Oceania Cruises to include Penang in 2025 Asian voyage

Oceania Cruises has announced that Penang will be one of its key ports of call on its 2025 Asian voyage.

This development marks a significant boost for Penang’s growing reputation as a premier cruise destination in the region.

The cruise line’s visit, scheduled between January and May 2025, is expected to enhance the local tourism industry and position Penang as a pivotal stop for luxury cruises in Asia.

Penang’s strategic role in cruise tourism

The inclusion of Penang in Oceania Cruises’ itinerary underscores the state’s rising prominence in global cruise tourism.

Wong Hon Wai, Chairman of the State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee, highlighted the crucial role of the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) in this achievement.

“Our cruise terminal at Swettenham Pier has been instrumental in supporting the growth of cruise tourism in Penang,” said Wong during the launch event at the Marriott Hotel.

“In 2023 alone, SPCT welcomed 573,178 international transit passengers and 175,532 local passengers.

These impressive figures demonstrate our terminal’s capacity to efficiently manage large volumes of visitors, further establishing Penang as a key maritime hub in the region.”

Wong also noted that recent upgrades to the terminal, including berth extensions and enhanced passenger amenities, have positioned SPCT as one of the leading cruise terminals in Southeast Asia.

These improvements are expected to attract more cruise lines and elevate Penang’s status in the global cruise industry.

Oceania Cruise: Economic impact and future prospects

The collaboration with Oceania Cruises is not only a testament to Penang’s appeal as a cruise destination but also a catalyst for local economic growth.

According to Wong, the partnership is poised to stimulate local businesses, create job opportunities, and foster broader economic development across various sectors.

“The partnership with Oceania Cruises is anticipated to attract additional investments and position Penang as a potential home port in the future,” Wong added, emphasising the long-term benefits of such collaborations for the state.

Oceania Cruises’ 2025 Asian voyage, featuring the Regatta cruise line, will bring up to 670 guests to Penang, among other iconic destinations like Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Shanghai.

Additionally, other cruise lines under Oceania Cruises, including Riviera (1,250 passengers), Insignia (670 passengers), and Nautica (670 passengers), are set to dock at Penang.

Oceania Cruises has also partnered with Xpedition Travel to further enhance the region’s tourism by bringing more passengers to Penang.

This partnership is expected to boost the local economy and reinforce Penang’s position as a top cruise destination in Asia.

As Penang continues to develop its cruise tourism infrastructure and attract major cruise lines like Oceania Cruises, the state is well on its way to becoming a premier maritime hub.

The collaboration with Oceania Cruises is a significant step towards realising this vision, bringing both economic benefits and global recognition to Penang.

Source: Buletin Mutiara