Resorts World Cruises, a pioneer in innovative hospitality at sea, continues to expand its offerings, including the highly anticipated Resorts World One homeporting in Dubai. Naresh Rawal, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Resorts World Cruises (South Asia and the Middle East), oversees the strategic leadership and operational management in both regions and is dedicated to enhancing fly-cruise experiences and overcoming operational challenges in the growing Indian market.
Resorts World Cruises has been a pioneer and trendsetter in luxury cruising. They offer fresh, innovative experiences with a diverse range of global cuisine, entertainment, and themes, ensuring a cruise experience like no other. At present, Resorts World Cruises operates two ships, the flagship Genting Dream and the Resorts World One.
For Unforgettable Voyages
Resorts World Cruises launched on June 15, 2022, with the luxurious Genting Dream, a 3,352-passenger, 150,695-gross-tonne ship from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang). This magnificent vessel offers thrilling activities, gourmet dining, and opulent accommodations. Resorts World One complements this with premium amenities and diverse cuisine, promising a boutique lifestyle and entertainment voyage through the Arabian Gulf and beyond starting in November this year. For the ultimate luxury, both ships feature The Palace—a private all-suite enclave with an exclusive restaurant, sundeck, gym, and 24-hour European-style butler service. Resorts World Cruises offers exciting itineraries to some of the best and most exotic locations.
Boosting Fly-Cruise Opportunities
For Resorts World Cruises, the fly-cruise segment, especially from India, remains one of their key contributors to the business. Naresh says, “Demand has been strong and positive for our fly-cruise to Singapore on the Genting Dream with our two- and three-night itineraries to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Phuket. We are also creating new choices and boosting demand with new itineraries to the Gulf, with Resorts World One homeporting in Dubai and commencing sailing from November 1, 2024. These include the two-night Sir Bani Yas Weekend Cruise with departures on Fridays; the three-night Oman Cruise to Khasab and Muscat departing on Sundays; and two-night Doha Cruise departing on Wednesdays from Dubai.” With regular flight connectivity from India to Dubai, travellers can visit multiple places with the convenience of a cruise on Resorts World One.
Naresh is also excited to begin a new chapter with Resorts World One homeporting in Dubai to sail to the Gulf in November. He says, “We had started various campaigns across multiple platforms to create awareness about the convenience of a fly-cruise from India, especially with frequent flight connectivity to Dubai. We are making strong inroads as more people become aware of the benefits and value of a fly-cruise to the Gulf. Travellers can visit multiple destinations on a cruise with us without the hassle of booking multiple accommodations, transportation, etc., at each destination. We are also enhancing our onboard offerings to cater to the Indian market, from entertainment to dining to onboard activities. In addition, we are working very closely with travel partners to promote Dubai as one of the next fly-cruise destinations.”
Elevating MICE Events at Sea
Resorts World Cruises is seeing growing interest in MICE and corporate events on their ships. However, leveraging their vast experience and expertise, they offer a comprehensive, one-stop solution for MICE events at sea. This seamless service covers everything from accommodations and dining to customising onboard events, all while sailing to premier destinations. This creates convenience for planners without going through multiple sources. Naresh further mentions, “We also create special thematic cruises to cater to different groups, such as Bollywood concerts and parties. As an international cruise line homegrown in Asia, we know and understand Asian culture with all its subtle nuances. For example, for our Indian passengers, our ships provide certified vegetarian and Jain cuisine, which we know is important.”
Overcoming Challenges
As the outbound cruise market in India continues to grow, there are several operational challenges to address. Despite increasing demand, cruise penetration remains relatively low, particularly in the fly-cruise segment, highlighting the vast potential for expansion. Reaching new customer segments and raising awareness about the benefits of fly-cruise options is a key challenge. Naresh reflects on the other challenges, stating, “While the potential for growth in India’s cruise market is immense, we are actively working to overcome barriers such as flight arrangements and visa processes. Our focus is on educating potential travellers about the fly-cruise experience and expanding our reach to tap into this promising market.”
Empowering Partners
In this digital age, striking the right balance between ‘hardware’ and ‘software’ is important for Resorts World Cruises. Utilising cutting-edge technology, they are dedicated to enhancing every aspect of their guests’ journey—from the initial check-in to the final disembarkation. This commitment extends to optimising onboard services, such as payments and cabin checkouts, to create a smooth and integrated experience. “In addition, we are actively working on improving our guests’ connectivity at sea,” emphasises Naresh.
Meanwhile, both PSA and cruise specialists continue to play an important role in promoting fly-cruises for Resorts World Cruises. Naresh emphasises, “As mentioned, we work very closely with our partners to regularly provide training and ensure that they have the latest marketing tools and financial support to promote our brand. Importantly, we encourage our partners to join our familiarisation cruises so they can experience cruising first-hand to promote effectively.”
Sustainable Sailings
Regarding sustainability, Resorts World Cruises remains committed to sound environmental practices, in which a high standard of responsibility has been established to preserve the environment in which they operate. These include increasing energy efficiency, conserving fuel and water, reducing solid waste generation, increasing recycling, protecting marine life, and preventing oil pollution. Naresh further adds, ‘We also strive to contribute towards the communities we call onto by ensuring shore excursions support local businesses and offer eco-friendly activities with low carbon emissions such as jungle tracking, cycling, walk tours, etc.”
Resorts World Cruises strives to create a luxurious resort experience at sea, blending tradition with modernity. As a dynamic cruise brand with deep Asian roots, it offers guests a tailored journey with personalised cruising experiences enriched with various international adventures. Travellers can expect a sophisticated voyage, exploring the most exquisite destinations across Southeast Asia and, now, the Middle East.
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