Media OutReach

Royal Caribbean Doubles Hong Kong Homeport Sailings in 2025

Published

12 months ago

07/12/2024

Hong Kong Tourism Poised for Growth; Cruise Business Fuels Economic Recovery

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2024 – Royal Caribbean International, the world’s leading and Hong Kong’s longest-standing homeporting cruise line, is set to double its Hong Kong homeport sailings next year with an extended season of 10 roundtrip sailings. The Quantum Ultra Class Spectrum of the Seas and sister ship Ovation of the Seas will embark on diverse itineraries, with Spectrum offering 5 Hong Kong departures in December 2024 and 10 homeport sailings in 2025 , including cruise holidays spanning 4, 5, 9, and 11 nights, exploring the scenic locales of Japan, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Of special note, Spectrum will present an exclusive 11-night immersive journey through Japan, commencing on November 23, 2025, encompassing Fukuoka, Sakaiminato, Kanazawa, Maizuru, and Sasebo – a bespoke itinerary tailored for the discerning gusts. The intricacies of this culturally enhancing itinerary provides guests with an experience unmatched by conventional travel means.

Kick off Ceremony (from left: Captain Flemming B. Nielsen, Captain of the Spectrum of the Seas, Mr. Dane Cheng, Executive Director, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Mrs. Angelina Cheung, JP, Commissioner for Tourism, The Government of the Hong Kong SAR, Hon Michael Wong, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary of the HKSAR, Mr. Benjamin Bouldin, President, Royal Caribbean International, China, Mr. Kevin Fung, Managing Director, Royal Caribbean International, Hong Kong, Mr. Joni Gevriye, Hotel Director of the Spectrum of the Seas)

In addition to this remarkable voyage, there will also be special 2-night weekend cruises, offering a perfect escape for those looking to enjoy a brief but rejuvenating getaway on board the fascinating Spectrum of the Seas. Ovation of the Seas will also feature Hong Kong departures in 2025 with the Easter Monday sailing anticipated to be the most sought-after voyage, ideal for family reunions, gatherings and memorable celebrations.

The arrival of Spectrum of the Seas on December 6th ushers in over 4,800 international visitors to Hong Kong. Robust early bookings for the 2025 sailings serve as a testament to Royal Caribbean’s vision to expanding Hong Kong homeport sailings in the coming years.

The Honourable Michael Wong, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, presided over a ceremony together with Ms. Angelina Cheung, JP, Commissioner for Tourism, Mr. Dane Cheng, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Royal Caribbean executives Mr. Benjamin Bouldin, President of Royal Caribbean International, China and Mr. Kevin Fung, Managing Director of Royal Caribbean International, Hong Kong as well as Captain Flemming B. Nielsen and Hotel Director Joni Gevriye from Spectrum of the Seas. Their collective presence marked a momentous occasion that highlights collaboration and industry excellence in driving growth and prosperity in the cruise industry.

Hon Michael Wong, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said, “We welcome the return of Royal Caribbean International and will provide full support. Various government departments, coordinated by the Tourism Commission, have been working closely with the cruise terminal operator and Royal Caribbean International to put in place measures to help passengers onboard Spectrum of the Seas to quickly and conveniently travel into town.”

Mr Wong said that Hong Kong welcomed 34 million visitors last year. And, in the first 10 months of 2024, there were close to 37 million. The number of visitors to Hong Kong will continue to increase and a year on year growth of over 30 per cent is expected. The outlook for 2025 is even more positive.

Mr. Benjamin Bouldin, President of Royal Caribbean International, China, expressed confidence in the strategic choice of Hong Kong as a pivotal homeport, stating, “Hong Kong stands as a captivating destination in its own right, attracting global visitors with its unique East meets West culture. The city offers a myriad of experiences, from being a renowned shopping and culinary paradise, to being home to world-class cultural heritage conservations and international mega events throughout the year. Moreover, Hong Kong’s advantageous geographical location, coupled with its visa-free access to citizens of some 170 countries and regions, positions the city as the prospective Asian cruise hub. We are committed to Hong Kong, and we look forward to bringing in our newest and best ships to this market in the years to come.”

