Next stop for Around the World at Sea on board Genting Dream: Germany for Oktoberfest!
Hong Kong – Dream Cruises has successfully completed its first month of operations in Hong Kong with Genting Dream resuming sailings from Kai Tak Cruise Terminal on 30 July 2021. Since the end of July, Genting Dream has welcomed over 20,000 guests onboard for “Super Section” get-aways, introducing a new and fun vacation option for Hong Kong during the summer holidays.
“Genting Cruise Lines is proud to have achieved this milestone for Dream Cruises in Hong Kong. Completing one month of cruise operations without any COVID-19 related incidents has shown our precautionary measures are effective and has provided more peace of mind for our potential customers,” said Mr Kent Zhu, President of Genting Cruise Lines. “We have invested a lot of time and effort in making sure our cruises provide the safest possible environment for our guests and we have been greatly encouraged by the response we have seen from Hong Kong residents for Genting Dream.”
Bookings for Genting Dream has been robust since the start of operations with many of the first cruises completely sold out (based on the required reduced capacity) and strong demand for upcoming cruises as well.
Early findings paint a picture of travellers who have been starved for vacation experiences over the past year and a half and are willing to spend more on their holidays since COVID-19 disrupted lives around the world and severely restricted international travel. Guests are happy to splurge on premium accommodations now with the utilization rate of Genting Dream’s suites in The Palace at nearly 80% (based on reducing capacity). The Palace is the “all-inclusive, all-suite” luxury concept across the Dream Cruises fleet, featuring the charm of a boutique hotel with the exclusivity of a private clubhouse. Guests can indulge in an unprecedented level of service and comfort, with lavish dining experiences, a rich collection of enrichment activities, attentive butler service and all-inclusive privileges.
Guests are also eager to share this experience with their loved ones with 55% of passengers consisting of family travellers. Additionally, passengers have been predominantly satisfied with the overall service and product offerings during their Super Seacation resulting in an uptick of repeat guests of around 25% who have or have the intention of booking another cruise onboard Genting Dream.
Part of the appeal of Dream Cruises’ Super Seacations is the sense of being able to travel away from Hong Kong and to experience foreign cultures and attractions without ever having to leave the ship. As part of her onboard offerings, Around the World at Sea will transport guests to their favourite tourist destinations with immersive theming capturing the spirit of holiday hotspots.
Throughout the month of September, guests can enjoy a 360 degree Japanese Festival at Sea combining a myriad of activities and thematic elements including extensive decorations, arts and crafts workshops and cultural performances.
From 3-29 October, travel from Japan to Germany to celebrate the iconic Oktoberfest, the German festival loved the world over.
German-born Chef Reinhard Mammes, Fleet Executive Chef of Dream Cruises, will showcase signature German dishes ranging from Crispy Pork Knuckles, Nurnberger Sausages to Pretzels all washed down with a selection of German beers in Genting Dream’s inclusive restaurants, the Dream Dining Room and The Lido. A special Oktoberfest Drinks Package will also be available highlighting a selection of German beers and a souvenir Oktoberfest at Sea beer stein to take home. For those who would prefer to master the art of cookery, complimentary culinary workshops will teach guests how to make the Apfel Strudel, German Pretzels and Bavarian Potato Salad.
At Zouk Beach on Deck 17, a variety of al fresco stalls will provide an assortment of Oktoberfest delights from pretzels, Lebkuchenhertz (gingerbread hearts), traditional sausages to a hearty range of hot dishes. Activities designed for the whole family will include Bavarian folk dancing to an array of festive games including a Yodeling Competition! For kids, complimentary themed arts and crafts activities will keep them busy making Miniature Clay Pretzel Accessories, Alpine Craft Hats, and Bavarian Paper Doll Cards.
Enrichment talks will also decipher the traditional meaning and modern messages of tying the dirndl, the traditional dress for women and girls in the Alps, unravelling the secret codes of how German women would tie the bows on their dresses.
“From Japan to Germany, Dream Cruises is bringing the world onto Genting Dream to satisfy the desire for guests to reacquaint themselves with the pleasure of travelling again,” added Mr Zhu. “Until we are able to holiday abroad, let Dream Cruises provide you with the next best thing to being there!”
