M DINING Princess Cruises® continues to impress with award-winning gastronomical experiences and new highlights for Asia this year. Ultimate Balcony Dining features a deluxe four-course meal in the comfort and privacy of guests’ stateroom balcony, and an exclusive partnership with celebrity chef Curtis Stone for a specialty restaurant, SHARE, offers exquisite menus.

VESSELS: 18 PASSENGERS: 672-3,600

ACCOMMODATION Indulge in a relaxing night of sleep on the new Princess Luxury Bed, scientifically designed and beautifully styled. The bed comprises a plush pillowtop, a medium-firm mattress for enhanced support, a European-inspired duvet and 100% luxurious Jacquard-woven cotton linens. Guests can envelop themselves in blissful comfort worthy of royalty and wake up fully rejuvenated.

WHAT’S NEW: Starting from 2017, guests sailing in Asia can look forward to the Club Class suite offering which features a whole new exclusive dining experience and enhanced amenities. On top of the existing separate seating area with sofa bed and a coffee table, guests get to enjoy additional concierge-level services such as priority services and extra in-room service amenities.

HIGHLIGHTS Providing guests with signature entertainment such as Movies Under the Stars® and world-class facilities such as Lotus Spa®, Princess Cruises® promises to enthral the senses. Guests will be introduced to Born to Dance – a high-energy musical highlighting Broadway’s acclaimed choreographers and featuring songs from iconic shows including West Side Story and Chicago.

• Accommodation • Main meals (selected restaurants) • Entertainment • Room service • Onboard activities

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 Guests can peruse the Art Gallery and boutiques on sea days. For the Royal class ships, there is The Sanctuary Retreat where guests can get the ultimate pampering, and there are four private Sanctuary Cabanas as well as two Lotus Spa Cabanas which offer an elegant private space for a range of spa treatments. There is also a casino and library on board Princess Cruises® ships.

CHOOSING YOUR ITINERARY Princess Cruises® offers travellers unforgettable memories across all seven continents, with more than 150 different itineraries calling at more than 300 ports and destinations globally. In Asia Pacific, voyages in the Japan Archipelago and around south-east Asia have been popular, and new itineraries based out of Taiwan were also introduced last year.

OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP NIGHTS

$ FROM

ALASKA

7-10

$944pp

JAPAN

5-13

$1,079pp

MEDITERRANEAN

7-28

$1,517PP

SCANDINAVIA

11-14

$1,749PP

SOUTHEAST ASIA

3-11

$449PP

WORLD CRUISE

17-115

$3,050PP

Prices listed are in Singapore dollars and exclude prevailing taxes and gratuities worth $13.50-$15.50 per guest per night. Our guests have the option to book cruise tour packages for a sea and land vacation.

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P R E M I U M

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL

Ovation of the Seas in Singapore

oyal Caribbean International continues to grow its presence in Asia in 2016 with a total of five ships, including three of the region’s largest and most innovative ships in Singapore. The biggest highlight of the year is surely the arrival of the latest Quantum Class ship Ovation of the Seas in June. Not only is she Asia’s largest, at 18 decks high and 168,666 tonnes, she is also the first new international liner deployed to Asia. This smart ship is wowing cruisers with her nextgeneration amenities, such as the North Star elevated glass capsule, skydiving simulator, Bionic Bar, the Two70 transformative venue which fuses technology and entertainment and SeaPlex, the largest active indoor area at sea which features bumper cars and even a circus school! Adding on to Singapore’s exciting cruise offerings this year are Voyager of the Seas’ new season in April and May, and the longest-ever season on

OVATION OF THE SEAS Quantum Class • 18 decks high • 4,905 guests (total capacity)

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Mariner of the Seas with close to 40 sailings from this October. New itineraries are the 3-night cruise to Penang and the 4-night cruise to Phuket, as well as a couple of theme cruises on cosplay and salsa dancing and the ever-popular festive cruises for Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year. These Voyager Class ships also come with Royal Caribbean’s unique entertainment and activities such as the Royal Promenade, ice-skating rink, full-sized sports court, DreamWorks Entertainment and a surf simulator that appeals to guests of all ages, from families to singles. Come 2017, prepare to be amazed by these three ships as they make their way back to Singapore again for more south-east Asian cruises to destinations in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam of three nights and above, with Mariner of the Seas till next March and returning in October, Ovation of the Seas in March and April and Voyager of the Seas in April and May.

