When In Manila, take a look at the Philippines’ recently inaugurated first world-class seaport terminal, the Manila North Harbor Port. Just a month after its opening, one of the luxury liners of Star Cruises called at Manila for the first time on November 2, 2013. Say hello to SuperStar Aquarius!

 

SuperStar Aquarius in Manila – Say Hello to Star Cruises’ Luxury Liner!

Twenty years after the ship’s maiden voyage from Singapore, the 51,309-ton luxurious vessel named the SuperStar Aquarius anchored at Pier 4 of the said harbour in Manila, Philippines. The capital city  is one of the key stops of the SuperStar Aquarius during her 6 day – 5 night cruise that started in Hong Kong on October 31, voyaged to Boracay on November 3, and will ultimately go ashore at Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

To encourage the development of cruise tourism in our country, the cruise ship’s passengers toured Manila and experienced the many attractions the city has to offer while the SuperStar Aquarius flaunted its beauty to the guests and media.

The shore excursion included stops at heritage sites in Intramuros, sightseeing along Roxas Boulevard, and a trip to Resorts World Manila. Like Star Cruises, Resorts World Manila is another Genting Hong Kong integrated resort property many consider as a cruise ship on land with its many offerings to tourists and locals alike.

At the Stardust lounge, we were greeted by a splendid Vegas-like opening number by Aquarius’ resident performers. Present at the send-off event are key delegates led by Star Cruises’ Senior Vice President & Country Head for the Philippines Mr. Michael Hackman, Department of Tourism’s Market Development Group Director Ms. Ma. Corazon Jorda-Apo, Manila Tourism and Cultural Affairs Bureau Director Ms. Flordeliza Villaseñor, Philippine Ports Authority Port Manager Ms. Clarissa S. Ignacio, and Manila North Harbour Port’s Chairman of the Board Dr. Michael L. Romero.

Ms. Villasenor encouraged the executives of SuperStarAquaris to visit the Philippines again and shared that the Manila Mayor, Joseph Estrada, gave instructions to give the guests from the SuperStar Aquarius an experience that they will always remember. Furthermore, Ms. Ignacio commended the Department of Tourism (DOT) for choosing the Philippines as a tourist destination, and expressed that she would like to capitalize on this opportunity to make cruise tourism a major thing in the country. A memento exchange ceremony among the executives was also held afterwards.