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Straits Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Contributing to Singapore's changing landscape
From bold moves in Sentosa Cove to trailblazing developments in one-north, Ho Bee Land's story is closely entwined with Singapore's urban evolution 'Perseverance, integrity, and excellence are not just values we hold – they are principles that have consistently guided us through economic cycles and evolving markets,' says Chua Thian Poh (left), Ho Bee Land founder and executive chairman with Nicholas Chua, Ho Bee Land CEO. FEW companies can claim to have physically shaped Singapore's landscape quite like Ho Bee Land. Over nearly four decades, the homegrown real estate group has grown from its modest beginnings to become a key contributor to some of the country's most ambitious precincts; most notably, Sentosa Cove and one-north. Founded in 1987 by entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr Chua Thian Poh, Ho Bee Land has progressed alongside Singapore's transformation from a developing city-state to a global economic powerhouse. Its journey reflects a mix of strategic foresight, resilience, and a belief in building for the long term. A pioneer at Sentosa Cove PHOTO: FILE In the early 2000s, when Sentosa Cove was still a blank canvas reclaimed from the sea, few saw the potential of the site as a prime residential enclave. Undeterred, Ho Bee Land was the first private developer to commit to the area, taking the lead in realising Singapore's vision for a world-class waterfront community. Ho Bee Land was the first private developer to commit to the Sentosa Cove area, taking the lead in realising Singapore's vision for a world-class waterfront community. PHOTO: FILE 'At that time, the concept of luxury waterfront living was new to Singapore, but we saw Sentosa Cove's potential to become a world-class seafront precinct,' says Chua. 'More importantly, we believed that such a precinct would strengthen Singapore's positioning as a global gateway city to attract international talent and capital.' That early belief has since paid off. Today, Ho Bee Land is the largest private developer in Sentosa Cove, responsible for five out of the 10 condominium developments and more than 50 landed homes in the area. Its projects, including The Berth by the Cove, The Coast, Turquoise, Seascape, and its latest flagship Cape Royale, set the tone for what luxury waterfront living in Singapore could look like. Cape Royale at Sentosa Cove. While the architectural excellence of its developments drew buyers, Ho Bee Land also had to overcome significant challenges to establish Sentosa Cove as a viable and desirable neighbourhood. 'Being a pioneer in uncharted territory naturally came with its share of challenges – from navigating new or unfamiliar regulations, to addressing early infrastructure needs. But we worked closely with the authorities and continually adjusted to respond to the evolving needs of the market,' reveals Chua. Today, as urban homes become more compact and densely situated, the value proposition of Sentosa Cove has only grown. 'Buyers increasingly value open layouts, tranquil surroundings, and the sense of space that waterfront living at Sentosa Cove uniquely offers,' says Chua. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. 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In 2013, Ho Bee Land completed The Metropolis, a 1.2 million sq ft Grade A office development that redefined commercial possibilities outside the Central Business District. It was, once again, ahead of the curve. The same vision and risk appetite that defined Ho Bee Land's role in Sentosa Cove would later guide its move into one-north, Singapore's master planned innovation district in the west. 'We saw one-north as a strategically located city-fringe district that offered both accessibility and the appeal of green surroundings – a rare combination in land-scarce Singapore,' says Chua. 'With The Metropolis situated right at the Buona Vista MRT interchange, it offered excellent connectivity, making it an attractive alternative for businesses looking for quality office space without the premium of a CBD address.' That early move into the city-fringe proved visionary. The Metropolis attracted a host of multinational tenants, helping to drive one-north's emergence as a bustling business and research hub. A second phase came in 2024 with the launch of Elementum, a biomedical sciences hub adjacent to The Metropolis. Designed with sustainability and wellness in mind, the development includes end-of-trip facilities, a community lawn, and is certified Green Mark Platinum by the Building and Construction Authority of Singapore. Importantly, it also connects to the Buona Vista node of the Rail Corridor, demonstrating Ho Bee Land's commitment to enhancing public spaces and mobility. 'When envisioning The Metropolis and Elementum, we looked beyond building modern, quality, Grade A office spaces for business needs,' explains Chua. 