Genting Hong Kong subsidiary Genting Cruise Lines will become the world’s first cruise ship operator to resume operations amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Its Dream Cruises brand will begin two-night and three-night “Taiwan Island-Hopping” itineraries starting on July 26, departing from Keelung and calling at Penghu, Matzu and Kinmen islands.
“After months of detailed planning with the authorities to ensure the safety and health of guests and crew, we appreciate the approval of Explorer Dream resuming cruise operations in Taiwan,” said Genting Hong Kong Chairman and CEO Lim Kok Thay.
“Dream Cruises will be the first cruise line in the world to begin sailing after the global cruise industry was shut down due to the pandemic.
“Our new standard operating procedures to ensure passenger safety draws on our first-hand experience from the charter of two of our ships in Singapore to house foreign workers and cooperating with DNV GL, the world’s largest classification society, for Explorer Dream to receive the world’s first ‘Certification in Infection Prevention for the Marine industry.’”
Genting said Taiwan’s low Covid-19 cases made the resumption of business possible. The company also has implemented a range of hygiene and operating protocols including social distancing in dining, entertainment and public areas.
All crew members have been quarantined for the last three months and began a mandatory 14-day quarantine on land following the ship’s arrival in Keelung on June 30. An extra 7-day isolation period on board will provide a total of 21 days of preventive procedures for all crew before operations begin.
