Dedicated family sailings planned for 2016...
Costa Cruises has officially entered the Japanese market, with the launch of a national office and plans for a series of brand new sailings. The Italian cruise company officially launched its new Japanese office this week, with a series of travel trade events in Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka. And in summer 2016, Costa will launch 10 new six-day itineraries dedicated to Japanese travellers.
“My team and I are excited to bring our unique ‘Italy at Sea’ vacation and introduce the new concept of causal family cruising to Japanese guests,” said Buhdy Bok, president of Costa Asia. “With the opening of our new Japan office, we will achieve greater synergies with our travel trade partners, boost awareness of Costa Cruises in Japan and strengthen our leading positioning in Asia.”
Between July and September 2016, the Costa Victoria cruise ship will call at the Japanese ports of Fukuoka, Maizuru, Kanazawa and Matsue, as well as Busan in South Korea. Passengers will be able to embark and disembark at Fukuoka, Maizuru or Kanazawa, and Costa said the new itineraries are designed for the short family cruise market.
The timing of the cruises is intended to coincide with Japan’s peak travel season of July to September, which includes the Obon holidays and school summer breaks. The ship will cater for families with activities and entertainment for children aged three to 17, and children under 13 can cruise for free with their parents.
Costa Cruises recently invested US$18 million in the refurbishment of the Costa Victoria, which the company has dedicated to the Asian market. The vessel features five restaurants, 10 bars and discos, and nightly shows.
“My team and I are excited to bring our unique ‘Italy at Sea’ vacation and introduce the new concept of causal family cruising to Japanese guests,” said Buhdy Bok, president of Costa Asia. “With the opening of our new Japan office, we will achieve greater synergies with our travel trade partners, boost awareness of Costa Cruises in Japan and strengthen our leading positioning in Asia.”
Between July and September 2016, the Costa Victoria cruise ship will call at the Japanese ports of Fukuoka, Maizuru, Kanazawa and Matsue, as well as Busan in South Korea. Passengers will be able to embark and disembark at Fukuoka, Maizuru or Kanazawa, and Costa said the new itineraries are designed for the short family cruise market.
The timing of the cruises is intended to coincide with Japan’s peak travel season of July to September, which includes the Obon holidays and school summer breaks. The ship will cater for families with activities and entertainment for children aged three to 17, and children under 13 can cruise for free with their parents.
Costa Cruises recently invested US$18 million in the refurbishment of the Costa Victoria, which the company has dedicated to the Asian market. The vessel features five restaurants, 10 bars and discos, and nightly shows.