London (27 January 2016) – The much anticipated conference programme for Seatrade Cruise Asia 2016 has been announced. The opening session entitled ‘Korea and the Wider Asian Market’ will see leading cruise line executives discuss how big the Asian source markets may become by 2020, the diversity of the cruise industry in Asia, and the need to differentiate between markets and the future pattern of cruise tourism development in China. The session will debate whether we can expect to see more Asian new entrants to the cruise market, how the economies can maximise the benefits of cruise tourism, and the nature and scale of the opportunity for Asian shipyards in cruise ship construction and refurbishment.
Other topics to be discussed include:
The Future Geography of Cruise Tourism in Asia
- Which will be the stand out Asian hubs, as the industry seeks new ports and fresh itineraries?
- Is new infrastructure investment in Asia keeping pace with demand?
- How cruise friendly is the operating environment in Asia?
- Will the new lower price of fuel affect deployment decisions in the region?
Power Hour: Terminal Design
- This one hour workshop will discuss cruise line, passenger and ground handling requirements for transit and homeports across Asia
Power Hour: Supplying Cruise Ships in Asia
- This one hour workshop will look specifically at cruise ship supply chain management in Asia and discuss the challenges and opportunities for local suppliers with ample opportunity for audience participation
Growing the Asian Source Market
- Which are the strongest prospective markets for cruise sales growth in Asia?
- How do the tastes and aspirations of Asian cruisers differ from those in North America and Europe?
- How will the cruise product be distributed in Asia in the future?
- As the market matures, how soon and on what scale will Asians choose to cruise outside their region?
- How should the destinations outside prepare for an influx of Asian cruisers?
Power 90: Cruise Line-Port Relationship in North Asia
- This 90 minute workshop will look at what the cruise lines are looking for from ports of call in terms of shoreside infrastructure development, including the shorex offering. The format is designed to encourage an interchange of ideas on how lines and ports can work most effectively together for mutual benefit.
Top executives from the major cruise brands will take part in the conference sessions, along with senior representatives from ports, destinations and other cruise tourism stakeholders, giving their insights on how the region can increase its presence in this growing global industry.
Hosted by Busan Port Authority, Busan Metropolitan City, Korea Tourism Organization and Korea Marine Leisure Network, Seatrade Cruise Asia will now take place 12-13 May 2016 at the Busan International Passenger Terminal in Busan, Korea. The event will feature a showcase exhibition, conference and travel agent training.
