Asia is seeing an increase in the number of cruise destinations this year, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)’s 2019 Asia Cruise Deployment and Capacity Report.
Joel Katz, managing director for CLIA Australasia & Asia, said: “The popularity of cruising in Asia is expected to grow further over coming years as cruise lines deploy new, larger vessels that have been purpose-built for Asian consumers. The coming generation of ships will replace older ships previously based in Asia, and when coupled with new cruise infrastructure in several Asian destinations, are expected to fuel strong interest among travellers. The result is likely to be a return to growth for cruising in Asia after a slight decline this year.”
Other highlights from the 2019 Asia Cruise Deployment and Capacity Report include:
2019 will see a total of 1,917 sailings, and generate capacity for four million passengers to cruise in Asia. After several years of rapid expansion, this year’s total passenger capacity has dropped 5.7 per cent year-on-year due to the decline in short cruise itinerary options from mainland China. Nevertheless, 2019 will still see 79 ships from 39 cruise brands sailing in Asia – a similar level to last year.
306 different destinations in Asia will receive cruise ships in 2019 – an increase from the 288 destinations in 2018. Ships in Asia increasingly call at more places, increasing the range of choice for passengers.
Port calls to Asia will remain steady this year with 7,154 calls. Many of the destinations – especially India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea – will see growth.
Asia will also see a slight rise in passenger destination days. The 13 million passenger destination days forecast in 2019 will translate to more potential onshore visits from cruise passengers, creating a stronger tourism impact for the destinations across the region.
