| ACA Update 09 Nov 18

WITH Jill Abel, CEO Australian Cruise Association – We have exceptional opportunities in our many ports around Australia to illustrate that our country is exciting, diverse and offers experiences that cruise pax can’t find anywhere else.
Indigenous touring and cultural activities are standout examples of how we will ensure that our regional ports in particular remain on cruise ship itineraries.
Last week a group of ACA members including Renata Lowe (Tourism WA), Chris White (Visit Victoria), Toby Biddick (A&K) and myself along with Bart Pigram – Narlijia Cultural Tours, who partnered with us on our Broome conference, were fortunate to attend the Indigenous Tourism Conference in Lorne, Victoria.
Bart presented a compelling presentation on how he is adapting his tours to cruise pax giving them an authentic insight into the history and culture in Broome seen through his eyes as a saltwater man.
Bart began his company three years ago and emphasises how important it is to continue to reinvent the experience to ensure it stays fresh and consistent.
His tours are filled with interesting first person stories and incorporate one-off experiences such as musical performances by Bart and his family members and the opportunity for cruise passengers to try the famous Nanna Pig’s fish soup.
With over 30% of the 109 new ships currently on order being smaller luxury and expedition vessels, I predict that regional ports like Broome, Cairns and others around the country offering these cultural experiences will continue to see increased visitation and remain a must-see on cruise itineraries.