'We also wanted to contribute meaningfully to a vibrant one-north precinct by enhancing connectivity and engagement, integrating green spaces, lifestyle amenities, and community-friendly features.' Through these developments, Ho Bee Land has helped shape one-north into a hub for collaboration, innovation, and community. Long-term thinking From its humble beginnings in 1987 to large-scale commercial campuses today, Ho Bee Land has built its reputation on integrity and perseverance. Its track record has been tested through multiple economic crises, including the Asian and Global financial crises, and the Covid-19 pandemic. 'These significant events have reinforced our belief in long-term planning, prudent financial management, and the importance of adaptability. Perseverance, integrity, and excellence are not just values we hold – they are principles that have consistently guided us through economic cycles and evolving markets,' says Chua. That same spirit of stewardship has guided Ho Bee Land's sustainability and digitalisation agenda. The firm continues to invest in green building standards and smart building technologies across its developments. 'We view ESG and digitalisation as critical pillars in staying relevant and resilient in a rapidly evolving landscape,' Chua notes. 'We want to ensure our office and residential developments deliver long-term value to our stakeholders responsibly and thoughtfully.' Equally central to Ho Bee Land's long-term strategy is its commitment to people. 'Many of our colleagues have grown alongside the company,' says Ho Bee Land CEO Nicholas Chua. 'We believe in creating an environment where people can thrive, not just professionally, but as individuals. Whether through training, wellness initiatives or staff-led charitable efforts, we see our people as our greatest asset in building a sustainable, purpose-driven organisation.' Nicholas Chua was appointed Executive Director and CEO in January 2022, after joining the Group in 2002. Over the past two decades, he has held several senior management roles and has been instrumental in expanding Ho Bee Land's development and investment presence in Singapore, as well as overseas in Australia, China, and the UK. Ho Bee Land's long-term mindset also extends to its external partnerships. Over the years, apart from undertaking developments on her own, the Group has also partnered well-established developers to undertake projects in Singapore and in China. Investing in community Beyond developing physical spaces, Ho Bee Land is committed to building communities. This philosophy is especially evident in how the company integrates wellness, accessibility, and culture into its developments. The Rail Corridor, nestled between The Metropolis and Elementum is thoughtfully created by Ho Bee Land. It serves as the tie that binds both developments, creating shared values and enhancing the greenery that surrounds the precinct. The company is also known for its strong philanthropic ethos. The Ho Bee Foundation, established in 2010, supports causes in education, health care, social welfare, and the arts. Since its inception, it has contributed over $30 million to various charitable causes. In education, the Foundation has made significant contributions to institutions such as NUS, NTU, SMU, and SIT, in areas ranging from campus development to scholarships and leadership programmes aimed at empowering the next generation. The Foundation is also a long-time supporter of Ren Ci Hospital and a recipient of the Patron of the Arts Award by the National Arts Council, in recognition of its sustained support for the arts. It also organises the Arts for Kids initiative, using curated art tours to inspire creativity among young learners. That commitment to giving back reflects Chua's personal values, who is regarded as one of Singapore's leading philanthropists. 'As the nation enters its next chapter, we see our role as one of responsible stewardship – creating spaces that not only meet present needs, but also enrich communities and safeguard the environment for generations to come,' he says. As Singapore marks its 60th year of independence, Ho Bee Land has shown what local enterprise, vision, and persistence can achieve. From being the first mover in Sentosa Cove, to building the foundations of an innovation precinct at one-north, the company has played an important role in shaping modern Singapore. Says Chua: 'Our legacy is not just defined by the landmarks we have built, but by the lives we have touched and the value we have created for the communities.' Ho Bee Land's key milestones at a glance 1987: Ho Bee Land was founded with the vision of becoming a prominent real estate developer. 1996: First foray into London. 1999: Listed on the Singapore Exchange. 2003: Became the pioneer developer at Sentosa Cove with The Berth by the Cove. 2012: Ventured into Australia with its first residential development in the iconic Surfers Paradise at Gold Coast. 2014: The Metropolis officially opened by then-prime minister Lee Hsien Loong. 2024: Elementum opens, along with the revitalised Buona Vista node of the Rail Corridor.