Mr. Dane Cheng, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) Executive Director, said, “We’re very pleased to welcome the return of two Royal Caribbean International ships to Hong Kong as homeports, and the doubling of Hong Kong homeport sailings. This not only reflects the cruise line’s confidence towards the future of Hong Kong’s tourism industry, but also helps attract more international travellers to Hong Kong with the diversified cruise itineraries. The HKTB will continue to maintain close liaison with the major cruise companies to promote Hong Kong’s advantages as an ideal cruise destination and join hands with the industry to promote the development of Hong Kong cruise industry.

Royal Caribbean’s decision to augment homeport sailings in Hong Kong underscores the city’s leading role and significance within the Asian cruise domain. As the Hong Kong cruise market navigates the challenges post-pandemic, Royal Caribbean’s steadfast commitment carries substantial symbolic weight, reaffirming Hong Kong’s global metropolis status and its integral role in the Asian cruise panorama. Upon the return of Spectrum of the Seas in December, not only will local demand for cruise offerings receive a boost, but over the coming two months, it is anticipated to bring in excess of 20,000 international visitors to Hong Kong through its homeport sailings.

The doubling of Hong Kong homeport sailings generates substantial direct and indirect economic benefits to the city, from immediate industries including provisioning and bunkering, to extended sectors including hotel, retail, dining, and transportation. Royal Caribbean’s proactive homeport strategy also serves to encourage other cruise lines to focus on Hong Kong, nurturing a thriving cruise ecosystem and propelling Hong Kong towards its goal of becoming Asia’s cruise hub.

Spectrum of the Seas & Ovation of the Seas: The Ultimate Vacation-At-Sea with Boundless Enjoyment for Everyone

The revolutionary Spectrum of the Seas, a 16-deck, 168,666-tonne cruise ship, was specifically designed for Asia and has a capacity for 5,622 guests and 2,137 staterooms. Spectrum of the Seas also offers an exclusive suite enclave that includes everything from a two-level, 2,809-square-foot Ultimate Family Suite that features an in-suite slide and accommodates up to 11 guests for the ultimate multigenerational family vacation, to private dining, shopping and more.

Ovation of the Seas, one of the world’s most groundbreaking ships, is a 16-deck, 168,666-tonne cruise ship. It was specifically designed for Asia and has a capacity for 4,182 guests and 2,091 staterooms, including 1,572 balcony cabins, 148 ocean-view staterooms and 375 virtual balcony rooms. Royal Suite Class, the most spacious luxury cruise suite on Ovation of the Seas, offers unparalleled vacation experiences, leaving every guest with extraordinary memories!

The two ships feature a plethora of bold and unexpected entertainment and activities, plus an extensive array of culinary experiences that surpasses any guests’ expectations. Whether vacationers are looking for a relaxing getaway with family or an adventurous journey with friends, Spectrum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas offers something for every member of the family. From adrenaline-pumping thrills to tranquil spa treatments, a blend of extraordinary dining outlets and nightlife options, there’s never a dull moment onboard helping to create the ultimate vacation that will leave every generation with fond memories for years to come.

Spectrum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas offers adventures for travellers of all ages including the North Star, an all-glass observation capsule that rises 300 feet above sea level and provides unrivalled 360-degree views. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the RipCord by iFLY simulator for an unbeatable skydiving experience, as well as the FlowRider surf simulator and the SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea where families can enjoy bumper cars, roller skating, basketball and more. A variety of top-notch performances, from musical acts to aerial acrobatics, are also available at the Royal Theatre and Two70.

Dining aboard Spectrum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas is a truly exquisite experience with numerous palate-pleasing food and beverage venues serving a selection of international culinary delights, from Hot Pot, Teppanyaki and Pizza, as well as guest favourites like Chops Grille, Jamie’s Italian and more. Delicacies ranging from classic flavours to premium culinary creations, a variety of exquisite dishes will definitely satisfy your taste buds.

