Cruises From Singapore: What To Know If You’re Going On Board

Travel-starved Singaporeans – including those who may have pooh-poohed the concept of cruises-to-nowhere previously – have been jumping on the cruising craze in a big way these past months. With Covid restrictions finally easing up, we may once again say “Ahoy!” to a holiday at sea. We take a look at the offerings from two major cruise lines – Royal Caribbean and Dream Cruises – so you can decide if you want to hop on board.

Ocean Getaway On Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Of The Seas

Need a break? Sit back and chill on Quantum’s popular three- and four-night ocean getaways that sail northeast towards the Riau Archipelago and back. Take in showstopping entertainment, such as “Starwater”, a theatrical spectacle that blends live music, dance and aerial artistry with cutting-edge technology, and embark on a glamorous sojourn from classic Parisian cabarets to modern-day stages of Las Vegas and New York in the musical production “Sequins and Feathers”. Australia’s top illusionist John Taylor and beloved variety comic James Bustar will also be putting out dynamic performances to keep the whole family enthralled and amused.

For those who wish to take the thrills up a notch, next-level first-at-sea experiences to try include the RipCord by iFly skydiving adventure and FlowRider surf simulator, so you can catch the wind and the waves without leaving the ship. Fun-seeking guests of all ages will find even more, from bumper cars and console gaming to flying trapeze and roller-skating at SeaPlex. And don’t miss the exhilarating 15-minute ride upon the North Star, a jewel-shaped capsule that elevates guests to a 360-degree view more than 90 metres above sea level.

And in case you were wondering, yes, subject to the latest Covid regulations (more on this below), you can enjoy endless eats in-between adventures, with 18 different restaurants to choose from. This includes international dining flavours at complimentary buffet-style Windjammer Marketplace and speciality restaurants such as Jamie’s Italian, Chops Grille, and the imaginative Wonderland.

Plan your ocean getaway on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas at royalcaribbean.com/sgp/en?country=SGP

Super Seacation On Dream Cruises’ World Dream

Miss your favourite holiday destinations? Then you might want to book yourself a Super Seacation thematic cruise on board the World Dream. After ‘Rhythm of Korea’ and ‘Amazing Thailand’ were met with rave reviews, the latest ‘Wonders of Japan’ runs till September 18. Next up, taste authentic street foods from Europe to Oceania in ‘Markets of the World’. You can even stay in specially designed Western Australia Balcony Staterooms, complete with an adorable quokka plushie! Selected sailings will showcase Mid-Autumn Festival, Oktoberfest and Halloween, while those who miss snow can look forward to ‘Nordic Christmas’ from November 7.

Whether you choose the two- or three-night itineraries along the Straits of Malacca, enjoy up to 35 Asian and international dining options on Asia Pacific’s first Halal-friendly cruise ship. From the inclusive all-day buffet bonanza at The Lido to premium restaurants such as Prime Steakhouse by Mark Best and Umi Uma Japanese Teppanyaki, you’ll be spoilt for choice. More upcoming highlights include exclusive tea blends and ice cream flavours created in collaboration with local brands The 1872 Clipper Tea Co. and Creamier.

Tummies satisfied? Experiences galore await, from an exciting VR arcade to six waterslides, a rock-climbing wall and zipline suspended 18 decks above the sea. Headlining the series of live performances is “FAITH”, an inspirational original theatre production starring internationally renowned ballet dancers, acrobats, and comedians. Cap off the final night of your cruise by witnessing Asia’s one and only laser show at sea.

Plan your Super Seacation on Dream Cruises’ World Dream at dreamcruiseline.com/en-sg

Only Available For A Day Trip? Hop On Board The Royal Albatross!

Safe Cruising Despite Choppy Waters

If you’re planning to sail away on Quantum of the Seas or World Dream, both cruise ships have marked their third season extension (through February 2022) since returning to cruising at the tail end of 2020. While this is testament to the exemplary safety measures and wonderful holiday experiences the two cruise operators offer, much does depend on prevailing Covid-19 regulations. Here’s what you can expect as of now:

• In response to Singapore’s transition towards Covid-19 resilience, a vaccination-differentiated approach will apply on board as it does on land. This means you are required to show your vaccination status at check-in, using your TraceTogether app, Healthhub app, hardcopy vaccination card, or other government-approved forms.
• All guests must undergo Antigen Rapid Tests (ART) at the Marina Bay Cruise Terminal prior to boarding. As this is considered Pre-Event Testing (PET), it will allow all guests regardless of vaccination status to dine in at restaurants during the first day of the cruise. (Royal Caribbean provides an additional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test within 48-72 hours before departure.)
• After the first day, only fully vaccinated guests (in groups of up to five, including unvaccinated children below 12 years from the same household) can continue to dine in at restaurants. For non-fully vaccinated guests, various takeaway and room service options will be available.
• Guests can enjoy most onboard activities and entertainment options, with group sizes and access determined by your vaccination status. Indoor mask-off activities (such as facials, saunas and massages) will only be available to fully vaccinated guests. Children may be allowed to participate in selected indoor mask-off activities.
• Standard safe management measures, such as mask-wearing, physical distancing and hand-sanitising, apply, and onboard venues will be operating at reduced capacities. You’ll also need to carry your TraceTogether token or app, as well as a TRACEY (World Dream) or Tracelet (Quantum of the Seas) for onboard safe management and contact tracing purposes, on you at all times.
• Enhanced HVAC filtration systems ensure a constant supply of 100% fresh ocean air to staterooms and public areas, with zero recirculation of air at any time. Rigorous sanitisation processes also take place throughout the ships, which are currently still operating at 50% capacity.

For the latest updates on Covid-19 regulations and safe management protocols, please visit dreamcruiseline.com and royalcaribbean.com.