Business Times
05-08-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Contributing to Singapore's changing landscape
FEW companies can claim to have physically shaped Singapore's landscape quite like Ho Bee Land. Over nearly four decades, the homegrown real estate group has grown from its modest beginnings to become a key contributor to some of the country's most ambitious precincts; most notably, Sentosa Cove and one-north. Founded in 1987 by entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr Chua Thian Poh, Ho Bee Land has progressed alongside Singapore's transformation from a developing city-state to a global economic powerhouse. Its journey reflects a mix of strategic foresight, resilience, and a belief in building for the long term. A pioneer at Sentosa Cove FILE PHOTO In the early 2000s, when Sentosa Cove was still a blank canvas reclaimed from the sea, few saw the potential of the site as a prime residential enclave. Undeterred, Ho Bee Land was the first private developer to commit to the area, taking the lead in realising Singapore's vision for a world-class waterfront community. Ho Bee Land was the first private developer to commit to the Sentosa Cove area, taking the lead in realising Singapore's vision for a world-class waterfront community. FILE PHOTO 'At that time, the concept of luxury waterfront living was new to Singapore, but we saw Sentosa Cove's potential to become a world-class seafront precinct,' says Chua. 'More importantly, we believed that such a precinct would strengthen Singapore's positioning as a global gateway city to attract international talent and capital.' That early belief has since paid off. Today, Ho Bee Land is the largest private developer in Sentosa Cove, responsible for five out of the 10 condominium developments and more than 50 landed homes in the area. Its projects, including The Berth by the Cove, The Coast, Turquoise, Seascape, and its latest flagship Cape Royale, set the tone for what luxury waterfront living in Singapore could look like. Cape Royale at Sentosa Cove. While the architectural excellence of its developments drew buyers, Ho Bee Land also had to overcome significant challenges to establish Sentosa Cove as a viable and desirable neighbourhood. 'Being a pioneer in uncharted territory naturally came with its share of challenges – from navigating new or unfamiliar regulations, to addressing early infrastructure needs. But we worked closely with the authorities and continually adjusted to respond to the evolving needs of the market,' reveals Chua. Today, as urban homes become more compact and densely situated, the value proposition of Sentosa Cove has only grown. 'Buyers increasingly value open layouts, tranquil surroundings, and the sense of space that waterfront living at Sentosa Cove uniquely offers,' says Chua. one-north: Vision for the future FILE PHOTO The same vision and risk appetite that defined Ho Bee Land's role in Sentosa Cove would later guide its move into one-north, Singapore's master planned innovation district in the west. In 2013, Ho Bee Land completed The Metropolis, a 1.2 million sq ft Grade A office development that redefined commercial possibilities outside the Central Business District. It was, once again, ahead of the curve. The same vision and risk appetite that defined Ho Bee Land's role in Sentosa Cove would later guide its move into one-north, Singapore's master planned innovation district in the west. 'We saw one-north as a strategically located city-fringe district that offered both accessibility and the appeal of green surroundings – a rare combination in land-scarce Singapore,' says Chua. 'With The Metropolis situated right at the Buona Vista MRT interchange, it offered excellent connectivity, making it an attractive alternative for businesses looking for quality office space without the premium of a CBD address.' That early move into the city-fringe proved visionary. The Metropolis attracted a host of multinational tenants, helping to drive one-north's emergence as a bustling business and research hub. A second phase came in 2024 with the launch of Elementum, a biomedical sciences hub adjacent to The Metropolis. Designed with sustainability and wellness in mind, the development includes end-of-trip facilities, a community lawn, and is certified Green Mark Platinum by the Building and Construction Authority of Singapore. Importantly, it also connects to the Buona Vista node of the Rail Corridor, demonstrating Ho Bee Land's commitment to enhancing public spaces and mobility. 'When envisioning The Metropolis and Elementum, we looked beyond building modern, quality, Grade A office spaces for business needs,' explains Chua. 