'I See a Paradigm Shift in Indian Cruise Customers'

GENTING CRUISE Lines is planning to spread its reach in Asian market. Speaking about the Indian market, Naresh Rawal, Vice President Sales, Genting Cruise Lines (Star Cruises, Dream Cruises and Crystal Cruises) said, “Cruising is one of the most developing forms of holiday from the Asian subcontinent. More and more Indians are adopting themselves to take a cruise holiday. Today a cruise ship can cater to all kinds of holiday maker which may be from Families with children, Senior citizens, honeymooners, wedding Planners and the MICE market. I see a paradigm shift today, cruise passengers have evolved from the regular two nights itinerary to longer seven nights itinerary and are now with high demand for Balconies and Suites cabins.”

Rawal started his journey with Genting, 10 years back promoting Star Cruises in India. Cruise Industry has developed as a unique segment of the travel industry. It is providing business opportunities in the fastest growing travel vacation segment of all times. “With an increasing number of cruises under GHK portfolio, Indian Cruising potential is yet growing and looking at that we still leverage on our trusted relationships with existing PSA’s (Preferred Sales Agent). Our concentration on MICE and Corporate segment is also high.” Rawal added.

For keeping the brand on the top, Star Cruises is coming up with new offerings and itineraries. To develop the Asian cruise industry and strengthen its position the Star Cruise Brand is planning to add two new and modern “Global Class” ships by 2020 and 2021.

Star Cruises of Genting Hong Kong was recently awarded “Asia’s Leading Cruise Line 2017” at the World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony held in Shanghai, China. On the achievement, Kent Zue, President of Genting Cruise Lines said: “With our dedicated team at Star Cruises, we will continue to strive to exceed the expectations of our guests and the cruise industry, raising the level of service and offerings, as well as creating new milestones across the region.”