Asia Cruise Cooperation Launched
Five Asia cruise destinations – Hainan, Hong Kong, The Philippines, Taiwan and Xiamen–jointly announced the launch of Asia Cruise Cooperation (ACC), a committed and resourceful alliance with a strong commitment to maximize the growth of cruise tourism in Asia. Launched at a cocktail reception at Seatrade Cruise Global in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, the members of ACC vowed to provide full support to cruise lines to develop Asian cruise products. Riding on the success of Asia Cruise Fund founded in 2014 and the participation of Xiamen since January, the five partners decided to elevate the collaboration, which allows the alliance to go beyond funding support to cruise lines.
HK & Taiwan Launch Cruise Line Subsidy Fund
The fund, which will take effect on April 1st, 2014, and run for three years, will be made up of contributions from participating ports and used to subsidize cruise companies to develop and market their cruise products. A major requirement is that cruise lines must deploy vessels to at least two participating ports or territories in a single itinerary. HKTB Executive Director Anthony Lau said, "The launch of the fund marks a significant step towards regional cruise co-operation…