'We also wanted to contribute meaningfully to a vibrant one-north precinct by enhancing connectivity and engagement, integrating green spaces, lifestyle amenities, and community-friendly features.' Through these developments, Ho Bee Land has helped shape one-north into a hub for collaboration, innovation, and community. Long-term thinking From its humble beginnings in 1987 to large-scale commercial campuses today, Ho Bee Land has built its reputation on integrity and perseverance. Its track record has been tested through multiple economic crises, including the Asian and Global financial crises, and the Covid-19 pandemic. 'These significant events have reinforced our belief in long-term planning, prudent financial management, and the importance of adaptability. Perseverance, integrity, and excellence are not just values we hold – they are principles that have consistently guided us through economic cycles and evolving markets,' says Chua. That same spirit of stewardship has guided Ho Bee Land's sustainability and digitalisation agenda. The firm continues to invest in green building standards and smart building technologies across its developments. 'We view ESG and digitalisation as critical pillars in staying relevant and resilient in a rapidly evolving landscape,' Chua notes. 'We want to ensure our office and residential developments deliver long-term value to our stakeholders responsibly and thoughtfully.' Equally central to Ho Bee Land's long-term strategy is its commitment to people. 'Many of our colleagues have grown alongside the company,' says Ho Bee Land CEO Nicholas Chua. 'We believe in creating an environment where people can thrive, not just professionally, but as individuals. Whether through training, wellness initiatives or staff-led charitable efforts, we see our people as our greatest asset in building a sustainable, purpose-driven organisation.' Nicholas Chua was appointed Executive Director and CEO in January 2022, after joining the Group in 2002. Over the past two decades, he has held several senior management roles and has been instrumental in expanding Ho Bee Land's development and investment presence in Singapore, as well as overseas in Australia, China, and the UK. Ho Bee Land's long-term mindset also extends to its external partnerships. Over the years, apart from undertaking developments on her own, the Group has also partnered well-established developers to undertake projects in Singapore and in China. Investing in community Beyond developing physical spaces, Ho Bee Land is committed to building communities. This philosophy is especially evident in how the company integrates wellness, accessibility, and culture into its developments. The Rail Corridor, nestled between The Metropolis and Elementum is thoughtfully created by Ho Bee Land. It serves as the tie that binds both developments, creating shared values and enhancing the greenery that surrounds the precinct. The company is also known for its strong philanthropic ethos. The Ho Bee Foundation, established in 2010, supports causes in education, health care, social welfare, and the arts. Since its inception, it has contributed over $30 million to various charitable causes. In education, the Foundation has made significant contributions to institutions such as NUS, NTU, SMU, and SIT, in areas ranging from campus development to scholarships and leadership programmes aimed at empowering the next generation. The Foundation is also a long-time supporter of Ren Ci Hospital and a recipient of the Patron of the Arts Award by the National Arts Council, in recognition of its sustained support for the arts. It also organises the Arts for Kids initiative, using curated art tours to inspire creativity among young learners. That commitment to giving back reflects Chua's personal values, who is regarded as one of Singapore's leading philanthropists. 'As the nation enters its next chapter, we see our role as one of responsible stewardship – creating spaces that not only meet present needs, but also enrich communities and safeguard the environment for generations to come,' he says. As Singapore marks its 60th year of independence, Ho Bee Land has shown what local enterprise, vision, and persistence can achieve. From being the first mover in Sentosa Cove, to building the foundations of an innovation precinct at one-north, the company has played an important role in shaping modern Singapore. Says Chua: 'Our legacy is not just defined by the landmarks we have built, but by the lives we have touched and the value we have created for the communities.' Ho Bee Land's key milestones at a glance 1987: Ho Bee Land was founded with the vision of becoming a prominent real estate developer. 1996: First foray into London. 1999: Listed on the Singapore Exchange. 2003: Became the pioneer developer at Sentosa Cove with The Berth by the Cove. 2012: Ventured into Australia with its first residential development in the iconic Surfers Paradise at Gold Coast. 2014: The Metropolis officially opened by then-prime minister Lee Hsien Loong. 2024: Elementum opens, along with the revitalised Buona Vista node of the Rail Corridor.
