Explore the Wonders of Asia with CruiseAway
Get ready to set sail on an unforgettable journey through **Asia**—an extraordinary destination teeming with rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. Booking a cruise through this vibrant continent provides an incredible opportunity to experience everything from bustling city markets to serene temples and picture-perfect beaches within a single trip. Cruisers can expect to savour delicious street food in Tokyo, explore the historic sites of Kyoto, and unwind on the sandy beaches of Bali. Fun fact: Asia is the largest continent on Earth, covering approximately 30% of the world’s land area and home to over 4.5 billion people! Get ready for a cruise adventure that promises to expand your horizons like never before!
Must-Visit Harbours in Asia
When you cruise to **Asia**, you’ll have access to some of the most fascinating harbours. Here are five destinations that shouldn’t be missed:
- Singapore: A dazzling city-state known for its modern skyline and breathtaking gardens, Singapore offers plenty to do. Don’t miss the **Gardens by the Bay**, home to the stunning Supertree Grove and **Marina Bay Sands**. Sample local delicacies at **Hawker Centres** and take a stroll through **Chinatown** for incredible shopping opportunities. Insider tip: Visit the **Singapore Flyer** for panoramic views of the city—perfect for photos!
- Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan: This vibrant port city offers a delightful mix of tradition and modernity. Stroll through the famous **Sankeien Garden** or indulge your taste buds with local ramen. Get a taste of culture visiting the **Cup Noodles Museum** for a fun experience! Pro tip: Take a short train ride from Yokohama to Tokyo and explore iconic spots like **Shibuya Crossing** and **Meiji Shrine** during your layover.
- Hong Kong, China: A dynamic city known for its stunning skyline, Hong Kong offers an array of activities. Don’t miss the iconic **Victoria Peak** for dramatic views, or visit **Star Ferry** for a scenic ride across the harbour. Also, savour authentic dim sum in one of the many local eateries. Insider tip: Explore **Temple Street Night Market** for vibrant street food and unique souvenirs!
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Experience the hustle and bustle of this vibrant city, where you can explore the famed **Cu Chi Tunnels** and visit historical landmarks like the **War Remnants Museum**. Stroll through the bustling **Ben Thanh Market** for local food and handicrafts. Don’t leave without trying some authentic Vietnamese pho! Pro tip: Grab a coffee at a local café to enjoy some Vietnamese drip coffee before departing.
- Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand: A vibrant metropolis known for its ornate temples, Bangkok offers countless attractions. Visit the dazzling **Grand Palace** and the sacred **Wat Pho**. Exploring local markets like **Chatuchak** can lead to unique finds. Insider tip: Take a long-tail boat ride along the city’s canals for a different perspective and hit the local street vendors for delicious snacks!
The Best Times to Cruise in Asia
The ideal time to visit **Asia** typically ranges from **November to March**, offering pleasant temperatures between **20°C to 30°C**. This period is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and sightseeing without the humidity or heat present in the summer months. The summer season from **June to August** can see temperatures soar to **35°C or more**, with heavier rainfall in some regions, making the travel experience less enjoyable. For budget-conscious cruisers, consider sailing during the shoulder seasons for the best deals!
The Costs of Cruising in Asia
How much should you budget for a cruise to Asia? Expect to pay around **$1,500 to $3,000** for a one-week standard cruise, while two-week journeys can cost approximately **$3,300 to $6,000**. Luxury options, on the other hand, can start around **$4,900** for one week. Many cruisers find the off-peak months during **September to early November** to be the cheapest times to travel, with prices peaking during the **summer season** and around public holidays. Dining out in Asia can range from **$10 to $50** per meal, depending on whether you’re hitting the local hawker stalls or dining at upscale restaurants, giving you plenty of options!
Major Cruise Lines Offering Adventures in Asia
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Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **four** of them sail to Asia, including the **Diamond Princess** and **Crown Princess**. Departures commonly occur from **Sydney** or **Yokohama (Tokyo)**. Princess Cruises is known for its exceptional onboard service, wellness programs, and activities geared towards both relaxation and exploration, ensuring an enriching experience tailored to all guests.
