Costa Cruises Drops Anchor in Malaysia for Strategic Southeast Asia Expansion
KUALA LUMPUR, 1 September 2023 – In a groundbreaking move that symbolizes Malaysia’s growing importance in the global cruise industry, Costa Cruises – Europe’s largest cruise company – has announced its decision to initiate a pilot program with Port Klang as its new home port for Costa Serena. This initiative offers both domestic and international tourists a unique cruise journey that sets sail directly from a Malaysian port, marking a new era for the Malaysian cruise tour industry.
Costa Cruises, the esteemed European cruise leader headquartered in Italy, proudly announces its strategic expansion into the Southeast Asian market by designating Port Klang as Costa Serena‘s home port. This move not only underscores the burgeoning strategic partnership between Malaysia and Costa Cruises but also reaffirms both entities’ mutual commitment to fostering the sustained growth of the Malaysian tourism sector.
The Managing Director of Hwajing Travel, Kenny Cheong, remarked, “We firmly believe that, owing to its strategic geographical position and the historical significance of the Straits of Malacca, Malaysia has always been the most ideal choice for a home port, complementing and rivalling the neighbouring port in Singapore.” Through the persistent efforts of Hwajing Travel, the introduction of Costa Serena not only elevates Malaysia’s cruise industry but is also anticipated to further bolster tourism in various domestic regions, especially in areas proximate to major ports such as Selangor, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur.
The Costa Serena, themed as the ‘Ship of Gods,’ is a nautical masterpiece with interiors deeply influenced by ancient Roman mythology, encapsulating the rich tapestry of Italian culture and artistry. Upon stepping aboard, guests are instantly enveloped in a romantic European ambience, evoking the magnificence and charm of a timeless Roman city. The cruise spans 290 metres in length, weighs 115,000 tonnes, and has the capacity to host up to 3,780 guests. Beginning 17th January, Costa Serena will offer a 3-day, 2-night itinerary from Port Klang to Penang, as well as a special 4-day, 3-night journey from Port Klang to Penang and Phuket.
In celebration of the new route, Hwajing Travel is set to curate an unparalleled onboard experience by hosting the globally renowned Sea Venice Carnival aboard the majestic Costa Serena. “The Venice Carnival stands as one of the four quintessential carnivals on the global stage, epitomizing the ethos of Italian egalitarianism. Hosting this grand event serves as our heartfelt gesture of appreciation for the unwavering loyalty of our patrons. It offers them a glimpse into Italy’s rich tapestry of cultural heritage. As the carnival begins, guests will put on masks, immersing themselves in an authentic Venetian experience without ever leaving Malaysian waters,” Kenny further shared.
At the MATTA Travel Fair, the Minister of Transport of Malaysia, YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, stated: “The decision by Costa Cruises to select Port Klang, Malaysia, as its home port is a wise move, highlighting the strategic position of our port in the cruise route. This is extremely beneficial for Costa’s expansion into the Southeast Asian market.” Historically, cruises docking at Malaysian ports usually embarked from foreign ports, making brief stops at various Malaysian ports before resuming their voyages. Only a handful of cruise companies have opted to establish a permanent home port in Malaysia, often deterred by challenges such as the port’s distance from the capital, regulatory policies, port levies, and other factors. Yet, through the unwavering support and sustained efforts of Hwajing Travel over the years, Costa has adeptly navigated these hurdles to make its significant entry into Malaysia.
Minister Loke added that this significant initiative has the full backing of the Malaysian government. Establishing Port Klang as Costa Serena‘s home port brings new opportunities to the tourism sector and provides more job opportunities for the nation. As such, he hopes the plans for Costa Serena in Malaysia will succeed, further attracting more cruises and foreign tourists to Malaysia in the future.
Hwajing’s 34th Anniversary Grand Promotion
In commemoration of its 34th anniversary, Hwajing Travel is delighted to launch the “Too Good To Be True 34th Anniversary Grand Promotion“. This initiative presents esteemed customers with a curated selection of cost-effective travel packages as a gesture of appreciation for their sustained patronage. For more details, kindly visit the Hwajing Travel booth located at Level 2, Booth No 2Q24, during the MATTA Travel Fair at MITEC from 1st to 3rd September.
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