Explorer Dream joins the Dream Cruises fleet as pathfinder

Explorer Dream, a 75,338 gross ton, 1,870 passenger cruise ship, will join the Dream Cruises family in spring 2019 in the role of pathfinder for the brand’s global aspirations.

Formerly the SuperStar Virgo of sister brand Star Cruises, Explorer Dream will undergo a USD 30 million-transformation in March 2019 that will incorporate exquisite new facilities including The Palace, Dream Cruises’ signature, luxury private enclave featuring 50 suites and butler service.

An integral part of the brand, Dream Cruises was the first cruise line to offer this concept of discerning, high-end travellers in Asia. Additionally, guests will be able to enjoy all new food and beverage options combining the best of “East meets West” and a new Crystal Life Spa for the ultimate in pampering and relaxation.

Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, executive chairman of Genting Hong Kong, said: “Dream Cruises will be extending its brand recognition to 300 million Chinese in Shanghai and Tianjin/Beijing next summer as well as offering cruises in Australia and New Zealand to its Asian-sourced passengers during winter 2019 – the first time Dream Cruises will be sailing outside Asia.

“Explorer Dream will offer another option for our Asia based guests to expand their travel horizons with new rail/cruise and fly/cruise opportunities to see the world.”

Explorer Dream will strengthen the Dream Cruises’ brand in North China with homeports in Shanghai and Tianjin during Spring/Summer 2019 with a selection of voyages of various durations from Shanghai or Tianjin to Japan, Russia, Hong Kong and the Philippines.

Taking the first step to evolve Dream Cruises into “Asia’s Global Cruise Line” by sailing outside Asian waters, in Autumn/Winter of 2019, Explorer Dream will homeport in Sydney and Auckland where she will embark on 21 seven-night weekly itineraries.

Queensland and the Barrier Reef Cruises, 6 one-week cruises starting 27 October 2019, calling at:

• Mooloolaba/Sunshine Coast: Famous for its perfect climate, beautiful golden beaches and crystal clear waters
• Brisbane: The capital of Queensland and north of the world-famous Gold Coast, and
• Newcastle: Gateway to the Hunter Valley wine region
• Gladstone: A quaint little village for those who love heritage, history and funky finds

Tasmania Island and Melbourne Cruises, 8 one-week cruises starting 9 February 2020, calling at:

• Port Arthur: A World Heritage city with the first settlements in Australia
• Hobart: Capital of the State of Tasmania and one of the most charming cities in the world
• Burnie: Gateway port to northern Tasmania, famous for its lavender fields and wine country
• Melbourne: Capital of the State of Victoria and consistently voted as one of the world’s most liveable cities
• Phillip Island: Famed for its penguin population, the island is also popular for surfers and motoring enthusiasts
• Eden: On the sparkling Sapphire Coast, Eden is one of the best whale-watching spots in Australia

North and South New Zealand Cruises, 7 one-week cruises starting 15 December 2019, calling at:

• Wellington: Capital of New Zealand and famous as the background of the “Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” films
• Milford Sound/Doubtful Sound: Fiordland is one of the southern hemisphere’s great wilderness regions and has achieved World Heritage Status for its stunning natural features
• Dunedin: Designated as a UNESCO City of Literature and the centre of learning in New Zealand with the largest university in the country
• Napier: Beautifully preserved 1930s architecture is Napier’s special point of difference
• Bay of Islands: A group of 144 islands, famous for its stunning beauty and history, featuring an abundance of wildlife including penguins, dolphins, marlins, whales, gannets and more
• Akaroa: Famous as the only French settlement in New Zealand
• Picton: The heart of the Marlborough Sounds, this picturesque port town is home to great cafés, restaurants and galleries
• Gisborne: the unofficial ‘Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand’

Around 13 million visitors currently visit Australia and New Zealand annually with about 5 million of this number from Asia. Explorer Dream will offer Asian guests an alternative travel option for visiting multiple cities and attractions without having to check in and out of hotels or transiting between airports as commonly associated with a land vacation.

Dream Cruises will offer Asian guests the convenience and comfort of cruising in Australia and New Zealand ensconced in a familiar environment highlighted by:

• A multi-lingual crew conversant in English, Putonghua and other Asian languages
• Cuisine customised to the award-winning international standards offered on Dream Cruises
• Entertainment options reimagined to appeal to Asian passengers

With pre and post stay available in Sydney and Auckland, Dream Cruises’ 7-night itineraries in Australia and New Zealand will be an important cornerstone for Asian travellers who typically enjoy 9 to 14-day vacations when visiting “down under”.