RCCL expanding in Asia

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. celebrated its presence in Asia and the maiden season of Rhapsody of the Seas in Singapore with a dinner event on Friday.
Richard Fain, chairman and ceo, told Seatrade Insider he admires the Singapore government’s forward planning and commended its proactive stance in preparing for tremendous cruise growth, including a new cruise terminal that is in the works. Also present were Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean’s svp-international, and some 50 industry supporters of the company’s Asian efforts.
While Royal Caribbean may be a giant in North America, it is ‘just a baby’ in Asia, Fain said. He noted that Rhapsody of the Seas, half-way into its Asian season, has been extremely well received – both the itinerary and the vessel.
Royal Caribbean may be starting small in the region, but Fain said it intends to grow. He quipped that during his Asia trip, he has been encouraged by ‘constant complaints’ that there is not enough of the brand in the region – a sign the company is ‘doing something right here and should grow.’
Toward the end of 2008, Legend of the Seas will return to Asia and will offer 25 sailings along with four extended repositioning cruises.

From Seatrade Insider…