Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 officially opens in the Philippines tonight at a welcome reception at The Cove at the Okada Manila, kicking off a major industry event that will run till Wednesday, 13th November.

The majority of the event’s activities are slated at Shangri-La The Fort and are expected to draw in over 350 delegates, including cruise line executives, itinerary planners, port agents, and tourism authorities from across the globe.

Co-locating with Seatrade Maritime Crew Connect Global, the premier event for marine crewing and seafarer welfare, this event will mark a milestone in the Philippines’ growing leadership in cruise tourism.

Becoming a world-class hub for cruise tourism

The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) said Seatrade Cruise Asia would also reflect the country’s commitment to fostering a world-class cruise hub within the region.

Tourism secretary Christina Frasco said: “Hosting Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 underscores the Philippines’ readiness and capability to lead in cruise tourism. Our archipelago’s vibrant culture, exceptional hospitality, and breathtaking natural attractions make us an ideal destination for international cruise lines and travellers.”

Throughout the event, attendees will join networking sessions, learning forums, and strategic discussions aimed at propelling sustainable growth and regional collaboration in the cruise industry.

With this in mind, the event is set to provide an essential platform for dialogue and partnerships, which the DOT sees would drive the country’s cruise tourism industry forward and reinforce its status on the global tourism stage.

To elevate the country’s appeal to cruise operators, the Philippines recently launched a Cruise Visa Waiver, which eases access and streamlines travel for international cruise passengers.