Business contingency and continuity plan by maritime firms in Singapore : the cruise sector

• Main Author: Chia, Huiyi
• Other Authors: -
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2021
• Subjects: Engineering::Maritime studies::Maritime management and business
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/150249
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

The current outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused major disruption to the global supply chains. Maritime companies are particularly vulnerable due to their heavy involvement in the global supply chain. This study examines the impact of disruption caused by the pandemic on cruise firms in Singapore and how they can mitigate the impact through business contingency and continuity planning. It is crucial to explore how cruise firms can better plan for disruptions relating to infectious diseases and the decisions they can make for business survival – hence the purpose of this research – to identify ways the cruise firms can pivot their businesses and get the best out of this difficult situation. The author conducted background study, industry survey and consumer survey on perspectives on the current measures and alternative uses for cruise vessels. In-depth interviews with industry stake holders were also conducted to triangulate the findings. As such, the author presents recommendations regarding the immediate actions, interim solutions and long-term solutions to help companies remain resilient in the midst of major disruption through such survival plans. The research found that business continuity and contingency plans, albeit important, are subjected to approvals by the authorities. Government intervention is hence vital in supporting the cruise industry in their business continuity plans.