The debut of Seatrade Cruise Asia in Malaysia will spotlight emerging trends and growth opportunities across Asia’s cruise industry. The event is expected to attract more than 28 major cruise lines and representatives from 30 countries.
Under the theme A New Era of Opportunity, the two-day conference and networking programme will bring together industry leaders to discuss the forces shaping the region’s cruise sector and explore opportunities for future growth.
Taking place in Kuala Lumpur and Penang for the first time, the event will cover key topics including homeporting, deployment strategies and year-round cruise growth; evolving expectations among Asia’s cruise passengers; distinctive cruise experiences; seamless cruise journeys, terminals and CIQ processes; destination immersion; and small-ship readiness.
The event will open on 16 November at 1:30pm with a keynote address by Charles ‘Bud’ Darr, president and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). He will explore the central theme in the context of emerging opportunities across the region and how the industry can turn its potential into sustainable, long-term growth.
“Seatrade Cruise Asia brings the talent and experience of the Asia-Pacific cruise industry together with leaders from around the world. Here, we can think boldly about the decades ahead, learn from one another, and find the partners to put ambitious ideas into practice. Those relationships can inspire investments and extraordinary experiences that serve generations of travellers,” he said.
Following the keynote, senior cruise line executives will discuss their strategic priorities, business outlooks and perspectives on the industry's future.
The session, State of Asia's Cruise Industry: A New Era of Opportunity, will begin at 1:45pm. It will be moderated by Mary Bond, industry expert and group portfolio director at Seatrade Cruise.
Asia's cruise industry is entering a new phase, with opportunities emerging across source markets, deployment strategies, destinations and passenger experiences. However, growth remains uneven. Unlocking the region's potential will depend on where cruise lines invest, how they develop their products and itineraries, and whether the wider industry ecosystem can support expansion.
The panel will feature Ben Bouldin, president, Greater China and managing director, Asia, Royal Caribbean International; Michael Goh, president of StarDream Cruises; and Oliviero Morelli, president, South-East Asia, Japan and South Korea, Cruise Division, MSC Group.
They will examine the factors shaping the next phase of cruise growth in Asia and identify where industry leaders see the greatest opportunities.
Conference packages and registration
Registration for the Seatrade Cruise Asia Conference, taking place from 17–18 November, starts at US$1,000 for international delegates.
Malaysian residents can access a discounted rate of US$450 upon presentation of valid identification. Cruise line executives can attend free of charge using a promotional code.
Delegates seeking a broader experience can also add the Penang Excursion to any registration package for an additional US$450.
For the full event programme, visit the Seatrade Cruise Asia event schedule.
To view registration options and packages, visit the Seatrade Cruise Asia ticket packages page.
For event and registration enquiries, contact [email protected]
Register for Seatrade Cruise Asia 2026
