A groundbreaking themed cruise is set to combine luxury travel with the burgeoning global sport of pickleball, offering enthusiasts and newcomers alike a unique maritime experience. Departing from Singapore on February 3, 2026, the Genting Dream will host Asia’s inaugural pickleball-at-sea journey—a three-day, two-night voyage culminating in Phuket, Thailand. This collaboration between Dream Cruises and locally based Performance Pickleball promises a floating resort optimized for competitive and casual play.
Transforming Decks into Courts
The concept addresses the soaring popularity of pickleball, adapting the cruise ship’s spacious outdoor venues into temporary, professional-grade courts. Dream Cruises secured a partnership with Singapore’s Performance Pickleball, recognized specialists in the sport, to manage the on-board dedication to the game.
Beyond active participation, the voyage caters specifically to novices. Qualified coaches will be on hand to administer complimentary, beginner-friendly training sessions. These classes, essential for introducing the sport to a wider audience, will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with spots allocated at designated counters. Furthermore, cruisers concerned about gear can browse a curated selection of pickleball merchandise and equipment available for purchase on board.
The timing of this themed cruise capitalizes on the region’s mounting interest in the sport. The departure date precedes Singapore’s inaugural Epic World Championship, a major amateur pickleball tournament scheduled for late April and early May, reinforcing the city-state’s emerging role as a hub for the sport in Southeast Asia.
Luxury Amenities Beyond the Net
While pickleball is the central theme, the Genting Dream maintains the comprehensive luxury amenities characteristic of Dream Cruises vessels. Passengers can enjoy a wide array of activities and entertainment options, ensuring appeal for both dedicated players and accompanying travelers. The ship features extensive leisure facilities, including high-speed waterslides, challenging obstacle courses, glow-in-the-dark bowling alleys, immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences, and a large arcade.
Culinary standards remain high, with the vessel offering more than 35 distinct dining venues, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Evening entertainment includes top-tier performances, ensuring a balanced mix of athletic activity and classic cruise relaxation.
Planning Your Pickleball Getaway
This specialized cruise provides a novel way for Asia-based enthusiasts to connect with the sport while enjoying an international getaway. The all-inclusive nature of the cruise, coupled with structured training and open play, offers substantial value for travelers interested in either competing or learning the fundamentals.
Key Voyage Details:
- Vessel: Genting Dream
- Departure: Singapore
- Date: February 3, 2026
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Destination: Phuket, Thailand
Pricing for this unique experience starts at $326 per person. Reservations are currently open and can be secured directly through the official Dream Cruises website. Given the niche appeal and the capacity constraints of on-board instructional sessions, early booking is advisable for those keen to participate fully in the maritime pickleball offerings.
The collaboration marks a significant step in marrying themed sporting events with the Asian cruise industry, potentially paving the way for future voyages dedicated to other niche sports and hobbies. This cruise not only celebrates the global rise of pickleball but also offers travelers an engaging, active approach to luxury leisure travel.