Los Angeles Times
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Recipes for when strawberry season hits peak deliciousness (as in right now)
In California, strawberry fields really are forever. Strawberries are as red as anything could possibly be and, when you get a good one, more fragrant, succulent and flavorful than anything you imagined nature could create by itself. But to a native Southern Californian, strawberries are a bit like earthquakes. We don't give either much thought. (Or at least I don't.) We take the little fruit — so cute with its heart-like shape, candy-apple red, dimpled exterior and charming green toupee (even the flavor-challenged ones look like the cartoon of a strawberry) — for granted. California grows 90% of the nation's strawberries, from as far north as Watsonville in Santa Cruz County to San Diego County. Thanks to the state's strawberry capital, Oxnard, 60 miles north of Los Angeles, we have strawberries year-round. But peak deliciousness, where juicy, bright-red strawberries taste like sun-ripened candy, is right about now through August. Here in Los Angeles, you can't mention strawberries without hearing about Harry's Berries. These strawberries, grown on an organic farm in Oxnard since the late 1960s, run $15 for 1 1/2 pints at farmers markets and up to $20 or more at specialty grocers. TikTok videos — like a lot of TikTok videos — are made where the berry is eaten in front of the camera by a skeptical-turned-drooling content creator. The varieties they grow include Mara des Bois, smaller and more fragrant than conventional strawberries; Seascape; and Gaviotas, a variety developed by the University of California Davis that has become the gold standard if what you're looking for is a plump, red, juicy, sweet strawberry. 'What have we been eating? What are the other strawberries?' asks one content creator as he bites into a Harry's Berries strawberry. But if the price tag scares you — or just turns you off — rest assured there is a delicious strawberry world beyond Harry's Berries. 'My personal favorite strawberry will almost always be the Albion variety from Tamai Family Farms,' says McKenna Lelah, speaking of another variety developed by UC Davis. McKenna, through her company Handpicked by McKenna, buys from farmers markets and sells and delivers to chefs around Los Angeles. 'They have a nice firm texture, and really good strawberry flavor.' McKenna explains what should be obvious but what I'd never really thought about. 'Table shoppers come to farmers markets and ask, 'What's sweet?'' But if you're doing something with the strawberries, like macerating them for strawberry shortcake or making a syrup, jam or dessert sauce, she says, 'You can always make them sweeter. You can't add more strawberry flavor.' I grew up in San Diego County, and whenever I'm there, I make a stop at Chino Ranch, also famous for its strawberries. Like Harry's Berries, Chino Ranch also grows Mara des Bois and Gaviotas, as well as both red and white Alpine strawberries, which are about the size of a thumbnail and come with the greens and a little stem attached. What all of these berries have in common is that when you bite into one of these little gems, they're red all the way through. They have a delicious floral aroma. And the flavor! You instantly become aware that the rest are strawberry impostors: They might be wearing that perfect little strawberry costume, but they have none of the characteristics of an authentic strawberry-flavored strawberry. But, grown for flavor, not shelf-life, these strawberries are also delicate. They bruise easily. And by the time you put them on your counter, they're already sliding down the back side of their lives. Who among us has not come home with a pint or several of not-cheap, gorgeous candy-apple-colored strawberries only to open the fridge the next day to see them looking withered, wilted, bruised, darkened and generally just sad. The trick to stretching their lifespan, explains McKenna, is to take them out of their basket and put them, not touching one another, on a baking sheet lined with paper towels, and then refrigerate. Or just start your strawberry daydreaming on your way home from the market. Strawberry shortcake is, obvi, the classic, but don't let your imagination stop there. If you're a tennis fan, you've likely seen fans at Wimbledon eating strawberries and cream, a tradition celebrating England's short, sweet strawberry season and a good way to go when you basically want to do nothing and let the flavor of the strawberries do all the