Genting Cruise Lines is planning to establish a strategic partnership with Sanya CBD Administration to launch domestic cruise operations from China’s Hainan Island.
It is in discussions with an unnamed travel company to establish a cruise hub for its brand Dream Cruises and launch domestic cruise itineraries.
The JV would also support development of a free trade and pilot cruise tourism zone on Hainan.
"Genting Cruise Lines has enjoyed a long and fruitful relationship with China, and especially in Hainan Island. The establishment of a joint venture company in Sanya demonstrates our commitment to further drive the development of cruise tourism," said Kent Zhu, President, Genting Cruise Lines.
Genting Cruise Lines’ ships have been visiting Hainan since 1994 and it became the first international cruise company to homeport in Sanya in 2011.
"In the post-pandemic era of travel, we hope the authorities will further relax their policy for cruise companies operating domestic cruises and we will leverage on policies in Hainan, such as the Flag Of Convenience pilot programme, to entice inbound international travellers," Zhu said.
Written by Ray Montgomery, Asia Pacific editor