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Royal Caribbean Cruises: Featuring **29 ships**, five head to Asia, with the **Spectrum of the Seas** and **Ovation of the Seas** leading the way. Ports of departure include **Sydney** and **Singapore**. Royal Caribbean is famous for its innovative cruise experiences, offering thrilling onboard activities along with an array of dining options that cater to a diverse palate.
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Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of **20 ships**, four explore Asia, including the **Norwegian Spirit** and **Norwegian Sun**. The cruise line frequently departs from **Singapore** or **Keelung (Taipei)**. Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Freestyle Cruising” concept allows guests flexibility in dining and activities, helping create a more relaxed cruising atmosphere.
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Holland America Line: With **11 ships**, five operate in Asia, including the **Westerdam** and **Noordam**. Common departure ports are **Sydney** and **Singapore**. Holland America Line is well-known for its enriching shore excursions and cultural immersion experiences—perfect for cruisers looking to connect with local customs and traditions along their journey.
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Cunard: Featuring a fleet of **four ships**, three travel to Asia, such as the **Queen Elizabeth** and **Queen Anne**. Departures are often from **Sydney**, **Melbourne**, or **Yokohama (Tokyo)**. Cunard is synonymous with luxury, providing sophisticated onboard experiences and fine dining options, making every passenger feel pampered throughout their cruise.
Luxury and Small Ship Options
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Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of **eight ships**, **six** navigate to Asia, including the **Regatta** and **Riviera**. Popular departure ports include **Sydney** and **Singapore**. Oceania is renowned for its distinguished culinary experiences, featuring menu items crafted by renowned chefs, alongside well-planned itineraries that offer in-depth exploration of diverse ports.
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Silversea: This luxury cruise line operates **13 ships**, with **seven** that sail to Asia, such as the **Silver Nova** and **Silver Dawn**. They frequently depart from **Perth** or **Tokyo**, and are celebrated for their all-inclusive luxury experience, ensuring a seamless journey with personalised service that caters to every passenger’s need.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With **six ships**, five cruise to Asia, including **Seven Seas Explorer** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Departures commonly take place from **Sydney** or **Tokyo**. Regent guarantees an all-inclusive cruise experience with high-end amenities, gourmet dining, and unique shore excursions designed to immerse guests in each destination.
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Viking Ocean Cruises: Featuring **11 ships**, they have **three** that cruise to Asia, like **Viking Orion** and **Viking Venus**. Departures usually take place from **Sydney** or **Bangkok**. Viking is notable for their commitment to cultural enrichment, with enriching bunker experiences and extensive onboard learning opportunities.
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Seabourn: This line features **six ships**, with **four** heading for Asia, including the **Seabourn Quest** and **Seabourn Encore**. Departures often occur from **Sydney** or **Hong Kong**, with Seabourn known for its intimate cruise experience, featuring spacious all-suite accommodations and culinary offerings that focus on local and seasonal produce.
Explore Alternative Regions
If you’re considering a cruise to **Asia** but are also looking for distinctive alternatives, here are five options:
- Caribbean: Famous for stunning beaches and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean offers an idyllic escape with a laid-back atmosphere and colourful landscapes.
- Eastern Mediterranean: With its beautiful islands, historical destinations, and delicious food, this area encapsulates a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Southeast Asia: Renowned for its rich cultures, lush landscapes, and welcoming locals, it offers diverse options for exploration and adventure.
- Australia: Perfect for nature lovers, top-notch beaches, and the dream for wildlife encounters, Australian cruises often showcase the beauty of the land down under.
- North Africa: Rich in history, vibrant markets, and warm hospitality, this alternative promises a fascinating cultural experience worth exploring.
With stunning landscapes, diverse experiences, and rich culinary adventures, booking a cruise to **Asia** can create unforgettable memories. Don’t wait any longer; embark on your next journey with **CruiseAway** and experience the magic of Asia!