Ports & destinations

Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines and Xiamen deliver next-level cruise infrastructure and support measures

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 08 April 2025 08 April 2025

Growing opportunities for elevating cruise programmes in Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines and Xiamen were laid out to excite global cruise companies in the industry luncheon held on the opening day of Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 yesterday.

Themed “Connect & Discover • Asia’s Destinations Await”, the highly anticipated annual gathering for industry leaders and media highlighted the enormous resources of the four prominent cruise destinations to enrich cruise programmes, as well as supportive measures including favourable visa policies and seamless processes to smooth cruise visitations.

From UNESCO-honoured gems in Hong Kong to K-culture in Korea, new cruise attractions in the Ilocos Region of the Philippines and the imminent launch of new theme park and cruise terminal in Xiamen, these leading cruise destinations continue to enrich destination offerings and collectively empower cruising with a difference.

Hong Kong mesmerises with hidden gems and new development near cruise terminal

In Hong Kong, cruise visitors are spoilt for choice for onshore experiences, from city charm to UNESCO-honoured historical buildings and landscapes, and from greeting six pandas including the twin cubs born at Ocean Park Hong Kong to feeling the magic through the 20th Anniversary extravaganzas at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

The neighborhood around Kai Tak Cruise Terminal is increasingly vibrant, with the recent launch of Kai Tak Sports Park, designed to stage world-class events like Hong Kong Sevens and world tours at its magnificent 50,000-seat stadium. Cruise passengers can also immerse in novel “sportainment” shopping in the adjoining retail hub, or take a stroll in the Kowloon Walled City Park to see relics of the famed Walled City, and explore mindfulness at Buddhist sanctuary Chilin Nunnery and the adjacent classical Chinese garden, Nan Lian Garden.

Joanne Chu, Deputy Commissioner for Tourism from the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), said, “Beyond enhancing visitor onshore experiences, the HKSAR government is committed to expediting the adoption of shore power and green maritime fuels. This dovetails with the future-proof directions and long- term sustainable growth of the global cruise trade.”

Korea unveils “K-Harmony Wave” and enhanced tourism convenience

Blending tradition with modernity, Korea delivers a wave of K-culture in harmony – from K-Tradition embodied in grand palaces and traditional markets, to K-Modern converging trendy lifestyles and innovative technologies, K-Gourmet presenting the essence of Korean cuisine, and K-Wellness offering mental and physical rejuvenation.

While Korea is gearing up to host the 12th Asia Cruise Forum, to be held in Jeju from 10 to 12 July, Jeju cruise port will be the first port in Korea to adopt 38 units of new unmanned immigration checkpoints this year, enabling smooth and comfortable immigration procedures to maximise cruise experience. Korea also plans to renovate the Busan Yeongdo Cruise Terminal to significantly enhance convenience for cruise visitors and operational efficiency..

Jae Min Park, Deputy Director, Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of Korea, said, “We will continue to improve port facilities and systems so that tourists visiting Korea can enjoy cruise travel more conveniently in the future. We strive to ensure all cruise visitors enjoy a special cruise trip that combines Korea's unique vibe, living traditions and modern charm..”

The Philippines woos luxury cruise lines and expands available destinations and cruise infrastructure

The Philippines is gearing up for regional cruise tourism development. With the Ilocos Region in the north of the archipelago rapidly becoming a key cruise tourism destination, the Philippines is ramping up the region’s ports, including Salomague, Currimao, and Hundred Islands National Parkas major gateways to attract luxury cruise lines. Already, the region received over 6,000 international passengers in the first two months of 2025.

In the south of the multi-island country, following the recent the completion of the US$10.57 million Jubang Port cruise ship terminal in Dapa in Surigao del Norte last year, new terminals are under development in Alegria, Coron, Puerto Galera and Balbagon, to boost the capacity for welcoming international cruise ships.

Dr. Paulo Benito Tugbang, Director for Product Development, Philippine Department of Tourism, said, “Cruise tourism has achieved remarkable growth, with 300% increase in cruise passenger arrivals in the first five months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.The government has introduced a cruise visa waiver program, allowing foreign tourists arriving via cruise ships to enter the country without a visa for a limited period, as an initiative to streamline entry processes and attract more international cruise lines.”

Xiamen presents immersive cultural theme park and new cruise terminal

Showcasing immersive Minnan culture indigenous to Xiamen, “Time Meets Island” within the cruise terminal zone is the world’s first cultural theme park to take visitors on a journey through the thousand-year history and culture of the region. Themed areas showcasing Minnan history and culinary culture are complemented by museum-style performances and a stylish night market. The theme park is set to open in the first half of this year.

Meanwhile, the new Xiamen International Cruise Terminal 2, opening in April this year, will offer seamless security screening that will clear passengers within an average of about 10 minutes. The Xiamen International Cruise Homeport is conveniently located in the bustling heart of the city, offering cruise visitors easy access to city attractions, airport and the high- speed rail station to enjoy richer shore experiences.

