Langkawi Targets to Have over 100,000 Cruise Passengers in 2023

The future looks bright for Langkawi, as they are expected to welcome more than 20,000 cruise passengers by Q2 2023. These expected numbers are a step in the right direction to boost the island’s tourism industry and help the local economy that was deeply affected by the pandemic.

Commenting on this announcement, the Langkawi Development Authority’s (LADA) Chief Executive Officer, Nasaruddin Abdul Muttalib said, for the last couple of years, cruises have been an important contributing factor for Langkawi.

“We are incredibly ecstatic to be able to welcome the resumption of cruises and we are glad to see the industry sail through the waters to enjoy new, blue horizons that await travellers. From December 2022 until May 2023, a total of 10 cruise ships are expected to visit Langkawi.

“We estimate about 2,000 passengers from each of these cruise ships to arrive and experience the magic of this island,” he said in a statement.

Nasaruddin added, in 2019 alone, Langkawi saw tourist arrivals standing at an impressive 3.9 million, however these numbers decreased in 2020 and 2021 due to the travel restrictions.

“Having restrictions lifted in most countries is sure to have a ripple effect on these numbers in a positive way.

“Next year, we aim to have 50 cruise ships arriving in Langkawi before targeting for a jump to 90 cruise ships docking in 2024. Based on that premise and how cruise ships can generate the local economy, we are targeting 3.2 million tourist arrivals next year,” he said.

As of today, Meenviks Nature Holidays Sdn Bhd are the main operators of the cruise ships docking in Langkawi. Cruise ships under Meenviks Nature Travels can house between 2,500 to 2,800 people at one time.

-ASEAN FOOD & TRAVEL