Asia is one of the fastest growing markets in the leisure cruise industry with a significant number of cruise ships sailing to ports across Asia. This year, Asia accounted for more than 4.2 million passengers, nearly three times the number of passengers in 2013. A large number of leading cruise companies are deploying their state-of-the-art ships in Asia with year round sailings. With more than 66 ships operating in this part of the world, passengers have the opportunity to explore nearly two dozen countries in Asia. Currently, nearly 95% of passengers come from six countries – China, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, India and Hong Kong. Ports like Shanghai, Okinawa, Fukuoka, Keelung, Penang, Busan, Singapore and Hong Kong are extremely popular and have a high concentration of cruise passengers.

In Asia, Dream Cruises, Asia’s exclusive cruise line, has become one of the most popular cruise liners, offering exciting cruises through the year. Dream Cruise launched Genting Dream in Asia last November with three home ports – Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Sanya. This is one of the largest cruise ships sailing in the Asia Pacific region, with 1,700 staterooms and a total capacity of 3,400 passengers. Starting from December 2017, Genting Dream has made Singapore her homeport and cruises to destinations across Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. Popular ports-of-call for Genting Dream include:

• Port Klang (Malaysia): One of the busiest ports in Malaysia, Port Klang is the gateway to the historically rich province of Selangor. When in Port Klang, make sure you visit historic landmarks like the Royal Gallery, Royal Mausoleum and the Little India District. Also catch a ferry ride to Pulau Ketam (or Crab Island) and enjoy the exquisite seafood. Or you can make a dash to Kuala Lumpur (45 kms / 1 hour) and explore this vibrant city before returning to the ship
• Penang (Malaysia): This is a beautiful island just off the coast of Malaysia, known for its glorious colonial architecture and natural beauty. Georgetown in Penang is a popular tourism destination, with major attractions like Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Blue Mansion, Komik Asia museum and the Kuan Yin Teng temple. Also visit the Teluk Bahang Forest reserve which houses one of the most magnificent rainforests in the region.
• Phuket (Thailand): Phuket is one of the most spectacular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. It is blessed with beautiful beaches and tranquil lagoons. Great beaches at Phuket include Chalong, Bang Tao, Patong, Karon, Kata and Kawai. Also take a boat ride to Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave and Phi Phi Island.
• Surabaya (Indonesia): A modern, cosmopolitan port city with a rich colonial heritage, Surabaya is an eclectic mix of state-of-the-art architecture and historic monuments like the Tugu Pahlawan and Ampel Mosque. Attractions include the Temple of Heaven Kenjeran, the Jalesveva Jayamahe Monument and the Four Face Buddha Statue.
• Bali: The island is famous for its beautiful forests, active volcanoes and some of the most iconic temples in the country – such as Uluwatu, Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), Besakih Temple and Tanah Lot temple.  Also make sure you visit the rice terraces in Tegallalang and Jatiluwih, the Ubud Monkey Park, the Mount Batur volcano and the Bali Safari and National Park

From December 2017 to March 2018, Genting Dream offers three sailing itineraries:

• 2 Night Singapore – High Seas: A round-trip cruise that starts and ends and Singapore, with prices starting from INR 15,885 pp.
• 5 Night Singapore-Port Klang-Penang-Phuket: Cruises start from 14 January 2018 and are available every alternate Sunday, till 25 March 2018. Cabin prices start at INR 38,745 pp.
• 5 Night Singapore – Surabaya – Bali: Genting Dream sails from Singapore on 7 January 2018 and every alternate Sunday after that, till the last sailing on 18 March 2017. Cabin prices start at INR 38,745 pp.

Recently, Dream Cruises has launched a second ship, the World Dream, with home ports at Guangzhou and Hong Kong. World Dream has a size that is similar to Genting Dream and can also accommodate nearly 3,400 passengers. The ship offers 2 and 5 night cruises starting at INR 19,700 pp covering destinations like:

• Ho-Chi Minh City (Vietnam): Known famously as Saigon, this is a landmark destination in Vietnam. The port city is known for its historical relevance in the Vietnam War. It has also been a French colony, proof of which exists in the form of beautiful colonial architecture such as the Saigon Notre Dame Basilica.
• Nha Trang (Vietnam): This is a modern resort town in the south of Vietnam, popular for its luxury resorts, beaches and entertainment options. Popular attractions at Nha Trang include islands (of Hon Tre, Hon Mun and Hon Tam), Long Son pagoda, Nha Trang beach and the Alexandre Yersin Museum.
• Boracay (Philippines): A naturally blessed island, Boracay is one of the most popular tourism destinations in the Philippines. Visitors to Boracay must not miss its beautiful white beach that is lined with exquisite restaurants and resorts. Do not miss the spectacular nightlife when in Boracay.
• Manila (Philippines): The capital of Philippines is a true reflection of the nation’s cosmopolitan culture. Travellers to Manila must make it a point to visit Fort Santiago, Rizal Park, Ayala Museum, St. Augustine Church, Malacañang Palace and the Quezon Memorial Center.
   

Between December 2017 and March 2018, World Dream offers three cruise packages:

• 2 Night Weekend Island Wandering: Round trip cruise that starts and ends at Hong Kong. Cabin Prices start at INR 19,700 p.p.
• 5 Night Jewels of Vietnam Cruise: Departure dates are 14 January, 4 February, 25 February and 18 March (2018). Cabin Prices start at INR 49,300 p.p. and cover Ho Chi Min City, Nansha, Guangzhou and Nha Trang.
• 5 Night Best of Philippines Cruise:  World Dream sails from Hong Kong and covers Borocay, Manila, Nansha and Guangzhou. Departures are in November and December 2017.
   

Both Genting Dream and World Dream are designed for luxury, with spacious staterooms, more than 35 restaurants and bars, multiple pools, water slides, spas, indoor games and underwater excursions. A unique feature of World Dream is the mini-submarine experience, which allows passengers to travel to the deep sea.

Dream Cruises also offers discounts for early bookings. Make sure you book your cruise atleast 45 days in advance so that you do not miss out on the discounts, special offers and the best available stateroom options.

Author
The author is a travel blogger and writes about popular holiday destinations and cruise packages. In this particular article, he talks about premium Asia cruise packages offered by Dream Cruises. He also covers various cruise options that combine cruises with land holidays.