work. When your strawberries are verging on overripe, the best solution is to get them in a saucepan as quickly as possible. Cook them down with sugar and lemon juice into a dessert sauce or jam or the jammy layer to this ethereal, chocolaty Strawberry Forest Pie. Or make a batch of Spring Negronis and call it a party. Another option when your strawberries are heading toward the compost bin is to save them for another day. Spread them out, not touching one another, on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer. When they're frozen solid, transfer them to a Ziploc bag or covered container and toss a few into smoothies, milkshakes, Strawberry Jamaica Agua Fresca or a mixed berry pie. For all the appreciation I have for strawberries, they may be one fruit that I don't love in savory preparations, such as salad. And I'm just not sure how to feel about Strawberry-Ancho Salsa or this Strawberry-Avocado Salsa. If you're up for it, I applaud your adventurousness. I'll stick with the sweet stuff! Eating out this week? Sign up for Tasting Notes to get our restaurant experts' insights and off-the-cuff takes on where they're dining right now. You can't go wrong with strawberry shortcake. I say that, and yet all strawberry shortcakes went wrong when I was growing up. I would get so excited to see the little round sponge cakes packed in plastic sold next to the strawberries in the summertime. I'd throw them, along with some flavorless berries and a can of whipped cream, into our grocery cart with so much hope and possibility. But when I got home and put them together, I was never not underwhelmed. I'm sure I'll change my mind with this version that includes macerated farmers market strawberries on just-baked cream biscuits, topped with clouds of freshly whipped the recipe. Cooking time: 40 minutes, plus 2 to 4 hours hands-off time to macerate the berries. Serves 4. Full disclosure: I co-authored barman Christiaan Rollich's book, 'Bar Chef,' from which this recipe originates. Of all the recipes in that book that I tested, this is the one that became part of my repertoire. I make a big batch, put it in a glass, flip top bottle and set it out for guests to serve themselves. It's always a hit. And as we Angelenos know, it's not just for springtime!Get the recipe. Cooking time: 2 hours 30 minutes. Makes 9 cocktails. You don't see strawberries in baked goods as much as you do other fruits. This scone recipe, from Sqirl, is flexible – use strawberries, or whatever fruit you have on hand. It does require a sourdough starter (but also provides a recipe). If you don't want to go that far, ask a baking enthusiastic friend or neighbor, and return the favor with the recipe. Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes. Makes 8 scones.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
MSC Cruises' ship meets Mother Nature in scary situation
MSC Cruises' ship meets Mother Nature in scary situation originally appeared on Come Cruise With Me. MSC Seascape recently faced the wrath of Mother Nature while in the Bahamas. Cruise Ships have state-of-the-art navigation and propulsion systems and can usually prepare to handle any weather situation that pops up, although sometimes they are vulnerable. They can weather heavy weather, storms, and sea conditions, but they have a weak in general are designed to withstand lots of forces applied to the decks and hulls and are built to last many, many years. Cruise ships can weather heavy seas, including 20-plus-feet swells and gusts exceeding 50 knots while at sea; however, the situation at the dock is a different story. MSC Seascape recently faced a squall line of wind and rain cutting through the Bahamas and over their exclusive island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. Seascape left Port of Miami Friday, May 29 for a Bahamian weekend cruise to Nassau on May 30 and 31 to Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. While Seascape was at the dock moored around 3 p.m., lines attached to the dock took heavy winds on their starboard side, and with too much pressure from winds, the lines exceeded their holding capacity. . How cruise ship captains keep you safe in bad weather (1:34) MSC Seascape was moored for the day for passengers to enjoy the private island and was scheduled to leave at 8 p.m. While passengers enjoyed the day on Ocean Cay, Mother Nature sent a squall line of weather that impacted their day. As passengers were heading back to the ship for safety and to get out of the wind and rain, the main bow lines began to snap/break, leaving the