WARM welcome in Wollongong
TODAY’S column is coming to you from Wollongong, where I have been in discussions with the wonderful destination marketing team here for our conference next year.
As this will be a major milestone event marking our 25th anniversary, we are excited to get the planning underway.
The cruise industry has played a major role in putting Wollongong on the map for international tourists with the destination now being an important stop for cruise ships on the state’s Blue Highway.
During my visit I was reminded cruisers are spoiled for choice when it comes to local activities.
A short drive from Port Kembla, Wollongong delivers a buzzing city experience for passengers with a lively laneway culture complete with local cafes and bars, art galleries and retail.
For the more adventurous types, ACA member Skydive Australia offers tandem jumps served up with fabulous coastline views, and with 17 stunning beaches on the city’s doorstep, surfing and SUP lessons are definitely an option.
Cruise passengers also can enjoy a range of shore excursions to places like the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere, the historical air museum, Glenbernie Orchard — home of Darkes Cider, the famed Kiama blowhole, or Symbio Wildlife Park.
Regional ports are critical to connecting the dots on our cruise itineraries and cruise passengers and crew are critical to local communities like Wollongong.