Hong Kong, Korea, The Philippines And China Ignite A New Era Of Cruise Excellence With Transformative Mega Projects And World Class Cultural Experiences - Travel And Tour World (2025)

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines, and China unveil bold cruise developments at Seatrade 2025, redefining Asia’s role in global maritime tourism.

Asia’s Cruise Powerhouses Unite at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 to Chart the Region’s Bright Future

As cruise momentum intensifies across Asia, top destinations—including Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines, and Xiamen—gathered yesterday at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 for a high-profile luncheon designed to showcase their latest innovations, infrastructure upgrades, and tourism strategies poised to redefine the region’s cruise narrative.

Under the theme “Connect & Discover: Asia’s Destinations Await,” the event brought together media and industry leaders to spotlight each destination’s commitment to enhancing cruise programs through expanded attractions, streamlined immigration procedures, and supportive policies, including visa facilitation.

From storied landmarks and cultural icons to new theme parks and high-tech cruise terminals, these four cruise leaders are crafting distinctive experiences that enrich shore excursions and offer compelling new reasons to explore Asia by sea.

Hong Kong Showcases UNESCO Treasures, Sports Venues, and Serene Gardens Near Port

Hong Kong continues to dazzle cruise guests with a deep mix of heritage and modern flair. Travelers can explore ancient temples, admire UNESCO-recognized architecture, or visit beloved attractions like Ocean Park—home to twin panda cubs—and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, now celebrating two decades of enchantment.

The Kai Tak Cruise Terminal area has undergone a dynamic transformation, anchored by the new Kai Tak Sports Park, which features a 50,000-seat stadium set to host global concerts and elite sporting events. Visitors can enjoy “sportainment” shopping at the retail complex, step back in time at Kowloon Walled City Park, or find tranquility at Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden—two stunning oases steeped in classical Chinese design.

Korea Introduces “K-Harmony Wave” and Streamlined Immigration at Jeju Port

South Korea is riding a cultural wave with its innovative “K-Harmony Wave” initiative—a holistic showcase of Korean identity through K-Tradition, K-Modern, K-Gourmet, and K-Wellness, blending timeless customs with modern lifestyle and cuisine.

As host of the 12th Asia Cruise Forum in Jeju from July 10–12, Korea is also pushing boundaries in travel tech. Jeju Port will be the nation’s first to deploy 38 self-service immigration kiosks, cutting wait times and enhancing passenger comfort. Meanwhile, Busan’s Yeongdo Cruise Terminal is undergoing a major upgrade to improve flow and functionality, signaling Korea’s dedication to elevating cruise travel experiences.

The Philippines Expands Cruise Footprint with Northern Ports and Southern Terminal Development

Positioning itself as a rising star in regional cruising, the Philippines is accelerating efforts to draw luxury cruise operators. The Ilocos Region has emerged as a cruise magnet, with key ports like Salomague, Currimao, and Hundred Islands National Park opening gateways to rich cultural landscapes. In just the first two months of 2025, more than 6,000 foreign cruise guests visited the region.

Further south, investment in infrastructure is on full display. Following the recent opening of a new US$10.57 million terminal in Dapa, Surigao del Norte, construction is now underway in destinations such as Alegria, Coron, Puerto Galera, and Balbagon. These terminals aim to accommodate larger vessels and offer seamless port experiences across the archipelago.

Xiamen to Launch Cultural Theme Park and Advanced Cruise Terminal in 2025

Xiamen is reinventing the cruise experience with the debut of “Time Meets Island,” an immersive cultural theme park located within the cruise port zone. Celebrating Minnan heritage, the park will transport visitors through centuries of regional tradition via culinary exhibits, dramatic performances, and vibrant night market experiences. The attraction is scheduled to open in the first half of this year.

Adding to the momentum, Xiamen International Cruise Terminal 2 will begin operations later in 2025, promising passengers a streamlined boarding process with security clearances completed in under 10 minutes. Centrally located, the port connects effortlessly to the city’s top attractions, airport, and bullet train station, positioning Xiamen as a pivotal cruise gateway to southeastern China.

Unified Vision, Diverse Cultures: Asia’s Cruise Leaders Set a Bold Course for the Future

With seamless access, cultural depth, and world-class infrastructure, the united efforts of Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines, and Xiamen present a formidable force in shaping Asia’s cruise landscape. Their combined offerings promise not just smoother itineraries—but unforgettable journeys rooted in authentic regional experiences.