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Star Cruises, today (April 2) announced the arrival of SuperStar Virgo, the largest and most extravagant ship in its fleet to Hong Kong, as part of its strategic redeployment programme.
SuperStar Virgo is of 76,800 gross tonnage and as big as 12 soccer fields. The ship has 935 cabins and 1,870 lower berths and its 13 decks provide an array of onboard dining, recreation and entertainment, providing a "destination" by itself. The ship provides premium services, the style and relaxing atmosphere to cater for holidaymakers, business groups and MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions travel). SuperStar Virgo will be located in Hong Kong during the summer season, and will cruise the South China Sea, visiting China, Vietnam, Taiwan and Singapore.
President of Star Cruises, Mr David Chua said, "The deployment of SuperStar Virgo, the most extravagant cruise ship in our Asia fleet, to Hong Kong indicates Star Cruises' determination and focus on the booming Greater China market. The cruise markets in both China and Hong Kong are maturing and this move will strengthen the development of the cruise industry in the region and help position Hong Kong as an international cruise hub."
Speaking at the arrival welcoming ceremony, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Frederick Ma said the presence of SuperStar Virgo demonstrated Hong Kong's growing importance as a leading cruise hub in the region. He said that with spectacular Victoria Harbour as its home-port, there could be no better backdrop for the largest and most luxurious liner in Star Cruises' Asian fleet.
"In addition to the harbour's scenic beauty," Mr Ma said, "Hong Kong's world-class tourism infrastructure, efficiency, and safe and friendly environment help ensure that we are consistently ranked as one of the world's top tourist destinations."
Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong, Mr Mike Rowse, welcomed Star Cruises' SuperStar Virgo to Hong Kong. He said, "Hong Kong is Asia's most popular city destination and the arrival of SuperStar Virgo to the city will further enhance the city's appeal to visitors and business travellers alike."
Star Cruises was incorporated in September 1993, representing a bold initiative to tap Asia-Pacific's potential as an international cruise destination. Over a decade since its inception, Star Cruises has become the world's third largest cruise operator and has won coveted awards.
Invest Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government department charged with encouraging and facilitating inward investment into the city by providing the support needed to establish or expand a business presence here. For more information, please visit the website at www.InvestHK.gov.hk
Ends/Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Issued at HKT 13:00
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