Asuka Cruises is marking a special milestone this year as Asuka II celebrates 20 years of service, honoring two decades of memorable voyages and loyal guests.
To celebrate the occasion, the Japanese cruise line has launched a live photo essay and planned a standout Grand Asia Cruise that reflects the ship’s long and meaningful journey at sea.
Originally built in 1995 for Crystal Cruises as Crystal Harmony, the ship joined Asuka Cruises in late 2005 and officially became Asuka II.
At the time, she replaced the original Asuka and quickly became a symbol of refined cruising for Japanese travelers. Since then, the vessel has built a strong reputation for elegance, comfort, and carefully curated itineraries across Asia.
A Special Cruise Through Asia to Mark the Occasion
The heart of the anniversary celebrations is the 35-night Asia Grand Cruise, which set sail from Yokohama and Kobe in mid-January.
This commemorative voyage takes guests on a rich journey through the Far East and Southeast Asia, blending cultural discovery with the familiar comforts the ship is known for.
Ports of call include Taiwan, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam, with stops at Keelung, Manila, Halong Bay, Boracay Island, Kota Kinabalu, and Ho Chi Minh City.
The itinerary also features overnight stays in Hong Kong and Leam Chabang, allowing guests more time to explore nearby highlights like Bangkok.
To bring the experience closer to those on shore, Asuka Cruises is releasing a live photo essay throughout the sailing.
The images offer an intimate look at life onboard, behind-the-scenes moments with the crew, and snapshots of the diverse ports visited along the way.
A Ship with History and a Future Ahead
Built at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan, Asuka II spent over a decade sailing internationally before returning to Japanese waters.
When she joined Asuka Cruises, she became the largest cruise ship flying the Japanese flag, a title that reflected both her size and importance to the brand.
Even as the company looks ahead, the ship remains central to its identity. Asuka Cruises recently welcomed Asuka III to the fleet, signalling growth and renewal while honouring the legacy of Asuka II.
After 20 years, Asuka II continues to stand as a reminder that great ships aren’t just measured in tonnage or technology but in the memories they help create and the journeys they continue to inspire.
The milestone also comes as cruise lines across the region reflect on how decades of Caribbean sailings have shaped today’s itineraries, guest experiences and seasonal offers.