Appendix:

1. Sailing details of Spectrum of the Seas 2024-25

*Spectrum of the Seas* 2024-25 (Hong Kong Homeport)
Date of Departure	Itineraries
6 Dec 2024	5 Nights Japan: Okinawa & Ishigaki
11 Dec 2024	4 Nights Vietnam: Nha Trang
15 Dec 2024	5 Nights Japan: Okinawa & Ishigaki
20 Dec 2024	9 Nights Japan: Kagoshima, Miyazaki, Nagasaki, Fukuoka
29 Dec 2024	5 Nights Japan: Okinawa (overnight)
3 Jan 2025	4 Nights Vietnam: Chan May
7 Jan 2025	5 Nights Japan: Okinawa & Ishigaki

2. Sailing details of Ovation of the Seas 2025-26

*Ovation of the Seas* 2025-26 (Hong Kong Homeport)
Date of Departure	Itineraries
21 Apr 2025	5 Nights Japan & Taiwan: Okinawa & Taipei

3. Sailing details of Spectrum of the Seas 2025-26

*Spectrum of the Seas* 2025-26 (Hong Kong Homeport)
Date of Departure	Itineraries
23 Nov 2025	11 Nights Japan: Fukuoka, Sakaiminato, Maizuru, Kanazawa, Sasebo
4 Dec 2025	5 Nights Japan: Okinawa & Ishigaki
9 Dec 2025	5 Nights Vietnam: Chan May & Nha Trang
14 Dec 2025	5 Nights Japan: Okinawa & Ishigaki
19 Dec 2025	2 Nights: Ultimate Weekend Getaway
21 Dec 2025	9 Nights Japan: Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Kagoshima
30 Dec 2025	5 Nights Japan: Okinawa & Ishigaki
4 Jan 2026	5 Nights Japan & Taiwan: Okinawa & Taipei
9 Jan 2026	2 Nights: Ultimate Weekend Getaway

Hashtag: #RoyalCaribbean

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International, part of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has delivered memorable vacations for more than 50 years. The cruise line’s game-changing ships and private destinations revolutionize vacations with innovations and an all-encompassing combination of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, for every type of family and vacationer. Voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 21 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean makes memories with adventurers across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including the line’s top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Media can follow the latest news from Royal Caribbean Hong Kong through the official Facebook and Instagram pages, or visit RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com for press information. For more details, feel free to contact your travel agent, visit the official Royal Caribbean International website, or call the inquiry hotline at +852 3189 3201.

Media OutReach

E3 Compression Latch with Visual Indicator Now Available in Zinc

Published

17 hours ago

05/12/2025

Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – Those prioritizing safety and security now have a cost-effective option. Southco’s E3 VISE ACTION® Compression Latch with Visual Indicator is now available in zinc. The latch features red, reflective indicator wings that can be easily viewed when open, allowing latch status to be monitored at all times. This offering further expands the line of MAKE SAFETY VISIBLE BY SOUTHCO™ products, which provide visual indication for increased safety and monitoring in a wide range of applications.

E3 COMPRESSION LATCH WITH VISUAL INDICATOR IN ZINC

Southco’s E3 VISE ACTION® Compression Latch with Visual Indicator displays latch open status that can be seen from a minimum of five meters, making it an ideal choice for rail, semiconductor and industrial machinery enclosures where an unsecured door or panel could impact safety during operation. By allowing operators to easily detect latch status, the E3 VISE ACTION® Compression Latch with Visual Indicator improves efficiency, enhances safety and reduces maintenance errors.

Global Product Manager Ike Teng adds, “The E3 VISE ACTION® Compression Latch with Visual Indicator provides visual feedback of whether a panel is fully closed, semi-closed or not secured at all. Like Southco’s standard E3 line, the indicator version delivers robust, vibration-resistant fastening and is available in a variety of grip lengths, providing a simple upgrade for enhancing enclosure safety and security.”

