Text by TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine, reported by Ren Xiang
Thanks / Hong Kong Tourism Board
Star Cruises’ flagship ship “SuperStar Virgo” has launched routes based in Hong Kong and cruising across Asia since April this year. From April to the end of October, there are a total of 31 voyages between Taiwan and Hong Kong. If you’re looking to enjoy a laid-back trip around Hong Kong, what could be more relaxing than taking a cruise? Leave behind the hustle and bustle of city life, grab your suitcase, and set off. This time, no rushing to catch a flight, no frantic shopping—just a slow-paced journey with the sea breeze.
From April 7 to October 26, SuperStar Virgo offers 31 round-trip voyages between Taiwan and Hong Kong. Taiwanese travelers can choose to fly one way and cruise the other. (Image provided by TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
Upon arriving at Kaohsiung’s Banana Pier, I immediately spotted SuperStar Virgo quietly resting at the harbor. The 13-deck cruise ship was adorned with eye-catching yet not overly extravagant bright patterns—each Star Cruises vessel features its own unique livery. Filled with excitement, I dragged my suitcase and joined the crowd boarding the ship via the deck.
The biggest difference between taking a cruise and flying is that once you board the ship, you’ve already checked into your hotel. It’s not just a means of transport—it’s also a moving hotel, shopping mall, and even an amusement park. I tossed my luggage into my room with ease, ready to begin my lazy life at sea.
The Veranda Deluxe Suite offers a private living room and bedroom, along with a spacious view. (Image provided by TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
Slow Time at Sea
At night, I walked up to the top-floor open-air bar and gazed out over the bustling port of Kaohsiung. A friendly waiter handed me a drink. With nearly as many staff members as passengers, everyone enjoys VIP-level service. What’s more, the ship operates on a no-tipping policy—all consumption is recorded via room key cards and settled upon disembarkation. In other words, we didn’t need to carry any money during our time at sea—just relax and enjoy. As I listened to live music and sipped my drink, a slight commotion broke out nearby. Turning my head, I noticed the lights on shore gradually fading away—SuperStar Virgo had officially set sail.
The ship’s restaurant “Samurai” serves a variety of authentic Japanese cuisine. (Image provided by TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
Life at sea is relaxing yet fulfilling, with non-stop exciting activities from night to day. Strolling on the deck, you’ll easily spot passengers lounging in chairs, enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Bathed in the warm sunlight, all worries drift away. No need to worry about getting bored during a day at sea—there’s a wide range of leisure facilities to enjoy, including an outdoor pool on the twelfth floor, a three-story waterslide, a spa pool, and a mini-golf driving range. For those who aren’t into outdoor activities like me, the various onboard performances are a great alternative—comedy shows, magic acts, live music, and even topless shows. International-quality performances keep the entertainment going all day long.
Of course, while deciding which activities to try, don’t forget to treat your taste buds. Cruise life is known for offering six meals a day—from breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, to late-night snacks. There’s no shortage of dining options, whether you crave Eastern delicacies or Western fare. A wide variety of international cuisines are yours to choose from.
VINCENT VIGNAUD in DREAM is a diverse magic show led by a French magician, combining music and dance. (Image provided by TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
SuperStar Virgo has a gross tonnage of 76,000, ensuring smooth and comfortable sailing—even the ocean waves at night feel like a mother’s gentle cradle lulling us to sleep. Here, you don’t have to worry about poor sleep, hunger, or missing out on scheduled activities. Because of this, the relaxing moments always seem to pass especially quickly. As the sun sets, the voyage draws to an end before you know it, and Hong Kong Island comes into view.
The streets of Hong Kong’s Sheung Wan POHO district are dotted with boutique shops featuring European-inspired designs. (Image provided by TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
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