With world-class infrastructure, seamless connections and some of the sea’s biggest and boldest ships, Singapore looks set for a cruising boom. We dive deep with Royal Caribbean Australia and New Zealand Director of Sales Dave Humphreys on what makes the island state the ‘ultimate cruise hub’ in Asia, why Royal Caribbean is best placed to bring the fun and how travel advisors can ride the wave in demand for cruises in the region.
What makes Singapore such a standout departure point for Australian travellers?
Singapore is a world-class gateway to Asia, offering Australians easy access to vibrant destinations with direct flights and a highly efficient port with excellent destinations and itineraries. It’s currently home to some of Royal Caribbean’s most adventure-packed holidays, with Anthem of the Seas based in Singapore until April and Ovation of the Seas arriving in October.
The city itself is an exciting place to explore before or after the trip, with top-tier dining, attractions and entertainment that set the stage for an unforgettable holiday.
How does it compare to other regional homeports and what opportunities does it offer travel advisors and their clients?
Singapore is the ultimate cruise hub for Asia, offering extensive flight connections that make it one of the most accessible and convenient homeports in the region.
It provides direct access to a mix of cultural hubs and tropical destinations, offering Australians a fresh alternative to traditional holiday spots.
For agents, this creates strong opportunities to add components either in Singapore or Hong Kong on our longer holidays, which sail from Singapore to Hong Kong.
What feedback are you receiving from agents and travellers about demand for Singapore departures – and how do you see this evolving?
Demand for cruises from Singapore continues to grow as Australians look for new experiences beyond the usual local hotspots.
Agents are telling us that their clients are drawn to the mix of cultural discovery, adventure and the world-class service that comes with a Royal Caribbean holiday in Asia.
Multi-generational travel is particularly popular, with families appreciating the combination of exploring multiple destinations with the ease of only unpacking once coupled with the award-winning dining, activities and entertainment on Anthem and Ovation of the Seas.
Travellers from Australia love our short holidays from Singapore, which visit the foodie markets of Penang, Malaysia and stunning beaches of Phuket on a four-night getaway.
What support, incentives or tools is Royal Caribbean providing to help agents successfully sell Singapore departures to Australian travellers?
We’re providing agents with everything they need to showcase the best of Royal Caribbean in Singapore, from marketing materials to dedicated training sessions.
Our incentives highlight what makes Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas stand out – whether it’s high-tech entertainment, the FlowRider surf simulator or incredible dining options catering to a variety of tastes.
Digital tools are also available to help agents match travellers with the perfect holiday experience, whether they’re looking for adventure, relaxation or cultural discovery.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions or barriers preventing Australian travellers from booking an Asian holiday – and how can agents address them?
Some travellers assume that travelling through Asia requires complex planning and logistics. Travelling with Royal Caribbean eliminates the stress, making it one of the easiest and most seamless ways to experience multiple destinations in one trip. For instance, on a four-night sailing, holidaymakers wake up in three new destinations.
Singapore’s world-class port makes check-in effortless, and once settled on Anthem of the Seas or Ovation of the Seas, travellers can enjoy the comforts of a high-quality holiday while exploring a new destination each day.
Agents can reassure clients that Royal Caribbean handles every detail – from expertly curated shore excursions to diverse onboard experiences designed for all generations.
By emphasising the effortless travel experience and the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, agents can help Australians discover Asia as an exciting, accessible and enriching alternative to traditional holiday destinations.
For more information, visit the Royal Caribbean website.
