Asia Cruises

Princess offers access to a wide sweep of ports in East Asia, Southeast Asia and South Asia, connecting guests with everything from ancient temples to modern megacities. Some of the key ports of call include:

• Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan: Ships dock at Osanbashi Pier in Yokohama, about 20 miles from central Tokyo. It’s well connected by train and shuttle services for easy access into the capital.
• Osaka (for Kyoto), Japan: Ships typically dock at Osaka’s Tempozan Pier, close to city attractions and the Osaka Aquarium. Kyoto is reachable via a 90-minute drive or train ride.
• Hong Kong: Ships may dock at Ocean Terminal in Kowloon or Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. Both offer access to Hong Kong’s skyline, markets and ferry routes.
• Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam: Ships dock at Phu My port, about 90 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City. Most guests join excursions or transfers into the city.
• Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand: Ships dock at Laem Chabang port, approximately 2 hours from Bangkok. Princess provides transport for day trips to the capital or beach towns nearby.
• Singapore: Ships dock at Marina Bay Cruise Centre, conveniently located near the city center and directly linked by public transport and taxis.

Most Asia cruises that begin in the region depart from well-connected international hubs such as Singapore, Tokyo (Yokohama) or Hong Kong. These cities are not only practical for travel but also excellent launchpads for cultural exploration before or after you set sai

Timing depends on the region, but October through April tends to offer the most pleasant weather in many coastal areas, especially in Southeast Asia and parts of East Asia. For cherry blossoms, aim for late March to early April in Japan and South Korea. If you're chasing cooler temps or fewer crowds, shoulder months like November and March often strike the right balance.

Asia covers a lot of ground, so weather shifts depending on where you're headed. Expect tropical heat and humidity in Southeast Asia, with monsoons in some areas during summer months. In East Asia, you’ll find a seasonal climate: chilly winters, hot summers and springtime that brings those famous cherry blossoms. South Asia can be dry and warm from December to March, but gets hotter and more humid as spring rolls in.

Some destinations in Asia may have specific visa requirements. Depending on your nationality, you might need to apply in advance. It’s also worth noting that port-stay durations may vary; planning ahead can help you make the most of your time ashore. Check with Princess well before departure to avoid last-minute surprises.

Everything from festival schedules to weather patterns can affect your itinerary. Visiting in spring might mean catching cherry blossoms in Japan, while cruising in late autumn could line up with major holidays like Diwali or Loy Krathong. High season brings cultural events and lively streets, but also bigger crowds and higher prices. If you’re after quieter experiences and milder temps, look for cruises in the shoulder seasons—just before or after the main tourist rush.