Overview:
- Cruise passenger throughput in Singapore has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, hitting 1.85 million last year and driving strong demand for marine and port services.
- Local firms like ICF Group report nearly 30% growth in refurbishment projects, leveraging digital tools and prefabrication to speed up ship upgrades.
- Shipbuilder Seatrium is focusing on sustainability with energy-efficient solutions and exploring alternative fuels such as methanol, hydrogen, and green ammonia.
- Singapore’s cruise industry contributed S$1.4 billion in economic output and created over 7,500 jobs, supported by strong infrastructure and aviation connectivity.
- The Marina Bay Cruise Centre’s S$40 million facelift doubled passenger capacity and introduced faster check-ins, reinforcing Singapore’s position as Asia’s leading cruise hub.
Singapore’s cruise industry is booming again, with passenger numbers rebounding to pre-pandemic levels and infrastructure racing to keep pace.
Cruise Comeback and Economic Impact
Cruise passenger throughput hit 1.85 million in 2024, matching pre-pandemic highs and signaling strong recovery. The sector generated S$1.4 billion in economic output and supported over 7,500 jobs, according to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).
Infrastructure Upgrades at Marina Bay
The Marina Bay Cruise Centre completed a S$40 million upgrade, doubling passenger capacity and introducing faster check-in systems. These improvements aim to maintain Singapore’s status as Asia’s leading cruise hub, a key SEO phrase repeated throughout this article.
Industry Response and Sustainability Push
Local firms like ICF Group report nearly 30% growth in ship refurbishment projects, while Seatrium is investing in energy-efficient solutions and alternative fuels such as methanol and hydrogen.
STB’s Perspective
Jean Ng, Assistant Chief Executive of STB’s Experience Development Group, said: “Cruise tourism is a critical pillar of Singapore’s visitor strategy, and we are committed to enhancing the experience for passengers and operators alike.” She added: “The Marina Bay Cruise Centre upgrade ensures we can handle growing demand while supporting sustainability goals.”
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Guest Ideas:
Jean Ng
Assistant Chief Executive, Experience Development Group
Singapore Tourism Board
Jean Ng, Assistant Chief Executive of the Experience Development Group at the Singapore Tourism Board, oversees strategies to enhance Singapore’s tourism offerings and visitor experiences.
With more than 17 years at STB, she has led initiatives in attractions, entertainment, sports tourism, and precinct development, including managing the Singapore Formula 1 night race and major international events. Her career also spans leadership roles in media development at IMDA, where she focused on growing Singapore’s media industry globally. Jean holds an MBA from IE Business School and a Bachelor of Science from the National University of Singapore.