Riding the Wave: Why Asia’s Cruise Operators Should Apply to the 2026 AHA
Winner of 2025 AHA - project Ambassador Cruise (Asia Premier Cruises Corporation Joint Stock Company (APC Corporation))
Cruise Tourism in Asia: A Growing Force
- Rapid Market Expansion: The Asia-Pacific cruise market generated USD 1.48 billion in revenue in 2024 and is projected to more than double to USD 3.23 billion by 2030, growing at a robust CAGR of 13.9%.
- Rising Passenger Numbers: While Asia and Oceania accounted for 4.03 million cruise passengers in 2024, reflecting a 9.8% increase year-on-year, this volume is rising steadily across the region.
Winner of 2025 AHA - project CHAO PHRAYA PRINCESS (Tristar Floating Restaurant Co., Ltd)
- Infrastructure & Destinations on the Rise: Several Asian hubs - like Bali, Singapore, and Japan - are rapidly scaling up cruise infrastructure, with home-porting, new terminals, and itineraries drawing global operators. For instance, Bali’s new maritime tourism hub is expected to significantly increase cruise traffic, with the aim to help Asia comprise 20% of global cruise passengers by 2035.
- Resilient & Expanding Industry: Globally, cruise remains a small yet dynamic part of the travel sector, accounting for 2.7% of international tourism. With 34.6 million ocean‑going cruisers in 2024, the industry continues to outperform expectations and demonstrate resilience.
Winner of 2025 AHA - project Moon River Cruises (An Du Hospitality)
Why AHA Is the Right Stage for Cruise Operators
1. Global Visibility & Prestige
AHA recognition positions your cruise brand among Asia’s top hospitality innovators, marking you as a leader in luxury, sustainability, service excellence, and cultural influence.
2. Align with Driving Trends
Projects that showcase environmental stewardship, immersive guest experiences, and authentic cultural storytelling are at the forefront of the “Influential Asia” narrative celebrated by AHA.
Winner of 2025 AHA - project Moon River Cruises (An Du Hospitality)
3. Network & Collaborate
AHA Winners’ Night in Vietnam—joining past ceremonies held in Singapore, Thailand, and Korea—brings together hospitality pioneers and tourism leaders from across Asia, offering unmatched exposure and opportunity.
Cruise operators across Asia—whether you’re pioneering luxury ocean voyages or intimate river journeys—this is your moment. Capitalize on the region’s growth and showcase your vision and leadership at the 2026 Asia Hospitality Awards.
Submit your entry by February 25, 2026 at ahawards.com.
Ride the wave of recognition—and sail your brand to influence!