Wang Guodi, Deputy Director of Xiamen Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism said, “We have implemented a 144-hour visa-free transit policy, offering visa-free treatment to nationals from 54 countries and eligible tourist groups arriving in Xiamen via cruise ships. Cruise passengers can enter China visa-free through Xiamen and stay for up to 10 days, providing ample time to explore cities across the country.”

The synergy between the four key destinations in Asia – Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines and Xiamen, complete with conducive measures to deliver seamless experiences and logistics for global cruise companies and their passengers, promises diverse culturally rich experiences to make every cruise journey a once-in-a-lifetime expedition.

Busy cruise season underway at Lerwick

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 07 April 2025 07 April 2025

The 2025 cruise season is underway at Lerwick Harbour with the arrival of Viking Vela on April 4, the first of 145 vessels expected by late October.

On a maiden visit, Viking Vela docked in the Inner Harbour with more than 980 passengers from countries including USA, Canada, UK, Australia and Ireland on board, with many disembarking to see the town and tour the islands’ multiple attractions.

En route from Aberdeen. Scotland, to Bergen, Norway, she is due to return on Tuesday 8 April and a further seven times throughout the busy 2025 cruise season. Viking is Lerwick’s top cruise line visitor, with its vessels scheduled to call 21 times during the season.

Viking Vela is one of eight maiden visits booked for Lerwick in 2025, including Virgin’s Scarlet Lady and Ritz Carlton’s Ilma, two exciting new cruise brands to debut at Lerwick this season.

Melanie Henderson, Cruise & Marketing Manager, Lerwick Port Authority, commented: “We are all looking forward to another very busy season, representing another great selection of cruise lines and ships visiting over seven months, reflecting Shetland’s continuing popularity as a leading Scottish destination across the industry and making an important contribution to the local economy. The service sector is geared up to provide its world-renowned Shetland hospitality.”

The 181,541-gross-ton MSC Virtuosa, which last year became the largest cruise ship call at Lerwick, will return twice in June, adding to over 6.7million gross tonnes of expected vessels in 2025.

The Port Authority’s future plans include dredging the channel and approaches to Mair’s Pier which will improve berthing for mid-sized cruise ships, and this project is anticipated to start later this season.

Photo: Sister ship Viking Sea calling in Lerwick

MSC Group's Cruise Division officially inaugurates new terminal in Barcelona

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 03 April 2025 03 April 2025

MSC Group’s Cruise Division officially inaugurated the new MSC Barcelona Cruise Terminal on the occasion of the first call of Explora II at the new terminal – the second ship from luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand, Explora Journeys.

Dignitaries who attended the commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony included Jose Antonio Santano Clavero, the Spanish government’s State Secretary for Transport and Sustainable Mobility; Central Government Delegate, Carlos Prieto; Fourth Deputy Mayor for the Area of Economy, Tax, Economic Promotion and Tourism , Jordi Valls; Albert Dalmau, Minister of the Presidency of the Government of Catalonia; and Jose Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona along with Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group; Gianluca Suprani SVP Global Port Development, MSC Cruises; and Anna Nash, Global President, Explora Journeys.

Pierfrancesco Vago said, “Barcelona has been a strategic partner for MSC Group for more than four decades and for MSC Cruises for more than 25 years, and our commitment is unwavering. The new terminal is not just an investment in modern port infrastructure but demonstrates that we are aligned with the city’s strategy for a more balanced and sustainable model of tourism, all whilst bringing positive economic benefits to the region. We look forward to this new chapter with the Port of Barcelona as our guests from MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys enjoy the benefits that this modern, innovative and sustainable cruise facility brings.”

The landmark terminal was designed by renowned Catalonian architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura. This avant-garde building has been designed to provide continuity with the cruise experience. From the moment passengers arrive, they set out on a seamless journey that reflects the elegance, comfort, and service they will find on board.

The retail area, the spacious waiting lounge with generous seating, and the exclusive VIP lounge for our premium and luxury guests create an elevated pre-boarding experience with privileged views. Outside, ceramic cladding pays tribute to the rich Gaudi-inspired artistic history of Barcelona with a color inspired by the sea.

Carefully designed with a strong focus on environmental features and energy efficiency, the terminal incorporates energy-saving technologies and sustainable materials. This includes solar panels and optimized natural light, to minimize the need for artificial lighting along with a rainwater collection system to supply water for toilets and landscaped areas to reduce water usage. The terminal has achieved Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification in recognition of its energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Shore to ship power connectivity will be available in 2027 when docked ships can switch off their engines, connect to the local power grid, and eliminate emissions in port.

