Superstar Virgo will be the first international cruise ship to homeport in Manila
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Asia-Pacific operator Star Cruises is to be the first international cruise line to homeport a ship in Manila, Philippines this May.
Superstar Virgo will homeport in Manila from 19 March to 28 May, offering six-day cruises to various ports including Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte in the Philippines; Kaohsiung, the largest southern port city in Taiwan; and Hong Kong.
“Star Cruises was the first major cruise line to recruit Filipinos 23 years ago for our cruise ships and now we are pleased to be the first international cruise line to welcome Filipinos onboard Superstar Virgo as our guests from our homeport in Manila,” said Ang Moo Lim, president of Star Cruises. “Worldwide, nearly 25 million people have enjoyed a cruise in 2016 and we are extending this opportunity for Filipinos to join their ranks from Manila – and at an affordable price.”
Benito Bengzon, under secretary for the Philippines Department of Tourism, welcomed the news. “We are confident that inclusion of the Philippines in the itinerary of SuperStar Virgo will help strengthen the country's position as a competitive cruise destination in the region.”