MARINER OF THE SEAS Voyager Class • 15 decks high • 3,807 guests (total capacity)

VOYAGER OF THE SEAS Voyager Class • 15 decks high • 3,840 guests (total capacity)

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P R E M I U M DINING Quantum Class: Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine, Jamie’s Italian and Michael’s Genuine Pub. Voyager Class: Chops Grille Steakhouse, Giovanni’s Table and Johnny Rockets.

SHIPS: 25 (5 based in Asia) GUESTS: 2,000 to 6,780

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, Promenade Staterooms and Virtual Balcony interior staterooms.

WHAT’S NEW: Ovation of the Seas, the largest and newest ship in Asia, will homeport in Singapore from March to April 2017.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

• A ccommodation • A ll 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, Studio B Ice Skating Rink and FlowRider surf simulator.

buffet restaurants

• R oom service ost entertainment and •M

activities including all theatre and ice shows • A dventure Ocean activities for kids and teens ost DreamWorks •M Entertainment programs

FACILITIES Royal Caribbean is 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, ice-skating rink and Royal Promenade.

CONTACT: Royal Caribbean International P: (65) 6305 0033 W: r oyalcaribbean.com.sg

BEST FOR

• HISTORY & CULTURE • SPA & WELLNESS • FOOD & WINE • ADVENTURE • SHOPPING • SIGHTSEEING • ENTERTAINMENT • CHILDREN • ONBOARD ACTIVITIES CHOOSING YOUR ITINERARY With 25 ships sailing every major sea we bring you to 272 spectacular destinations in 77 countries on six continents, so you know there will be an itinerary for any occasion.

OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP NIGHTS MALAYSIA EXPLORER

$ FROM

3-4

$309pp

$359pp

ISLES OF SOUTH EAST ASIA

4-5

$359pp

SPICE OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

5-7

$419pp

PHUKET GETAWAY

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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F A M I L Y

COSTA CRUISES

osta Cruises was established in 1948 in Genoa, Italy, and now offers the most diverse choice of cruise holidays with a unique Italian touch based on its ‘Italy at Sea’ concept in terms of hospitality, gastronomy, style and fun. The Costa Cruises fleet has a total of 15 ships in service, all flying the Italian flag. Each year Costa’s ships offer the chance to visit some 250 separate destinations around the world. Cruises operate in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, Central America, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Indian Ocean, the Far East and Africa, as well as Around-the-World Cruises and Grand Cruises calling at destinations in different continents on the one vacation. Costa Cruises is the first international cruise company to operate homeport cruises in the Asian market, having been doing so since 2006.

OCEANVIEW CABIN • 13.5 to 18 sqm • satellite TV • air conditioning • mini bar • safe • hairdryer • window

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Over the past decade, Costa Asia has maintained customer-first principles, focusing on innovation and excellence to bring to its Asian passengers the most creative and high-quality cruise products, all with the flavour of the ‘Italy at Sea’ concept. At present four out of 15 ships in the Costa fleet are positioned regularly in Asia. Costa Victoria is the fleet’s ‘Ship of Fashion’ (2012), Costa Atlantica, on the other hand, is the ‘Ship of Art’ (2013), Costa Serena provides an experience of ‘Rome at Sea’ (2015) and Costa Fortuna the ‘Museum at Sea’ since April 2016. Costa Asia brings ‘Italy at Sea’ to Asian passengers, offering them an authentic European cruising experience. Costa Asia’s fleet will welcome the arrival of Costa neoRomantica in 2017 and is set to add two 4,200-berth newbuilds that have been specifically designed for the China market.