This summer, MSC Cruises will have a choice of five ships offering embarkation in Barcelona – MSC World Europa, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Magnifica and MSC Orchestra as part of their sailings in the Mediterranean Sea. Luxury ship EXPLORA II will regularly call throughout the summer season with Barcelona as one of her main homeports.

Explora Journeys’ Explora II will sail through the enchanting waters of the Western Mediterranean this summer, offering a series of immersive journeys that begin or end in the vibrant city of Barcelona. From the sun-kissed shores of Sardinia to the colorful harbors of the French Riviera and the storied coastlines of Italy, each itinerary blends relaxed luxury with rich cultural discovery. On board, guests enjoy refined European elegance, ocean-inspired wellness, and curated experiences designed to deepen their connection to the sea and each destination.

AIDAnova first cruise ship to use shore power in Rotterdam

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 05 April 2025 05 April 2025

On March 31, 2025, the first shore power plant for cruise ships in the Netherlands was officially launched. AIDAnova was the first vessel to be successfully supplied with energy from shore during its stay in port. With this commissioning, AIDA Cruises can now use shore power in 13 European ports in seven countries. In Rotterdam alone, a further 31 calls are planned for this year, where AIDA ships can now be supplied with shore-side power.

Dirk Inger, SVP Public Affairs, Communication & Sustainability at AIDA Cruises stated: “Together with our local partners, we have developed Rotterdam into a popular year-round destination for our guests over the past few years. Therefore, we are pleased that we can now switch off the main engines of our AIDA ships and use shore power during our calls here in Rotterdam. The new shore power plant is another step for all of us in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.” He added: “Twenty years ago, we began considering the use of shore-side electricity to reduce emissions from ship operations. In 2017, AIDA was the first cruise line in Europe to start using shore power. We are looking forward to supporting other ports as their pilot partner in commissioning their facilities in the coming months.”

In 2024 alone, AIDA used shore power during 360 port calls – a five-fold increase compared to 2023. More than 500 calls in European ports with shore power are planned for 2025. The new installation in Rotterdam expands the reach of this technology in Northern Europe. AIDA ships will be able to use shore power for almost every second port call in Northern Europe this year, thus contributing to the implementation of the maritime energy transition in shipping.

AIDA Cruises was closely involved as a pilot partner in the technical preparations in the run-up to the opening and made its ships available for various tests. The company's experience from many years of using shore power in other European ports – including Hamburg, Kiel, Warnemünde, Bergen, Southampton, Aarhus, Oslo and Stockholm – also contributed to the preparations.

Since 2004, AIDA Cruises has been considering the use of shore power in the construction of its ships. In 2017, AIDAsol was the first cruise ship to start regular operations at Europe's first shore power plant in Hamburg-Altona. Following Rotterdam, other ports like Copenhagen or Le Havre planning to put systems into operation soon. AIDA Cruises actively supports these ports as well.

AIDA Cruises has been investing for many years in a more sustainable cruise market. In addition to shore power and liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a bridging technology, the company is expanding the use of alternative energy sources for the operation of its cruise ships. In 2022, for example, AIDA Cruises began using biofuels and installed the currently largest maritime battery storage system on board an AIDA ship. AIDA Cruises is aspiring for net-zero emissions in ship operations of its fleet by 2050.

Gregory Tan appointed new CEO of SATS-Creuers Cruise Services

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 01 April 2025 01 April 2025

Gregory Tan is the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SATS-Creuers Cruise Services Pte. Ltd. (SCCS), the terminal operator of Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS). He succeeds Lionel Wong. Tan is responsible for the direction and growth of the company, and daily operations of MBCCS with effect from 1st April 2025.

Gregory was formerly the Head of Operations of SCCS from January 2017 to March 2020, then served as Head of Apron Transformation Office from April 2020 to March 2024, and most recently the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of SCCS since 1st April 2024. During the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak on 10 March 2020, he was involved with the Multi- Ministry Taskforce in supporting the Costa Fortuna operations to facilitate the departure of 115 cruise passengers with travel history to Northern Italy. He led discussions with various Singapore government agencies, Changi Airport Group, and four international airlines. He was the overall In-Charge in orchestrating the transportation of these passengers direct from ship to airport tarmac in bonded vehicles, according to their flight departure in precision time.

Prior to joining SCCS, Gregory has been in tourism management for 15 years; in developing and marketing travel products and itineraries, and regional sales for destination management services. Since 2008, he joined SATS Airport Services where he headed the SATS Premier Lounges, Passenger Services, Air Cargo Import Operations and Apron Transformation business units, overseeing more than 35 global airlines operations at Singapore Changi Airport. With his in-depth industry knowledge across aviation ground handling operations, he has a proven track record of strengthening relations with key airline clients such as Singapore Airlines, Qantas and Lufthansa.

Gregory graduated from Queensland University of Technology, Australia with a Bachelor in Business (Marketing).