by Donald Wood
Last updated: 11:05 AM ET, Wed November 11, 2015
Photo courtesy of Genting
Genting Hong Kong announced its plans Wednesday to be a major player in the Asian premium cruise market by introducing "Dream Cruises," the first-ever Asian-based premium cruise line brand. The announcement came Wednesday aboard the Star Cruises ship, the SuperStar Virgo.
Genting CEO Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay stated that the launch of Dream Cruises would include the building and delivery of two new ships that will cater specifically to Asia's premium sector. The company's first ship-the Genting Dream-will debut in November 2016, and the second ship, dubbed World Dream, will sail in November 2017.
The Genting Dream cruise ship, pictured in the rendering below, will carry 3,400 guests and 2,000 crew members, and will be the most spacious cruise ship in Asia Pacific. It will boast two floors of "Dream Suites" that will measure from 32 to 183 square meters and feature European butler service and special privileges.
Rendering courtesy of Genting
Genting's Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay released a statement about the company's announcement:
"Being the first company to offer cruises in China over 20 years ago with Star Cruises, we conceived Genting Dream three years ago to be the only purpose-built premium category new build for the Asian, and specifically Chinese, market. Dream Cruises' ships will be the most spacious ships in Asia Pacific and provide the highest level of guest service in the region. The launch of Dream Cruises completes the company's mission of having a brand for each of the three major cruise market segments - Crystal Cruises for the luxury segment, Dream Cruises for the premium segment and Star Cruises for the contemporary segment."
Emphasis aboard the Genting Dream will be on amenities. Not only will the vessel have more than 35 restaurants and bars onboard emphasizing local cuisine, but it will also have six water slides, a 610-meter promenade, play rooms, a rope climbing course, a bowling alley, card rooms and retail shopping options.
When it makes its debut next year, the Genting Dream will have triple homeports in Guangzhou (Nansha Port), Hong Kong and Sanya.
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