After months of suspended operations, Dream Cruises has announced the resumption of cruises in Taiwan.

From 26 July this year, two and three-night island hopping cruises will depart from Keelung, calling at the ports of Peng Hu, Matsu Island and Kinmen.

“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 Tan Sri KT Lim, Chairman and CEO of Genting Hong Kong.

“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.”

As the line explains, the decision to restart cruising in Taiwan came as a result of the country’s success in controlling the pandemic within its borders. Taiwan’s low number of COVID-19 cases −compared to global figures − has been lauded by experts as one of the most effective response scenarios in the world.

Dream Cruises is also hoping to support the local authorities, who have taken proactive steps to reinvigorate Taiwan’s economy and open up tourism.

“We thank Taiwan for their initiatives to re-start the tourism industry and the trust they have placed in Dream Cruises,” said Kent Zhu, President of Genting Cruise Lines.

“This is truly a remarkable achievement which was made possible by the Taiwan authorities’ swift and effective handling of the COVID-19 crisis, and their foresight in resuming the tourism industry to benefit all the ports, the economy and the lifestyle of the people of Taiwan.”

The line also describes Taiwan as the ‘ideal destination’ to resume operations, given its 25 years of history with the island as both a cruise destination and homeport. With scenic sights and friendly citizens, Taiwan is also highly popular amongst cruise travellers.

In accordance with Taiwan’s regulations prior to resuming sailing, Explorer Dream has undergone a thorough deep cleaning and observation of strict quarantine procedures for her crew.

The majority of crew are from other Genting Cruise Lines ships who have been quarantined for the last three months. They will undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine on land after the ship arrives in Keelung on 30 June.

Upon negative nucleic acid test results, an additional seven-day isolation period on board Explorer Dream will provide a total of 21 days of exhaustive preventive procedures before operations begin on 26 July.

To safeguard the health and well-being of travellers, Genting Cruise Lines has completely re-examined and enhanced its health, hygiene and operating protocols. These include social distancing regulations in dining, entertainment and public areas, as well as fresh air ventilation in staterooms.

All of Genting Cruise Lines’ ships allow for 100% external fresh air to be filtered and supplied to each passenger cabin as well as public areas, ensuring a constant and healthy flow of fresh air throughout the vessels.

Isolation wards are also available in the Medical Centre, and cabins can be converted into quarantine rooms if required.

There will also be stringent health screening processes prior to embarkation and disembarkation. On board, thorough sanitisation and disinfection will be conducted for guest cabins and crew member quarters, public areas and recreational facilities, along with safe food and beverage handling procedures.

In Singapore, the line’s SuperStar Aquarius and SuperStar Gemini continue to serve as temporary accommodations for foreign workers, after successfully completing stringent assessment checks.r