The World's Leading Ground Operators add new members in 15th year

Excursions Greece, the Indonesia branch of Cruise Asia by Destination Asia and Iberoservice in the Dominican Republic were invited to join the further 30 TWLGO partners and unanimously voted in, according to long-standing TWLGO chairman Rupert Woodard.

Founded in 2001 by a small group of industry friends, the organisation is made up of mostly independent cruise-specialised local operators that manage shore excursions, turnarounds and pre-/post-cruise programs all over the world. It has generated a strong and loyal customer base over 15 years.

TWLGO started as a 'great idea that enabled a few small operators to work and grow together by pooling their experience, resources and connections,' Woodard said.

'It caught on quickly,' he added, 'but we have been focused on expanding slowly so as to ensure consistency throughout our organisation.

'Our members are all fabulous,' Woodard continued, 'but the association would not have flourished without the loyalty and support shown by a significant cross section of the industry.'

Several cruise lines get a special loyalty bonus each year for working with more than 20 of TWLGO's members, and others are close to attaining the target.

Woodard said TWLGO looks forward to celebrating its 15th birthday at Seatrade Cruise Global this year.