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April 14, 2026

During the annual Seatrade Cruise Global luncheon, leading cruise lines from around the world had the opportunity to explore new prospects for developing exclusive programs, leveraging state-of-the-art infrastructure and a wide range of experiences offered by Asia’s most iconic destinations: Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines, Shanghai, and Xiamen.

Within this framework, the destinations jointly presented the concept “A Journey Through Asia’s Finest Moments,” providing a comprehensive overview of the continent’s highlights. From the elegance and luxury of Hong Kong, home to the world’s best bar and hotel, to Korea’s new ports designed for boutique and luxury cruises, from exploration adventures in the Philippines to seamless hospitality in Shanghai, and finally to Xiamen’s innovative “One-Hour Tourism Circle,” each destination demonstrated how comfort, culture, and accessibility can be seamlessly combined into unforgettable cruise itineraries.

The event highlighted Asia’s growing role as a strategic hub for the international cruise industry, providing cruise lines with tangible tools to design unique, personalized experiences for the most discerning travelers.

In detail, Hong Kong remains one of the world’s most prestigious cruise destinations, featuring world-class facilities such as the world’s best bar, Bar Leone, the world’s best hotel, Rosewood Hong Kong, and the two most prestigious Asian restaurants according to Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, The Chairman and Wing, in addition to 77 Michelin-starred restaurants. Onshore excursions include premium activities such as VIP helicopter flights, private guided tours of the renowned M+ Museum and the Hong Kong Palace Museum, private boxes at horse racing events, and much more. Year-round festivals and large-scale events further enrich visits, making each onshore experience unique and memorable.

According to Marilyn Tham, General Manager for Mega Events, MICE & Cruise at the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the focus on onshore experiences is increasingly driving cruise lines to select Hong Kong for high-profile events. The tourism board works closely with cruise operators to integrate local events into passenger programs, developing innovative ideas to enhance onshore excursions.

South Korea is expanding its cruise offerings with the addition of two new ports, Masan and Saemangeum, alongside well-established ports such as Incheon, Seosan, Yeosu, Jeju, Busan, Pohang, and Sokcho. These smaller, more accessible ports are particularly suited for boutique and luxury ships, providing greater flexibility for operators when planning itineraries. This expansion aims to ensure a more comfortable and convenient travel experience for cruise passengers, as stated by Jong-geun Lee, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of South Korea.

In addition, simplified immigration procedures, including pre-arrival checks, speed up boarding and disembarkation, while additional services—such as terminals with 24-hour pilot availability, port fee discounts, and an expanded range of passenger services—contribute to enhancing the overall experience.

The Philippines, with its over 7,000 islands, is focusing on the expedition cruise segment, offering access to remote and less-visited destinations to provide high-value experiences for the most discerning travelers. Thanks to its extensive coastline, rich marine ecosystems, and globally recognized biodiversity, the country is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for small-ship cruises, with itineraries centered on sustainability, cultural immersion, and natural exploration.

According to Paulo Benito S. Tugbang, Director for Product Development at the Philippine Department of Tourism, the country is strengthening destination preparedness, improving inter-agency coordination, and promoting sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that the development of expedition cruises is both environmentally responsible and beneficial to local communities.

The Baoshan District in Shanghai has introduced a smart customs clearance system that reduces procedures to just 3–10 seconds, ensuring a world-class, efficient travel experience. The onshore experience continues with a 6.8-kilometer scenic promenade along the waterfront, featuring pedestrian and cycling paths ideal for exploring the city in a relaxed and immersive way. The integrated cruise-themed complex “Sea World” further enriches the experience, offering an indoor snow park, surfing opportunities, and luxury hotel accommodations. Completing the offering, high-profile events such as the UIM F1H2O World Championship and the Shanghai Cruise Culture and Tourism Festival guarantee unforgettable moments, ensuring that the discovery of the destination continues seamlessly from sea to city.

Mr. Qi Xin, Secretary of the Party Working Committee of Youyilu, Baoshan District, stated that Baoshan will continue to improve cruise infrastructure, enhance vacation offerings, and expand itinerary options, transforming the district into China’s premier cruise destination with high-quality services and distinctive experiences.

Finally, regarding Xiamen, since the opening of the new Xiamen International Cruise Center terminal in 2025, the cruise experience has been significantly simplified: the customs process is now 50% more efficient, allowing travelers to complete formalities with comfort and speed. The experience continues with the “One-Hour Tourism Circle” concept, enabling passengers to easily reach the city’s main attractions, such as the enchanting Gulangyu Island or the immersive project “Meet Minnan · Time Fantasy”, the first Minnan-themed maritime tour in China, showcasing 84 forms of intangible cultural heritage.

According to Ms. Wang Guodi, Deputy Director of the Xiamen Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, thanks to first-class infrastructure, unique cultural and tourism offerings, and distinctive cruise itineraries, Xiamen is rapidly establishing itself as one of China’s most interesting and culturally distinctive international cruise ports.

Asia thus confirms its role as a strategic hub for international cruising, offering unique opportunities for personalized itineraries and premium experiences. From the sophisticated urban experiences of Hong Kong to the new ports in Korea, from expedition cruises in the Philippines to Shanghai’s vibrant cultural and recreational offerings, and finally to Xiamen’s innovative “One-Hour Tourism Circle,” each destination demonstrates an ongoing ability to innovate, providing complete and fulfilling experiences that meet the expectations of the most discerning travelers.

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Gabriele Bassi

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