Cairns-based Coral Princess Cruises announced today it will rebrand as Coral Expeditions, effective 22 June. This comes after 32 years of operation under the former name, during which time the company has grown and evolved.
The new name stays true to the company’s origins as a small ship pioneer on the Great Barrier Reef while updating the company image to reflect its evolution to adventure cruises to the more exotic regions of Australia and the South Pacific.
“Coral Expeditions recognises that we are now best known for our coastal expedition itineraries taking small groups of 44 to 72 passengers to remote regions and cultures in Asia-Pacific,” said Group General Manager Mark Fifield.
Captain Tony Briggs launched the company in 1984 with one converted Fairmile class submarine chaser and it now has three purpose-built ships and several hundred staff. It offers 3, 4 and 7 night award-winning Great Barrier Reef cruises and longer expeditions to the Kimberley, Cape York and Arnhem Land, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and the South Pacific. In November 2015, Coral Expeditions will launch its inaugural season of a unique series of expedition cruises along the coastline of Tasmania.
Each ship will be rechristened and refurbished in line with the new brand over the next year. Coral Princess will become Coral Expeditions I, Coral Princess II will become Coral Expeditions II and the flagship Oceanic Discoverer will be renamed Coral Discoverer.
The new logo has been designed by a Cairns-based artist, Brian Robinson. Brian grew up in the idyllic tropical surroundings of the Torres Strait Islands, located between the tip of Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea. His work reflects his knowledge and appreciation of the culture of his people, the myths and legends of the Torres Strait, and the traditional motifs and natural carving ability of the Islanders.
“We believe our new logo accurately depicts the spirit of discovery and exploration that embodies our company,” said Mr Fifield. “Our hallmarks of adventure, intimate comfort and quality dining delivered in a professional yet relaxed environment by Australian and New Zealand staff will remain at the heart of the Coral Expeditions experience.”
SOURCE Coral Expeditions