By V. Sivaji
Oceania Cruises will make Penang its port of call next year with its fleet of luxury cruise ships.
Present to announce the new development was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai at a press conference held at the Penang Marriott Hotel here.
The tourism initiative is a collaboration between Xpedition Travel and Oceania Cruises.
Presently, Oceania Cruises has a total of eight cruise ships with the Allura being the newest built.
Other cruise ships in their inventory are the Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Sirena, Marina, Riviera and the Vista. They have a capacity of 684 passengers to 1,250 passengers each.
Representing Oceania Cruises was their director of sales, Asia, Ms Constance Seck while Xpedition Travel was represented by its managing director, Ms Chanet Ham.
“I wish to thank Xpedition Travel, for this exciting event as we welcome the prestigious Oceania Cruises to our beautiful island of Penang.
“The Oceania Cruises, renowned for offering luxury voyages to some of the world’s most captivating destinations, is set to sail across Asia in 2025. The Regatta cruise line will carry up to 1,250 guests to various iconic destinations, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Shanghai, and our very own Penang, Malaysia.
“This inclusion is a significant milestone for Penang’s tourism sector, elevating our visibility on the global stage. Strategically situated in Southeast Asia, Penang has long emerged as a premier destination for cruise ships, and being chosen by Oceania Cruises underscores our island’s unique appeal and the xceptional experiences we offer.
“The Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) has played a pivotal role in supporting the growth of cruise tourism in Penang. In 2023 alone, SPCT velcomed a total of 573, 178 international transit passengers, along with 175,532 local passengers”, shared Wong.
Wong added that the arrival of Oceania Cruises to our shores brings with it significant economic and cultural benefits. It supports local businesses and creates jobs across our hospitality, retail, transportation, and tourism sectors. This fosters development within our community and ensures that the benefits of tourism are felt by all.
Among the top visitors to Penang via cruise ships (Jan – June 2024) are from Singapore. United Kingdom, India, USA, Indonesia, Germany, China, the Philippines, South Korea and Australia. The total visitor arrival from Jan- jun 2024 is about 269,961.
Meanwhile, Seck added that Georgetown with its UNESCO World Heritage Site attractions and its myriad of local food is a perfect destination for cruise travellers.
Ocenia Cruises voyages focus on exotic destinations, luxury, finest cuisine, entertainment, wellness at sea, family like atmosphere with the members of the crew among others.
As early as January next year, passengers to Penang from Oceania Cruise Line are on the Regatta (670 pax), Riviera (1250), Insignia (670) and on the Nautica (670).