BALCONY CABIN

GRAND SUITE

• 19 to 21 sqm • satellite TV • air conditioning • mini bar • safe • hairdryer • window • balcony

• 33 to 43 sqm • satellite TV • air conditioning • mini bar • safe • hairdryer • window • balcony • choice of pillow • bathrobe • slippers • bath product kit

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F A M I L Y DINING Serving authentic Italian cuisine, in Costa’s sophisticated main dining room you’ll never tire of our daily changing menu, including Italian Nights and our special gala dinner menu. In the relaxing buffet restaurant you can fill your own plate with a variety of tastes. In addition to authentic pasta and pizza, you’ll also find many dishes that you’d need to eat five meals a day to try them all!

SHIPS: 15 GUESTS: 1,680-4,947

ACCOMMODATION Suites enjoy exclusive priority embarkation, exclusive butler, fresh fruits in each cabin, a jacuzzi and a pillow menu for a perfect night’s rest. Balcony cabin is ideal for guests who enjoy private sunsets over the expanse of the sea. Oceanview and Inside cabin Not only are these cheaper but they are just as comfortable as the other cabins.

WHAT’S NEW: Costa Asia added the fourth ship Costa Fortuna in April 2016. This ‘Museum at Sea’ features more than 4,860 artistic masterpieces, with a grand thematic décor that harks back to the glory days of Italian Renaissance and seafaring history.

HIGHLIGHTS Enjoy a full Italian flavour, with musicals featuring popular Italian songs and dance. The theatre is also busy every night with music and variety shows from around the world. You can also enjoy international activities with an Italian twist during the day – some of Costa’s most popular attractions include Italian cooking demonstrations, handcrafted Italian accessory classes and Italian conversation classes.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

• D ifferent theatre shows every night.

• A ll-day activities, from sports, cooking & dancing to crafts.

• F ive meals per day of authentic Italian cuisine, plus Asian dishes; fine dining or buffet. • J acuzzis, sauna & Turkish bath, gym, sports court and outdoor jogging track. • S quok Club offers an endless range of activities for kids.

FACILITIES During sea days, you’ll be able to indulge in a number of onboard activities. There is a pizzeria, shopping arcade with premium Italian brands, a spa and wellness centre with a sauna and Turkish bath, as well as swimming pools and jacuzzis. Guests can also indulge in a 4D cinema and Grand Prix simulator – both only available on specific ships – as well as a library.

CONTACT: Costa Cruises P: (86) 21 5351 9509 E: i nfo-pao@costa.it W: costacruisesasia.com

KIDS Kids aged from 3 to 11 years will want to make a beeline for the Squok Club, which entertains the little ones with endless activities, such as arts & crafts sessions, treasure hunts, Squolympics (Olympics for young athletes), dance classes, and Italian language sessions. Plus, a kids’ menu is also available to tempt your munchkin’s palate.

CHOOSING YOUR ITINERARY

A wide range of Asia itineraries visit different popular destinations, such as China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Maldives and more. Enjoy unique and enjoyable ‘Italy at Sea’ travel experience with Costa Cruises.

BEST FOR

• HISTORY & CULTURE • SPA & WELLNESS • FOOD & WINE • SHOPPING • SIGHTSEEING • ENTERTAINMENT • CHILDREN • ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

Find more information about departures, itineraries and prices on www.costacruisesasia.com

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NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE DINING Eateries include two complimentary dining rooms, a buffet with madeto-order omelettes and pasta dishes, and fresh salads. Asian restaurants serve Japanese, Thai and Chinese cuisine, and there is 24-hour room service.

orwegian Cruise Lines, part owned by Genting Hong Kong, visits destinations throughout Canada, USA (including popular Alaska), South America and Europe. Onboard 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 Scenes tours showing how a cruise ship operates. For the adventurous traveller, some of Norwegian’s shore excursions include cave-tubing or ziplining.

ACCOMMODATION Norwegian is one of the only lines that caters for singles, with singleoccupancy studios and access to a singles’ lounge and bar. The Haven is an exclusive enclave of suites at the top of the ship with a private courtyard, private spa access and butler service.

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

FACILITIES Multiple pools and hot tubs, casino, two-deck spa, fitness centre, theatre, Aqua Park with multiple slides, rope course and a rockclimbing wall.

