Wellness will be infused into every part of the journey - from cuisine to cultural activitiesPHOTO: STARDREAM CRUISES

StarCruises is partnering with China's Greater Bay Area Satellite TV to launch the 'Traditional Chinese Medicine - Maritime Culture Festival' aboard Star Voyager.

The collaboration integrates traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) culture into the cruise experience, offering passengers a maritime journey that combines wellness, learning, culture, sightseeing and discovery.

Special sailings from Hong Kong

The festival will take place on two five-night sailings departing from Hong Kong: The first features Halong Bay (Vietnam), Da Nang (Vietnam) and Sanya (China) departing on October 19; the second includes Boracay and Coron in the Philippines, and begins on November 9.

Tradition meets modern lifestyle

'We are excited to partner with Greater Bay Area Satellite TV to bring TCM wellness to the seas,’ stated Michael Goh, president of StarDream Cruises. ‘This integration of culture and healthy living reflects our commitment to offering experiences that go beyond expectations, and we will continue creating themed voyages that enrich our guests' journeys.’ 

A representative for Greater Bay Area Satellite TV – part of the Guangdong Broadcasting Network – added, ‘This cross-border collaboration with StarCruises to create the Maritime TCM Culture Festival aims to explore new pathways for integrating traditional culture with modern lifestyles. We hope to make health concepts and TCM culture more accessible through audiovisual media, contributing to cultural heritage and the advancement of public health initiatives.'

On board wellness programming

The themed voyage introduces guests to TCM traditions through an immersive cruise experience. Star Voyager will offer morning wellness sessions including Baduanjin, a form of traditional Chinese qigong exercise. 

The on board theatre will host interactive wellness talks by nationally renowned physicians, offering passengers practical tips on seasonal health preservation. Specialised treatments will include ear acupressure and meridian massages designed to promote balance and relaxation throughout the journey.

Culinary integration

Food plays a central role in the experience through a 'Medicinal Food Homology' themed banquet. The menu has been jointly crafted by TCM experts and Star Voyager's master chefs, blending traditional efficacy with contemporary flavours and weaving health concepts into dining occasions.