Peace Boat offers guests the chance to learn and give back on their journey

The Peace Boat docked at Boustead Cruise Centre.

NOW you have more reasons to go on a cruise, especially since it’s one that sails with a cause.

Peace Boat is an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) based in Japan which holds Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, promoting peace, human rights, equal and sustainable development, respect for the environment and eco-friendly tourism.

It charters a large passenger ship, Ocean Dream, to carry out its voyages.

Reliance Travel Group and Japan Grace Co Ltd took the opportunity to organise an open ship event when Peace Boat was berthed at Boustead Cruise Centre in Port Klang during its 97th cruise.

The media and passengers of the 94th and 95th cruise were invited to one of the lounges where Japan Grace Co Ltd managing director Takeshi Yamamoto gave a presentation on Peace Boat, followed by a tour of the vessel before lunch was served at its Regency Restaurant.

“Established in 1983, Peace Boat has been on more than 95 cruises in 35 years and hosted more than 60,000 passengers to travel the world, raising awareness of global issues, fostering positive social change and transforming our passengers’ perspective of the world.

“Our voyages feature hands-on experiences both on board the ship and ashore at our ports of call. Each cruise brings together more than 1,000 adventurers of diverse ages and nationalities to become a tight-knit community as they travel the world together,” he said.

The Pair Cabin with balcony. 

“While on board, fun activities such as hands-on workshops, experience-sharing sessions and cultural interactions among passengers would be eye-opening as everyone comes from different countries.

“They can even create their own events to share with the community or participate in sharing sessions by special guest educators from different destinations,” he said.

At 32,000 tonnes, the 11-deck cruise liner offers an extensive range of facilities such as jacuzzi, swimming pool, massage room, sports gym, beauty salon, convenience shop and medical centre. Living spaces such as the Pair Cabin have a private space for two while a Friendly Cabin comes with bunk beds for four and the chance to make new friends. Each cabin is equipped with a private shower and toilet.

Peace Boat and Reliance are partnering together to promote Peace Boat cruises in three markets — Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.

“Our partnership reflects our sincere efforts to promote travel that goes beyond just leisure – it educates, promotes peace and fosters cross-cultural understanding as well.

“Passengers will be exposed to educational programmes, volunteering opportunities and the chance to learn new languages.

“When they return, they become ambassadors for social change and this creates a positive impact on society.

“Together, we believe that travel can act as a tool for positive social political change,” said Reliance Travel Group deputy chief executive officer Reuban Gan.

The 100th Global Cruise will take passengers to the Southern Hemisphere to explore the awe-inspiring nature in Mozambique, Madagascar, Bora Bora and Argentina. For an extra fee, you can join a special expedition to Antarctica.

Those who are interested to catch the total solar eclipse in 2019 can opt for the 101st Global Cruise in July to the South Pacific, which will take them to Giza, Easter Island as well as the picturesque beaches of Mykonos and Tahiti and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Cruise packages include return air ticket and transfer arrangements from airport to port, inclusive of meals.