ships bow to go adrift. Immediately the alarm came from the ship. Crew sprang into action to secure the ship and hold passengers back from boarding as the ship unexpectedly pulled away from the dock and gangways, leaving everyone stranded. There was a passenger injured, but due to the fast-acting crew, there were only minor injuries, and the crew managed the emergency flawlessly as trained. In my 20-plus years working around ships and ports in the United States Coast Guard, I have a working knowledge and understanding of the dynamic forces that impact ships at sea and while moored at the dock. Let's look at some common questions: Cruise ships and weather: how do they deal with the ever-changing and unexpected storms? Cruise ships have weather forecasters on board, as well as crew trained to watch and forecast upcoming weather events that may impact their journey to destinations. What and how do they prepare for weather impacts? Cruise lines look at forecasts days ahead of their voyage, consider what they may face and constantly monitor while at sea or in a port. "Captains don't want to put a billion-dollar cruise ship in harm's way," is something Come Cruise With Me Executive Editor Dan Kline says a lot. . In this case with MSC Seascape at Ocean Cay, the ship was aware of a last-minute storm approaching. But like on land at home, in rare cases, storms can develop rapidly in hours or even minutes and can exceed expected forecasts. In this case, the storm produced heavy wind gusts that put significant pressure on the bow and starboard side where the securing/mooring lines failed, leaving the bow to go adrift. The bow of a ship is the lightest part of the ship and therefore more susceptible to being pushed around unless underway. When ships are at the dock, this is their weak point/most vulnerable spot as they are left to the winds, seas condition, and currents. As seen with Seascape, winds can impact the stability and security of the ship. When ships are at sea and underway (moving through the water), they have great control and can handle heavy storms and seas with ease. Ships' hulls direct the water around the ship efficiently and slice through the water, giving great control. This is similar to a Nascar racer driving at the Daytona 500. When driving at high speeds, the air/winds over the car apply down pressure, giving the car an ability to go faster with more control and stability. However, when cruise ships are docked/moored, or adrift without propulsion, they are in peril to Mother Nature and the forces of the seas and winds. Cruise ship mooring lines can hold enormous pressure, but they have a breaking point. Mooring line breaking strength (MBS) is how they are rated. Typically, a 4' mooring line (typically used by cruise ships) made of Dyneema (polyester, nylon, polypropylene) can hold a million pounds of pressure applied and extreme pressures. But forces like UV [rays], extreme heat, and salt water can alter or diminish the strength of the lines and their ability to optimally perform under high pressure when applied unexpectedly or relentlessly. In the case of MSC Seascape, the perfect storm, in a sense, struck the ship from the side and pushed the mooring lines beyond their limits. This can happen, and ships can only prepare for the expected, not something that very rarely happens. (The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.) , or email Amy Post at or call or text her at 386-383-2472. This story was originally reported by Come Cruise With Me on Jun 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
Observer
15-05-2025
- Observer
An ideal time for snorkels, snacks, and sunscreen
As the mercury begins its steady summer climb and the inland air grows still, Omanis turn instinctively to the sea. It's a tradition as old as the tide—when the land heats up, the water becomes our sanctuary. From Al Mouj Marina to the fishing docks of Seeb and Barka, boats commence their seasonal rhythm. They fill with families, friends, couples, and curious solo travellers—armed with snorkels, snacks, and sunscreen—eager to answer the sea's timeless invitation. And topping everyone's list of must-visit escapes? The Daymaniyat Islands. Just 18 kilometres off the coast of Batinah, this necklace of nine uninhabited islands floats like a dream on the Gulf of Oman. The Daymaniyats are no secret, but somehow, they still feel like a private discovery—untouched, uncrowded, and unforgettable. An ideal time for snorkels, snacks, and sunscreen 'We had a wonderful and busy Eid holiday,' said Diana Samonenko, General Manager of Seascape tour boat agency. 