Norwegian Sun

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.

&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 first 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.

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FACILITIES Theatre, themed nightclub, casino, spa, pool, swim-up bar, sun deck, Strictly Come Dancing (on select cruises).

Vessels: 5 Passengers: 1,692-2,020 Destinations: South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Asia CONTACT: P&O CRUISES W: pocruises.com

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F A M I L Y

STAR CRUISES

SuperStar Virgo

s one of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Top 50 Asian Brandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Star Cruises offers an exceptional cruise experience on board an acclaimed fleet which comprises the flagship SuperStar Virgo, SuperStar Gemini, SuperStar Libra, SuperStar Aquarius, Star Pisces and Taipan. Calling at ports in China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia and Taiwan, the line features shorter itineraries, ideal for first-time cruisers. Star Cruises offers a variety of world-class entertainment, from award-winning international artists to multi-million dollar in-house production. Each DINING Enjoy a delectable array of Asian and international cuisines, ranging from fresh Japanese dishes to fine Italian recipes and sumptuous Chinese favourites. A tasty Halal spread is available at The Taj on SuperStar Virgo, and Spices Restaurant on SuperStar Libra. ACCOMMODATION Delight in the finest holiday experience from ship to shore. Our Balcony Class cabins and Suites offer you a private piece of ocean, as well as a host of privileges such as a personal butler service, frontrow seats to performances, and complimentary dining treats.

ship has its own style, all offering good value and a relaxed atmosphere. Activities are available for all ages and Star Cruises also tailors programs and theme cruises, such as holiday camps at sea, red-hot Fiesta celebrations, wellness, spa and fitness programs and marriage cruises. What sets us apart is our innovative freestyle cruising concept, where guests are free to dress up or dress down, dine where and with whom they choose, and enjoy the activities they prefer, when they prefer to do them. After all, this is your holiday! HIGHLIGHTS Recreational delights abound onboard the fleet: immerse yourself in world-class productions at The Lido, de-stress with a rejuvenating massage, seek a few thrills at our mega waterslide, or let your hair down with a party on the Helipad, beneath the glittering stars. Out here, you can unwind your way!

VESSELS: 6 DESTINATIONS: China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Vietnam. CONTACT: Star Cruises P: (65) 6223 0002 W: starcruises.com

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CARNIVAL

DINING On top of the main dining room and Lido buffet, options include burgers, Italian, steak, Mexican, seafood, Asian flavours, American barbecue and the charming Dr Seuss ‘Green Eggs and Ham’ breakfast. ACCOMMODATION Cabins from 17 square metres, with 24-hour room service and steward, bathroom and shower, air-conditioning and personal safe. Choose from interior, oceanview, balcony or suite.

ith its fleet of 25 ships and about four million passengers per year, Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest cruise line in the world. Carnival will be operating in Asia for the first time from 2018, with Carnival Spirit cruising to Asian ports in April that year on a 19-night cruise from Sydney and including Bali, Ho Chi Minh City and Ko Samui in her itinerary, ending in Singapore for a stint in dry dock during May 2018. Spirit will then homeport in Shanghai for a series of cruises around Asia during summer.

VESSELS: 25 PASSENGERS: 2,052-3934 DESTINATIONS: Alaska, Australia, Asia, Bermuda, Canada, Caribbean, Cuba, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, USA. CONTACT: Carnival Cruise Lines W: carnival.com

FACILITIES Spa, jacuzzis, pools, sauna, nightclub, waterslide, library, gym, jogging track, video arcade, casino, cabaret, wedding chapel, shopping, dining, bars, ice-cream bar.

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.

