Two Asia-based cruise lines, StarCruises and Dream Cruises, have introduced new fuel surcharges for bookings made on or after 20 March 2026, citing rising oil prices due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The surcharges vary by vessel and departure point, with costs ranging from £8.80 to £19.29 per guest per night. The companies stated the fees will be reviewed and adjusted based on fuel price movements.
Meanwhile, budget airlines in Asia are also grappling with higher fuel costs, which threaten their low-fare business models. Executives at the Aviation Festival Asia in Singapore discussed strategies to mitigate the impact, including fare adjustments and route changes. AirAsia Cambodia and SpiceJet highlighted the challenges of balancing cost increases with passenger demand. The Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency of India downgraded its outlook on the country's aviation sector to negative, citing weaker currency and rising fuel prices.