StarCruises will homeport its flagship vessel, the Star Voyager, in Hong Kong starting June 27, marking a key return to the city’s cruise scene and bolstering tourism recovery.
The move was announced at a press conference and follows strong demand from early bookings.
Initially scheduled through August, the Hong Kong deployment has been extended 11 more weeks until November 14, the company said. Full itineraries for the extended autumn sailings will be released by end-May.
Operating from Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, Star Voyager will offer 2-, 3-, and 5-night cruises to Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Penghu, and Keelung) and Japan’s Okinawa (Naha and Ishigaki).
A recurring 2-night High Seas Cruise will depart every Friday for short getaway seekers.
“With strong support from the Hong Kong SAR Government and the Tourism Board, we’re committed to revitalizing the local cruise industry and boosting regional cruise traffic,” said Michael Goh, President of StarDream Cruises, which manages the StarCruises brand.
The ship features luxury suites, family entertainment, water parks, live shows, and adventure amenities.
StarCruises is also positioning Hong Kong as a hub for international travelers looking to pair a city break with cruise excursions.
Hong Kong Tourism Board Executive Director Dane Cheng said the cruise line’s return reflects growing confidence in the city’s appeal as a regional cruise hub.
Special summer offerings include dual-destination voyages to Taiwan and Japan, with sailings scheduled on July 20, August 3, 17, 24, and 27.
The cruise line is targeting families, weekend travelers, and the Fly-Cruise market through bundled pre- and post-cruise Hong Kong experiences.
Business News Asia