Why cruise from Hong Kong?

CruiseMole Comment by Michael Dupont, sales and marketing director, Europe for Star Cruises

Selling holidays is often about capturing the moment. Agents looking to really wow their clients do best when drawing on their knowledge and coming up with destinations and offers that can capture four vital ingredients – fashion, exclusivity, excitement and opportunity.

Hong Kong has all in spades, so it’s no surprise that the buzzing former British colony – long known as the gateway between east and west – is being widely tipped as cruising latest hot spot.

Previously a stop on the majority of Asian cruise itineraries, Hong Kong is now a departure point in its own right – making it perfect for holidaymakers looking to combine a land-based break with a wider tour of south east Asia. In fact, excitingly, Star Cruises returns to having Hong Kong as a homeport for the first time in four years.

The upcoming Beijing Olympic Games have played a significant part in raising the profile of both China and the region in general.

More specifically, Hong Kong plays a vital role in the sporting extravaganza this year as the host venue for the equestrian events – traditionally the best UK hope for a medal or two. What better way to start or finish a holiday than cheering Brits to gold?

Continued growth in the UK cruise market also means more customers are looking at the Far East. The Passenger Shipping Association predicts the number of homegrown cruisers will burst through the 1.5 million barrier in 2008. And since the sector has perhaps the highest level of repeat customers in the business, it’s no surprise that many passengers bitten by the cruising bug are looking beyond the traditional markets of the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Cruise virgins, too, are being lured by the magic of the east. Many cruise itineraries in the region are perfect for ‘taster cruises’ since they cater for the shorter holiday patterns of the local market – making them ideal for combining with land-based options. And don’t forget, these clients will often come back again to book either another cruise or a longer traditional package tour in the Far East.

Of course, cost plays a vital part of any holiday purchase. Cruising is an excellent way of exploring the region, taking in a number of destinations without the hassle of numerous internal flights. Cruise companies often have access to exclusive airline rates to and from their home ports.