Pickleball, the world’s fastest-growing sport, has found a new and unlikely home: the open sea. StarDream Cruises, the company behind the iconic StarCruises and Dream Cruises brands, has unveiled pickleball courts onboard its flagship vessels Genting Dream and Star Navigator, bringing a fresh wave of excitement to its Asian itineraries.
A Sport on the Rise
Originating in the United States, pickleball has rapidly gained traction in Asia, appealing to players of all ages with its simple rules, quick rallies, and sociable gameplay. Recognizing the sport’s global surge, StarDream Cruises has transformed its ships’ basketball courts into dedicated pickleball arenas—two courts aboard Genting Dream and one aboard Star Navigator.
“Pickleball is easy to learn, exciting to play, and fun for families, friends, and first-time cruisers,” said Michael Goh, President of StarDream Cruises. “We’re thrilled to bring this trendy sport onboard so our guests can stay active, laugh together, and make unforgettable memories at sea.”
Genting Dream: Serving Up Fun from Singapore
From 21 September 2025, guests sailing on Genting Dream from Singapore will be able to rally against each other while en route to Asia’s most popular coastal destinations. The ship’s short itineraries include 2- and 3-night sailings to Melaka, Penang, and Phuket. For those seeking a more immersive experience, a special 5-night voyage to South and North Bali departs on 30 November 2025, offering travellers more time both at sea and on the court.
Star Navigator: Expanding Horizons from Taiwan
Meanwhile, Star Navigator will debut pickleball at sea from 26 September 2025, with round-trip sailings out of Keelung to Okinawa and Kyushu in Japan, as well as Jeju and Busan in South Korea. From 16 November 2025 to 30 January 2026, the vessel will homeport in Kaohsiung, operating 2- and 5-night cruises across Asia. These itineraries showcase Okinawa’s islands, Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay and Da Nang, and the Philippines’ most sought-after coastal gems—including Boracay, Coron, Laoag, and Puerto Princesa.
The addition of pickleball courts ensures guests can blend leisure with activity, making the sport a highlight of sea days while sailing through some of Asia’s most breathtaking waters.
A New Era for Cruising in Asia
Pickleball is just one of several innovations reflecting StarDream Cruises’ mission to elevate cruising for a broad spectrum of travellers. Officially launched on 26 March 2025, StarDream Cruises brings together the legacies of StarCruises and Dream Cruises under one banner, offering experiences that cater to both the luxury and lifestyle segments.
- Dream Cruises defines premium cruising with large vessels such as Genting Dream, accommodating over 3,000 guests with exclusive privileges and expansive amenities.
- StarCruises appeals to the lifestyle-driven market with more intimate ships, such as Star Voyager and Star Navigator, carrying up to 2,000 guests across diverse Asian itineraries.
Together, the two brands embody StarDream Cruises’ deep-rooted expertise in hospitality and cruising, refined over more than three decades. The cruise line aims to redefine the Asian cruising experience by offering tailored journeys that resonate with diverse markets—from luxury seekers to family travellers.
Pickleball at Sea: More than a Game
With panoramic ocean views, fresh breezes, and the camaraderie of fellow travellers, every rally at sea becomes an experience in itself. For seasoned pickleball players, it’s a chance to enjoy their sport in a new setting; for newcomers, it’s an opportunity to pick up the paddle against the backdrop of Asia’s most scenic coastlines.
As cruising rebounds across the region, innovations like pickleball highlight how StarDream Cruises is blending tradition with modern lifestyle trends—ensuring its guests don’t just travel, but play, laugh, and create memories at sea.
