Innovation vital to grow region's flourishing cruise industry

AS the Asian cruise industry continues on a trajectory of rapid growth, it is interesting to consider the opportunities and challenges presented for Singapore and the region, and how players are responding.

Since 2012, cruise demand out of Asia has grown around 30 per cent annually, outpacing other regions around the world. This growth has been led by large source markets from China, India and Indonesia, and more cruise travellers entering from outside the region on fly-cruise arrangements.

According to an analysis prepared by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) on Asia cruise trends, Singapore has been a strong beneficiary, hosting the most port calls in Asia last year, ahead of Shanghai, Jeju Island, Hong Kong, and Penang.