| FACE-2-FACE: 21 Jan 19

LIZ

Sawers

National Sales and Distribution Manager, Coral Expeditions.

1. What is the favourite part of your job?

The passion and pride with which the team at Coral Expeditions operates is infectious. A defining spirit and culture is underpinned by a dynamic team who are passionate about small ship expedition cruising and exploring remote destinations far off the well-trodden tourist trails.

2. Why did you choose a career in the cruise industry?

I am an enthusiast of nature-based tourism experiences and have travelled the world holidaying and working in some of the world’s most spectacular destinations. The opportunity to visit Australia’s more remote destinations, as well as areas including PNG, the South Pacific, Indonesia and Sulawesi, is so exciting!

3. What is the biggest challenge facing the industry?

The splendour of tourist destinations and their natural beauty is essential to maintain the industry’s enormous growth, and the impact of tourism on the environment continues to be a pressing issue. Working for a pioneering small ship cruise line who ensures minimal impact on the destinations and communities visited aligns with my values and feels good.

4. What was your best famil?

I recently had the opportunity to explore the beautiful Great Barrier Reef. Champagne, oysters and an amazing sunset whilst unwinding on Sudbury Cay left a lasting impression. I’m now looking forward to upcoming adventures to remote coastal Tasmania and Papua New Guinea this year.

5. What should the cruise ship of the future look like?

That’s an easy one, Coral Adventurer, our newest ship which will be christened in Apr.

6. When not at work, how do you spend your time?

Being new to Cairns, I’m taking every opportunity to explore like a tourist. I have been enjoying walks through the rainforest, snorkelling and diving the reef, and exploring the food trail in the Tablelands. I can’t wait to spend some time visiting the many waterfalls and creeks this stunning region has to offer.

7. How do you wind down after a busy week?

Being only five minutes’ walk from the beach, my fave thing to do is to catch up with friends with a glass of wine and watch the sunset over the Coral Sea.