A significant member delegation from the Australian Cruise Association (ACA) will attend Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, Florida in April. Representatives from state tourism organisations, ports, ground handlers and shipping agents make up the 18 strong delegation – the highest number of ACA attendees on record.
Regarded as the cruise industry’s most significant worldwide event, Seatrade attracts representatives from over 75 cruise lines providing an outstanding opportunity to promote cruising in Australia.
For the first time, ACAs Chairman, Grant Gilfillan has been invited to participate in a conference panel session on the Asia Pacific region. He will speak alongside Debbie Summers (NZCA) and Joel Katz (CLIA Australasia).
Jill Abel, CEO of the Association is attending for the 15th year. “Australia continues to grow in importance as a must-see destination on cruise line itineraries” said Abel. “Cruising currently delivers nearly $5B to the Australian economy annually through direct and indirect contributions.
Attending this event each year gives our members the opportunity to meet with key decision makers in one place at one time and have discussions which will ensure the continued success of our industry.”
“Attending Seatrade also gives us the opportunity to showcase the important destination development taking place around Australia including port infrastructure upgrades and new land-based touring experiences. This means we can focus on tailor-making the experiences for the cruise lines so they can be assured their passengers have the best possible experiences” continued Abel.
A representative from Brisbane International Cruise Terminal will attend for the first time this year underscoring the important role cruising plays in Queensland. The state is the second largest contributor to the national economy (around $1B) sitting behind NSW. And the Terminal is the most significant development in the state. Following Federal funding of around $158M, the world class port facility will be completed in 2020.
In 2019, ACA will again be joined by regional partners including New Zealand Cruise Association and representatives from Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia and the Solomon Islands
The Australian Cruise Association with the New Zealand Cruise Association will reprise the “Down Under BBQ” again this year, delivering fabulous food, beverages and entertainment. The event is always a big hit on the Seatrade calendar.
Following Seatrade, ACA is also holding an “Aussie Day” at the Royal Caribbean offices in Miami. This will be a destination development opportunity working with their marketing departments, sales teams and itinerary planners to develop shore excursions and pre and post visits.
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