In a groundbreaking event that marks a new chapter for Southeast Asian cruise tourism, the Genting Dream, a colossal 150,695 gross tonnage cruise ship, successfully docked at the Phuket Deep Sea Port on July 24, 2024. This historic berthing cements Phuket’s status as a premier cruise destination and opens up unprecedented opportunities for both inbound and outbound cruise passengers.

As the first large cruise ship to berth at this port, the Genting Dream’s arrival was a meticulously planned operation. Resorts World Cruises, known as “the Cruise Line that Knows Asia Best,” leveraged its extensive expertise to enhance passenger experience. This monumental feat eliminates the previous need for tender boats, providing passengers with the convenience and comfort of directly disembarking and re-embarking in Phuket.

Michael Goh, President of Resorts World Cruises, highlighted the rigorous preparations that led to this achievement. “Our Marine Operational team, the Captains of Genting Dream, and the Phuket Pilots conducted comprehensive studies, risk assessments, and ship simulations over six months with the Thailand authorities to ensure the feasibility and safety of this pioneering initiative. With our ship now able to berth alongside Phuket Deep Sea Port regularly, our passengers will enjoy the convenience, which will further boost Phuket’s image as a cruise destination,” Goh stated.

Resorts World Cruises management, together with Phuket authorities and partners, celebrated a new milestone with Genting Dream, the first large cruise ship to berth alongside Phuket Deep Sea Port.

Goh also thanked the Marine Department, the Governor of Phuket province, local port authorities, and Wallem Shipping Agency for their support and coordination. This collaborative effort underscores the significance of this achievement for the local and regional cruise tourism sector.

The implications of this development are far-reaching. Establishing a cruise terminal at Phuket Deep Sea Port for a vessel of Genting Dream’s magnitude enhances passenger convenience and positions Phuket as a potential cruise gateway for outbound travellers. This strategic move is expected to spur growth in the local economy and promote Phuket as a critical player in the regional cruise tourism market.

Resorts World Cruises hosted a special port stay event aboard the Genting Dream to celebrate this milestone. The event featured key figures from the cruise line, including Captain Havard Ramsoy, Senior Vice President of Fleet Operations; Mr. Jerry Leong, Senior Vice President of Business Development and Ports; Captain Jukka Silvennoinen, and Captain Robert Bodin. They welcomed the deputy governor of Phuket, Adul Chuthong, along with other local authorities, commemorating the occasion with a special memento presentation.

Phuket enthusiasts now have a new reason to rejoice. The Genting Dream offers a 3-night cruise from Singapore every alternate Tuesday, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in Phuket’s vibrant day- and night-time attractions. From its stunning beaches to its legendary nightlife, with local food and beverages, night markets, and live entertainment, the island promises an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the Phuket itinerary, the Genting Dream presents a variety of exciting cruises from Singapore. These include the 3-night Penang-Kuala Lumpur Cruise, the 2-night Kuala Lumpur Cruise, and the 2-night High Seas Weekend Getaway Cruise. Option options for those embarking from Kuala Lumpur (via Port Klang) include the 4-night Singapore Discovery Cruise and the 3-night Singapore-Penang Cruise.

For more information or to book your next adventure, visit Resorts World Cruises or email reservations.en@rwcruises.com.

This landmark event signifies a milestone for Resorts World Cruises and Phuket and heralds a new era for cruise tourism in the region. As the Genting Dream continues to set sail, the waves of opportunity it creates will undoubtedly resonate across the cruise industry.

Written by: Anne Keam

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