For more information about the functionality of E3 Compression Latches, please visit https://www.southco.com or email the 24/7 customer service department at [email protected]

Hashtag: #Southco #E3VISEACTION

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Southco

Southco, Inc. is the leading global designer and manufacturer of engineered access solutions. From quality and performance to aesthetics and ergonomics, we understand that first impressions are lasting impressions in product design. For over 70 years, Southco has helped the world’s most recognized brands create value for their customers with innovative access solutions designed to enhance the touch points of their products in transportation and industrial applications, medical equipment, data centers and more. With unrivalled engineering resources, innovative products and a dedicated global team, Southco delivers the broadest portfolio of premium access solutions available to equipment designers throughout the world.

Southco Asia Limited
2401, Tower 2, Ever Gain Plaza
88 Container Port Road, Kwai Chung

Hong Kong

Media OutReach

Global Qualifications Made Local: Leading Overseas Universities Partner with SIM

Published

18 hours ago

05/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – For students seeking an international education experience without relocating overseas, Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) offers a wealth of globally recognised degree options through partnerships with top universities around the world. These programmes deliver the same academic rigour and credentials as their home campuses, giving learners a competitive edge while remaining close to family and local opportunities.

University of London

The University of London (UoL) is one of the most established overseas degree providers in Singapore, having partnered with SIM Global Education (SIM GE) for more than 38 years.

Through this collaboration, students can pursue degrees in fields such as Business, Banking and Finance, Data Science, Economics, and International Relations. The programmes follow the same curricula and are examined by the same academic boards as those in the UK. SIM complements these with academic support, career services, a vibrant campus life and helping students gain a truly global education while staying rooted in Singapore.

University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham, a member of the UK’s prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities, partners with SIM Global Education (SIM GE) to offer both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Singapore.

At the undergraduate level, the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Business Management (Top-up) equips students with analytical and strategic skills necessary for today’s competitive business environment.

For postgraduate learners, SIM GE offers the Master of Business Administration (MBA), designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership, strategic management, and decision-making capabilities. The programme blends academic rigour with practical business applications, preparing graduates for senior management roles and global career opportunities.

University of Stirling

The University of Stirling at SIM offers globally recognised, research-led programmes designed to develop career-ready graduates. With flexible learning options, industry-relevant curriculum, and opportunities for global exposure, Stirling equips students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s competitive job market.

University at Buffalo, The State University of New York

For students who prefer an American-style education, the University at Buffalo (UB) offers full U.S. degree programmes at SIM GE. Students can major in Communication, Psychology, or International Trade, earning a degree directly from UB – “a premier U.S. public university in Singapore … at a fraction of the cost” The UB programmes are taught by faculty approved by the home campus, maintaining the same academic standards and assessments as in New York.

University of Alberta

The University of Alberta holds a position among the top 4 universities in Canada and is internationally recognized as a leading post-secondary institution, ranking within the top 100 universities worldwide. Its steadfast dedication to excellence in research, teaching, and innovation spans over a century.

RMIT University

RMIT University, based in Melbourne, is another major Australian partner of SIM GE. Known for its industry-focused learning, RMIT’s programmes in Business Management, Marketing, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management are designed with employability in mind.

Students gain hands-on experience through case studies and project-based learning. The partnership allows Singapore students to graduate with the same Australian degree as those studying in Melbourne, often within two to three years.

University of Wollongong

The University of Wollongong (UOW), ranked among the world’s top 200 universities, partners exclusively with SIM Global Education in Singapore to offer IT, business information systems, cybersecurity, and data analytics programs taught by UOW faculty. Since 2005, over 3,000 UOW degrees have been awarded at SIM, with pathways for transfers to Australia and industry internships. Students enjoy access to SIM’s vibrant campus life, academic support, and opportunities for awards from agencies like CSIT and IMDA.

The University of Sydney

Over 3,500 of Singapore’s most talented health professionals have graduated with our nursing and health science related degrees, offered in partnership with SIM GE. The nursing programmes are developed, fully taught and awarded by The University of Sydney and accredited by the Singapore Nursing Board.

La Trobe University

La Trobe University is a public research university located in Melbourne, Australia. It was established in 1964 and is now the third university in the state of Victoria. The university is in the top five per cent of business schools worldwide to have earned an AACSB accreditation for delivering excellence in every aspect of the university’s work.

