KLANG, June 15 — The Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT) is well-positioned to capitalise on the rerouting of international cruise itineraries to Southeast Asia as global uncertainties reshape travel patterns.
Its chief executive officer Alvin Geoffrey Alphonso said the trend presents an opportunity for the expansion of the cruise tourism industry while also boosting local economic activity.
Several international cruise operators have cancelled sailings to West Asia and redirected their itineraries to Southeast Asia, particularly during the winter season.
"During that season, they are unable to operate their ships in the United States and Europe due to passenger comfort considerations, so they will head to Southeast Asia.
"We do not see the West Asia crisis as a threat, but as an opportunity to bring in more tourists who will spend within the state and the country," he told the media after the Viking Yidun Fam Trip programme at PKCT yesterday.
Commenting on rising fuel costs, Alvin said cruise operators may impose certain surcharges, although most companies have already implemented hedging strategies before the conflict began.
"Bunker fuel costs have been determined earlier through this method (hedging), which helps prevent operating costs from being severely affected,” he said.
This measure also helps keep cruise ticket prices relatively stable despite uncertainty in the global energy market.
In a related development, Alvin expects between 130 and 140 international cruise ships, including naval vessels, to call at PKCT this year, compared with 110 vessels throughout last year.
He noted that in the first quarter of this year alone, 42 cruise ships docked at the terminal, bringing 64,396 passengers from various countries.
"PKCT is committed to providing the best possible service to cruise operators and passengers through close collaboration with Tourism Selangor and Tourism Malaysia," Alvin said.