'Now that temperatures are rising and the water is finally warming and clarifying, we're seeing more and more people coming out to enjoy snorkelling activities on our boat. It's the perfect time.' April marks the gateway to peak season. Muscat's temperatures are already nudging past 35°C, and in the heat of the day, the cool waters around Daymaniyat promise instant relief. But these islands offer far more than a refreshing dip. With each visit, there's a sensory richness—bright coral gardens pulsating with life, sea breezes laced with salt and sunshine, and a horizon that stretches your thoughts well beyond city limits. An ideal time for snorkels, snacks, and sunscreen For many, the magic begins the moment the boat leaves the marina. Within 30 to 40 minutes, the city fades away, replaced by a horizon of rocky islets, turquoise lagoons, and seagulls soaring above untouched coves. On arrival, the water is so clear it's hard to believe—glass-like in its stillness, inviting in its calm. It's the kind of view that draws exclamations even from seasoned travellers. Although the islands themselves are uninhabited, they're anything but lifeless. The underwater world teems with colour: Hawksbill turtles glide beneath the surface with a grace that stills the breath, blacktip reef sharks patrol the reef edges, while clownfish, parrotfish, and angelfish flicker like jewels among anemones and coral branches. Moray eels peek from rocky hideaways, and schools of barracuda and stingrays make occasional appearances. An ideal time for snorkels, snacks, and sunscreen 'The Daymaniyat Islands are a special place in Oman,' said Captain Fahad Rashid Said Al Maashri, owner of Daymaniat Shells. 'Visitors can enjoy snorkelling with turtles, blacktip sharks, rays, eels, and very colourful reef fish. It's a complete experience—you don't have to be a diver to see the magic.' Fahad has spent over 25 years at sea, and since 2016, has operated Daymaniat Shells from Al Mouj Marina. His commitment to safety, professionalism, and environmental responsibility is central to his mission. 'We're proud to be plastic-free and certified in green tourism,' he shared. 'We want people to enjoy these islands—but we also want to protect them for the future.' Summer, he noted, brings a shift in the visitor profile. 'From May onwards, during the hotter months, we see fewer international tourists overall. But we have more GCC visitors and Oman residents joining our trips. Everyone's trying to escape the city heat and refresh—especially on weekends.' An ideal time for snorkels, snacks, and sunscreen And there's an added bonus to venturing out in summer: 'The water is like a swimming pool,' Fahad said. 'Fantastic visibility. And if you're lucky, there's even a chance to spot whale sharks around Muscat on the way to the islands. It's incredible.' Indeed, this is a time when nature feels close—almost welcoming. The islands are part of a protected nature reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and access is controlled by a strict permit system. Visitors are reminded: no littering, no stepping on coral, no camping outside designated areas. The rules are firm, but they preserve something rare—a marine environment still vibrant and alive. Back on deck, as boats gently idly near the reef, it's common to see families stretched out under shaded canopies, children watching the waves for dolphins, couples sharing fresh fruit, and divers bubbling up with wide grins. The Daymaniyat experience is less about speed and more about stillness—being present in a world that doesn't rush. An ideal time for snorkels, snacks, and sunscreen Asaad Al Alhassni, Captain and diving instructor at Movula Diving and Snorkelling Centre, echoed the seasonal shift: 'April to May was really busy, with more international tourists joining our trips. These days, we're seeing more local visitors and residents seeking cooler weekend adventures out at sea.' He also noted that while access to the islands themselves remains restricted—meaning no beach activities or camping are currently permitted—the Daymaniyat Islands will reopen for onshore visits from 3rd November until 3rd May, in line with conservation efforts and environmental guidelines. So, if you're feeling the heat creeping in, don't sweat it—literally. Pack your swim gear, grab your hat, and ride the wave with the growing community of Omanis heading to the Daymaniyat Islands. Summer is approaching, the sea is calling, and nature's most soothing spectacle is just a short boat ride away.
