Pacific Venus

The 1997-built MS Pacific Venus cruise ship was launched in September (at Ishikawajima Harime Heavy Industries shipyard in Tokyo). The company that ordered the cruise liner was Japan Cruise Line (a subsidiary of SHK Group). The vessel's flag-state is Japan and it is homeported in Kobe (Osaka). Besides Pacific Venus, Japan-flagged cruise ships are also Asuka 2 (NYK Line) and Nippon Maru (MOL-Mitsui OSK Line).

History - construction and ownership

The 700-passenger ship Pacific Venus is the second-largest cruise ship traveling under the Japanese flag. The first voyage of Pacific Venus was a 40-day trip across eastern Asia in 1998. Over time, the vessel sailed around the Japanese islands and even around the world (seen in Europe). In January 2013, to mark 15 years of operation, Pacific Sun started a 42-day cruise in the Indian Ocean and Asia, the exact same route as she traveled just after her maiden voyage in 1998.

Decks and Cabins

The largest cabins onboard Pacific Venus are 4 Royal Suites (65 m2) located behind the bridge, named "Archaic" (1001), "Modern" (1002), "Elegant" (1003), "Noble" (1004). They are decorated in two styles, with "Modern" and "Archaic" in traditional Japanese style, "Noble" and "Elegant" being more contemporary. Each Royal Suite features a private balcony, lounge area, separate bedroom and large oceanview bathroom with a Jacuzzi bathtub. For the 16 suites onboard (35 m2), each also has a balcony, living area, sleeping area and bathroom with bathtub. Passengers in both the Royal Suites and Suites enjoy many privileges.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

The Main Dining Room of Pacific Venus is called “Primavera”. The restaurant can be found at Deck 7 aft and features 328 seats in large tables. During normal cruises, it can be in one seating or in two seatings for dinners and during charter cruises. The menu is varied every day and offers both Japanese and Western items. Breakfasts include Japanese sets with Western buffets, lunches feature Japanese menus, dinners are Japanese- and Western-style on alternate days. There are also late night snacks.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

Pacific Venus is suitable for older Japanese passengers and onboard reigns the casual dress code. There are also family-friendly packages offered by the cruise line. In the decoration of Pacific Venus were used light colours and her interior is very roomy and classic. The high guest-space ratio provides a comfortable and relaxing onboard experience. Attractively-presented meals, intimate service and nicely-decorated facilities make Pacific Venus one of the most luxurious cruisers in Japan and Asia-Pacific region.

Itineraries

Pacific Venus itinerary program is based on a 3-month long “World Cruise” sailing out of Japan in April. During winter the cruise ship operates on longer voyages, such as “Asia Grand Cruise” and “South Pacific Grand Cruise”. Short Asia cruises are also provided, including “Japan Circumnavigation Cruise” itinerary. Ship's homeports are in Japan, with roundtrip departures from Yokohama and Kobe.

In January-February 2017, the ship operated on a 47-day World Cruise itinerary roundtrip from Yokohama (and alternatively out of Kobe). Call port destinations included Japan, Marshall Islands, French Polynesia, American Samoa, Hawaii. Two overnight stays were offered - in Honolulu Hawaii and Papeete Tahiti.

During summer, the ship offers short-break cruises to Japanese ports, as well as music-themed cruises during Japan's summer festivals. One-night cruise deals are also available for booking. Occasionally are offered itineraries visiting ports in South Korea, Russia, China, Taiwan.