The cruise industry in Singapore has experienced robust growth in the past decade. Since then, the number visiting the island nation each year has increased to 1.2 million. Most of the visitors came from Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and New Zealand. Indian travelers are also helping to boost the region, contributing to a 25 percent increase in passenger traffic last year.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is actively partnering with cruise lines to re-engage a new wave of cruise tourists. It also promotes cruises and works with travel agents to highlight enticing experiences. Between 2023-2024, the industry's pre-pandemic level is expected to return.
The STB promotes the cruise industry and ensures that infrastructure is in place to meet increasing demand. The STB has teamed up with DNV GL, a Norwegian risk management company, to create a certification program. These initiatives are intended to improve safety and hygiene in this sector.
The STB created the Cruise Development Fund in order to encourage cruise liners to make Singapore their homeport. This programme is available to all cruise line charterers, destinations management companies and ground handlers. This fund supports cruise ship deployments and encourages cruise liners to choose Singapore as homeport.
The STB announced a partnership with Costa Cruises. It has worked together with the company in order to market to Asians.
After a brief pause, the cruise industry in Singapore resumed its port calls in July. The first call was to Indonesia, with Resorts World Cruises' Genting Dream making its way to the island of Batam. The first stop for cruise ships from Singapore, based in neighboring countries, was Bintan, Indonesia.
Singapore is also being included in more cruise lines' itineraries. Royal Caribbean International's Quantum of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas have already called at Marina Bay Cruise Centre in Singapore. There are also plans to offer longer sailings from the port, and to start calling at Phuket. A variety of ships sailing from Singapore offer a range of Southeast Asia cruise itineraries. It could be a catalyst for increased interest in traveling in the region.
The STB predicts that Singapore's cruise market will recover from its early decline. "We expect the cruise industry in Singapore to return to pre-pandemic levels in between 2023 and 2024."
With a growing number of returning and brand new cruises in the pipeline, the STB can re-engage a customer group that was virtually unaffected during the pandemic. It has also been actively working with Changi Airport Group for consumer marketing campaigns. This has increased fly-cruise packages across markets like India and China.
Singapore has a clear vision for its cruise industry. This includes becoming a center for sustainable tourism. For this reason, the STB has also joined up with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or Asean, on a monthly e-newsletter. This body aims to have 4.5 million visitors on cruise ships by 2035.
FAQ
How do you choose the right cruise ship?
It is simple to choose the right cruise line. First, decide what type of cruise you would like to take. You may want to take a small, intimate cruise with only a few people or if you prefer a larger cruise with lots of passengers. Consider how much you can afford. If you are looking for something more affordable, look for cruises that offer "all-inclusive" packages. This means you don't have any extra cost for meals, drinks or entertainment. If you are considering a family cruise, ensure the lines you choose have great programs for children.
Where do cruises begin?
Most cruise vacations start in Miami, Florida. This city has both international and domestic airports. These two locations permit passengers to explore South America and Europe.
Can you take a cruise without a passport?
You need a passport to travel the world. You can visit any country you want without needing to obtain a visa.
In some countries, you may not be allowed to enter if your passport isn't valid. A passport allows you to stay longer while traveling abroad.
Can I bring my pet with me?
Many cruise lines allow pets onboard. There are restrictions, though. The first is to make sure your pet can travel. Pets who are too sick or unable to travel should not be allowed on board. If they are service dogs, they cannot be brought on board. Service dogs are specially trained to aid disabled people. You cannot also bring any dangerous animal aboard.
Statistics
- For an example of savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. (travel.usnews.com)
- In addition, 10 to 15 percent gratuity is typically added to bar bills — for alcohol and soft drinks — and gratuities are applied to spa treatments. (cruiseline.com)
- *20% Gratuities Apply on Free Unlimited Open Bar; Free Specialty Dining. (ncl.com)
- You can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip. (travel.usnews.com)
External Links
How To
How to stay safe when on a Cruise Ship
Before embarking on your cruise ship journey, there are many important things you should know. To avoid getting into trouble, you must know how to behave onboard. Here are some safety tips you can use to make sure you have a great trip.
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Pay attention to your surroundings at all costs. On cruise ships, people often congregate, especially at mealtimes. It is easy to lose sight of your task when you are surrounded by people who want food and chat. Don't let this distract you from what you're supposed to do. You should tell someone to stop doing something that is dangerous like smoking or drinking alcohol.
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Always keep your room key close to you when you board the ship, and hand over your room key to the person checking you in. You'll be easily found if something happens. Make sure you have your passport handy too.
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Your valuables should be kept out of reach. Most cabins include drawers under the beds. You can store important documents such as passports and credit cards. Also, make sure nothing valuable is visible in plain view. You should keep your bags hidden away from others.
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Keep hydrated. Even though cruise ships are well-stocked with water, it can sometimes be hard to remember how much. You can take advantage of the complimentary bottled water onboard. You should avoid becoming dehydrated. Dehydration makes you tired and cranky, leading to fights or accidents.
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Be attentive to all announcements. Announcements are displayed everywhere, including on TV screens. They include safety procedures, emergency exits, and even weather reports. These announcements need to be taken seriously. They may save your life.
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You should lock your door before you leave your cabin. No matter how friendly or helpful a crewmember may appear, lock your cabin. Thieves can often get in through unlocked doors. You should ask the crew for permission before you use the restroom.
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Avoid going alone overboard. The crew will need to wait for you to be rescued if you do fall overboard. In the meantime, sharks and other sea creatures may be attracted to your body. It's best to wait until help arrives.
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You should not smoke in an elevator. These elevators are pressurized and smoke can build up quickly. If you feel dizzy and lightheaded, it is best to get out immediately. It doesn't necessarily mean that breathing is safe, even though the outside air is clean.
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Learn the evacuation procedure. Every year, many people die in elevators. In an emergency, you should follow the instructions displayed on the screen.
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You should be familiar with fire drills. Fire drills are usually conducted once per day. During a drill, everyone on deck has to evacuate. Follow the instructions of the crew members. When the drill is finished, return to the cabin and lock your door.
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Ask questions before accepting food and drink. Cruisers often experience food poisoning. Many people are unaware that certain foods cannot be eaten aboard ships. Most cruise ships prohibit raw oysters. If you're not sure whether the food being served is safe, you can politely decline it and opt for another meal.
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When using the pool, be careful. There have been many cases of passengers falling into the pools accidentally. You should not fall into the pools unless someone spots you. It is also possible to slip on the ground. Always wear appropriate footwear and pay close attention to what's around you.