Star Voyager Sets Sail for Southeast Asia: A Appear at Cruise Trends in 2026
StarDream Cruises’ Star Voyager is charting a course through Southeast Asia, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of the cruise industry. With sailings commencing in May and June 2026 from Singapore and Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur), the ship will explore destinations in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, including newly added ports like Con Son, Tioman, Bali (Benoa), and Lombok.
The Rise of Regional Cruising
The focus on Southeast Asia highlights a significant trend: the growth of regional cruising. Rather than long transatlantic voyages, travelers are increasingly opting for shorter, more accessible cruises closer to home. This is driven by factors like cost, convenience, and a desire to explore diverse cultures without extensive travel time. The Star Voyager’s two to five-night itineraries cater directly to this demand.
The itineraries offer a variety of experiences, from exploring the UNESCO-listed George Town in Penang to enjoying the beaches of Phuket. Bali and Lombok provide tropical escapes, while Vietnam offers a multi-destination experience with Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Con Son Island.
New Destinations Drive Demand
The inclusion of destinations like Con Son, Tioman, Bali, and Lombok is a strategic move. Introducing new ports of call generates excitement and attracts travelers seeking unique experiences. This aligns with a broader trend in the travel industry towards experiential tourism, where travelers prioritize immersive and authentic experiences over simply visiting popular landmarks.
One-Way Cruises and Flexible Itineraries
Star Voyager is also offering one-way cruises, such as the Hong Kong – Nha Trang – Singapore – Kuala Lumpur route, and the Singapore – Ho Chi Minh – Nha Trang – Hong Kong journey. This provides flexibility for travelers who prefer not to return to their original departure port. These options cater to a growing segment of travelers who desire to combine a cruise with land-based exploration.
The option to join these one-way cruises at different points – for example, embarking in Ho Chi Minh City for a three-night journey to Nha Trang and Hong Kong – further enhances flexibility and accessibility.
The Impact of Ship Refurbishments and Ownership
The Star Voyager, originally built in 1997 and recently refurbished in 2025, exemplifies another trend: the revitalization of existing ships. Rather than solely focusing on building new vessels, cruise lines are investing in upgrading older ships to meet modern passenger expectations. The ship’s history, having been known as Dawn Princess, Pacific Explorer, and Star Scorpio, demonstrates the dynamic nature of the cruise industry and the transfer of assets between operators.
Currently operated by Resorts World Cruises (Asia) under GHK-Genting Hong Kong Ltd ownership, the ship’s operational structure reflects the consolidation and shifting ownership within the cruise sector.
Sailings Schedule Highlights (May/June 2026)
- From Kuala Lumpur: Three-night Phuket – Penang Cruise (May 22), Two-night Phuket Cruises (May 25 & 27)
- From Singapore: Five-night Bali & Lombok Cruises (May 31 & June 14), Five-night Vietnam Cruises (June 7 & 21), Two-night Tioman getaways (June 5, 12, 19 & 26)
Did you know? The Star Voyager was christened by Dora the Explorer (Nickelodeon character) when it was part of the Princess Cruises fleet.
FAQ
Q: What destinations does the Star Voyager visit?
A: The Star Voyager visits destinations in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, including Penang, Phuket, Bali, Lombok, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Con Son.
Q: What is the length of the cruises offered?
A: Cruises range from two to five nights in duration.
Q: Where does the Star Voyager depart from?
A: Sailings depart from Singapore and Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur).
Q: What is the passenger capacity of the Star Voyager?
A: The Star Voyager can accommodate between 1996 and 2395 passengers.
Pro Tip: Booking early can often secure better rates and cabin choices, especially for popular itineraries.
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