CRUISE Lines International Association (CLIA) joined the NT Cruise Forum in Darwin this week, offering the capital city a vote of confidence as a key cruise gateway. CLIA joined gathered industry leaders and stakeholders for the Forum, which was held at Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront. The Forum brought together key...
CRUISE Lines International Association (CLIA) joined the NT Cruise Forum in Darwin this week, offering the capital city a vote of confidence as a key cruise gateway.
CLIA joined gathered industry leaders and stakeholders for the Forum, which was held at Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront.
The Forum brought together key supporters from across the Top End, including Tourism NT, Darwin Port, the Darwin Cruise Working Group, group operators, and suppliers.
It focused on the positive long-term outlook for cruise in the NT, with discussions including what is needed to develop the guest experience ashore, opportunities for shore excursion suppliers to grow their business during the summer, and long-term infrastructure planning to attract more lines and passengers to Darwin.
CLIA local Managing Director Joel Katz (pictured) said the NT will play an important role as a gateway to the Kimberley, and from Asia to Australia.
“The cruise community in Darwin is incredibly passionate and working together to support the industry’s development in a positive way,” Katz said.
“There’s a clear vision to capitalise on the opportunities cruise can deliver for the local community, and to enhance the experience that visitors have.”
The NT is also seeing an increase in desire from travellers to board expedition cruise ships, driven by a growing appetite to stay longer and visit more rural, less-explored ports, Tourism NT Executive Director Tony Quarmby told CW (CW 04 Apr).
