AS the impacts of the Middle East conflict continue to ripple through the industry, Norwegian Cruise Line passengers are opting for local adventures, just in time for its largest ever Sydney season, MD and VP Ben Angell shared with Cruise Weekly this week. The upcoming program includes 10 departures and...
AS the impacts of the Middle East conflict continue to ripple through the industry, Norwegian Cruise Line passengers are opting for local adventures, just in time for its largest ever Sydney season, MD and VP Ben Angell shared with Cruise Weekly this week.
The upcoming program includes 10 departures and five new roundtrip itineraries on board Norwegian Spirit, ranging from four to 14 nights around ANZ and the South Pacific.
“I do want to recognise the very real impact that the conflict in the Middle East is having around the world,” Angell said.
“Our thoughts are with those directly affected, but we also acknowledge the uncertainty it creates for guests and trade partners in the broader industry.”
However, he noted the resilience of ANZ guests, especially NCL passengers, who tend to be older, experienced travellers who have lived through similar geopolitical issues.
They are what Angell described as “watch-and-waiters”.
“What we tend to see in the initial period of any large global event like this is a small group that will make a decision very quickly,” Angell explained.
“That normally happens in the first week to two weeks, then most people that book with NCL tend to watch and wait and see what happens over the coming period,” he added.
Others prefer to book their next trip close to home, when value and simplicity play a more important factor, Angell said, referring to NCL’s upcoming program and latest ‘Just Cruise’ proposition (CW 03 Mar).
Meanwhile, the cruise line has also launched shorter sailings for the first time – four-night ‘taster’ cruises from Sydney in early 2027.
These shorter escapes may appeal to former NCL guests who have not yet tried Spirit, Angell explained, although they may also lure in younger couples in their 40s.
He also observed that some of the passengers who book domestic trips will eventually plan their European getaways further down the track.
“In the interim, it’s on us to work as closely as we can with our guests and travel partners and make sure that we’re focused on supporting with clear communication and flexibility where it’s possible,” Angell said.
“We approach all of this with an unwavering commitment to our guests’ and travel agents’ wellbeing and peace of mind,” he added.” JHM
