Phillipa Harrison, MD of Tourism Australia, told delegates her organisation is facing strong competition as the world reopens to tourism.
Harrison told the 130 delegates, making up the largest attendance for a regional ACA venue, that the UK, the US and Germany remain key markets for Australia.
She said Tourism Australia is watching closely mainland China and Hong Kong and emerging markets, like Italy.
‘Cruising will play a crucial role in tourism’s recovery,’ she said.
She said Tourism Australia, in partnership with the Australian Cruise Association and Cruise Lines International Association Australasia, is creating cruise content in its marketing.
P&O Cruises fleet renewed and ready
Marguerite Fitzgerald, president of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia, said ‘cruising is back and we are not going to let it go again.’
Fitzgerald said P&O Cruises Australia’s fleet of three have undergone renewal in preparation for their return.
‘We are ready for the coming 2022/23 season,’ she said.
MedallionClass 'wow and how'
Stuart Allison, SVP Asia Pacific, UK and Europe for Princess Cruises, delivered a ‘wow and how’ of technology for the conference which had the theme ‘charting the future.’
Allison said the introduction of Princess’ MedallionClass ships has changed the industry forever.
He said it is all about making vacations effortless, from keyless stateroom entry to finding someone anywhere onboard.
He said the uses of the Medallion wearable are unlimited.
A trial is underway in the Caribbean where passengers can make purchases ashore with their Medallion.
Celebrity's all-inclusive packages
Tim Jones, VP and MD Australia for Celebrity Cruises, said the company is coming into the 2022/23 season stronger than pre-pandemic.
He said Celebrity is creating all-inclusive packages, putting together air travel and hotel accommodation with cruise content.
‘We fill from the top down,’ he added.
New ships keep on coming
Gavin Smith, Royal Caribbean’s GM Australasia, said despite massive borrowings, cruise companies continue to build new ships.
Smith said 50% growth is expected by 2027.
He said cruise lines are coming up with investment solutions for some of the world’s 250 destinations, including building new terminals, and that 10,000 global passengers a day visit Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
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