Genting Hong Kong’s newest Dream Cruises luxury brand has made waves across the cruising scene, as it sets out to deliver the first-ever Asian based premium cruise line when it sets sail in November.
Dream Cruises’ 3300 passenger Genting Dream will set sail on its inaugural journey from its base in Hong Kong on 12 November and was officially launched to the Australian market yesterday in a joint event co-hosted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the cruiseline.
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Dream Cruises Brigita Devvries, AVP Sales & Marketing Australia & New Zealand said the parent company, Genting Hong Kong, which also owns Crystal Cruises and Star Cruises, claimed Dream Cruises completes its vision of having a brand for each of the three major cruise markets: Crystal for the luxury segment, Dream for its premium segment and Star for the contemporary segment.
The German built Genting Dream will be the only purpose-built premium category new build for the Asian market, predominately targeting the growing wealthy Chinese market, however also tapping into Australia’s increasing interest for cruising in Asia.
“We certainly know the demand for cruising out of the Australian market is ever-increasing and we are hoping for a good uptake in passengers out of this market for Dream Cruises,” Hong Kong Tourism Board Regional Director for Australia and New Zealand, Andrew Clark said.
“Hong Kong is the perfect gateway for cruising within Asia. The sparkling cruise terminal on the former Kai Tak Airport runway is world class and the city has so much to offer travellers looking for a short stopover before or after their journey. The city is extremely accessible with such an efficient transport system, making it easy for travellers to stay a few days and discover the city’s dining scene, explore the ancient culture and indulge in some shopping.”
With a strong focus on customer service, Genting Dream will carry 2000 crew to its 3300 passengers, giving the highest crew-to-guest ratio of any ship sailing in Asia Pacific.
The ship will also have a dedicated “Dream Mansion” area, featuring 142 luxury suites with private access to facilities including an exclusive atrium, lounges, dining room, pool deck, gymnasium and European 24-hour butler service. The Dream Grand Villa is the crème de la crème suite – set across two levels and features its own private whirlpool and deck.
The ship’s other staterooms, of which 70% offer private balconies, will also feature 100 connecting rooms to cater to families and large groups.
Alongside the 35 eateries featuring food options from across the globe, Genting Dream will also feature a bowling alley, card rooms and a new range of bars and clubs, including Zouk, Singapore’s legendary nightclub and Mixt Bar featuring hi-tech mixology equipment for signature cocktails.
To top it off, the ship will have two state-of-the-art submersibles on board, designed to carry one pilot and four passengers, the vehicle will take guests under the ocean for sea life viewing.
Genting Dream, which offers return trips from Hong Kong, will operate 7-day itineraries for guests to explore Vietnam and beyond and prices start at A$1890 pp for an inside cabin.
