By Joel Katz, Managing Director, CLIA Australasia
THE strength of Australia’s cruise sector is driven by an incredibly talented chain of suppliers and supporters around the country – from the travel agent who guides the guest, to the farmer who grows the fine produce served on board.
This month CLIA launched our latest #WeAreCruise campaign, which celebrates the vital role of the local supply chain in supporting the international cruise industry – a sector that sustains more than 18,000 Australian jobs and injects more than $5.6 billion annually into our national economy.
Across our social media channels including Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube, a new series of #WeAreCruise videos is telling the story of this economic contribution and the real people behind it. They show how crucial cruising is to destinations right around our region, from the commercial heart of Darwin to the historic lanes of Hobart, and beyond.
Passenger spending alone brings almost $1.5 billion a year to communities around the Australian coast, benefitting the food and beverage sector, retailers, tour operators and attractions, hoteliers, the entertainment industry, transport providers, and more.
Then there are the suppliers that guests don’t necessarily see, like farmers, food and wine producers, port operators and technical support providers – thousands of people, from the forklift operator to the tub-boat pilot.
The local supply chain’s strength ensures that the cruise industry operates smoothly, providing consistency and job security. More than just an economic force, this network enhances guest satisfaction by delivering high-quality, authentic products and experiences that showcase the best of Australia and our wider region.
As we acknowledge these crucial partnerships, we recognise how integral these relationships are to the industry’s success. Their reliability not only bolsters our local economies, but also enriches the cruise experience, making every journey unforgettable for visitors. We encourage you to watch and share our #WeAreCruise videos HERE.