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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STAR CLIPPERS

DINING Breakfast and lunch are buffet style, while open-seated dinner is à la carte, with a French Michelinstarred chef. Relax in the cocktail lounge by the piano or up on deck in the tropical bar. ACCOMMODATION Most cabins are outside cabins; suites with private balconies are aboard Royal Clipper. Every cabin has beds that convert from single to queen size, and a marblelined bathroom with shower; some cabins also have whirlpool baths.

he three magnificent high-tech replica clippers of the Star Clippers fleet manage to blend the true romance and traditions of the age of sail with the luxury, personal service and space-age cruising technologies of a private yacht. The three vessels feature classic nautical décor, which abounds in polished brass, antique prints, teak decks and mahogany rails. On deck, amid a wondrous backdrop of billowing white sails, stays, lines and ropes, there are two swimming pools and more space per passenger than in conventional superliners.

Vessels: 3 Passengers: 170-227 Destinations: Caribbean, Mediterranean, Panama Canal, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia CONTACT: Star Clippers P: (61) 2 8913 0797 E: diana.siderova@starclippers. com W: s tarclippers.com

FACILITIES Bars, restaurants, lounges, pools, libraries and gift shops. Royal Clipper also has a floating marine platform, observation lounge, grandstands, balcony wings, health spa and gym. Equipment and tuition is available for watersports.

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.

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 contrast, 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.

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PANDAW

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: pandaw.com

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APT

APT specialises in river cruises around the world, from the historic cities and towns of Europe to the temples and jungles of Asia. In Vietnam, food-lovers can cruise the Mekong River with worldrenowned Australian chef Luke Nguyen. Alternatively, cruise the Irrawaddy in Myanmar, the Lower Ganges in India, or the Yangtze River in China. DINING Expect gourmet cuisine, regional produce, and openseating dining.

ACCOMMODATION Suites are spacious and most have outside views and ensuites. Cabins range from about 16 square metres. FACILITIES Wi-Fi, free bicycle use, library, lounge, bar, massage. VESSELS: 20 PASSENGERS: 60-164 DESTINATIONS: Burma, China, Egypt, Europe, India, Russia, USA, Vietnam. CONTACT: APT W: aptouring.com.au

AMAWATERWAYS

AmaWaterways guests can discover the history and culture of Europe, Asia and Africa. In Asia, cruises travel the Mekong River through Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar. For an adventure, the Zambezi Queen has been designed for safari river cruising in Botswana. DINING Dining options vary between ships and itineraries, such as a main restaurant and an intimate chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s table experience with a tasting menu.

ACCOMMODATION Cabins start at about 15 square metres and feature deluxe amenities; many ships include French balconies. FACILITIES Gym, massage and hair salon, gift shop, sun deck, walking track, whirlpool, Wi-Fi. VESSELS: 20 PASSENGERS: 24-164 DESTINATIONS: Africa, Asia, Europe. CONTACT: AmaWaterways W: amawaterways.com

AVALON WATERWAYS

Avalon Waterways operates one of the most modern fleets in Europe and also cruise the Irrawaddy and Mekong Rivers, and waterways in China. Highlights of the Yangtze River cruises in China include the Forbidden City and Terracotta Warriors. On the Irrawaddy in Myanmar, guests can visit a monastery and a village school. DINING Buffet breakfast with sparkling wine, lunch buffet with pasta and carving stations and four-course a la carte dinners.

ACCOMMODATION In Southeast Asia, suites are about 22 square metres, with sliding glass doors. FACILITIES Lounge, club, bars, fitness centre, library, hair salon, complimentary Wi-Fi, whirlpool. VESSELS: 22 PASSENGERS: 36-392 DESTINATIONS: Asia, Europe, North Africa, South America. CONTACT: Avalon Waterways W: avalonwaterways.com.sg

AQUA EXPEDITIONS

Five-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. On the Mekong, guides lead tours through the jungles of Cambodia and Vietnam. DINING One dining room on each ship with meals designed by award-winning chefs.

ACCOMMODATION Aqua Mekong has 20 air-conditioned suites, which are 30 square metres and styled with local materials. 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

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SANCTUARY RETREATS AYRAVATA CRUISES

Known for its high-end safari lodges, Sanctuary also runs cruises in China and Egypt. Sanctuary Ananda has been sailing Myanmar’s Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers since late 2014 and is the only all-balcony ship on the Irrawaddy, with a high staff-toguest ratio. Cabins have separate living areas, monsoon showers and an iPad with free Wi-Fi. DINING A la carte restaurant, alfresco buffet dining, cocktail bar. Private dining is also available.