Monash College

Monash College is fully owned by Monash University, Australia’s largest university. The College is the preferred pathway to Monash University for international students. Through innovative programmes which align with the high standards of Monash University, we equip students for life at university, and beyond.

Grenoble Ecole de Management

Founded in Grenoble, Grenoble Ecole de Management (GEM) has greatly developed its expertise in the management of technology and innovation—an expertise that is now the foundation of the institution’s excellence and international renown. The school is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA, and is a member of the French ‘Conférence des Grandes Ecoles’.

A Hub for Global Degrees

SIM Global Education offers over 140 full-time and part-time academic programmes from international universities partners.

Students here can earn world-class qualifications, gain exposure to diverse teaching approaches, and access global alumni networks all at lower cost and greater convenience than studying abroad.

As SIM GE highlights, its degrees are “globally recognised, with the same curricula and academic standards as those awarded onshore”

In an increasingly competitive world, these overseas degree options in Singapore offer the best of both worlds – international credentials with local advantage.

References:

University of London – Teaching Centre: Singapore – https://www.london.ac.uk/study/where-study/teaching-centre/singapore
SIM Global Education – University of London Programmes – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
SIM Global Education – RMIT University – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/rmit-univer…
SIM Global Education – University at Buffalo – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
SIM Global Education – University of Alberta – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
SIM Global Education – University of Birmingham – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
SIM Global Education – University of Wollongong – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
SIM Global Education – The University of Sydney – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/the-univers…
SIM Global Education – La Trobe University – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/la-trobe-un…
SIM Global Education – Grenoble Ecole de Management – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/grenoble-ec…
SIM Global Education – Monash College – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/monash-coll…
SIM Global Education – University of Stirling – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
SIM Global Education – Overview of Degree and Diploma Programmes – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/overview
SIM Global Education – University Partner Page – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #CareerReady #FutureSkills #HigherEducation #GlobalDegrees

https://www.sim.edu.sg

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

Yunnan Showcases Top 10 Must-try Experiences at Trip.Best: Southeast Asia Travel Trends Unpacked

Published

1 day ago

04/12/2025

Media Outreach

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 December 2025 – On December 2, 2025, Yunnan Province, as an emerging destination in China among Southeast Asia travellers, was invited to deliver a special presentation to highlight its rich cultural tourism resources, at the Trip.Best: Southeast Asia Travel Trends Unpacked Event at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore, hosted by Trip.com.

The event gathered representatives from the Singapore Tourism Board, Trip.com, leading travel agencies from Southeast Asia, international mainstream media, travel influencers, and industry experts. Trip.com business leaders shared data-driven insights into evolving travel consumption patterns in this region, covering entry and exit, accommodation, attractions, and dining trends, before revealing the highly anticipated Trip.Best Southeast Asia Travel Rankings.

Yunnan’s presentation on its “Top 10 Must-try Experiences,” took the audience on an immersive journey from the Yuanyang Rice Terraces and Xishuangbanna Rainforest to the Shangri-La Snow Mountain. These tours integrate intangible cultural heritage, ethnic cuisine, and artisanal crafts, creating authentic experiences for global travelers. Complementing the presentation, an outdoor Yunnan lifestyle experience zone was set up, where guests could savor Yunnan specialties, admire Yi embroidery, and capture memorable moments in traditional ethnic attire.

Yunnan also emphasized its traveler-friendly policies, including the 240-hour visa-free transit for international visitors in nine popular tourist destinations, including Kunming, Lijiang, Dali, and Xishuangbanna, and tax refund benefits for overseas shoppers. Enhanced connectivity through Yunnan’s expanding “air corridor” has significantly boosted passenger traffic between Yunnan and South and Southeast Asia. Kunming Changshui International Airport now offers flights to 37 international destinations, with 32 routes linking directly to South and Southeast Asia.

By leveraging Trip.Best‘s global travel rankings and experiential marketing strategies, Yunnan further solidified its brand presence as an international tourist destination, paving the way for deeper collaboration in Southeast Asia’s tourism market.

Hashtag: #Trip.Best

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.