Asian dedicated cruise ships

[Bourbon Believer]

The idea that China and it’s close neighbors are primed for cruising is suspect to me. Princess built and located Asian themed ships with the same target demographic years ago. 
The demand did not materialize and ships were subsequently repositioned to the Australian market. The ships I refer to held an average of 4000 passengers, how will a ship with 9500 do any better?

Maybe the thinking was that as Asian countries are very densely populated passengers on an enormous ship of 9500 would feel right at home. 
Glad I don’t live in China and will not ever set foot on a ship of this size. 

[Emrys]

Thanks for your post @Bourbon Believer, I've lived and cruised in China and the way people enjoy a cruise there is very different compared to the US. The pools and outer decks are often empty as it's all about the free food, shopping and casino. Fascinating at how different it all is. They do like being with lots of other people so maybe larger capacity is better!

[Blue Shirt]

On 2/22/2022 at 3:43 AM, Emrys said:

I've lived and cruised in China and the way people enjoy a cruise there is very different compared to the US. The pools and outer decks are often empty as it's all about the free food, shopping and casino. Fascinating at how different it all is.

For a long time I was hoping to cruise with Star Cruises on one of their " Superstar " ships and then they were taken over by Genting. Having been a few times to Asia it would be interesting to be on a different type of cruise and as Emrys has said the outer decks would be easier to relax on with fewer guests about. I would also love to see what type of entertainment they put on, as it will good to experience something new.

[DeanneB]

Asian cruises are actually more expensive than in the US or Europe.  I worked as a TA in Singapore for 3 years, and I was surprised by the difference in pricing.  I am not sure why though.  Maybe because there was less competition or maybe the port fees were more expensive, I don't know.  So for Asian customers, It was actually "easier" to sell cruises by Asian cruise lines rather than western ships, mainly because of the stark difference in price.  Asian Cruise lines also headline Asian stars, singers, bands, and comedy acts which is also a great selling point.

[Kendall James-Vargas]

@Blue Shirt It would something completely new for me! I have never cruised in Asia before. Are the menu offerings and entertainment choices different from the U.S. departing cruises? 

@Bourbon Believer That's a great question. I'm assuming the cruise line tired to pivot in order to generate more money. Right now the cruise protocols in Asia are pretty intense.