ACCOMMODATION The Sanctuary Ananda has 16 suites and deluxe suites, from 27 to 28 square metres with balconies. FACILITIES Sun deck, plunge pool, library, gym, spa with massage and wellness treatments. VESSELS: 6 PASSENGERS: 42 DESTINATION: China, Egypt, Myanmar. CONTACT: Sanctuary Retreats W: sanctuaryretreats.com

JAHAN

Jahan Cruises’ signature vessel RV Jahan is considered its most romantic ship, evoking the opulent vessels of British India and showcasing local woodworking, weaving and art. The Raj of India Lounge, tai chi lessons on the sun deck and wheelhouse visits to see the ship piloted all make Jahan Cruises ideal for older guests who are interested in culture. DINING One dining hall on each ship serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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ACCOMMODATION Staterooms from 24 square metres; suites from 48 square metres, with floor-toceiling windows and balcony. FACILITIES Sun deck, spa, gym, steam rooms, observatory, pool (RV Jahan only). VESSELS: 3 PASSENGERS: 46-52 DESTINATIONS: Cambodia, Vietnam. CONTACT: Jahan Cruises W: jahancruises.com

The flagship of the Ayravata fleet, the RV Paukan 1947 originally carried cargo and passengers between Mandalay and Bahmo, 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 timber. DINING Meals are served in the dining room on the main deck, combining East and West.

ACCOMMODATION Cabins from 23 square metres; suites are 38 square metres. FACILITIES Sun deck, writers’ lounge, spa, fitness centre. Cruise includes airport transfers, tours and monument entry fees. VESSELS: 4 PASSENGERS: 32-55 DESTINATIONS: Myanmar. CONTACT: Ayravata Cruises W: ayravatacruises.com

VIKING RIVER CRUISES

Viking 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, activities and shore excursions. DINING Asian and European cuisines are served in a restaurant with panoramic views. Complimentary 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. FACILITIES Internet cafe, hairdresser, doctor, laundry, sun deck, wraparound deck, library. VESSELS: 47 PASSENGERS: 60-256 DESTINATIONS: Asia, Europe, Russia. CONTACT: Viking River Cruises W: vikingrivercruises.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.

niworld operates 19 river ships across the world, including River Orchid, which plies the waters of south-east Asia. The 58-passenger handcrafted, colonial-style ship was built in 2013 and sails 7-night itineraries along the Mekong and Tonlé 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.

SCENIC

Scenic now runs more than 500 tours to 66 countries. Considered one of the higher-end cruise lines, Scenic’s fares are all-inclusive, even including gratuities. Scenic Spirit launched on the Mekong this year, boasting the largest suites on the river. DINING Buffet and a la carte available, as well as Italian fine dining, a cafe, 24-hour room service, and a degustation restaurant for Diamond Deck guests.

ACCOMMODATION Suites from 15 square metres, with balcony, TV, safe and mini bar. FACILITIES Sun deck, pool, sauna, open-air cinema, gym, beauty services. VESSELS: 11 PASSENGERS: 68-169 DESTINATIONS: China, Ecuador, Europe, Myanmar, North & South America, Russia. CONTACT: Scenic W: scenic.com.au

BELMOND

Belmond’s fleet varies between Europe and China. In France, vessels carry as few as four passengers on private charters. In Myanmar, Road to Mandalay and Orcaella carry 50 to 82 passengers along the Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers. Entertainment includes lectures on Myanmar culture and local marionette performances. DINING Buffet-style dining for breakfast and lunch; gourmet dinners are inspired by Eastern and Western flavours.

ACCOMMODATION Single cabins from 10.6 square metres; cabins from 11.3 square metres; suites from 29.1 square metres. FACILITIES Observation deck, pool, wellbeing and fitness area, boutique shops, lounge bar. VESSELS: 7 PASSENGERS: 4-82 DESTINATION: France, Myanmar. CONTACT: Belmond W: belmond.com/river-cruises

Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

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