Cruise operator Royal Caribbean ‘surprised’ by Hong Kong tourism minister’s sacking
Spectrum of the Seas ship arrives at new home port, as operator responds to departure of minister who oversaw chaotic terminal transport
Cruise operator Royal Caribbean International was “surprised” by the abrupt departure of Hong Kong’s tourism minister, a senior executive has said, while the company has made the city a home port of its Spectrum of the Seas mega ship.
Benjamin Bouldin, president of the company’s Chinese operations, reacted on Friday to the news of the government reshuffle and said the firm looked forward to continuing its collaboration with the city.
“I think everyone is surprised by [the reshuffle]. We will continue to work closely with the government and also the terminal [operator] to ensure a seamless experience for all passengers of Royal Caribbean,” he said.
Kevin Yeung Yun-hung, who was sacked as secretary for culture, sports and tourism on Thursday, had convened a meeting on Wednesday to discuss improving transport connectivity for ships arriving at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.
Former transport commissioner Rosanna Law Shuk-pui succeeded Yeung.
Friday also marked the return of the 168,666-tonne Spectrum of the Seas, which can accommodate 5,622 guests. The ship will now call Hong Kong a home port.
