WHEN luxury vessel, Azamara Journey, arrived into Cairns on Valentine’s Day, her guests were
treated to an evening that would make them fall in love with Australia courtesy of a Tjapukai cultural experience.
Working closely with Abercrombie & Kent, this was the second year that an “Azamazing” experience featuring Tjapukai had been held.
The immersive experience (a trademark for Azamara) began as indigenous guides boarded each
coach as it headed for the Cairns Convention Centre and introduced the Tjapukai story and the schedule. Once seated at the venue, the guides stayed with their group of 30-40 guests who were then treated to a performance which included didgeridoo, discussions on bush foods and medicines, hunting and weapons techniques, marriage rites and language.
A series of dance performances were then held for the 600 guests, giving pax a glimpse into pre-white settlement customs and culture. Tjapukai is increasingly engaging with the cruise industry as the performers are also being asked to come on board ships docking in Cairns to provide a cultural experience to passengers.
Azamara guests went on to another Azamazing experience when they were hosted at MONA in Tasmania where they were offered private access to the Museum’s fascinating art collection hosted personally by owner, David Walsh and his team. These are wonderful examples of how Australian destinations are developing their experiences to ensure cruise passengers enjoy their time on shore as much as their time on board.
CONTRIBUTOR: Jill Abel, CEO, Australian Cruise Association